Guyana chronicle 31 01 15

GUYANA

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

No. 104086 SATURDAY JANUARY 31, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

PRICE: $80

President lauds small businesses contribution to national economy Page

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INCLUDING VAT

Burnham issued public death threats to slain WPA leader

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Rights of Child Commission calls for…

‘Immediate rescinding’ of tortureaccused cops' promotion

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President Donald Ramotar, Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali and Minister within the Finance Ministry, Juan Edghill with Grant recipients

Rodney’s Assassination probe…

Key witness claims death threats since giving testimony

Robert Gates on Tuesday last in the witness box at the Dr Walter Rodney COI

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…refuses to name implicated Members of Parliament unless afforded protection

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Trio busted with cocaine at CJIA Page 5 In Dr. Ramsahoye’s lawsuit for defamation…

Court of Appeal awards $15M judgment against Glenn Lall, Kaieteur News Page 12

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

Rodney’s Assassination probe…

Key witness claims death threats since …refuses to name implicated Members giving testimony of Parliament unless afforded protection

By Gary Eleazar A KEY witness in the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry (COI) currently underway says he has become fearful for his life and will withhold the names of the two sitting Parliamentarians and Constitutional Office Holders, he implicated in the plot to kill the late WPA Leader in 1980, if not afforded some protection.

Robert Gates, the witness who approached the COI recently to give a second round of submissions, in an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, yesterday, said he is now fearful for life, since he has been receiving threats directly and indirectly.

He even named a Prison Officer, whom he said has been issuing some ‘not so subtle’ threats in his direction.

According to Gates, apart from the messages being sent his way that persons were going to kill him, he has also been greeted with chants of

“PPP Kochore, PPP Kochore,” when returned to his ‘holding cell’ in the evenings.

The chants and threats, according to Gates, are coming from very violent high profile prisoners housed at the Camp Street Facility, where he is also an inmate.

Gates told this publication that he and many of the Prison Officers share very amicable relationships, but then there are instances with others which are causing him to become even more fearful.

“Eh eh, you ain’t dead yet,” was the retort of one such prison officer, at least according to Gates, the last time they encountered each other.

Gates was incarcerated last year on 12 counts of obtaining money under false pretense, charges he vehemently calls ‘trumped up’, stemming from contractual misunderstandings.

The former senior police rank, under sworn testimony to the COI, claims to have infiltrated the WPA at the behest of the State during the volatile

Robert Gates in the witness box at the Dr Walter Rodney COI

1979 to 1980 period.

In fact, Gates alleged that there was a meeting “two or three days” prior to the June 13, 1980 explosion that killed Dr Rodney, where the Late President, Forbes Burnham, was briefed by his Security Chiefs on the assassination plot.

Under oath, Gates told the COI that he learnt that the former President was briefed by former Commissioner of Police, Laurie Lewis; former Crime Chief, Skip Roberts and the then Army Chief, Norman Mc Lean.

The meeting, Gates said, was confirmed by two ranks

of the Guyana Police Force he quizzed, while the content of the meeting was related to him by one of Burnham’s close-man (security detail), a man he identified as Sergeant Mark Johnson.

Gates returned to the witness dock this past week and told the COI that he had previously withheld some of the information such as the meeting with Burnham for security reasons.

He said that while he was prepared to speak openly about many of what was withheld during his previous round of evidence-in-chief, some of the information he would only

divulge during an in-camera session where the information would not be released to the public for fear of retaliation.

During his interview with this publication yesterday, Gates said ever since his testimony, he has been receiving threats to his life.

He does believe that the threats are being engineered from outside the prison walls.

“I am fearful for my life,” said the former police ‘Death Squad’ member.

According to Gates, while he has been granted bail, it is an exorbitant amount that he cannot afford.

He told the Guyana Chronicle that he has appealed both the charges against him and is petitioning the Court of Appeal to reduce his bail.

Gates believe that he was victimised by not only the Magistrate that sentenced him

but by the Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang, who set the bail amount pending his outcome of the appeal.

He is adamant that until he is assured of his life’s safety, he will not be releasing the names of the sitting Members of Parliament and Constitutional Office Holders, in-camera or otherwise.

Under cross examination on Tuesday last, Gates said that he approached the Commission to give a second statement with new information since at the time he had previously given evidence the “environment” was not right for him to divulge all that he knew.

“I am not in a free world like you…a person can easily lose their lives in prison,” were among the fears expressed by Robert Gates on that occasion.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

President lauds small businesses contribution to national economy tossed away because of lack of collateral and it is in this direction that the policy framework is designed,” he stressed.

“This accomplishment of more than $2B in small businesses grants that would be awarded is a direct result and output of the Low Carbon Development Strategies (LCDS).

Today more than 60 grants amounted to approximately $20M has been approved for the first time and 167 new jobs were created,” Ali added.

He emphasised the Government’s position and their delivery on their promises to the people of Guyana

Signing of the MoU by stakeholders

“We appreciate how important you are to the economy of Guyana and to the development of our country both now and in the future.”-President Ramotar

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally THE Small Business Bureau, a department within the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, yesterday for the first time signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and conducted a grant awards and partnership ceremony.

The ceremony was held at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal and was attended by President Donald Ramotar, Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali, Minister within the Finance Ministry Juan Edghill and Chief Executive Officer of Small Business Bureau, Derrick Cummings among other stakeholders.

