Guyana chronicle 25 11 14

GUYANA No. 104022 TUESDAY NOVEMBER 25, 2014

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

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President, Opposition Leader at 170th Anniversary celebration of Cong'l Church in Buxton Page

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President Ramotar with, from left, APNU MP, Rupert Roopnarine, Opposition Leader, David Granger, Minister Juan Edghill and MP Odinga Lumumba at the Congregational Church in Buxton

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

President, Opposition Leader at 170th Anniversary celebration of Cong'l Church in Buxton

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar was in attendance on Sunday when the Arundel Congregational Church in Buxton celebrated their 170th Anniversary with a thanksgiving service under the theme, “Preserving our Inheritance, Honouring our Calling”.

President Ramotar was joined by Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill and PPP/C Member of Parliament, Odinga Lumumba and celebrated with

the congregation by belting out songs of praise.

The Head of State lauded the work the church has been doing in the community and urged its members to continue in this regard. “I know this church has been doing a lot for this community and I urge you to continue doing so,” he said.

President Ramotar going back in time explained to the congregation that he was born and christened in the

Caria Caria Congressional Church in the Essequibo River. He noted that he is very proud to be associated with the church which has always reached out to the less fortunate.

“In Caria Caria it was the only house of worship we had and I also attended the Congressional school,” he said.

The Head of State referred to parts of the scriptures from the Holy Bible, adding that the Congrega-

President Ramotar delivers his address to the congregation

tional churches have fulfilled their task of assisting to make people’s lives better, and have done so with distinction.

“There are two quotes I think this church has lived up to - well one from Deuteronomy and the other from Matthew.” He also noted that the church calls on us to be modest and when we are helping we need not broadcast it. President Ramotar said that he has always tried to practice these same prin-

ciples while executing his duties as a leader.

Also speaking briefly was Leader of the Opposition, David Granger as he joined in congratulating the church and its members on achieving their 170th year of existence.

He gave a brief history of the existence of the church and urged the members to continue in their service to the community.

The church was first built on a plantation south

west of where it now stands.

During those days, there was tremendous fear that the Atlantic Ocean would soon claim the building and the land on which it stood owing to erosion. The large plot of land, on which the church now stands, was donated by Mr. Carter, a former slave and grandfather of the late George Carter, who later became a staunch deacon of the Arundel Congregational Church. (Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)

President Ramotar greets Leader of the Opposition, David Granger

PPP welcomes completion of NIS data entry verification project GRAPPLING with tens of thousands of contributions which they were unable to match to contributors at the National Insurance Scheme, the ruling People’s Progressive Party yesterday congratulated the announcement by Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon that the NIS Data Entry Veri-

fication Project would be completed by year-end.

According to the Party yesterday at their weekly press conference at Freedom House, the verification project was conceived because for years the NIS was unable to make a dent in the unallocated contributions, giving rise to a special project which “we all look forward to its

completion.”

“At the end of this exercise thousands of contributors would have the benefit of their contributions credited to their names and the consequential benefits that will accrue to them,” the PPP said yesterday.

BENEFITS The Party offered their compliments to the NIS and hope that the benefits will be swiftly enjoyed by the contributors.

Earlier in the month, the data entry verification project

for the NIS had once again attracted the attention of Cabinet.

According to Dr. Luncheon, the more formidable aspect of the project, however, was the verification, and Cabinet noted with some concern the situation at the end of October with just under two million records that still needed to be verified.

He said that given the deadline for the total completion of the exercise, the NIS still has a few more weeks before December 31, 2014.

“We have the rest of November and the whole of December to have those less

than two million verifications completed,” Dr. Luncheon had explained.

UNIDENTIFIABLE CONTRIBUTORS The Cabinet Secretary pointed out that a specific category was drawn to Cabinet’s attention, which deals with contributors who for various reasons are unidentifiable. He explained that conventionally an employer enters a person’s name and NIS number and additional information when the contribution is submitted for a particular period.

What the scheme has

been dealing with at the time, Dr. Luncheon explained, was accounts for large numbers, thousand of contributors, whose information identity was lacking and so the scheme probably had millions for thousands of contributors who are unidentifiable.

The data entry verification project was authorised on June 1 by Cabinet which would see the scheme addressing comprehensively and exhaustively the outstanding contribution records that have not been entered into the NIS computer system.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

GRA boss withdraws threatening language charge against KN publisher KAIETEUR News Publisher, Glen Lall yesterday had the threatening language charge brought by Commissioner- General of the Guyana Revenue Authority, Khurshid Sattaur dismissed after it was withdrawn by the complainant.

Lall appeared before Sparendaam Magistrate, Alex Moore on a charge of using threatening language against the GRA Commissioner-General on August 29, 2014 but Sattaur decided to offer no evidence against Lall in the matter.

“Mr. Lall, fortune smiles upon you sir, the VC has decided he no longer wishes to give evidence against you.

The matter is accordingly dismissed sir and you are free to go,” Magistrate Moore told the newspaper publisher as persons in the courtroom applauded.

The court heard that Lall had made use of threatening language against Sattaur at

Plantain Walk, Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara on August 29, 2014. The matter was subsequently reported to the police and statements were taken.

When the charge was read to Lall he pleaded not guilty.

The magistrate then informed that a legal representative was present in court who informed that his client Khurshid Sattaur was not willing to offer any evidence against Glen Lall.

The newspaper publisher showed up along with his court reporter, Editor-in-Chief, Adam Harris and two security guards while senior Kaieteur News reporter, Leonard Gildharie and social activists Mark Benschop and Frederick ‘Freddy’ Kissoon were also present at the hearing.

Speaking with reporters following the dismissal of the case, Lall said, “I only wish that the same speed the police and the DPP pronounce on

this investigation they do the same with the Anil Nandlall recording.”

Asked by reporters if he thought that the move was a waste of taxpayers’ money, Lall said that waste would be a mild word to use.

“This is not waste, this is disrespectful to the people of this country. This is not a mockery only to the judiciary, it’s a mockery to the nation, the police, the DPP and her office, it’s a complete waste of resources,” he declared.

His lawyer Khemraj Ramjattan told reporters that he did not believe that this latest case would be the last since there may be more coming along the line.

“This may not be the end of it - they would probably want to bring on some other charges and other things to pressure the newspaper that has been doing such a good job of exposing them.”

Reporters interviewing Glen Lall about the withdrawal of the threatening language charge against him

Intense rainfall highlights impact of climate change – PPP General Secretary SPEAKING at a People’s Progressive Party press conference, PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee noted that with just about three to four hours of intense rainfall, several parts of the country, including Georgetown, were under several inches of water, which is clearly a pattern that is becoming prevalent with global warming.

CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT Rohee noted that the intense rainfall was not just limited to Guyana but also impacted some areas in Trinidad and Tobago, leading to the loss of billions of dollars in infrastructure, while in Barbados heavy rains and flash floods also wreaked havoc.

He observed also that the United States was hit by a winter storm which it did not see in decades, while torrential rains have been causing flooding in several states.

There was also flooding as a result of heavy rains in Scotland, France, Haiti, The

Dominican Republic, England and many other countries around the world over the past three to four weeks.

BETTER WARNING Rohee stated that the Government has made a significant investment to establish the Doppler radar system but there seems to be no maximisation of the kind of weather data and warning which this could provide.

He added, “Clearly there is a need for better warning systems so that both citizens and the relevant authorities could properly prepare responses to such weather events.”

Rohee noted that there is also the need to examine present drainage capacity to remove the large amount of water that accumulates from heavy downpours, such as what was experienced last Thursday.

CLEAN-UP CAMPAIGN He also said that the impact of the flood could have been worse had it not been for the “Clean-up My

Country” campaign, which in the Party’s view played a major role in draining parts of Guyana.

Rohee stated that the Party is also pleased that the current rice crop has not suffered as much as cash crop farmers and many households on the coastland, especially in Region 4.

ROLE OF CITIZENS However, as citizens we cannot escape sharing some of the blame for last Thursday’s flooding, said Rohee.

He stated that the improper disposal of garbage has been and continues to be a major contributing factor to clogged draining systems.

Moreover, he noted, there is little or no adherence to the building code in Georgetown and this is another contributing factor to the constant flooding in the city.

Rohee noted that when one looks around Georgetown the many parapets and draining gutters are no longer visible. This is so because many persons have

filled those draining gutters to either create parking or

extend their properties.

Rohee added that it is imperative that “we as a people look to the future and consider the many

contributing factors in ensuring that we can, in the future, properly prepare to respond to these situations.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

Iran nuclear talks extended seven months after failing to meet deadline (Reuters) - IRAN and six powers failed on Monday for a second time this year to resolve their 12-year dispute over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, and gave themselves seven more months to overcome the deadlock that prevented them from clinching an historic deal.

Western officials said they were aiming to secure an agreement on the substance of a final accord by March but that more time would be needed to reach a consensus on the all-important technical details.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said “many gaps were narrowed and our positions with the other side got closer” at the Vienna talks, state TV quoted him as saying.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry gave a more sombre assessment, saying “real and substantial progress had been made but adding that “some significant points of disagreement” remained.

“These talks are not going to get easier just because we extend them. They’re tough.

They’ve been tough. And they’re going to stay tough,” he told reporters.

Delegations of U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Britain’s Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi sit around the negotiations table during their meeting in Vienna November 24, 2014. REUTERS/ Joe...

Under an interim deal reached by the six powers and Iran a year ago in Geneva, Tehran halted higher level uranium enrichment in exchange for a limited easing of international sanctions which have badly hurt its economy, including access to some frozen oil revenues abroad.

Monday marked the second self-imposed deadline for a final settlement to have passed without any deal. “We have had to conclude it is not possible to get to an agreement by the deadline that was set,” British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond told report-

Suspected Boko Haram militants attack Nigerian border town

(Reuters) - SUSPECTED Boko Haram militants attacked a Nigerian border town in the restive northeast on Monday, setting fire to houses and killing an unknown number of people, witnesses and government sources said.

Hours after the raid started on Damasak, gunmen still roamed the area, with many locals seeking to flee into neighboring Niger, just to the north of the town.

It was the third major attack over the last week in Nigeria’s Borno State, which have already seen close to 100 people die, including more than 25 people, mostly fishermen, shot dead in a remote community over the weekend.

“The insurgents came at about 9.00 am and fired shots into houses to force people out. They are still there up till now and still firing shots.

Many people may have died. I am talking to you now from the bush,” witness Bukar Aji told Reuters.

Musa Himma, a resident, told Reuters by phone that some 15 people alone had drowned trying to swim to safety across a river. Another witness said many had been killed by gunmen who surrounded the town arriving in pick-up trucks and motorcycles.

Borno is one of three states under a state of emergency due to the five-year insurgency by Islamist group Boko Haram, which is trying to carve out a caliphate.

A military source, who spoke to a colleague in Damasak, said that the militants had tried to attack the town last week.

“They came back today in large numbers, but our troops cannot curtail them,” the source said.

ers, adding that the target date had been extended to June 30, 2015.

Tehran has repeatedly dismissed Western fears that its nuclear programme might have military aims, saying it is entirely peaceful. However, the six powers - the United States, France, Germany, Russia, China and Britain - want to cut back Iran’s uranium enrichment programme to lengthen the time it would need to build a bomb.

Hammond said the expectation was that Iran would continue to refrain from sensitive atomic activity. There was a clear target to reach a “headline agreement” of substance within the next three months and talks would resume next month, he said.

It is unclear where next month’s talks will take place, he said, noting that during the extension period, Tehran will be able to continue to access around $700 million per month in sanctions relief. A source close to the talks said Vienna and Oman were possible venues for next month’s discussions.

Turkey, U.S. ease strains on Islamic State but differences remain

(Reuters) – TURKEY and the United States smoothed over some differences in the fight against Islamic State during a weekend visit by U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, but the talks heralded little in the way of deeper military cooperation between the NATO allies.

Turkey has been a reluctant partner in the U.S.led coalition against Islamic State, refusing to take a frontline military role despite its 1,200 km (750-mile) border with Iraq and Syria and thereby intensifying Western concern that it is a weak link in the struggle against the insurgents.

Biden ended two days of meetings in Istanbul with

no guarantee that Turkey would step up its military cooperation by, for example, allowing the use of Turkish air space or a U.S. base in its southern town of Incirlik for coalition air strikes.

Turkish leaders, in turn, received no signal that their demands for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s removal from power or that Washington establish a nofly zone in Syria would be met.

But officials on both sides said the differences were more about strategy than objectives, and the meetings - including a fourhour discussion between Biden and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan - had been an opportunity to clear the

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden (R) shakes hands with Turkey’s President Tayyip Erdogan during their meeting at Beylerbeyi Palace in Istanbul November 22, 2014. (Credit: Reuters/Kayhan Ozer/Presidential Palace Press Office/ Handout via Reuters) air and set a sometimes acrimonious relationship on a

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surer footing.

“They didn’t sit there

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and sign their names on the bottom line on a whole host of agreements. But actually, I think we came to a much greater clarity about where we need to go from here,” a senior U.S. official said following the talks.

Ankara and Washington were in “complete agreement” on the threat from Islamic State, the official said, as well as the need for an effective ground force in Syria to work in coordination with the air strikes and push the insurgents back, building on progress made in Iraq.