President Ramotar during his feature address referred to the contributions small businesses make to the economy and how they benefit a country. “We appreciate how important you are to the economy of Guyana and to the development of our country both now and in the future,” he explained.

The Head of State explained that it has been noted worldwide while major businesses and investments are important and we continue to seek these types of businesses in our economy, “it has also been noted that by many experts in the field relate that the sustainability of economic development and progress in any society is directly linked to the development of small businesses.”

He hopes many of the awardees that are being awarded grants would not stay small but they would have the potential to improve themselves to medium or even to large businesses.

President Ramotar noted

that many businesses flounder because of the lack of resources, but with the implementation of this project many businesses can now prosper.

The President encouraged persons to utilise this grant and also empahised that Guyanese need to start supporting local entities. “This is a good beginning and I hope that you all would move on to different levels”, the Head of State exhorted.

The event marks a significant milestone in Government’s contribution to the Small Business Sector. The Government of Guyana, via the Low Carbon Development Strategy/Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (LCDS/GRIF) facility has made available to the Small Business Bureau (SBB) the sum of US$10M to be utilised over a period of four years for the purpose of funding and comprehensive training of small business entrepreneurs.

The Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) Development and Building Alternative Livelihoods for Vulnerable Groups Project, which was launched in October 2013 has been crafted to enable the best utilisation of the funds. The project is administered by Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), monitored by Ministry of Finance with oversight by Office of the President and executed by the SBB. Which directly administers a grant scheme to deserving recipients.

Over 900 clients have accessed training and18 have benefitted from the low interest of 6% per annum, where a mutual guarantee facility to the tune of over $90M. Also More than 60 grants of approximately $20M have been approved for disbursement.

A section of the attendees at the ceremony (Photos by Sandra Prince)

With the grants more than 167 new jobs has been created and sustained as a result of this intervention.

Christina Samaroo, Research and Marketing Officer at SBB, explained that with the signing of the MoU by the Guyana Small Business Association (GSBA), Republic Bank Guyana, the Deeds Registry, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and Guyana National Bank of Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) would leapfrog the facilitation of small businesses benefitting from partnership arraignments and enter the formal business economy.

The SBB through the Micro and Small Enterprise Development (MSED) Project funds and Governments’ yearly subvention allocations is equip to offer affordable access to finance, provide grant funding, offer technical and generic trainings, assist in marketing of goods and services to the Government and other purchasers and also offer professional business start-up

advice. Clients must be registered with the NIS, GRA and Deeds Registry Offices to be able to access these facilities as defined in the MoU. Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali during his remarks congratulated the grant awardees and particularly noted his delight to have seen so many students attending the ceremony. He explained to the students how important this ceremony is for them while studying or intend to study Business Administration. “Today you are given the opportunity to witness firsthand how a national policy is giving opportunity to so many families across Guyana, empowering them and improving their livelihoods”, he explained.

Small Businesses play a very critical role in the global economy and we know that many small businesses contribute to the creation of employment and contribute to expansion and development of our economy, the Minister emphasised.

Ali also congratulated the

institutions that played a dynamic role in building small businesses by making available to the small entrepreneurs “an opportunity for them to advance their economic prospects in our economy.”

“The fact is that many small businesses cannot find the collateral requirements to start their business and a lot of times good business plans get

and this project today is testimony to this. “Small businesses and small entrepreneurs have a bright future and part of the Governmental agenda has been the building, expansion and promotion of small business and today is testimony to the delivery of that promise to the people of our country.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Ukraine peace talks aborted as civilians die in east

Japan, Jordan seek news on fate of Islamic State captives

By Suleiman Al-Khalidi and Elaine Lies (Reuters) - JAPAN and Jordan scrambled on Friday to find out what had happened to two of their nationals being held

by Islamic State, after a deadline passed for the release of a would-be suicide bomber being held on death row in Amman.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said every effort was being made to secure the release of journalist Kenji Goto.

By Aleksandar Vasovic and Andrei Makhovsky (Reuters) - CIVILIANS were killed on both sides in heavy fighting in eastern Ukraine on Friday, while an attempt to reopen peace talks in neighboring Belarus was aborted before it began.

Rebel delegates flew to the Belarus capital Minsk, only to announce that no talks would take place on Friday and they were flying straight back to Moscow. Any talks would be the first since a five-month-old ceasefire collapsed with a new rebel advance last week.

The main rebel stronghold Donetsk echoed to the sound of heavy artillery fire, including salvoes from multiple rocket launchers and heavier thuds from artillery coming from the direction of the airport, a constant battlefield.

A Reuters cameraman in Donetsk saw four covered bodies near a cultural center

Greece says will not cooperate with ‘troika’ or seek aid extension A woman surveys damage done to a house, which according to locals was recently damaged by shelling, in the suburbs of Donetsk January 30, 2015 that had been hit by artillery (half mile) away, a sixth dead said the shelling was carwhile residents were queuing person lay where a trolleybus ried out by the rebels to ruin the chance of peace outside for humanitarian aid. had been hit.

A fifth body lay in a badThe separatists said the talks. Both sides have made ly-damaged car nearby. A total death toll in those two similar allegations throughwoman was weeping by one strikes was seven, blaming out the conflict, which are of the bodies. A kilometer government forces. Kiev impossible to verify.

Hezbollah: we don’t want war with Israel but do not fear it

By Tom Perry and Laila Bassam

(Reuters) - THE leader of Lebanon’s Hezbollah said on Friday his group did not want war with Israel but was ready for one, and reserved the right to respond to Israeli attacks any time,

“We are gathering and analyzing information while asking for cooperation from Jordan and other countries, making every effort to free Kenji Goto,” he told a parliamentary panel.

Jordan’s army said state agencies were “working round the clock”.

Jordan said on Thursday it was still holding the Iraqi woman prisoner as a deadline passed for her release set by Islamic State militants, who threatened to kill a Jordanian pilot unless she was handed over by sunset.

anywhere.

“We do not want a war but we are not afraid of it and we must distinguish between the two, and the Israelis must also understand this very well,” Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said.

Nasrallah was speaking at an event to commemorate the deaths of six Hezbollah

Lebanon’s Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah addresses his supporters during a rare public appearance at an Ashoura ceremony in Beirut’s southern suburbs November 3, 2014. Credit: Reuters/Khalil Hassan/Files fighters and an Iranian general killed by an Israeli air strike in Syria on Jan. 18.

The Iranian-backed Hezbollah hit back on Wednesday with a rocket attack that killed two Israeli soldiers on the frontier with Lebanon.

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Tourists stand near the temple of Parthenon atop the ancient site of the Athens Acropolis on a cold and windy day January 30, 2015. Greece will refuse the planned return of European Union and International Monetary Fund inspectors to the country since the new government rejects the 240-billion-euro bailout programme, a government official told Reuters on Friday. Credit: Reuters/Yannis Behrakis (GREECE - Tags: BUSINESS POLITICS TRAVEL)

By Lefteris Papadimas language between the two men and the hour-long meet(Reuters) - THE new left- ing appeared to do nothing wing government in Athens to bridge the gap between opened negotiations on its the government of Prime bailout package with Euro- Minister Alexis Tsipras and pean partners on Friday by European partners. flatly rejecting the expected The meeting marked extension of the program the start of Greece’s drive and the international in- to persuade its partners to spectors overseeing it. loosen the strict terms of Finance Minister Yanis its 240-billion-euro bailout, Varoufakis met Jeroen Dijs- which has imposed years selbloem, head of the euro of harsh austerity on the zone finance ministers’ group, country in its worst crisis for what both described as in decades. It precedes visits “constructive” discussions.

by Tsipras and Varoufakis However Greek media to London, Paris and Rome seized on signs of frosty body next week.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Trio busted US rejects Cuba with cocaine at CJIA demand to hand back

Guantanamo Bay base (BBC NEWS) THE U.S. says it will not hand back the Guantanamo Bay naval base as part of efforts to improve relations with Cuba.

Cuban President Raul Castro included the demand in a speech on Wednesday, calling also for the U.S. trade embargo to be lifted.

mo Bay should be closed down... but not the naval base”, the White House said.

The land on which the base stands was leased to the U.S .by Cuba in 1903.

The Cuban government which came to power in the revolution of 1959 has long demanded its return, saying it is a viola-

lease permanent unless it is terminated by mutual agreement.

Last month the two countries announced a thaw in relations, agreeing to restore diplomatic ties severed in 1961. Delegations have begun negotiating the re-establishment of embassies.

However in a speech

The land used for the Guatanamo Bay naval base was leased to the US in 1903 U.S. President Barack Obama “does believe that the prison at Guantana-

tion of international law, but the U.S. points to a legal provision making the

on Wednesday, Mr Castro said: “The re-establishment of diplomatic

Alberto Nisman: Funeral held for prosecutor in Buenos Aires (BBC News) The funeral has been held in Buenos Aires for Argentine prosecutor Alberto Nisman, who was found shot dead in his flat earlier this month.

Investigators have yet to establish if it was suicide or if he was killed.

Mr Nisman had been investigating the 1994 bombing of a Jewish centre in Buenos Aires which killed 85 people.

He died hours before he was to

appear before Congress to accuse President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner of a whitewash related to the bombing.

In a 300-page report published days before his death on 18 January, Mr Nisman said the president and Foreign Minister Hector Timerman had conspired to protect Iranian suspects in the bombing case.

President Fernandez has strenuously denied the allegations.

relations is the start of a process of normalising bilateral relations.

“But this will not be possible while the blockade still exists, while they don’t give back the territory illegally occupied by the Guantanamo naval base.”

This condition was rejected by White House spokesman Josh Earnest in remarks to the media on Thursday.

He agreed that President Obama was seeking to shut the prison at Guantanamo Bay, as it “only serves as a recruiting tool for al-Qaeda and other extremist organisations”.

“But the naval base is not something that we believe should be closed,” he said.

TWO Guyanese and a Guyanese born Canadian citizen are currently in police custody after they were caught attempting to smuggle cocaine yesterday through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

A man, who identified himself as Kenneth Jones, presented forged documents from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ROHBINA BASDEORAM

MAHENDRA RAMSUCHIT

the Airport Duty Office (ADO) indicating he was carrying out protocol duties for two individuals Mahendra Ramsuchit and Rohbina Basdeoram.