Turkish and U.S. forces will train 2,000 moderate Syrian rebels at a base in the central city of Kirsehir as part of the plan, a Turk-

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ish Foreign Ministry official said.

Turkish soldiers have also already trained some 230 Kurdish peshmerga fighters in northern Iraq and will give similar assistance to a new national army unit in Baghdad in support of the government’s struggle against Islamic State.

“In Iraq, Ankara and Washington’s viewpoints are very much closely aligned.

The problem remains Syria, where strategically they want the same thing – a new order without Assad – but technically, divergences remain,” said Sinan Ulgen, head of the Centre for Economic and Foreign Policy Studies in Istanbul.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

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Peru investigates deaths of 500 sea lions on north coast (BBC News) PERU is investigating the deaths of some 500 sea lions found on a beach on its northern coastline.

The local governor has accused fishermen of poisoning the mammals, which usually come close to the shore looking for food.

But Peruvian environmental police are looking into other possible causes for the deaths, including disease and the accidental ingestion of plastic.

The rotting corpses were found on Anconcillo beach in the Ancash region.

Agents said the bodies were of young as well as old animals, the official Andina news agency reported.

They were considered a health hazard and quickly removed from the beach, which lies some 400km (250 miles) north of the capital, Lima.

Earlier this month, a similar incident happened

Hundreds of dolphins were washed up in north Peru two years ago further north, in the Piura region, where the bodies of nearly 200 sea lions, dolphins, turtles and pelicans washed ashore.

Officials are still investigating the causes of those deaths.

In 2012, hundreds of dol-

phins were found dead along a stretch of Peruvian coastline.

Environmental group Orca blamed the deaths on the noise and pressure waves caused by explosions it linked to oil exploration in the area.

But a government report by the Maritime Institute (Imarpe) ruled out oil exploration, or infection by a virus or bacteria, as triggers for the deaths of the dolphins.

The report said natural causes were to blame.

Landslips in Morne Diablo (Trinidad Guardian) MORE than 30 fishermen were unable to access their boats and nets over the weekend after heavy rainfall caused a series of landslips along the Morne Diablo Main Road. Up to late Sunday, crews from the Penal/ Debe Regional Corporation were busy trying to build an alternative access route along the teak fields.

Fisherman Andy Mohan said Morne Diablo Main Road is the way in and out of the fishing village. He said on Friday night, heavy rains caused the road to slip in three places, toppling electrical lines and poles. A gaping hole developed along the roadway as several teak trees leaned along the 50foot precipice.

“We could not work for three days because there was no access to the beach. We called the regional corporation and we are happy that they are trying to repair the landslips,” Mohan said,

pointing to the collapsed road as an excavator continued to level a muddy passage to allow vehicular access. Another fisherman, Andy Bissessar, said while some people went to sea yesterday fish vendors could not access the beach with their trucks.

“We still losing money because we have nobody to buy our catch. We hoping that this road could be repaired properly as soon as possible so the vendors could come in,” Bissessar said. Kyle Mohammed, who lives in the area, said the heavy machinery using the road could have contributed to the collapse, “When they are cutting down teak, a lot of heavy trucks come in here.

They need to rehabilitate this entire road and set up restrictions for heavy vehicles,” Mohammed said.

Fisherman Larry Ramnarine said the Mon Diablo fishermen needed to get their lives back to normal. He called on the minister to repair the road as soon as possible.

PAHO satisfied with T&T’s Ebola preparedness, says Khan (Trinidad Guardian) A PAN AMERICAN HEALTH ORGANISATION (PAHO) team, which visited this country last week, says T&T is over prepared for Ebola. The team was here to monitor this country’s preparation for the virus.

Health Minister Fuad Khan, in an interview Sun-

day , said a team from the organisation visited the Caura Hospital and was satisfied with the measures being implemented at the facility to deal with the Ebola virus in this country.

“We are over ready,” Khan said he was told.

He said the PAHO team described the “negative pressure” system installed

at the hospital as world class. Khan was also asked to comment on a report by Caribbean 360 which said the first Caribbean national was tested positive for Ebola on Friday. The report said Cuban doctor, Felix Baez, who was among other Cuban doctors on the frontlines of the battle against Ebola in Sierra Leone tested positive

Diseases run riot ... who to blame, Gov’t or private sector?

(Jamaica Gleaner) AS criticisms mount condemning the private sector for its lacklustre approach to the Ebola crisis, in certain quarters, it is felt that governments should have accepted responsibility for the funding of a drug for the devastating Ebola disease earlier.

The comments come in the wake of pharmaceutical companies failing to develop a drug to treat the disease which has been around since 1976, while pledges of international help have not yet had any significant impact on the epidemic in West Af-

rica.

Up to a month ago, only one government in this region, Colombia, had disbursed US$100,000 to the United Nations Trust Fund, to help in the fight, said an October 17 report by the BBC. The Trust Fund’s target is US$1 billion.

Responding to the lack of support and absence of government leadership in the matter globally, vice-president of the Medical Association of Jamaica, Professor Marvin Reid, said governments have a responsibility to invest in intervention that will enhance the health of

their population.

Having said that, he noted that what-ever it is that is your disease profile, the government of that particular country has a responsibility to its population to invest in any intervention that is going to help.

“I would support an argument to a point to say that governments within their financial capabilities should invest for their health, to say they are going to do drug trials is another thing, because it’s a very costly venture. It may not be seen as a prudent investment,” he stated.

for the virus.

Khan said such unfortunate incidents can be expected sometimes. He said it was also unfortunate because Cuba

had been attempting to lead the way in the fight against the virus. Asked if it would cause T&T to make any changes in its policy, Khan said no. He

said everything was being done to ensure that we are prepared for the Ebola virus and PAHO was happy with the initiatives being implemented here.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

International Day To Eliminate Violence Against Women - 2014 THE United Nations General Assembly has designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (Resolution 54/134). The premise of the day is to raise awareness of the fact that women around the world are subject to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence, with one of the objectives being to highlight an issue that has too long been on the global backburner.

For 2014, the official theme framed by the UN Secretary-General’s campaign UNiTE to End Violence against Women, is Orange your Neighbourhood.

The genesis of the choice of this particular date is based on the date of the 1960 assassination of the three Mirabal sisters, political activists in The Dominican Republic. Their execution was ordered by Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo (1930–1961). In 1981, activists marked November 25 as a day to combat and raise awareness of violence against women on a global scale. This commemorative date and activity was sanctioned by an official United Nations resolution.

The Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women was adopted without vote

by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution 48/104 of 20 December 1993. Contained within it is the recognition of “the urgent need for the universal application to women of the rights and principles with regard to equality, security, liberty, integrity and dignity of all human beings”.

According to Wikepedia, the resolution is often seen as complementary to, and a strengthening of, the work of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action.

The resolution also recalls and embodies the same rights and principles as those enshrined in such instruments as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights As a consequence of the resolution, in 1999, the General Assembly, led by the representative from The Dominican Republic, designated 25 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women In her message for 25 November 2014, UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka said: “In 1995, close to 20 years ago, 189 governments came together in Beijing. They adopted a Platform for Action that spelled out key strategies to end violence

against women, empower women, and achieve gender equality. ...

The promises from 20 years ago are still valid today. Together we must make 2015 the year that marks the beginning of the end of gender inequality. Now is the time for action.”

In his message on the day in 2013, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated: “I welcome the chorus of voices calling for an end to the violence that affects an estimated one in three women in her lifetime. I applaud leaders who are helping to enact and enforce laws and change mindsets. And I pay tribute to all those heroes around the world who help victims to heal and to become agents of change.

The date of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women also marks the start of the “16 Days of Activism” that precedes Human Rights Day on December 10 each year.

In Guyana, to mark the occasion and observe the relevance of recognition for the causative factor for this special day, the Government launched 16 days of activism from 25th November - 10th December 2014 under the theme “From peace in the home to peace in the world, let’s end gender based violence.”

Addressing members of the

Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) gathered at the Diamond Secondary School to attend the 16th Triennial Congress of the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Jennifer Webster spoke to the observances of the “International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women”.

“We must recognise the need for strong action and bold leadership, to unite and join forces to end the pandemic of violence against our women and girls,” Minister Webster noted.

Guyana has a strong and robust legislative and policy framework for the protection of women.

The Constitution enshrines the rights of women, several international treaties, including the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and other pieces of legislation such as the Domestic Violence Act (1996) and the Sexual Offences Act (2010).

Minister Webster also posited that the elimination of gender-based violence is an important issue that transcends all barriers, including race, politics, culture or geographic location, and is one of the greatest obstacles which can have a significant effect on the advancement of women.

She asserted that violence has a social and economic cost to a society, and seriously jeopardises the progress and prosperity of the world. Added to this is the human cost to women and their families, which she said is unquantifiable and therefore demands urgent attention; recognition of which has precipitated, at the level of the Government of Guyana, a “zero tolerance” policy against gender-based violence.

The Minister highlighted the several steps that Government has taken in attempts to minimise, if not altogether eliminate, this scourge in society.

President of the WPO, Indra Chandarpal, reflected that since the passing of the Domestic Violence Act of 1996, a lot has been done in Guyana to fight the scourge of violence against women, declaring “We have always held the view that this fight is not a fight that must be carried by women only… it is a fight that all players in society should be part of.”

Violence, not merely against women, is abhorrent in all its forms; but violence against girls and women has been taken to levels of depravity which propelled the International Day for the elimination of violence against women.

IAC supports United Nations call for ‘End Violence Against Women’ THE Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) is calling upon all Guyanese, especially those of Indo-Guyanese origin, to lend their full support to the United Nations in its global call for the observance of the organisa-

tion’s activity ‘End Violence Against Women.’

The IAC welcomes this initiative and is pleased that this not just a one day activity, but in fact one that is spread over 16 days to give full ventilation to all types of violent acts

committed against women all across the planet.

The IAC also recognises that abuse of women, globally, is not physical alone, but also can be psychological; the organisation understands that psychological abuse of

women is just as damaging as physical abuse, and in many cases much more damaging, because psychological abuse can linger in the minds of women for years.

The IAC is calling upon males in Guyana

to respect the females because objectification of women, for example treating them as a sexual object in a meat market, can lead to all kinds of abuse of these women.

The IAC, as part of its social work agenda,

focuses on issues and concerns of Indo Guyanese women, such as domestic abuse.

The IAC wishes to recognise November 25 to December 10, 2014, as the period of ‘End Violence Against Women.’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

Violence against women is linked to reproductive health problems …On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, PAHO/WHO calls for a stronger health sector response Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . , (PAHO/WHO) – UNINTENDED pregnancies, sexually transmitted inf e c t i o n s , a n d m i s c a rriages are more frequent among women who report having experienced violence at any point in their lives, studies from multiple countries around the world show.

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, observed each year on November 25, the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is calling for the health sector—especially sexual and reproductive health services—to be involved in efforts to prevent and respond to violence against women.

“This is a major problem with many health implications,” said Dr. Carissa F. Etienne, PAHO’s Director. “The health sector

has a role to play in both prevention and response.”

Vi o l e n c e a g a i n s t women continues to be a serious public health problem in the Americas, where one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence by a partner or sexual violence by a non-partner during their lifetime, and 20% of women report being sexually abused as children.

Young women aged 1519 years are most at risk of suffering physical or sexual partner violence, with many reporting their first sexual encounter as unwanted or forced.

This violence not only results in physical injury or death but also has an under-recognised impact on women’s reproductive health, leading to more complications of pregnancy, unwanted pregnancy, miscarriage and sexually transmitted infections (STI), including

HIV. In some countries in the Americas, levels of unwanted pregnancy are two to three times higher among women who report partner violence compared with women who do not.

Pregnancy loss is twice as high among women who report experiencing violence, and the risk of premature labour is 1.6 times greater.

Studies have also found violence to be a significant cause of maternal mortality. Partner violence was the main cause of maternal death— responsible for 20% of such deaths— in three U.S. cities during 19931998. Hemorrhage was found to be three times more common in pregnant women suffering violence in one province in Canada in 2003. Between 3% and 44% of pregnant women in Latin America and Caribbean report experiencing partner violence

during pregnancy.

The role of health sector should include collecting data on violence prevalence that can be used to inform policy and programming, while training personnel to provide comprehensive, non-judgmental care for survivors of domestic violence. Healthcare workers should also refer survivors to legal services and social support. Public health strategies should include efforts to change social norms and behaviours that are linked to violence.

Additionally, in the case of women who experience sexual assault, health services should asses their need for HIV or STI prophylaxis, make e m e rg e n c y c o n t r a c e p tion available, offer safe abortion in accordance with national law (when a woman accesses health services too late for emergency contraception or if

emergency contraception fails), and provide mental health support.

In 1999, the United Nations General Assembly designated Nov. 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, which also marks the start of 16 Days of Activism that will culminate on Dec. 10, Human Rights Day. PA H O , f o u n d e d i n 1902, is the oldest international public health organisation in the world.

It works with its member countries to improve the health and the quality of life of the people of the Americas. It serves as the Regional Office for the Americas of WHO and is part of the Inter-American system.