The weight of the substance is estimated to be some 20 pounds has yet to be confirmed by drug analysts.

CJIA is also carrying out an investigation into the incident.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Guyana Editorial

Holistic approach needed to address these devastating societal ills A WHILE ago a post on Facebook read: “A member of the security forces, who allegedly had repeated sexual intercourse with his teenage daughters in exchange for money, has been placed under close arrest. In an effort to conceal the identities of the girls and not prejudice the probe, the name of the State security entity and the rank of the man have been withheld. The girls were fed-up of being molested by their father whenever they asked for money to go to school. They eventually reported the matter which engaged the attention of the Schools’ Welfare Department. The man was placed under close arrest…and the girls were placed in protective custody. Sources said medical examinations have proven that the girls are sexually active.”

So many adult women, willing and even anxious for relationships and this man forces his young daughters to have sex with him for money that will enable them to attain one of the most basic needs of the modern world – an education; the provision of which is a responsibility that is his by moral and legal decree.

Another report, this time in the Chronicle, described a horrible tale of forced cohabitation with an abusive man – for material things, by a mother.

At only age twenty-five, Tracey Culley was already a mother of three children, aged four years, 18 months and six months, borne within a four-year period of living with a spouse twelve years older than she is.

One baby is overwhelming sometimes; but three? Although Tracey claims she only knows four years of abuse by her children’s father, yet she is reluctant to leave, and one of the main reasons she cites for her remaining in such a relationship that is potentially dangerous to her life is, as related: “Questioned intensely about her mother’s decision to encourage her daughter to stay in a relationship which is abusive and which has the potential to have her killed, Tracy related that her mother was among several other family members who encouraged her to stay in the abusive relationship since they benefit materially from the abuser.”

Tracey poignantly asserts, “When you have loving parents, you could go back to your mother’s house; if your parents are not

loving, you cannot go back.”

And therein is the crux of the dilemma of most victims, lack of loving parents – with most times the parents and guardians themselves being the abusers. There is also the issue of a lack of societal support and infrastructural wherewithal.

A couple of years ago the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha opened its doors to abused children and vulnerable women; with shelter and care provided to the children and skills training offered to the women. However, skills need time to be developed and most mothers prefer to keep their children with them. In such instances, institutionalised care is not the answer.

As was reported in this newspaper, Odessa Seenanan of Diamond, who was severely abused by her spouse and had to run from her home in fear for her life, received no help or protection from her abusive husband. Instead, police ranks reportedly joined with her husband to victimise her and make her homeless.

Where then, and to whom should helpless and vulnerable women and children seek and appeal for sanctuary and shelter

from their abusers?

Suicides are on the increase, and so are spousal murders; and until and unless there are concrete solutions to these devastating societal ills, and greater protection offered to the vulnerable in society, there will continue to be Staceys, and Odessas and incestuous rapes, among the plethora of abuses plaguing this nation.

The Chronicle report stated: “…when she (Stacey) was being abused by the father of her children, the 18-month-old child attempted to prevent her father from hitting her mother by blocking her mother from the punches and slaps that the father was dishing out in the house.” So babies are now doing what the police are mandated to, but often fail to do.

No doubt there are police ranks who perform professionally and creditably; but unfortunately there are also, indisputably, the mavericks who never adhere to the police mandate of protecting and serving. Unless and until this anomaly is addressed, many vulnerable victims will continue to suffer without hope of rescue from their abusers.

Moses Nagamootoo displays his Guyana is today a much better place financial illiteracy once again - thanks to the tenacity, perspicacity and ABOUT two years ago, in a debate in Parliament on the external debt of Guyana, Mr. Moses Nagamootoo was publicly humiliated when he was unmasked for quoting incorrect figures and flawed analysis on Guyana’s debt, leading to the unavoidable conclusion that Mr. Nagamootoo is quite illiterate when it comes to financial matters. In fact, it seems that this gentleman has a problem with numbers in general, and with basic arithmetic in particular.

Let us examine his latest venture into the issue of foreign reserves. He points out that the reserves have declined by US$226 million. He then says that this could not be explained by declining exports because export revenues from the three main commodities (sugar, bauxite and gold)

declined by G$65 billion.

In case Mr. Nagamootoo does not know how to do simple division, G$65 billion is equal to US$317 million at an exchange rate of 205 to 1.

So please, Mr. Nagamootoo, why can’t a US$317 million decline in exports not explain a US$226 million decline in foreign reserves, all else equal?

It seems to me, Mr. Nagamootoo, that you have a problem with not just economics but also with arithmetic. You need more urgently to go back to school, Sir, and not to the Office of the President, which appears to be your lifelong desire notwithstanding your evident incompetence and illiteracy.

KRISHNA DOONAUGHT

vision of Dr. Jagan and the PPP leadership

THE Bank of Guyana celebrated its 50th anniversary this month. This is quite an important milestone and should be celebrated by all Guyanese.

Only last year the University of Guyana also celebrated its 50th anniversary. Both of these can be considered transformative projects and have today become national institutions.

These projects were the brainchild of the PPP Government under the leadership of the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan who was very passionate about Guyana having its own national institutions to drive the development process.

The country had just emerged from colonial rule and there was strong nationalist feelings by the leadership of the PPP to carve our own path to development.

There were challenges in terms of resources, both human and financial, but the PPP Government persevered and today both of these have become pivotal to our development.

There were the usual critics who were opposed to the establishment of national institutions more particularly the establishment of the University of Guyana but time has proven them wrong.

Thanks to the tenacity, perspicacity and vision of Dr. Jagan and the PPP leadership Guyana is today a much better place and in some respects ahead of other countries in the Region in terms of accessibility to university education.

HYDAR ALLY

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

President Ramotar should look into the OF NO AVAIL performance of Rose Hall Town Council THE success story of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club is well known across Guyana and the Caribbean and we have received the support of almost every individual, Government agencies, the Government of Guyana and countless sponsors.

Sadly, over the years we have never received the support of our Town Council, despite being the one shining light that has made Rose Hall Town proud over the last twenty-five years. Last week, we were forced to pen a letter to the media, out of sheer frustration concerning the attitude of the Groundsman/Caretaker and the failure of the Town Council to take the necessary disciplinary actions to correct the situation.

Since the publication of the letter in the media, the Council’s response has been to remove the individual from the ground and leave us to our own mercies. Our members on Saturday 24th January, 2015 were forced to clean up piles of garbage after the Town Council granted permission to two schools to play a cricket match on Friday 23rd January, 2015.

On Sunday 25th January, 2015, we had to prepare the pitch ourselves for a first division cricket match and then again on Monday for practice.

Mr. Editor, what is of concern to residents of this township, is that the Town Council treats the Area ‘H’ Ground as an unwanted step-child despite it has been its second most important asset after the major market.

Each year the Council makes (a lot of money) from rental of the venue and yet its only recent investment has been the payment of the non-productive caretaker. The last IMC Chairman had the wisdom to invest part of the Council subvention to repair the fence and Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club salutes him for his support of youths.

The current Council under the present leadership however seems not to care and the following are just some of the examples. a) The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club has been forced to provide security lights to the Area ‘H’ Ground for the last seven years at our expense. b) The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club a few years ago had to pay Guyana Water Inc over a hundred thousand dollars to prevent disconnection at the Town Council’s ground. c) The Town Council has over the last eight years failed to provide security at one of its most expensive assets.

The end result has been endless damage to the venue and the usage of the ground for illegal activities during the night. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club over the last two years has had to replace the ground’s water connection, over four times due to theft. Of course as everyone knows we have lost millions of dollars worth of items due to numerous breakages into our office and store room. The Council since 2008 has promised to budget for a security guard but has failed to fulfill another promise. d) The Town council without even the courtesy of informing us took away our Charity Kitchen which was constructed by us at the cost of about $1M and handed it over to a group that has no proper structure and hardly ever uses it.

The end result is that we have been forced to cut back on our feeding programme for less fortunate families. This group never invested a cent into the project but now has full control over the building which was built by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club. e) All three pavilions at the Area ‘H’ Ground have been repaired and are now in excellent conditions due to the fact that the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports club was able to raise millions from the Government of Guyana via the Ministry of Sports. In 2012, a new million dollar pavilion was constructed and in 2013, a $2.3 million grant allowed us to repair the old southern pavilion. A million dollar grant in 2014 was able to restore the main pavilion to its former glory. To date, we have not seen a delegate from the Town Council to inspect any of these projects. In fact Mr. Editor, a crude huge message with indecent language was painted on the Southern pavilion four months ago and it is there for all to see including the hundreds of youths who attend the J.C. Chandisingh Secondary School.

This is the same pavilion where the office of the Caretaker is based in. f) The Town Council in its “wisdom” decided to allow our cricketers to practise on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of each week while Monday and Friday were given to a group of footballers who have no structure, no leader and do not participate in any competition and in fact have played no competitive match. Sadly, the footballers have taken over the ground for all five days and our cricketers find it very difficult to practise properly. The footballers practice sessions involving over thirty players and two goal posts take place less than thirty yards from the pitch and it is a common sight to see footballers kicking the ball on the pitch or on the bowler’s run up while the bowler has to wait. g) Our batsmen cannot hit the cricket ball too hard for the fear that another Phil Hughes accident would occur. It is our hope that the Mayor & Town Council would look into this major problem and enforce its own decision. On Tuesday 27th January, 2015, heavy rain was falling over the Area ‘H’ Ground. Our cricketers immediately stopped their practice to avoid causing damage to the outfield but the footballers led by a relative of a senior Town Council employee continued to play causing severe damage to the ground. It took my intervention to make them leave the field as no one from the Town Council was present in the venue.

Mr. Editor, we sometimes wonder how we have been able to achieve so much and be so successful when we face so non-cooperation from this Town Council which collects our hard earned money for taxes to serve us.

Our club’s record of achievement in this township is unmatched and we have transformed its image singlehandedly. President Donald Ramotar should look into the performance of this Town Council, its Councillors and Senior Officials and make sure that they operate on a more professional basis.

HILBERT FOSTER CEO/Secretary, RHTYSC

Of no avail the candle’s light In the splendor of the sun’s delight, The frog in the well Contemplating the ocean’s swell.

Of no avail the force of winds severe Striking the Himalayas, mighty and revered, Our efforts to tarnish and smear The worth and virtues of a soul sincere.

Of no avail having a bird in a golden cage Not a drop of water its thirst to assuage, The inordinate desire to gratify the body Unmindful of the soul’s thirst for eternity.