BY THE NUMBERS Proportion of women who report ever experiencing physical or sexual partner violence*:

● Bolivia (2003): 53.3% ● Colombia (2005): 39.7% ● Peru (2007-08): 39.5% ● Ecuador (2004): 32.4% ● Nicaragua (2006-07): 29.3% ● Guatemala (2008-09): 27.6% ● El Salvador (2008): 26.3% ● Paraguay (2008): 20.4% ● Jamaica (2008-09): 19.6% ● Haiti (2005-06): 19.3% ● Dominican Republic (2007): 17% Reported prevalence of partner violence during pregnancy*: ● Peru (2007-08): 11.3% ● Colombia (2005): 9.7% ● Dominican Republic (2007): 6.6% ● Haiti (2005-06): 5.6% Proportion of women who reported losing a pregnancy as a result of partner violence*: ● Bolivia (2003): 3.3% ● Colombia (2005): 1.7%

GRA remains focused on its mandate and over $135B target for 2014 THE following statement was issued yesterday by Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority, Mr. Kurshid Sattaur: The Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Khurshid Sattaur, wishes to assure the taxpaying public that while he continues to maintain the position that verbal threats were issued to him by Kaieteur News Publisher, Glen Lall, he is very disappointed with the untimeliness in which the charges were instituted. As

Kurshid Sattaur

a result of the delay, he will not be providing further evidence in the matter today (yesterday). According to the Commissioner-General, based on his statement put forward as evidence already given to the Police on the matter, the Magistrate could have either continued to have the matter heard or withdraw the matter. The magistrate obviously chose to take the latter position.

“My decision of not providing further evidence on the matter at this juncture is consistent with the position that I have asked my lawyer,

who represented me, to take on the matter that would hopefully see the GRA being removed from the spotlight, as the staff were beginning to feel the fatigue from the excessive public attention that was unwarrantedly given to the current court imbroglio in which the Lalls were charged for criminal offenses under the Customs Act,” the Commissioner-General said.

Further, he stated that it would appear from the protracted time taken by the DPP in eventually recommending criminal charges

against the threats, that there was a perception of some difficulty in the pursuit of the charges. “Having therefore the concern over the possible negative outcome, and in view of the manner in which this matter has been pursued in the media, more so by certain media houses, in consultation with my lawyers, it was decided that no public good can be served to have evidence provided on the matter today (yesterday) and in the foreseeable future,” Mr. Sattaur stated.

According to the Commissioner-General, the

GRA cannot run the risk once again to fall prey to such issues that can result in the situation spiralling out of control. The GRA has a greater public interest to serve at this point in time in ensuring that it fulfills its mandate in collecting Government revenues in keeping with the estimate that has been approved in the National Assembly for the year 2014 of in excess of $135 billion.

Kurshid Sattaur Commissioner-General

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

Glen Lall, others to re-appear on tax fraud case on January 8

– Brijnanan to be summoned soon PUBLISHER of Kaieteur News, Mr. Mohan Lall, known as Glen Lall, and his wife Bhena Lall appeared for the second time in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer charges that relate to defrauding the Guyana Revenue Authority of duties.

They appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman who adjourned the case to January 8, 2015, pending the appearance of two other persons involved in the matter, who are expected to be served with summons soon.

In mid-October, Lall and his wife Bhena were arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The filing of the charges followed the disclosure of details of an alleged duty-free scam which were made public by the Guyana Chronicle after a close examination of the Government of Guyana’s review of the Remigrant Scheme.

The couple, who reside at Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara, denied the charges that were read to them by Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

The defence was repre-

sented by high profile lawyers, some of whom are also prominent politicians. The list of lawyers include, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, Senior Counsel Rex McKay, Nigel Hughes, Christopher Ram, Joseph Harmon, Brendan Glasford, Bettina Glassford and Robin Hunte.

CHARGES READ In their first appearance in court, four charges were read to Lall and his wife.

They state that: 1. The two parties were knowingly concerned in the fraudulent evasion of import duties of Customs on vehicle PRR 8398, contrary to Section 218(e) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

2. The two parties were knowingly concerned in the fraudulent evasion of import duties of Customs on vehicle PRR 8399, contrary to Section 218(e) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

3. Glen Lall and Bhena Lall, knowingly dealt with goods with intent to defraud the revenue of duties thereon to wit one (1) Lexus LX 570 Motor Vehicle registration number PRR 8398 with engine capacity 5700cc,

Chassis No. JTJHY7AX6 D4094851, contrary to Section 218(d) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01 4. Glen Lall and Bhena Lall, knowingly dealt with goods with intent to defraud the revenue of duties thereon to wit one (1) Lexus LX 570 Motor Vehicle registration number PRR 8399 with engine capacity 5700cc, Chassis No. JTJHY7AX6 D4094851, contrary to Section 218(d) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

Defence counsel, Ramjattan requested that his clients be released on their own recognisance, which is self-bail and this was granted.

Representing the prosecution were attorneys-at-law, Mr. Mahendra Satram and Sandil Kissoon.

TWO OTHER PARTIES Additionally, the other two parties involved in the alleged duty-free scam, Narootandeo and Gharbassi Brijnanan, did not appear to answer the charges against them.

The charges against the two remigrants state that: 1. The two parties were knowingly concerned in the

fraudulent evasion of import duties of Customs on vehicle PRR 8398, contrary to Section 218(e) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

2. The two parties were knowingly concerned in the fraudulent evasion of import duties of Customs on vehicle PRR 8399, contrary to Section 218(e) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

3. Narootandeo and Gharbassi Brijnanan did make and subscribe to a false declaration in a matter relating to the Customs, contrary to Section 217(1)(a) of the Customs Act Chapter 82:01, involving a vehicle PRR 8398 4. Narootandeo and Gharbassi Brijnanan did make and subscribe to a false declaration in a matter relating to the Customs, contrary to Section 217(1)(a) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01, involving a vehicle PRR 8399.

The lawyers representing Glen and Bhena Lall are expected to be the same group of lawyers representing the Brijnanans.

Altogether six criminal charges were filed against Lall and the Brijnanans.

DETAILS DISCLOSED Under the remigrant programme, Guyanese who would have resided overseas for more than five years and

are returning home to reside are entitled to a number of benefits, among which are import duty-free waivers for vehicles, and tax exemption for household items, once the items at reference were owned for six months or more in the country where the remigrant was living.

In Lall’s case, husband and wife Narootandeo and Gharbassi Brijnanan were entitled to concessions as two separate individuals, although a joint application was submitted.

The Brijnanans, having decided to return to Guyana to live permanently, were entitled to certain tax breaks, so they imported two luxury vehicles. But the address they gave on the registration forms for both vehicles, Lot 8 Continental Park, East Bank Demerara, was that of their son, Navin Sankar, even though the Lalls are the primary users of the vehicles.

The vehicle, PRR 8398, for instance, is usually parked in front of the Kaieteur News head office on Saffon Street, Charlestown, while PRR 8399 is often seen on Regent Street, in the heart of the city, near Bhena’s Footwear, the shoe business operated by Lall’s wife.

The Brijnanans successfully obtained import duty

concessions in the sum of $4,222,223.55 for each vehicle, totalling in excess of $8M. Meanwhile, this newspaper’s research into the source price for a Lexus L570 is about US$80,000.

Import duty for such a vehicle would be a total of US$94,500, bringing the total value of the vehicle to US$174,500, or more than G$36M for each of the vehicles imported by the Brijnanans. $ 4 0 M I N I M P O RT DUTY If the alleged violations are upheld, it would mean that the Government was cheated out of a total of US$189,000, or almost $40M in import duty for the two vehicles.

At the end of August, after an hour’s long standoff between GRA officials and the Brijnanans’ son, Sankar, a high-ranking GRA employee, the vehicles were handed over to GRA and impounded at the authority’s warehouse.

An investigation was then launched to ensure that procedures and policy, as well as the provisions of the law, were adhered to.

The criminal charges, this newspaper understands, stem from that investigation.

Tourism Ministry, GTA launch Restaurant Week – in association with Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) SOME 18 restaurants in Georgetown have signed on to ‘Restaurant Week’, a signature event within the Tourism Awareness Month of activities, and an initiative by the Tourism Ministry and Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG).

The Restaurant Week which began in New York as a lunch-only promotional event in 1992 is considered the first “Restaurant Week”.

New York Restaurant Week is now an event held twice a year, and participating restaurants in New York City offer prix fixe lunches and dinners. At the finest restaurants, this can translate into a fraction of the usual prices.

The event is held in early winter (January/February) and summer (June/July).

Since inception, Restaurant Week has seen an increase in appreciation, followers and footfalls to the extent that it has inspired people to create their own version of the event in various cities across the globe.

The restaurants in Georgetown that will be participating in the Restaurant Week are TumaSala; The Bottle Restaurant at Cara Lodge; Herdmanston Lodge; The Italian Grill and Subs and Salad; Aromas Café; Ridley’s Restaurant; Aracari Resort; Oasis Café; Jerries Snackette; Antonio’s Grill; The Garage; Waterchris Restaurant; Grand Coastal Inn; Buddy’s Mei Tung Restaurant; Kanuku Suites; Carnegie School of Home Economics; Silhouette Restaurant, and Coffee Bean. These restaurants will cater for a two-course lunch meal at a cost of $1000 or $2000, and a three-course

dinner meal at either $4000 or $5000, all taxes included.

Speaking at the official launch of Restaurant Week, held at the Tourism Ministry’s Boardroom, GTA’s Director, Indranauth Haralsingh said the event would give Guyanese an opportunity to fine dine at places they would not have gone to because of pricing.

He urged persons to come out and support the event.

T H A G ’s P r e s i d e n t , Shaun McGrath, noted that the event was designed to make many people who think that this sort of dining was not for them “come and experience what these restaurants have to offer.”

He also noted that it benefits the hoteliers and restaurateurs as well, as it increases a lot of additional foot traffic into their businesses.

“It introduces you to markets that you didn’t have

GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh and THAG President, Shaun McGrath pose with representatives of the participating restaurants

before,” he said.

“It also helps in the marketing of your product. I know that the meal you are providing either you make nothing on it or very little, but if a person likes your service and the product, they will return and pay your regular price because of the experience they would have had,” he elaborated.

McGrath noted that since the pricing is quite affordable, persons might expect substandard service and food, but he assures patrons that this is not the case.

“Don’t feel that you are going into a restaurant and, because of the affordable pricing, you will get a cheap meal. We have spoken to all the restaurants who are participating and (have)

explained to them that they need to put their best product forward,” he explained.

Anticipating the public’s response to this event, the THAG President said, “We at THAG certainly hope that this is a big success, and the plan would be to actual look at doing a second week earlier in the year.” (Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

US$41,000 CPGI projects commissioned in Canal Nos.1 & 2

BORN out of the recognition that climate change continues to be the greatest challenge to agriculture in Guyana’s administrative regions, the US$41,000 Canal Polders Green Initiative (CPGI) Project was commissioned yesterday by Local Government Minister, Norman Whittaker and CARILED representatives.

Speaking at the event in Canal No. 2 on the West Bank of Demerara, Minister Whittaker plugged the initiative as a great achievement, especially considering the role of the Guyana Government in diversification of the agricultural sector.

“Guyana is heavily dependent on agriculture both as a source of food and also a source of income and a source of revenue for the country,” the Minister said, adding that “our focus over many decades has been what we call the traditional crops: sugar [and] rice.”

He added: “But our Government determined many years ago that it is not the best thing to put all your eggs in one basket.”

Coming out of a series of

consultations sometime ago with residents and local government authorities from the area were recommendations, according to CARILED National Country Coordinator, Dhanraj Singh.

These centred around “those avenues which the Ministry of Local Government together with the CARILED programme can support those local government agencies on the ground to provide better support for local economic development in the communities.”

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT With a primary focus on women empowerment and creating new employment for women, there are three projects of that nature in the area, which along with consultations and training sessions with residents amount to some US$41,000.

But this is not limited to those direct beneficiaries of the project, said Singh who pointed out that the beneficiaries will open their projects to the public to further educate those persons who are interested in the new technology being utilised.

Observing the second crop of produce

This is to ensure that not only beneficiaries like Canal No. 2 farmer Naiomi Rambarran will benefit from the project. Naiomi grows parsley, celery and lettuce. She said that in four weeks she had reaped some 200 heads of lettuce for marketing.

With the floods that washed through the regions on Thursday, Naiomi said that she can now rest easy whenever it rains since her produce is grown above ground level. She recalled that during the floods,

even though she had to wade through two feet of water, she was relieved to know that her produce was untouched.

CARILED, the Caribbean Local Economic Development Programme, is funded by the Government of Canada through the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development and is implemented by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, an organisation made up of local government bodies in Canada.

Outlining the basis for the

Orange your neighbourhood!

– to celebrate International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women 2014 THE United Nation’s Secretary General’s Campaign, “UNiTE to End Violence against Women”, has designated the bright and optimistic colour of orange to symbolise a better future for the women of the world, to notify that Violence against women and girls is not inevitable, and to indicate that prevention in this regard is both possible and essential.

The “International Day to End Violence against Women” is commemorated worldwide on November 25. The day also kicks off the “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence,” an international campaign which runs until 10 December (Human Rights Day).

Violence against women continues to be a global pandemic. Women are beaten in their homes, harassed on the streets, and bullied on the Internet. Sexual and gender-based violence is the most extreme form of the global and systemic inequality experienced by women and girls. Worldwide, one in three women will suffer physical or sexual violence at some point

in her life.