Of no avail our schemes to harm and deceive The spider ensnared in the web it weaves, Even mere thought of suffering another Enough to darken our ensuing karma.

Of no avail sermons lofty and sweet With hearts steeped in pride and deceit, Our show of mere outward sanctity Failing to walk in true humility.

Of no avail mere worldly learning, When the Atma’s glories have no meaning.

No hope resides in the candle fly’s light To dispel dense darkness of a moonless night.

Of no avail mantras and sacred invocations, If they have not entered the heart‘s recesses When love has truly awakened, Matters not if the beloved is near or afar, When we behold Govinda in all and all in Him, Like Mirabai of royal lineage Then of no avail what the world may insinuate, Peace ineffable and sublime to celebrate.

CECIL RAMKIRATH Bayonne, NJ, USA

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 30, 2015

Burnham issued public death threats to slain WPA leader -walkie talkie bomb was delivered by GDF Sergeant-Donald Rodney

By Gary Eleazar FORMER President Forbes Burnham issued death threats publicly to members of the Working Peoples Alliance (WPA) shortly after the brutal murder of Jesuit Priest, Father Darke and the explosive device at the centre of the probe into Dr Walter Rodney’s death, was uplifted from the Guyana Defence Force Sergeant Gregory Smith.

This was relayed to the COI by the brother of the slain WPA Leader, Donald Rodney, shortly before the hearing yesterday was brought to an abrupt and unceremonious suspension.

COI Chairman Sir Richard

Gregory Smith Cheltenham was forced to adjourn the hearings yesterday when problems developed with the internet connection, leading to numerous complaints from persons, in and outside of Guyana, of being unable to follow the proceedings.

According to the Chairman since the inquiry is mandated to be a public hearing, with members of the public having difficulty listening to the feed, it would be better to adjourn so that by the time the COI meets again the technical snafu would have been addressed.

CONFRONT THE DICTATOR Donald Rodney, the brother of the slain WPA leader who was in the fateful car the night of the bomb explosion, commanded rapt attention at yesterday’s long awaited session as he spoke of the reasons he decided to join forces with his brother to “confront the dictator.”

Detailing the events leading up to the public threats issued and eventual slaying of his brother, Donald Rodney said that it was not until the 1977, 1978 era, when he returned to Guyana that he was confronted for the first time in his adult life with an election, notably one with a referendum.

He said that it was amazing to see people were going

Donald Rodney in consultation with his Attorney-at-Law, Keith Scotland about their daily lives while there was a political storm brewing.

As a result of the prevailing conditions, Donald Rodney said he offered to assist his brother who responded positively.

Among the many reasons that led to this decision occurred on July 14, 1979, when the ‘Arson Three’ as they were known, made a court appearance.

The ‘Arson Three’ included Dr Rodney and WPA co-founder, Dr Rupert Roopnarine and had been accused of setting fire to the Ministry of National Development and Mobilisation building.

On that day, according to Donald Rodney, he was outside of the courthouse when the crowd that had turned up decided to proceed along Brickdam towards the then Central Police Station.

Recalling the events of the day, Donald Rodney told the Commission that as he approached the Brickdam Police Station, ne noticed a single police rank in uniform.

AMBUSH The slain WPA’s brother also recalled that he noticed a Guyana Transportation Service bus parked nearby. This mode of transportation was state owned and it was parked in an obvious No Parking Zone at a gate of the Police Station, according to the witness.

According to Donald Rodney, he then noticed a number of men emerging with weapons in hand, namely filed down cutlasses.

This he said, meant to his mind that the crowd had been ambushed; a notion that was reinforced when he saw the lone uniformed police rank turned his face, “so as not to see what was happening.”

The men, women and youths in the crowd, according to Donald Rodney, “recoiled.”

Donald Rodney said as he was retreating he noticed a shirt jacketed man being carried from the middle of

road into a corner and his shirt appeared to be blood stained.

According to Donald Rodney, he later learnt that the man killed was a Jesuit

casted over the radio where Burnham openly made threats to the WPA and Dr Rodney.

Rodney recalled that Burnham had said in a radio broadcast that the members of the WPA should make their wills.

“The WPA to me,” said Rodney, was anybody who opposed the Burnham administration and it was in the context of telling its membership to make their wills that Donald said Burnham used his brother’s name, hence the direct threat.

Led in his evidence-in-chief by his Attorney-at-Law, Keith Scotland, Rodney was referred to a report of the Third Biennial Congress of the PNC which was held in August, days after the high profile murder.

Former President Forbes Burnham members of the party needed people to watch their backs.

He made it clear to the COI that at no point in time did he inquire of his brother what specifically he was doing as “I was already aware he was confronting the dicta-

Donald Rodney (right) shares a light moment with COI Counsel Latchmie Rahmat Priest, whose name he spelt, as D’Ark. “Father D’Ark died as a result of a planned attack,” Rodney asserted.

He told the Commission that he also later learnt that the person found guilty of his murder was a member of the House of Israel.

The killing, he said, provoked a response from members of civil society which issued a public statement calling for the forging of a unified government where the ideology of no one party dominated.

Rodney recalled that this appealed to him, since he saw it as a group of individuals prepared to do the right thing.

It was clearly a non-political movement.