In Guyana, it is now accepted that domestic violence is widespread, and that its perpetrators disregard race and socio-economic circumstances. Education Minister, Priya Manickchand has pledged to raise awareness of the harmful effects of violence against women in observance of the “16 Days of Activism”. She calls on individuals and groups to mobilise and sustain the fight to eliminate violence against women and girls.

Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, has called for an end to the silence surrounding violence against women. While Women and girls experience violence in all countries, these crimes often remain unreported and hidden. That is why this year’s “International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women” is centred on a grassroots effort to raise awareness. That effort is called “Orange Your Neighbourhood”.

“Everyone has a responsibility to prevent and end violence against women and girls, starting by challenging

Staffers of the Guyana Chronicle express their support for International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2014

the culture of discrimination that allows it to continue. We have to condemn all acts of violence, establish equality in our work and home lives, and change the everyday experience of women and girls,” the Secretary-General has said in his message to observe the day.

Take the UNiTE campaign to local streets, shops and businesses, between November 25 and December 10, 2014. Small indications such as messages that project awareness, tying orange ribbons where allowed, and wearing orange today will raise awareness about violence against women and girls, and

express your support.

Women’s rights were once thought of as women’s business only, but more and more men and boys are becoming true partners in the battle for women’s empowerment.

The UN Secretary-General has urged, “We all have a role to play, and I urge you to play yours. If we stand together in homes, communities, countries and internationally, we can challenge discrimination and put a stop to the mindsets and customs that encourage, ignore or tolerate the global disgrace of violence against women and girls.”

Canadian Government’s investment in the local economy, CARILED Programme Director, Alix Yule said: “We really believe that given the current global economic environment,

for communities to prosper the local economy needs to be stimulated.”

Yule plugged the need for the involvement of local government in these sorts of projects to further stimulate economic development. She remained optimistic of the venture since “It’s very difficult to help an economy grow.”

However, Yule urged for interagency collaboration to ensure the viability of these projects.

The Small Business Council, coming out of the Small Business Act of 2004, currently aids in funding for the project through Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), and the Institute of Private Enterprise Development Limited (IPED).

Presidential nomination…

Only ‘one name’ before PPP Central, Executive Committees

GENERAL SECRETARY of the ruling People’s Progressive Party, Clement Rohee yesterday disclosed that the only name being considered for a presidential nomination by the party is that of incumbent President Donald Ramotar.

According to him yesterday at the party’s weekly press conference at Freedom House, the party’s Central Committee has started talks about the presidential nominations in the face of early general elections.

“The Central Committee started discussing this matter at its last meeting and agreed that we will continue discussions to bring this matter to finality…there are no names there. The issue is being discussed. President Ramotar obviously is candidate for the time being…there are no other names there, there is one name there at this point in time,” he said.

Rohee told the media that the PPP’s Executive Committee is expected to consider deliberations on the presidential nomination, as well as the nomination of the party’s Prime Ministerial candidate. He added that a public pronouncement on both nominations will be made soon.

“We will make an announcement that covers everything…at the appropriate point in time we will say exactly what the position is,” Rohee concluded.

An early move to the polls comes in the face of the rejection of the President’s invitation for dialogue, which was made last Tuesday to the combined Opposition, following the prorogation of Parliament on November 10.

GREATER DIALOGUE In proroguing Parliament, President Ramotar was emphatic that the move to prorogation was intended to pave the way for greater dialogue among political parties, while keeping the 10th Parliament alive to address the critically important issues currently before the National Assembly.

The effect of ending the first session of the 10th Parliament via prorogation is the termination of the business of the National Assembly.

As a result the AFC sponsored no-confidence motion was not considered. And APNU had, prior to Monday, signalled its intent to support the push through of the motion. Had it not been for the proclamation to prorogue Parliament, if the no-confidence motion was passed, Guyana would have been headed to early general elections within three months.

However, the President has made it clear that if these efforts prove futile, there will be a move to early general elections. The last general elections were held in November 2011.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

At meeting in San Salvador…

Nandlall updates CFATF on efforts to improve local AML/CFT framework GUYANA was required to provide an update of its position regarding improvements to the local Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework, following the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) meeting in Paris, France in October 2014.

The country was represented at the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force’s (CFATF) Plenary Meeting XL, and Special Ministerial V Meeting yesterday in San Salvador, El Salvador, by a team led by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall. The other members on the team are from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).

Guyana was referred to FATF last November by the CFATF, after missing a compliance deadline, and consequently the country was blacklisted regionally.

The move was a result of Guyana’s cited failures regarding the passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill, which continues to languish before the local Parliamentary Special Select Committee reviewing the Bill.

AGREED ACTION PLAN Nandlall at the meeting

From left are FATF Administrator, Mr. Richard Berkhout; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall and CFATF’s Deputy Executive Director, Ms. Dawne Spicer at the meeting in San Salvador, El Salvador

told the gathering that Guyana has submitted an Action Plan after collaboration with the American Regional Review Group (ARRG).

According to him, this Action Plan was submitted and approved by FATF at the Paris meeting, where a high level commitment was given by President Donald Ramotar, pledging Guyana’s commitment to implement the plan.

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME Also during the ARRG engagement the Attorney

General underscored the challenges faced by the current Administration at the Parliamentary level. Therefore, the AARG recommended that Guyana be granted until September 2015 to implement the legislative measures and until May 2015 to implement the non-legislative measures. This recommendation was accepted at the FATF meeting in Paris.

Guyana’s engagement with the AARG followed a July 9, 2014 letter from FATF, which officially confirmed the body’s decision to commence a targeted review

of Guyana prior to the October 2014 plenary meeting.

FATF made it clear that the purpose of that targeted review would be to examine the most significant deficiencies in Guyana’s AML/CFT framework that pose a risk to the international financial system.

Since the FATF’s October plenary, despite having averted the devastating consequences of being blacklisted, Guyana will be subjected to an ‘Ongoing Process in Improving Compliance’ to ensure that the country’s AML/ CFT framework is up to par with international standards.

WORK ONGOING To this end and in light of the agreed terms in the Action Plan, Nandlall told the gathering that the non-legislative measures are being implemented with “dispatch” and there is “every likelihood” that these will be completed long before the May 2015 deadline.

He also recognised the assistance which Guyana continues to receive from the diplomatic community in Guyana at various levels.

Relative to the legislative measures, the Attorney General pointed out that this is the area that continues to pose “tremendous challenges” to the Government of Guyana, since up until the

Paris meeting the majority comprising of the joint Opposition in the National Assembly refused to lend their support to the enactment of the AML/CFT (Amendment) Bill 2013, which captures all the requisite legislative measures.

REGIONALLY BLACKLISTED Noteworthy, however, is the fact that Guyana remains regionally blacklisted.

Nandlall acknowledged that many jurisdictions in the Region have responded to the CFATF’s public statements by issuing directives and instructions to the relevant agencies within those jurisdictions informing of the status of Guyana and to continue to take measures or prepare themselves to take measures to protect themselves from the risks which Guyana poses or will pose should the situation deteriorate.

These jurisdictions include the British Virgin Islands, Bermuda, Curacao, Dominica, St. Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, the Turks and Caicos Islands, Jamaica, Bahamas, Barbados and Montserrat.

PARLIAMENT PROROGUED The Attorney General also highlighted that since the Paris meeting,

Guyana’s Parliament was prorogued by President Donald Ramotar on November 10.

One of the grounds for the prorogation of the Parliament was to offer an opportunity by the President for the Government and the joint Opposition to enter into constructive engagements in order to arrive at consensus on a number of national issues, including the swift enactment of the AMLCFT (Amendment) Bill.

The Attorney General emphasised that should no compromise be produced by this offer of the Government, then National Elections will be inevitable.

He also assured that the enactment of the AML/ CFT Bill will continue to be of the highest priority on the Government’s Parliamentary agenda when Parliament resumes and every effort will continue to be exerted to ensure that this Bill is passed within the timeframe agreed upon in the Action Plan.

B o t h FAT F a n d CFATF, the FATF-style regional body (FSRBs), is expected to continue to work with Guyana and to report on the progress made in addressing the identified deficiencies.

GECOM’s seventh registration Sugar production now stands at 199,000 tonnes cycle set for December 1 THE sugar production target for 2014 is likely to be met, according to GuySuCo Human Resource Director, Mr. Jairam Pitam, who added that as of yesterday production stands at 199,000 tonnes.

He also told this newspaper that last week’s torrential rains caused some estates to lose three days but operations resumed yesterday.

“We did not have any losses in terms of the actual crop, what we lost was three days, three opportunity days, but operations have resumed and we are hoping that once the weather holds harvesting will continue and we will be able to meet the target,” Pitam said.

The overall target for 2014 was moved from 216,000 tonnes to 219,000

tonnes. The first crop was successful, surpassing the 75,000 tonnes target, bringing in about 80,000 tonnes. $6B ALLOCATION Additionally, a $6B allocation in the 2014 National Budget for GuySuCo was approved by the National Assembly. The $6B is expected to cover expenditures that include mechanisation, through the conversion of 2,500 hectares of land to be suitable for mechanical operations, which will be done at a cost of $1.1B, tillage and replanting of 9,200 hectares, both efforts being consistent with improving cane production and yield, which will be done at a cost $1B, factory upgrading of all sugar estates, including Skeldon, at a cost of $2B and works

to field infrastructure to improve field to factory access and purchasing of equipment, excavators, bell loaders, tractors, etc. to account for the remainder of the allocation.

Despite the dismal sugar production in 2013, Guyana has been taking steps to turn around the sugar industry and hopes to meet the 300,000 tonnes target soon, with a projection that the sector will reach its 400,000 tonne goal by 2020.

Despite its challenges, the industry, according to Government, remains relevant to the health of the national economy. In 2013, sugar exports accounted for 8.3 per cent of total exports valued at US$112.2M and the industry contributed 3.9 per cent of the country’s GDP. (Vanessa Narine)

– receives support from PPP, in face of APNU/ AFC opposition THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has indicated that its 7th Cycle of Continuous Registration commences on M o n d a y, D e c e m b e r 1 , 2014.

And the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has made clear its support for the Commission’s plan in which persons will be allowed to register for the first time, conduct transfers and makes changes to their registration details.

The ruling party, in a statement said, “The PPP

fully supports GECOM’s plans to conduct the 7th Cycle of Continuous Registration commencing on Monday December 1st, 2014, and continuing for three months.

On several occasions, the PPP had made it known to GECOM that it has information indicating a large number of persons who are still to conduct transactions, enabling them to be correctly listed on the Voters List.

“The Party also wishes to strongly condemn the APNU and AFC for responding negatively to GECOM’s

intention of conducting another cycle of registration.

The question may very well be asked, which serious minded politician or political party will knowingly want to disenfranchise Guyanese?

Unless their intention is to somehow invoke aspects of elections held during the period 1968 – 1985.”

According to the party, it will remain resolute as it continues to monitor the Opposition’s reactions to GECOM’s preparations for elections.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

Political state of affairs discussed by PPP’s Central Committee THE Central Committee of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) met last Thursday to discuss the current political state of affairs, the rejection of the President’s invitation for dialogue after the prorogation of Parliament, and the prospects of an early return to the polls.

And the party’s General-Secretary, Clement Rohee, contends that while the sentiment on the ground, for the large part, is that there should be a move to early general elections, he noted that the Opposition Leader, Brigadier (rtd.) David Granger, faces a challenge as it relates to engaging President Donald Ramotar.

“It appears that there are some elements within the APNU (A Partnership for National Unity) who are bent on not having any dialogue, while there are some who are more disposed to having dialogue; and that I think is the challenge Mr. Granger has.

In proroguing Parliament last Monday, President Ramotar was also emphatic that the move to prorogation was intended to pave the way for

Clement Rohee

greater dialogue among political parties, while keeping the 10th Parliament alive.

The effect of ending the first session of the 10th Parliament via prorogation is the termination of the business of the National Assembly.

As a result, the Alliance For Change (AFC) sponsored no-confidence motion was not considered. Also, APNU had, prior to Monday, signalled its intent to support the push through of the motion. Had it not been for the

proclamation to prorogue Parliament, if the no-confidence motion was passed, Guyana would have been headed to general elections within three months.

However, Mr. Ramotar has made it clear that if these efforts prove futile, there will be a move to early general elections; the last general elections were held in November, 2011.

When asked about a return to the polls, Rohee stressed that the party is “as confident as confident can be” that when there is a move to general elections, the PPP will emerge easily with a majority, adding that the sentiment on the ground is that there should be a move to early elections, given the stance of the combined Opposition.

He added that coming out of engagements with the Guyanese people, the sentiment is that people regret not voting for the PPP at the last general and regional elections.

He said, “They go even further to say that, in their view, the PPP could not only be re-elected to office, but

they are prepared to work hard in order for the Party to regain its majority in the National Assembly. “…when you go into certain areas where we lost some votes and you speak to the people who had migrated over to the AFC, those people regret every moment they did what they did, and have reassured us that this time around they will vote for the PPP, because the AFC hasn’t brought them anything; they had promised sugar workers 20 percent increase, nothing of that sort has happened.”

According to Rohee, the PPP does not practice “punishment politics” and any development advanced, benefits all the Guyanese people.

“So as far as they are concerned, their best bet is to vote for the PPP…we don’t believe in punishment politics. When we do a proj-

ect it doesn’t stop…people have seen the light. I can see clearly now…things are improving for us,” the PPP General-Secretary said.

Rohee told reporters yesterday that as it relates to the way forward, the Party will continue to advocate in favour of the legitimate concerns of all Guyanese, as it relates to raising pertinent concerns over the work of GECOM. “GECOM must be reminded that the largest portion of Guyanese who voted in 2011 would have done so for the PPP; and it is the Party’s responsibility to those and all Guyanese to ensure that all obstacles are removed to facilitate free and fair elections,” he said.

The PPP General-Secretary stressed that GECOM must also be reminded that it was the PPP that paid “the highest price in the fight for free and fair elections” and

for the establishment of an independent Elections Commission.

According to him, the Party will continue to voice its concerns over issues of national interest, in moving forward.

Among other issues raised by the PPP over the last months with GECOM are: international observers for elections (Joint International Technical Assessor (JITA), employment of a qualified and untainted IT Manager, proper monitoring of data entry into the National Register of Registrants database, critical registration issues, lobbying for more mobile registration units on the coast as well as in the hinterland regions, proper verification of new registrants, removal of dead and underage persons listed as well as employment of polling day staff.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

MACORP celebrates first anniversary of Port Kaituma operations MACHINERY Corporation of Guyana Limited (MACORP), the sole authorised dealer of Caterpillar machinery in Guyana, celebrated last Thursday its first anniversary of keeping the operations of miners running in Port Kaituma, Region 1 (Barima/Waini).

Some 12 months ago, MACORP launched the $100M investment with the main aim of being able to contribute to further development of the local mining sector, as well as provide advice and solutions that add value for users of its equipment.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle about the celebration in Port Kaituma, Asif Sahid, Parts Manager of MACORP, expressed the company’s sincerest gratitude to all its patrons, and related that MACORP would humbly continue to provide

the required products and social support to its increasing client base, as well as the developing community, to ensure that patrons are successful in their business and everyday lives.

Sahid noted thus: “Customers are enjoying less downtime in the mines, easier and more affordable access to spares, and access to the many integrated solutions offered under our preventative maintenance scheme -which lends to the reduction of harmful mining practices.

The residents are [benefiting] and will continue to benefit from our community-enhancement projects.”

Sahid also noted that MACORP’s presence in Port Kaituma has not only assisted the mining sector, but was able to fulfill a corporate responsibility to the community. He explained that MACORP provides a total

life cycle value by offering sustainable products, engines, components, services, and solutions.

“Our products are of exceptional quality and performance, unmatched reliability and unparalleled support, which assist our customers to move ahead.”

At the commissioning of the Port Kaituma operations a year ago, Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, had challenged MACORP thus: “If you want mining to stay, progress, and be efficient, you must also ensure that it is done in accordance with our laws, our regulations, and also with good mining practices; so an integrated solution must run the entire gamut that is concerned and connected with responsible mining.”

Through all its years of operation in Guyana, MA-

CORP has been very active in the country’s development, contributing directly with technical support and equipment supply to the most important productive sectors – mining, agriculture, road construction; basic industry, marine, forestry and electricity generation.

MACORP has established locations at Barti-

ca and Port Kaituma, but its head office is located at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

For 20 years, MACORP, the only authorised Caterpillar dealer in Guyana, has been leading Guyana’s development and fuelling the success of stakeholders by directly providing integral equipment and product sup-

port solutions. MACORP has been rewarded for its outstanding performance and contribution to the development of Guyana, and for the professional training of its employees.

To learn more about this dynamic company, visit macorpcat.com or follow MacorpCat on Twitter.

Mickey on trial for murder of paramour Sharda at Sophia JUSTICE Navindra Singh and a mixed jury at the D e m e r a r a A s s i z e s a re hearing the Sharda murder case in which Michael Anthony Persaud, called “Mikey’, is on trial for the murder of his reputed wife, Maduri Padumdeo, called ‘Sharda’, of Lot 8 Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Witnesses have stated that the accused Mikey had, for some time, been living with Sharda in a common law union and that they have parented a twoyear-old son. The accused and his paramour worked with Chandrapaul, called ‘Kaylee’, known as ‘Cane Juice Man’, selling cane juice at different locations.

In her opening address to the jury, Mrs. Judith Mursalin, appearing for the prosecution in association with Miss Narissa Leander and Mr. Michael Shahoud, promised to lead evidence to show how the 21-year-old woman lost her life. According to her, witnesses will testify that on the night of Wednesday,

December 21, Chandrapaul and the couple had gone to a wake at Unity, East Coast, Demerara. They arrived at about 8.30 p.m., and did not leave until about 1am.

According to Chandrapaul, when he picked up Michael, Michael appeared to be under the influence of alcohol, and he had a bottle of red Banks (beer) in his hand. Along the way to drop the couple home, between Plaisance and Ogle, Chandrapaul’s Morris Oxford motor car developed a problem with its clutch, and so he drove to Alpha Hotel between Ogle and Industry using one gear.

Arriving at about 1.30 to 2.am, Chandrapaul paid $3,000 for a room for 3 hours, and he claims that he slept on the mat while the couple slept on the bed.

Chandrapaul claims that no sexual activity occurred. At about 4.30 am, they left the hotel. Chandrapaul managed to fix his car by filling the cyclinder with soap water.

He dropped the couple off at their home at about

4.45am. He spent about 30 minutes with the couple in their apartment, and they made arrangements to meet at the work place where they would sell cane juice at 8:30 am.

Chandrapaul admits that he and Padumdeo (Sharda) were having a relationship.

Chandrapaul, in his statement to the police, recalled that Maduri once told him that Michael had beaten her, and she had showed him marks on her body.

When Chandrapaul advised her to make a report to the police station, she had told him that she had made several reports before.

At about 8am, Dataday Doodnauth, a neighbour of the couple, heard noises and Maduri’s voice in the yard.

Persons went into the yard and saw the couple fighting.

Maduri was shouting that the police should be called.

Michael was seen to pull the girl into the house. Later, the naked girl was found dead, with Michael lying at her side.

Hearing of the case is continuing.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

‘Clean-Up My Country’ Programme records success in Region 6 THE Household Bulk Waste Removal Programme which was implemented under the ‘Clean-Up My Country’ Programme has recorded a major success in Region 6 (East Berbice/ Corentyne), according to a press release.

Some 539 truckloads comprising household bulk waste and illegal garbage piles were removed from communities within the Municipal Town Council (MTC) of New Amsterdam all the way to Crabwood Creek/ Molsen Creek.

The programme which lasted for eleven days was executed in communities within the 19 local authority bodies, and provided the opportunity for residents to get rid of household bulk waste and for parapets to be cleared of roadside garbage piles.

To facilitate the removal of approximately 80 loads of

debris which comprised the large volume of garbage in Corriverton around the Municipal Market area and along the seawall areas, the ‘pickup’ schedule was extended.

539 LOADS OF GARBAGE The following is the total number of truckloads of roadside garbage piles and residential bulk waste removed from all Neighbourhood Democratic Councils/ Municipalities in East Berbice/Corentyne: New Amsterdam /Enfield/New Doe, 31 loads; Rose Hall Town Council/ Ordinance/Fort Lands, 90 loads; Canefield/Enterprise/ Kintyre/No.37, 15 loads; Gibraltar/Fyrish/Kilcoy/Hampshire, 18 loads; Port Mourant/ John/Bloomfield/Whim, 42 loads; Lancaster/Hogstyle / N0. 52/74, 82 loads; Maida/ Tarlogie/Black Bush NDC,

One of the trucks used in the clean-up exercise

52 loads; Bush Lot-Adventure/ Macedonia-Joppa, 69 loads; and Corriverton Town Council/ Crabwood Creek/ Hope-51, 140 loads. The total loads amounted to some 539 loads.

According to Programme Implementing Officer, Bramhanand Singh, when asked to compare the volume of solid

waste removed in Region 4 to that of Region 6, said: “The volume varies from NDC to NDC.” He further explained that “NDCs which have a regular garbage collection schedule had fewer illegal garbage piles (as in the case of Region 4) as compared to NDCs which have irregular

garbage collection system (as in the case of Region 6).”

In Region 4, he noted, the bulk waste programme was executed over a five-day period (October 27 to October 31) during which 163 truckloads of bulk waste illegal garbage piles were removed.

Singh disclosed that, “In Region 4, there was a larg-

er volume of bulk waste than in Region 6 which had more illegal dump sites to be cleared.”

However, the household bulk waste and illegal garbage removal programme continued its implementation role in Region 5 (Mahaica-Berbice) yesterday and will continue until Friday.

Following this will be the implementation in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) from Monday 1st December to Saturday 8th December, and in Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam) from Monday 8th December to Sunday 14th December 2014.

Residents desirous of disposing of their household bulk waste are asked to place waste in front of their premises for free collection by 08:00hrs on the day of pickup. Commercial waste will not be facilitated in this programme.

‘A’ Division CPG/SMC donates traffic equipment to Brickdam Police Station THE Community Policing Group and Station Management Committee (CPG/SMC) of the Guyana Police Force ‘A’ Division has donated caution reflectors and stop signs

to the Brickdam Police Station.

In a simple ceremony, Mr. Mahendranauth Persaud, rural constable of the CPG, handed over the donation to ‘A’ Division

Commander, Senior Superintendent, Clifton Hicken, last Tuesday; and said he had seen the need for the caution reflectors to be donated since, often, when the police are carrying out

The stop signs that were donated to the Brickdam Police Station

road blocks, it is hard for someone to recognise them on unlit or poorly lit roads.

He also said that the stop signs had been donated to be used on the junctions to caution vehicles to slow

down or stop, and to be put where stop signs should be placed, especially on the highways just before pedestrian crossing signs.

Commander Hicken thanked the CPG/SMC for

the donation, and urged other entities to do likewise, since such an act would not only be helping the police, but also pedestrians and road users.

(Asif Hakim)

Commander Hicken accepting a caution reflector from R.C Persaud (centre) with help from a member of the SMC

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, exulted at the abundance of talent and the array of skills resident within the walls of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat Headquarters in Georgetown, Guyana, and put on display at the opening exhibition of a Staff Talent Celebration yesterday.

This year marks the 13th year of this celebration; the symbolic event has now formed a main part of the Secretariat’s calendar.

The display of collectables and other items put on by the staff was organised

by Head of the Executive

Committee, Ms. Vanessa Stepheney, and Executive Director of the Human Resources Management, Executive Director, Human Resource Management, among other persons.

The vibrant and colourful peoples of the Caribbean were showcased by the multifaceted nature of the event. The culture, talent, passion and creativity of the staffers were expressed through awe-inspiring paintings and photography, exquisite ceramics and vintage craft items from around the Caribbean.

Avid collectors of cups, currency, silverware, clothing, literature, games, shoes,

CARICOM SG exults at array of talents/ skills displayed at Staff Talent Celebration

CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador, Irwin LaRocque, observing a display

and floral displays added a variety of creative expressions to the celebration.

This year, the week of activities, which aims to showcase the creativity and innovation of the staffers and encourage work/life balance, will be held under the theme ‘Creativity and innovation for a better tomorrow’.

Slated for the week of activities, with intention to enhance cohesion and create opportunities for collaboration, is a Talent show, a fashion extravaganza and a market place auction, a games night and a karaoke event, a grill masters’ competition, poetry and palav, and other events.

A horticultural display by a staff member of CARICOM

Staffer Riana de Haas Bledoeg with her showcase of traditional Surinamese folklore

‘Crystal Klear’ by Denise Aaron

A staffer observes paintings done by Jaseend Malcolm and Family

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

Hicken hosts Christmas party for over 700 Mocha children ‘A’ DIVISION Commander, Senior Superintendent, Clifton Hicken with the help of Deputy Commander (ag) Superintendent, Wayne DeHearte and other senior officers last Saturday hosted a Christmas party for over 700 children of Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara at the Mocha Community Centre ground.

The children were all treated to lunch, drinks and snacks and had a jolly time singing along to the children’s Christmas music played by the DJ. After having lunch the children were treated to a surprise as Santa Claus, Spiderman, SpongeBob and Mickey Mouse came walking out from the library at the ground.

As the cartoon characters approached, the children were all in surprise but delighted as they rushed excitedly to be entertained.

As the children eased

down they were all treated with Christmas presents from Santa Claus.

MEETING SPONGEBOB One of the many children who were there spoke to the Chronicle and said that since he was threeyears-old he always wanted to meet SpongeBob. He said in a very happy manner that his dream had come through and he also thanked the police for making it possible.

Speaking at the venue to the children just before the party began, Commander Hicken said that he loves working with children and when they first ventured out into the partnership approach they identified Albouystown and there is where they launched their first initiative.

“After recognising the fruits we reaped from Albouystown we started to develop other communities.

In addition to that other

The cartoon characters and Santa Claus as they surprise the children

communities requested our presence. I know when we were developing Agricola and when the residents of Grove recognised what we were doing they asked me

to come to Grove and I can tell you that we have done some good work with the children of Grove,” Hicken said.

The commander also

reminded parents that their children are the future and they should mould them correctly so that they will not have problems with them later.