BROADCASTED THREATS Rodney said another defining issue that caused him to seek to support his brother in his struggle against the Peoples National Congress (PNC), was a message broad-

In that report, Burnham’s speech was represented and documented that in his address to his supporters, he said that the WPA members should be making their wills.

“As you know we are a party of peace but we are not pacifists we promise to match steel with steel and fire with fire,” Rodney said, as he read the excerpt of Burnham’s speech which was also broadcasted on the radio.

He said that another thing he experienced that caused him to be solidified in his resolve that his brother was being targeted, occurred during the 1980 Guyana Music Festival.

The Guyana Police Force Band, according to Rodney, played the song “Run Rodney Run, Run Rodney Run.” According to Rodney, he approached his brother and asked what “I could do to assist in the struggle against the dictatorship.”

With the looming threats, Rodney said he recognised that his brother along with other

torship.”

He made it clear too that prior to Dr Rodney’s death, he was not a member of the WPA. SERGEANT GREGORY SMITH Rodney noted that it was not until the 1980s that he met with Sergeant Gregory Smith, the man, who according to him, would on June 13, 1980 give him the device that later exploded killing his brother.

According to Rodney, he was first told of Smith by his brother, who had explained to him that the soldier would be making walkie talkie devices for him.

At the time, Donald Rodney said he was unaware of the fact that it was illegal for a civilian to be in possession of a walkie talkie device.

Rodney told the Commission that he was told by his brother that he could assist with the uplifting and testing of the walkie talkie unit.

His first time meeting Smith was sometime in Feb-

ruary 1980 and according to Rodney, he was directed by his brother to a house at the Corner of Russell and Howes Streets.

Donald said he went to the house as instructed, asked for Smith and told the man that his brother Walter had sent him but he was informed that the device was still not ready.

According to Rodney, he met with Smith and another man, this time around Water and New Market Streets in the vicinity of a wharf and was told that the set was still not completed.

Rodney said that on another occasion, he went to a North Ruimveldt residence, but was met with a female voice who told him that Smith was not at home.

SUSSEX STREET TEST It was not until a subsequent meeting just about two weeks before the infamous June 13, 1980 explosion that Rodney uplifted a device from Smith to be tested.

He said that he collected a device that he did not immediately recognise as a walkie talkie. Rodney said what he collected was an electric circuit on a ply-board base that was partly boxed around.

After receiving instructions from Smith as to which knob to turn on the device when testing, he returned to his car to deliver the device and relay the instructions.

Rodney told the Commission that he was informed by Smith as to how to position the knob on the device and at the time the bulb started flashing this would mean that it would have been synchronised.

He explained that the device was to be synchronised with another device held by Smith, one that he never actually saw.

Rodney told the Commission that after collecting the device from Smith, he and his brother used the car and headed to Sussex Street where the test was carried out on the device.

After what he believed to be a successful test of the device, it was returned to Smith, according to Rodney.

As the witness was about to delve into the events of the fateful night being probed, complaints began to flood the Commission over the quality of the internet stream and as such the hearing was adjourned.

But not before Donald Rodney reminded the Commission that at no point in time was he aware that the device being collected by him that night from Smith was a bomb.

He said too that he did not believe his brother thought it was a bomb either. He will return to the Commission following the two recceses it has embarked on.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

APNU Presidential, PM candidates still to be selected – youth likely for PM candidate WITH General and Regional Elections slated for May 11 this year, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is yet to decide on presidential and prime ministerial candidates to contest the highly anticipated elections, while chances are, a youth from the party could be selected as the prime ministerial candidate.

This was according to Opposition Leader Brigadier, David Granger (rtd.) at his party’s weekly press conference yesterday, where he added that the likelihood of such disclosure will be made at least by February

20, the day his party will officially launch their election campaign.

According to the Opposition Leader, the selection process has not yet commenced, but would be done by a high-ranking APNU team, which will explore all options for the best suitable candidates.

Addressing the involvement of youths, Granger noted that the possibility of a youth being selected as the prime ministerial candidate is an option which is likely to be explored. “As far as the youth is concerned, this is actively being considered,”

he said.

The party has also pursued the application of a formula which gives representation to geographical areas, gender, competence, occupation and age. “We have a range of considerations which would be applied in the selection of candidates,” the leader said, while adding that these criteria are not absolute.

Ryan Belgrave, Chairman of the Guyana Youth and Students Movement (GYSM), which is the youth arm of APNU, also added to the discussion, underscoring the importance of youth involve-

ment in politics.

Belgrave was keen to note that quite often; the “dirty” side of politics is portrayed by the media which results in a lack of interest by young people. To combat this however, the young man appealed to the media to continue playing an active role in engaging the public, which is made up by a majority of young people.

He further urged the media that the need for social media to be used in public awareness and education is key, since youths are more occupied on social media than they were a few years

ago, hence the need for these avenues to be explored.

Meanwhile, the Alliance For Change (AFC) at their recently held conference announced that the two forerunners for their party in the upcoming general elections will be Moses Veerasammy Nagamootoo and Attorney at Law, Nigel Hughes.

However, with the possibility of a pre-elections coalition between APNU and the AFC, a reshuffling of these posts is likely.

As regards the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), current President, Donald Ramotar, was recently an-

David Granger

nounced as the returning presidential candidate with a prime ministerial candidate still to be decided.