This three-year-old got a standing ovation

Some of the youths showcase their talents

Commander Hicken speaks to the gathering

“I will continue to work and help children not only of Mocha but throughout my entire division,” the commander added. (Asif Hakim)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

Hicken apologises for rape remarks - understands rape to be a violent act of power and aggression…

DIVISIONAL Commander ‘A’ Division, Senior Superintendent Clifton Hicken

yesterday apologised for controversial remarks in which he said that the mode

Tuesday, November 25, 2014 - 05:00hrs Wednesday, November 26, 2014 - 05:00hrs

of dress by females contributed to rape.

Hicken had made remarks about how some young women dress during his presentation of the Divisional Christmas Policing Plan on November 17, 2014.

The ‘A’ Division Commander’s apology was issued yesterday through the Guyana Police Force apologising to all members of the Guyanese society who have been negatively affected by his comments made in relation to the offence of rape.

It said that the comments made were “an unfortunate bad choice of words since like every other member of the Guyana Police Force, Hicken understands rape to be a violent act of power and aggression by the perpetrator on a weaker person.”

In closing the release reaffirmed that “rapists are criminals who ought to be treated as such and victims are certainly not responsible for violence committed against them.”

Aries One quick phone call to a friend may turn into a long discussion about the meaning of life. Be conscious of the fact that there’s a great deal of momentum building in your mind now. Once the dam breaks, you may soon have a giant flood on your hands. Be careful about releasing all this energy at once, even though you may not seem to have a choice.

Taurus It could be that you feel a bit of pressure today to start or create something that you aren’t quite ready for. There is hesitation on your part that indicates you should take it slowly and learn more of the facts before you jump into the fray. Position yourself in such a way that you take control of the situation rather than become a victim of it.

Gemini Move forward with your plan of attack today. There’s an anxious rumble within you that’s urging you to get going with a current plan. You have all the facts you need, so don’t hesitate any longer. The power of the word is with you. You will be smooth, collected, and confident even in the most nerve-wracking situations. Words will flow off your tongue with ease.

Cancer Add spark to your life today. It could be that things are getting stale and boring. If so, consider the possibility that you simply aren’t challenging yourself enough. Remember that you’re responsible for lighting your own fire. You have the perfect opportunity to get something started today, so go for it. Feel free to get other people to help.

Leo People are apt to try to hit you square on the head with their ideas and thoughts today, so be ready for the onslaught of information that may come your way. There’s a distinct advantage to listening to the whole spiel before you react with your own facts and emotions.

The problem is that you’re going to be tempted to argue instead of calmly resolve the matter.

Virgo Anchor yourself in practical matters before you try to prove your point to others. There’s a great deal of primal energy rising within you today and searching for some sort of outlet. Be aware of overextending yourself when it comes to issues of the mind. You may be so anxious to prove your point that you end up losing sight of the reality of the situation.

Libra Don’t take no for an answer today. Know what you believe in and stick with it. There’s a distinct advantage to holding true to your inner nature. Don’t let others throw you off course with their views on how things should be done. Be confident and don’t worry about taking things over the top. There’s no such thing as excess today. “The more the merrier” should be your motto.

Scorpio Don’t take no for an answer today. Know what you believe in and stick with it. There’s a distinct advantage to holding true to your inner nature. Don’t let others throw you off course with their views on how things should be done. Be confident and don’t worry about taking things over the top. There’s no such thing as excess today. “The more the merrier” should be your motto.

Sagittarius Be aggressive and forceful when it comes to exerting your will. Let others know that you won’t be a pushover. Your opinions are extremely important, and they need to be heard by the people who matter the most. Have faith that whatever you say has the power to come true, especially when you enlist the help of those around you. Opportunity lies in joining hands with others.

Capricorn Today may be one of those days in which you come to a four-way stop and no one knows whose turn it is. Don’t sit and wait for everyone else to go first. If you know it’s your turn, be bold and make your move. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to signal others that you’re going ahead.

People might not be used to you taking such an aggressive role.

Aquarius People would be foolish to challenge your thinking now. The power behind your words is volatile, and you may find yourself going to extremes in order to get your point across. Be careful about making promises you can’t fulfill. It could be that you’re so adamant about your point of view that you make up hyperbolic situations just to get your ideas across.

Pisces Your old ways of thinking have carried you quite far, but you may now find that it’s time to seek a new platform for your ideas. Look for more adventurous ways to express yourself.

Break out of the old mould and try something new. Once you start in a brand new direction, there will be a great deal of support encouraging you to continue along that way.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

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Hamilton leaves the Permaul cages 8 ... partying for later

By Alan Baldwin ABU DHABI, (Reuters) Graham Hill would doubtlessly have done it differently.

Where James Hunt might have staggered dishevelled into the morning after the night before, probably clutching bottles in both hands on the way to bed, Lewis Hamilton celebrated his second Formula One title yesterday with bright eyes and a spring in his step.

A glass of watermelon juice, and a few sips of “some kind of Cognac thing”, was sufficient carousing for Britain’s first multiple champion since Jackie Stewart.

One of only four Britons, including the late Hill, to have won the title twice, Hamilton said his achievement had yet to sink in.

“I feel fresh, I only had one drink last night, which is more than good enough for me,” the Mercedes driver told a breakfast news conference.

Mercedes Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain celebrates after winning the world championship following the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix at the Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi, Sunday. (Credit: Reuters/Hamad I Mohammed) “I don’t drink Champagne. I had a watermelon juice at dinner, which is my favourite. Then when I was at the party there was some kind of Cognac thing ... but it didn’t taste very nice. So I had a couple of sips and that was it. I knew I had to be up early as well.”

If the early hour was not greeted with universal delight, there were no complaints from the man of the

moment.

“It’s definitely an incredible feeling to wake up this morning feeling fresh in my surroundings and with all the different people who have been involved in my career over 21 years,” he enthused.

“The sun is shining and I feel really blessed.”

His mobile had gone crazy, the texts and emails flooding in, and he promised

Aaron quick to impress for Indians OPENER Shikhar Dhawan match of their Australian tour.

Express paceman Varun Aaron impressed at fell cheaply but India otherwise enjoyed a satisfactory Adelaide’s Gliderol Stadium in the coastal subhit-out on day one of the first urb of Glenelg as India started a two-day game by restricting the Cricket Australia XI to 219.

In response, India reached stumps at 1-55 with Dhawan out edging to left-arm fast bowler Josh Lalor for 10 in the seventh over.

Aaron was not given the new ball but he finished the pick of the bowlers with 3-72 from 17 overs.

Aaron’s opening spell of six overs went for 15 runs and featured the scalps of CA XI captain Ashton Turner and Queensland’s Nick Stevens.

The right-armer, clocked at 152.1 km/h during a recent one-day international against Sri Lanka, returned later to remove Alex Gregory.

“He bowled some pretty quick bumpers,” said opener Ryan Carters, who top-scored for the CA XI with 58.

“He did a little bit of damage but I thought at times we played him well.”

Pace and bounce, the same issues that have troubled so many Indian batsmen on past Australian tours, were Aaron’s biggest assets.

“On a fast wicket, he’ll definitely be a handful,” Carters said.

“You could definitely expect some short stuff.

“This wicket was good for the quicks, it certainly had some pace ... the bouncers were pretty challenging.”

Aaron did however cop some late punishment from Harry Nielsen, son of former Australia coach Tim, and NSW quick Harry Conway.

Nielsen finished 43no from 30 balls, the pair putting on a final-wicket stand of 52 runs.

The visitors are playing a pair of two-day matches to warm up for the four-Test series, with the next starting at Adelaide Oval on Friday.

Wicketkeeper Nielsen earned a late call-up to the CA XI, replacing Seb Gotch (virus).

“He’ll be smiling at what became of his day, waking up this morning and expecting to go to work,” Carters said.

“He performed really well with the bat and did a nice job with the gloves at the end.(CA)

to answer them all.

The first champion for a Mercedes works team since Argentine Juan Manuel Fangio in 1955, Hamilton said he spent the evening with family, just reminiscing about the journey they had been on.

Hamilton, winner of 11 races this season, recalled his early karting days, sitting by a gas heater drinking chicken soup from a flask, and the sacrifices his father had made.

“Then I popped out to the party, and (Mercedes motorsport head) Toto (Wolff) was all over the place at that point,” laughed Hamilton, Wolff sitting alongside with a pained expression.

Beaten team mate Nico Rosberg had Tweeted after the race that “now it’s time to fight for the party world championship”. The German, elsewhere yesterday, seemed to have won the battle.

Hamilton was happy to let that one go at least.

Racing Tips English Racing Tips Southwell 08:10 hrs Company Secretary 08:40 hrs Red Invader 09:10 hrs Wu Zetian 09:40 hrs Spindle 10:10 hrs Invincible Wish 10:40 hrs Galuppi 11:10 hrs Reach The Beach 11:40 hrs Best Tamayuz Sedgefield 08:20 hrs Jacks Last Hope 08;50 hrs El Beau 09:20 hrs Apache Pilot 09:50 hrs Silver Vogue 10:20 hrs Captain Sharpe 10:50 hrs Brother Scott 11;20 hrs Legacy Phoenix Sedgefield 08:30 hrs The Green Ogre 09:00 hrs Ball Hopper 09:30 hrs Sindar’s Man 10:00 hrs Southway Star 10:30 hrs Millicent Silver 11:00 hrs Little Jimmy 11:30 hrs Bleu Et Noir South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:35 hrs Turnuptheheat 09;15 hrs Olympic Bolt 09:55 hrs Run For Delivery 10:30 hrs Bags Of Boodle 11:05 hrs Danielle 11:40 hrs Rodeo Dand

From back page After lunch, Fletcher got two fours off Devendra Bishoo, while Smith posted his half century with his ninth four, struck through extra cover off Permaul, having faced 78 balls and batting for 100 minutes, as the Volcanoes moved to 94 for 1 I the face of some tight bowling from Permaul.

The Jaguars had the opportunity to remove Fletcher when he was on 27, but Beaton grassed the skier at long off, when the right handed batsman was looking to hit Bishoo over that area at 96 for 1, before Bramble held one at the wicket to account for Smith, whose 55 was scored off 105 balls, with nine fours off Permaul.

The Jaguars removed Fletcher for 38 (6x4), courtesy of a Trevon Griffith catch at extra cover off Permaul, before Sunil Ambris struck Deonarine for four and six over long on, pushing the score to 133 for 3, while at tea the Volcanoes were 143 for 3 with Ambris on 32 and his elder brother Romel Currency 4.

After tea, the Albion combination of Permaul and Bramble accounted for both

Ambris (39) and his skipper Liam Sebastien (00), followed quickly by the scalps of Lyndon James, Currency (10) and Matthews (00) in that order, all to Permaul who left the opposition on 168 for 8.

Bobb did his best with free boundaries through midwicket off Deonarine, pushing the score to 185 for 8 before he lost Kenroy Peters (03), but with Nelon Pascal showing resistance to the pace/spin combination of Permaul, Bishoo and Beaton in that order, the Volcanoes forced the Jaguars to take the second new ball.

They did so and it paid dividends, as Permaul sealed the win with his eighth victim, when Bobb was lbw for 24 at 16:21hrs, handing the left handed orthodox spinner his best bowling figures per match, surpassing the 10 for 110 he had previously taken as he ended with 11 for 76.

Meanwhile, Deonarine who topscored with 139 in the Jaguars’s first innings total of 291 and returned with the ball to claim 5 for 24, followed by his 39 in his team’s second innings, was for the second successive match named Man-of-theMatch.

Defending champions Queen ...

From back page Goals from Akeem ‘Too Cute’ Fitzpatrick in the 9th and Jamal Haynes in the 13th minute of play respectively, were enough to hand West Back Road who was forced to play two qualifying matches before they entered the main draw, the shocking first round win.

The night’s action started with Globe Yard going past Adelaide Street, Charlestown -another qualifying team, 2-0 with Lionel Grimes (7th) and Kevin Lewis (13th) scoring for the winners, followed by Festival City’s 2-1 win over North Sophia, for which Daniel Favorite struck a brace in the 8th and 17th minutes, while Leron Jones responded for North Sophia in the 12th.

Leopold Street blanked Stevedore Housing Scheme 2-0 via a walk over before Dwayne Dickson (9th), Stephen Moore (22nd), an own goal (23rd) and Pierre Bobb (24th) were responsible for Hope Street - Tiger Bay’s 4-0 win over Durban Street.

After the Guinness break and West Back Road’s upsetting win, Randolph Wagner scored in the 4th minute to hand West Front Road a 1-0 win over Cross Street, even as Broad Street used penalty kicks to get past Riverview, winning 2-0 after a nil all draw.

The final match of the night’s eight games resulted in a 2-1 victory for Albouystown ‘B’ over South Sophia, with Marlon Nedd and Roy Cassou scoring for the victors in the 7th and 14th minutes of play, after Dwayne Lowe opened the scoring for South Sophia with his 6th

minute goal.

Meanwhile, three nights of action commencing from tonight and running consecutively up to Thursday night, will be contested at the National Cultural Centre, as the organisers seek to make up for lost time, as 24 mouth watering contests will be played to whet the appetite of the fans who throng venues by the hundreds to witness the action.

Tonight’s first match will see North Ruimveldt facing West Back Road, Stevedore clashing with Sophia, Castillo Housing Scheme going head to head with Festival City Street Fighters and West Front Road meeting Charlestown, with all matches being played before the Guinness break.

After the break, Broad Street opposes South Ruimveldt, Albouystown ‘A’ and Durban Street do battle, Island All-Star clashes with Festival City Street Warriors and Sparta Boss go up against Bent Street to close off the night.

Tomorrow night’s action will beheld at the same venue and starts with North East La Penitence taking on Riverview, Sophia North facing East Front Road, Alexander Village and Cross Street will do battle before Adelaide Street Charlestown meets California Square.

Following the Guinness break, Albouystown ‘B’ will take on Leopold Street, Hope Street-Tiger Bay clashes with Laing Avenue, Globe Yard will look to defeat Back Circle and defending champions Queen Street-Tiger Bay will seek redemption against Tucville.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

Mark Vieira and Kristian Jeffrey to represent Guyana at Race of Champions in Barbados

By Rawle Toney Veteran driver and one of the most recognisable names/faces in motor racing in the Caribbean Mark Vieira and 2014 Caribbean Champion Kristian Jeffrey will represent Guyana at the December 13 – 14 Race of Champions, set for the Land of the Flying Fish.

A host of driving legends from the major forms of motor sport will assemble for the Race of Champions in Barbados, to discover who’s the fastest of them all.

The 2014 Race Of Champions will be held at the Bushy Park Circuit after the Caribbean venue beat off a wide range of contenders from all around the world to host the prestigious motor sport event.

The annual end-of-season contest, which has been held for over 25 years now, brings together the world’s greatest drivers from motor sport’s major disciplines – including Formula 1, World Rally, Le Mans, MotoGP, Nascar, IndyCar, Touring Cars and the XGames – and sets them free to battle head-to-head in identical machinery.

In recent years the Race of Champions has visited the Stade de France in Paris (2004-2006), London’s Wembley Stadium (2007-2008), the ‘Bird’s Nest’ Olympic Stadium in Beijing (2009), Düsseldorf’s ESPRIT arena (2010-2011) and Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium (2012).

ROC organiser Fredrik Johnsson said: “We have been overwhelmed by the response to our Venue Vote over the past few weeks.

We received over 14,000 votes for

Kristian Jeffery a mix of different stadiums and circuits all over the world – which will join our list of venues under consideration for future ROC events.

As for 2014, the Bushy Park Circuit was one of the most popular venues in our vote and we are very excited to be heading to Barbados as we assemble some of the world’s greatest drivers for another festival of motor sport and entertainment.

Newly renovated this year to become a multi-purpose motor sport facility, the Bushy Park Circuit has a 40-year history of hosting big racing events.

Situated a short drive from the Barbados capital city Bridgetown and the international airport, the circuit has now been extended from 1.3km to a licensed FIA Grade 3 circuit just over 2km long with capacity for tens of thousands of spectators. The redevelopment also features a new clubhouse and pits complex along with a drag strip and a kart track.

Now the Bushy Park Circuit will play host to its biggest motor sport event yet as Race of Champions 2014 heads to the Caribbean island.

The Barbados venue will house Race of Champion’s specially constructed tarmac track with two parallel lanes linked by a unique crossover bridge. Drivers will pair up for the Race of Champions Nations Cup, this year taking place on December 13, ahead of the individual Race Of Champions the next day.

The venue will also feature the new Race of Champions Skills Challenge course, which has been specially designed to test a range of driving skills including chicanes, slaloms, 360˚ and 180˚ turns and parallel parking.

“It’s an honour to represent Guyana at such an event,” said Kristian, whose father

Jamaica Franchise’s first innings total of 111 for four declared.

And the hosts declared to avoid Jamaica Franchise getting a bowling point, which would result in both teams ending with four points.

Barbados Pride walked away with four points, while Jamaica Franchise was awarded three points.

Shacaya Thomas top-scored for Jamaica Franchise with 59, while captain Tamar Lambert finished on 21 not out.

The third round starts on Friday with Jamaica playing away to Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at Queen’s Park Oval, while Barbados Pride will take on Guyana Jaguars at the Guyana National Stadium.

Kevin is one of the Region’s top drivers also.

Both Kristian and Mark Vieira will be the first Guyanese to participate at such an event and it’s the first time the Caribbean will play host to one of motor racing’s marquee events.

“Not every day you get to rub shoulders with some of the people you admire in motor racing and I hope to make the best of it, and hope that Mark and I would do Guyana proud,” the younger Jeffrey said while speaking to Chronicle Sports recently.

Gayle, Pollard fail as Sammy’s Titans tie eight-over thriller

Barbados, Jamaica draw after rain-hit game allows only two sessions The rain-affected WICB Four-Day Professional Cricket League second round fixture between Jamaica Franchise and hosts Barbados Pride was declared a draw on the final day yesterday.

Only two sessions of the match scheduled for the Windward Sports Club was possible after rain washed out the first three days.

Play finally started following the lunch interval on yesteday’s final day.

The match was declared a draw after Barbados Pride strategically declared their first innings at six for two after 3.4 overs, bringing the game to a close.

Barbados Pride was responding to

Mark Vieira

Darren Sammy

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, (CMC) – Bighitting Chris Gayle failed as Lions crashed to a heavy 77-run defeat to Cape Cobras in the South Africa Ram Slam Twenty20 League here Sunday.

Chasing 155 for victory at Newlands, Lions were bundled out for 77 off 15.3 overs, to plunge to only their second defeat of the tournament.

Gayle, who has been in good form in the tournament, made just three from eight balls before falling in the second over, bowled by fast bowler Dane Paterson who finished with three for nine.

Neil McKenzie top-scored with a run-a-ball 31 while Temba Bavuma hit a run-a-ball 20, in a 34-run, third wicket stand. Once they were separated, however, Lions lost their last seven wickets for 22 runs.

West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard took two for 11 with his gentle medium pace.

Earlier, Pollard had also failed with the bat, making just six from ten balls, as Cape Cobras rallied to 154 for seven off their 20 overs.

Dane Vilas hit 51 from 29 balls and Omphile Ramela, 46 off 38 balls, in a 54-run, third wicket stand.

In the other game played at SuperSport Park, Darren Sammy’s Titans played to a thrilling tie with Warriors, in a contest reduced to eight overs per side because of rain.

Sammy made 16 from 12 balls as Titans made 79 for five but Warriors ended on the same total, with no provision because of time, for the decisive Super Over.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

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AAG wants bigger Carifta 2015 team

By Leeron Brumell It is a bold declaration from the Vice-President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) that they want to send a total of 15 athletes to the 2015 Carifta Games in St. Kitts & Nevis.

Gavin Hope told coaches and officials at Sunday’s Digicel sponsored Retreat at the Splashmins Resort, that he wants to increase participation in events.

‘This year we sent eight athletes. I want to send 15 in 2015.’

‘I am not going to sit and wait for this policy document. All I need is for you guys to find the children, once they make the qualifying times, and I will get

them there.’

His declaration brought cheers and applause from those gathered.

Hope handles the marketing of the sport.

The Carifta Games is set for April 4-6, with the local trials to be run off at the Camp Ayanganna ground on March 7-8 next year.

Athletics President Aubrey Hutson again announced that his focus is primarily on the development of the youth and junior athletes in this country.

At the retreat, coaches threw out the idea to reintroduce the Gold Squad – a pool of the nation’s best youth and junior athletes as well as a senior squad, to work along with the top coaches in the country.

GBA to explain AIBA Pro Boxing THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will soon meet with boxers to make them aware of benefits related to participating in AIBA Pro Boxing (APB).

GBA president Steve Ninvalle announced that AIBA, at the last Congress in South Korea, has advised that each of its 196 affiliated National Federations comply with a mandate to implement APB. The world governing body would be sending specialist to confederations and National Associations to assist in the smooth introduction of APB. “Most of the boxers are not aware of APB and the benefits to be derived if they should choose to sign up. We are now planning to have a forum where all questions will be answered,” Ninvalle said.

He added that APB allows for the first time ever, boxers with 20 or fewer pro fights to compete alongside top-class AOB boxers (formerly amateur) in a competition that also serves as a qualifying event for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

“This means that many of our professional boxers can now return into the AIBA fold and have a chance of representing Guyana at the Olympics.

They also stand the chance of making much better purses than what is now being offered,” declared Ninvalle.

Steve Ninvalle According to the AIBA website, APB is an unprecedented, top-class Pro Boxing competition based on individual rankings and introduced by AIBA to showcase the best features of Pro Boxing.

The pre-ranking phase, which will run through to January 31 2015, will identify authentic champions in each weight category and there will be a comprehensive, merit-based ranking system.

In March 2015, the APB programme will have its grand opening with the first cycle of competition between these ranked boxers.

The GBA boss explained that Rio 2016 will be the first Olympic Games allowing pro boxers to compete.

However, the only way pro boxers can qualify for the Olympics is through the APB competition, which is fully supported by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

AAG Vice-President Gavin Hope.

The athletes in the proposed Gold Squad are ex-

pected to have a bit more attention year round, to aid

in their development and to ensure that Guyana always has athletes at the ready for overseas engagements.

It’s been more than a decade since the AAG last had an active Gold Squad.

That aside, the Association has put out a tentative calendar of events for 2015.

No events have been scheduled for the artificial surface at Leonora. It has not yet been commissioned for public use by government.

Olympian Winston George, however, has had practice on the surface. He is in Vera Cruz, Mexico for the Central American and Caribbean Games.

The AAG’s calendar opens with the first Cross Country Race in the National Park on January 17th. The

T&T beat Leewards by six wickets Trinidad and Tobago Red Force recorded a six-wicket victory over Leeward Islands Franchise yesterday in their rain-affected secondround WICB Four-Day Professional Cricket League match.

The game was played at Warner Park in St Kitts.

Set 203 runs to win, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force reached the victory target just before the tea interval.

Yannick Ottley whipped the first ball of the 82nd over down to fine leg for a single to complete victory after the Red Force had resumed the final day on 95 for two, 108 runs behind.

Ottley, who was 40 overnight, top-scored for the Red Force with 76 not out.

He was involved in a third wicket partnership of 101 with Jason Mohammed, who scored 56.

That century partnership set up victory for the Red Force after the team lost first innings points by 69 runs on Saturday.

Imran Khan, of the Red Force, finished with a match-haul of 10 for 94. He was named Man of the Match.

It was the first victory for the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force.

The Red Force had to settle for a draw against Barbados Pride in a rain-affected first-round game last week.

Final scores in the game:- Leeward Islands Franchise 202 and 130; Trinidad and Tobago Leggie Imram Khan finished with a mtch haul of 10 for 94.

Red Force 130 and 203 for five.

Annual General Meeting is a day later.

Another Cross Country race is set for Berbice later in January, one in Linden in February, and two in Linden and at Enmore inDecember .

Developmental Meets are set for the months of February and March.

A National High Schools Championship in conjunction with the National Youth and Junior Championships is carded for March, but there is some haggling over whether or not to move it up by a few weeks so the association can have more athletes to look at ahead of the Carifta Games.

The Senior National Championship is set for the month of April.

Scoreboard LEEWARDS 1st 202 T&T RED FORCE 1st Innings 130 LEEWARDS 2nd Innings 130 T&T RED FORCE 2nd Innings (target: 203) L Simmons lbw b Tonge 13 Imran Khan c wkp Hamilton b Peters 21 Y Ottley not out 76 J Mohammed c Richardson b Martin 56 N Pooran st Hamilton b Taylor 23 D Ramdin not out 6 Extras (b4, w2, nb2) 8 TOTAL (4 wkts, 81.1 overs) 203 Fall of wickets: 1-27, 2-42, 3-146, 4-187.

Bowling: Tonge 9-3-30-1, Louis 13-3-31-1, Peters 10-520-1, Martin 9-2-13-0, Taylor 24.1-8-44-1, Leonard 17-541-1, Leonard 8-0-33-1.

Points: Red Force 15, Leewards Franchise 4

Notable Dates Anthony `The Pearl’ Andrews had his first professional defeat on November 25, 1983. After winning his first three fights through knockouts, `The Pearl’ came up against a slick Michael Parris while vying for the national bantamweight title and lost via a 12 round decision.

Three months later, Andrews gained revenge and lifted the crown from Parris’ head when the fight was stopped in the 11th round.

Andrews’ career spanned 18 years and included fights in the welterweight and middleweight divisions. He ended with a tally of 27 victories (23 Kos), 13 defeats and two drawn fights.

On November 25, 1990 featherweight Joseph Murray defeated American Anthony Williams on points (10 rounds) at the then National Sports Hall. Later in his career Murray would move up to super featherweight where he clashed with Jacobin Yoma of French Guiana, for the Fecarbox title.

The fight remains one of the best seen in Guyana.

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

GRFU names strong 12-man team for NACRA 7’s “business as usual” says Captain Ryan Gonsalves

By Rawle Toney Ryan Gonsalves, Kevin McKenzie, Claudius Butts, Ronald Mayers and Richard Staglon are just few of the star studded cast selected by the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) to represent Guyana in Mexico City, Mexico from December 3 – 4 at the 2014 North America Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 7’s Championship.

Dubbed the ‘Road to Rio’, the GRFU President Peter Green believes that this is the best team Guyana has to offer and went to even state that the team will be the best in tournament.

Guyana is placed in Group C of the Championship, playing alongside defending Champions and host (Mexico), St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Cayman Islands.

Having won the tournament six consecutive times (2006 to 2011), Guyana lost to Mexico in 2012 and lack of funding kept the Caribbean’s best 7’s Rugby team out of the competition last year.

Dwayne Schroeder, Vallon Adams, Avery Corbin, Leon Greaves, Peabo Hamilton, Ronald Mayers and new comers Patrick King and USA based Isiejah Allen are the other players on the squad tipped to win it all.

“We’re not just going to win the tournament but we will play undefeated. We want to make a statement that we are the best in the

Executives of the GRFU and some of the selected players at yesterday’s press conference Caribbean and have the ability to play with any team in the world. We’ve done it before and will do it again,” said Kevin McKenzie, who is making a return to the team for the first time since 2012.

McKenzie lives in Australia and plays professionally with the Sunshine Coast Sea Eagles. He has played a significant role in helping to propel Guyana’s rugby to the top of the region; guiding them to victory in each of their six titles.

“Some people might say we’re being cocky, but that’s not it; we’re aware of what is expected of us and we’re ready to deliver.

I’ve been playing rugby for a long time and

I’ve never been this hyped about a tournament and confident because I think this is the best team we have put together in terms of the players’ starting and those coming off the bench,” McKenzie said.

Ryan Gonsalves will wear the captain’s band in Mexico and at yesterday’s Press Briefing, held at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) High Street building, he stated: “I’ve been prepared and ready for this tournament and I must say, I like the composition of the team. Most of us have been playing together for most of our lives and so, we know what it takes to win and will do whatever it takes as well.”

The team departs for Mexico on Friday and will play their first game against Mexico on December 3 at 11:28 am, followed by their clash with the Cayman Islands at 1:15 pm and will then finish off their opening day campaign against St Vincent and the Grenadines at 16.00 hrs The 12 teams, based on their first day’s performance will then be seeded to vie for the title on the last day.

“We have the support of both the private and public sectors, as well as the Government of Guyana and that doesn’t happen too often, so with their support, I’m sure that we will do extremely well and make them proud.

This is the Road to Rio and we are going to make History,” the GRFU President said.

Meanwhile, coach Theodore Henry said that training will continue as usual, noting, “We’ll train morning and afternoon until we’re ready to leave. I like the fact that the guys are all ready and it’s now time to deliver.”

Full Squad: Vallon Adams, Avery Corbin, Dwayne Schroeder, Richard Staglon, Ryan Gonsalves (Captain), Leon Greaves, Peabo Hamilton, Ronald Mayers, Kevin McKenzie, Claudius Butts, Isiejah Allen and Patrick King.

Coach: Theodore Henry, Colonel John Lewis (Manager) and Phillip Browne (Strength and Conditioning Trainer/Physiotherapist).

Alpha United lifts Stag Beer trophy -dedicate win to Lumumba

Meanwhile, Western Tigers devoured Santos 5-1 in the play off for third place.

The Tigers were in complete control and were leading 2-0 at half time. Stellon David netted twice while

Dellon Benjamin, Randolph Wagner and Leon Forrester scored one goal apiece for Western Tigers.

Santos’ consolation goal came off the boot of Kenroy Dominic.

CRICKETQUIZ CORNER (Tuesday November 25, 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: The winning Alpha United team after the final Alpha United received a scare from Riddim Squad in the final of the Stag Beer Futsal at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall Saturday night, but held their nerve to be crowned champions via a 5-4 nail-biting victory.

In a crowd-pleasing event, the two sides locked horns from the opening whistle and an exhibition of quality football from both

teams resulted in the score being tied 2-2 at half time.

With the score tied 4-4, and less than a minute left in the match, Alpha’s Dwight `The Drone’ Peters sent a neat pass to a lurking Ronson Williams who brought the near capacity crowd to its feet with a fiery shot that rocked the net.

“It was a very good match and a fitting climax to this tournament. The game

was very competitive but our players failed to manage properly. We committed too much foul and paid the price by having penalties given against us,” said Alpha’s Coach Wayne Dover.

“We also missed a penalty. Riddim Squad came to play. They came for a war and gave us the toughest time in this tournament,” Travis `Zorro’ Grant and Daniel Wilson netted two

goals apiece for the winners, while Dorville Steward and Amos Ramsay scored two goals each for Riddim Squad. The victory was worth $400,000 and bragging rights.

Alpha dedicated the win to President Odinga Lumumba who brought the club from obscurity over a decade ago to being one of the leading sides in the Caribbean today.

(1) Gordon Greenidge&Viv Richards (vs IND, Jamshedpur, 1983) (2)Rameez Raja (PAK vs ENG, Karachi, 1987) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who are the only two men to have made twin hundreds on their Test debut?

(2)How many ODI runs Brian Lara made for the WI? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday November 25, 2014

27

Copa and Flex Night in new partnership …offers return ticket for one lucky patron

By Leeron Brumell COPA Airlines, just four months in the local market, announces its first venture with the sport of bodybuilding through Flex Night Incorporated.

The International show, the second in the past two years since its restart, is set for December 7th at the National Cultural Centre.

At the city’s ticket office on Camp Street, Country Sales Manager Nadine Oudkerk said the airline was pleased to be associated with the show and its directors.

One of the directors, Donald Sinclair said it’s an exciting partnership not only for the directors and athletes but for patrons purchasing tickets for the show.

‘COPA flies to 69 destinations in 30 countries and what COPA is offering us as a concrete testimony in this partnership is a return ticket, which some lucky patron is going to win, a return ticket to any of one Copa’s 69 destinations.’

Flex Night under the

theme – Raising the Bar – has 32 male athletes and nine females registered so far. Sinclair said they are still receiving entries.

Sinclair is optimistic that Flex Night Inc. and Copa will collaborate more in the future. There is no fixed time frame on the life of the Copa/ Flex alliance.

At yesterday’s press briefing, Oudkerk and another of Flex Night’s directors David Gomes, signed a ‘Letter of Commitment’ for the ticket prize. On the night of the show – Copa will present to the lucky ticket holder – A Letter of Award.

Flex Night International 2014 is expected to feature bodybuilders from Aruba, Suriname, Barbados and Brazil.

Reigning Mr. Flex Night International, Koese Soepe of Suriname, is expected to defend his title. He was a guest poser at the Guyana Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation’s Mr. Guyana competition earlier this year.

Also expected to participate in the female division

Copa Airlines Country Sales Manager Nadine Oudkerk presents to David Gomes ‘A Letter of Commitment’ for their new partnership. At right is Director of Flex Night Inc. Donald Sinclair are two Brazilians.

On the night, the males will compete in Men’s Physique (Open); Bodybuilding – Under 143lbs (64.8kgs), Under 154lbs (69.8kgs),

Under 165lbs (74.8kgs), Under 176lbs (79.8kgs), Over 176lbs (79.8kgs+). The Male events will be pre-judged.

Females will be in the Short class (Under 5ft.

4ins. – 162.6cms), Tall Class (over 5ft.4ins. – 162.6cms) and Miss Best Legs (Open).

Weigh-in for the athletes on December 7th is at

3pm. They are required to have with them, their CDs for the individual posing routine.

The show starts at 18.00 hrs

Guyana still to medal at CAC Games

By LeeronBrumell Six-days before the end of the Central American and Caribbean Games (CAC) ends in Mexico, Guyana is still in the hunt for medals.

The hardware has so far eluded our representatives.

With campaigns over in Table Tennis, Swimming, cycling, Judo, Taekwondo and hockey, medal hopes now rest with those in the disciplines of squash, badminton, and athletics.

Guyana lost to Barbados 3-Nil to finish 6th in Women’s Hockey play. They were down two-nil at the half, with one added in the 2nd period.

For the tournament – in the five matches played – Guyana lost two to the Dominican Republic and Barbados, drew nil-all with Trinidad and Tobago and claimed victories over Bermuda 1-nil and 4-2 on penalties over Jamaica.

The ladies are expected to return home today.

But so far it’s been a mixed bag of results for the

Guyana’s cyclists Raynauth Jeffrey (L) and Geron Williams pose with Chief-de-Mission Deion Nurse and Badminton Manager Gokarn Ramdhani and a Jamaican cyclist. squash players. favour of the Jamaican. day.

In Male singles play – Sunil Seth won his first Yesterday his luck ran the only local based player match against Colombia’s out as he fell in three sets Jason-Ray Khalil lost in the Andre Herrera 3-1. He won to Mexico’s Cesar Salazar round of 32 to Jamaica’s a close first set 11-9, before 4-11, 5-1, 11-13.

Cristo Binnie on Sunday. dropping 9-11 in the second.

In the Women’s singles His first set was the closest, He however rallied and shut Ashley Khalil beat off the though he lost out 3-Nil. The Herrera down 11-4, 11-5 in challenge of Barbados’s scores are 9-11, 6-11, 7-11 in the following sets on Sun- Nadia McCarthy 3-Nil. She

won 11-5 in set one after three minutes of play, 11-8 in the second set – a minute longer and 11-7 in the third and final set in three minutes.

Khalil was however stopped by Mexico’s Samantha Teran 3-11, 4-11, 2-11.

Later yesterday in doubles play, Jason-Ray and Seth were down to face Alexander Frazer and Julian Jervis of the Cayman Islands.

Today, the Ashleys – Khalil and De-Groot are scheduled for double action against the Barbadian pair of Nadia McCarthy and Kaitlin Jordan.

In Cycling – Geron William and Raynauth Jeffrey did not finish the Men’s Cycling Road Race. There were among 36 who started but could not complete the court. One rider did not start.

Of the 23 who did finish the race – Venezuela’s Carlos Galviz took gold in 3 hours 49 minutes 54 seconds.

Guyana’s Badminton players get into action in the men’s singles round of 32.

Jonathan Mangra is down to face Venezuela’s Jhonatan Wu while Narayan Ramdhanifaces Cuba’s Leodannis Martinez in the other.

The pair combine later in the day to face Guatemala’s Kevin Cordon and Anibal Marroquin.

Two of Guyana’s ¼ milers take to the track today – Olympian Winston George and overseas-based Stephan James. Three semifinals are to be run today from 1:40pm (local time). The final is set for tomorrow at 3:05 pm (local time).

The men’s 100m final is also set for today.

In Athletics – Guyana has gone with four sprinters – George leading the way.

Also in is James and 100m sprinters Adam Harris and Jeremy Bascom. The four are to run as a unit in the 4x100m sprint relay.

Results and streaming of the events can be obtained at www.verzcruz2014.mx. Convert to English (ENG) at the top right of the page, then select calendar and follow Guyana’s progress by sport.

Sport CHRONICLE

Copa and Flex Night in new partnership …offers return ticket for one lucky patron

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

See story on page 27

Permaul cages 8 for 36 as Jaguars beat Volcanoes for 2nd win -Match haul of 11 for 76

By Calvin Roberts INSPIRED by an impressive spell of bowling from left arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul, the Guyana Jaguars scored their second win when they suppressed and defeated the Windward Islands Volcanoes by 92runs in their second round West Indies Cricket Board/Professional Cricket League Regional 4-day contest at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence yesterday.

Scores Guyana Jaguars 291 & 175 for 6 decl’d; Windward Islands Volcanoes 184 & 190.

Starting the day on 133 for 5, a lead of 240 with Shivnarine Chanderpaul on 31 and Raymon Reifer 4, the Jaguars, who commenced the round in pole position with 17 points, following their first round win over the Leeward Islands, raced to 175 for the loss of Chanderpaul’s wicket within the first hour.

They made the declaration shortly after, with Reifer unbeat-

en on 29 and Anthony Bramble 3, giving the Volcanoes who had Mervin Matthews (3 for 43) and Alston Bobb (2 for 30) as their main wicket takers, a target of 283 to record a come from behind victory, with their bowlers having 90 minutes in the first session and the two remaining sessions in the day to stop the Volcanoes from erupting.

The Jaguars started their attack with Narsingh Deonarine and Ronsford Beaton, but the Volcanoes openers in Devon Smith and Tyrone Theophile wasted little time in going after the bowling, hitting Deonarine for three fours in the third over, which pushed the score to 19 without loss.

Christopher Barnwell replaced Beaton and struck with his final delivery of his first over, sending back Theophile (09) via the lbw route. They went to lunch on 69 for 1, with Smith on 43 and Andre Fletcher 15.

Turn to page 23

Jaguars on the attack! The fielders around the bat of the Volcanoes’ Lyndon James, certainly underlined the support that was given to Guyana Jaguars’ left arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul (2nd right) who sent down another delivery during his marathon bowling spell yesterday (Photo by Adrian Narine)

Defending champions Queen Street handed first round loss -Action continues tonight

By Calvin Roberts DEFENDING champions Queen Street, Tiger Bay, were handed a shocking first round 2-0 defeat at the hands of West Back Road, when action in the 6th Annual Petra Organisation/ Banks DIH Guinness Part of Sunday night’s action at the Demerara Car Park, as captured by Chronicle Sport’s ‘Greatest of De Streets’ Futsal football Sonell Nelson. competition continued at the Demerara Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

Car Park last Sunday night.

Heavy rains last week prevented the round from being contested at the Albouystown hard-court twice, forcing the organisers to not only postpone the matches, but shift it to the venue that was used for the opening night of action.

Turn to page 23 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2014