Hopefully good sense will prevail ONE letter-writer asked how the Government can govern the country under the duress of the Opposition’s constant destructive, anti-developmental and unpatriotic actions.

The PPP/C Administration delivered the largest Budget to have ever been presented in the National Assembly last year, but it was demolished once again by the Opposition cabal.

Each consecutive National Budget has brought a new dynamism to the developmental paradigm of Guyana, which has been accelerating at an unprecedented rate since elections of 1992 precipitated the PPP/C into Government.

This was followed by stabilised macro-economic fundamentals and sustained growth indices. In fact Guyana has consistently achieved much-lauded economic growth for the past eight years, even as many countries are facing recession on a global scale.

The discerning can draw a nexus between the PPP Party and the PPP/C Government, because it is the vision and legacy of party’s founding father, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, that is driving the phenomenal patterns of progress in this country that he loved so much.

The struggles for viability in the agricultural sector, with the focus on non-traditional crops in the industry, and the struggle by the PPP for the restoration of democratic norms and for boosting development in Guyana are symbiotic; and this does not diminish the achievements in every sector of national endeavour by the Government, because they all go in tandem.

Every successive PPP/C budget shows clearly that the current administration works for all the people in the land without fear, favour or prejudice; except that constrained funds may sometimes force the prioritisation

of projects. Thus some communities may erroneously assume that some are favoured above others. But the party of Cheddi Jagan will never discriminate between his people.

Of recent times the agricultural sector in general, and the rice industry in particular, has taken on a development trajectory directly in line with national development under the PPP/C Government.

The PPP/C is a governmental construct that is a vital force. It is not static and stagnant, but is like a veritable runaway train that is inexorably taking Guyana to the ultimate goal of peace, progress and prosperity, through the confluences of development with a human face - a concept so dear to Dr. Jagan, and which is integral to all the Government’s considerations, decisions, and actions.

Since its accession to the Administrative levels of the Guyanese nation, the PPP/C Government has achieved a near-miraculous turnaround of Guyana’s social development and economic growth – and it is a matter of public record that Guyana was worse than the famous Augean stables when the PPP/C took office in 1992.

Every sector has been catalysed through transformative processes that took our country from an international rating on development graphs as lower or on par with Haiti; but today we are ranked as a middle income country.

Our macro-economic fundamentals have been stabilised and major financing and other international bodies are lauding our prudent fiscal management, which has achieved a sustained growth rating, the Millennium Developmental Goal in food security and primary education – and we are like a runaway train to progress.

This trajectory has been sustained even in the face of a global economic crisis, which is severely and detrimentally impacting third

‘The PPP/C is a governmental construct that is a vital force. It is not static and stagnant, but is like a veritable runaway train that is inexorably taking Guyana to the ultimate goal of peace, progress and prosperity, through the confluences of development with a human face…’ world nations, even our CARICOM partners.

This trajectory has also been achieved and sustained despite the committed efforts by a radically unpatriotic political Opposition that seems hell-bent to stymie, and even cause retrogression, in developmental and transformational gains that this country has made especially over the last decade.

The rice sector has been achieving incrementally greater output as a direct result of Government’s interventions and facilitating measures. When one considers that during the tenure of the former PNC regime Guyana had been forced to import low-quality rice for local consumption, the progress made in this sector is amazing. Today our export market share has increased tremendously.

Because of all the facilitating mechanisms and support availed to the agriculture sector by the Government, the rice industry continues to remain one of the main pillars of the economy and continues to maintain its rating as the second most important agricultural industry in Guyana.

Indeed, Government has been the main sustainer of this sector and the administration continues to provide significant interventions in the areas of drainage and irrigation, where facilities have been considerably improved, with ongoing works being undertaken in a continuum of efforts to mitigate the effects of the climate change phenomenon and other anomalies detrimentally affecting the agricultural sector.

The runaway success in the agricultural sector is directly attributable to the liberalisation and free-trade policies initiated by

the current PPP/C Administration, which has re-energised the rice industry and the entire agricultural sector.

Many key bodies have denounced the anti-developmental actions and destructive strategies, in and out of Parliament, of those whom are intent on stymieing the development of our nation and the upward mobility of our people; but Budget 2014 had proven once again that the PPP/C Administration is a Government of the people, and no negative and anti-national actions will derail this country’s developmental trajectory under a PPP/C watch.

Guyanese are anticipating with great expectations the benefits which Budget 2015 is expected to bring for them. This, however, is likely to be a long wait as a consequence of the Opposition’s gerrymandering.

Every successive PPP/C Budget has been increasing tremendously, but yet had constraints, because Guyana is yet a developing country with limited resources.

And given where this country was in 1992, to where it is today, as exemplified by each successive National Budget, Guyana is on track and cannot be derailed any longer, because every man, woman and child has been provided for in every incrementally larger budget each year.

Kudos to the Guyana Government and Dr. Ashni Singh for an exceptionally visionary and people-oriented Budget 2014; and hopefully the Opposition will let good sense prevail when Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh moves to present the National Budget this year.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Rights of Child Commission calls for…

‘Immediate rescinding’ of torture-accused cops’ promotion THE Rights of the Child Commission, in a statement yesterday, said it “views with alarm”, the recent promotion of two policemen, both of whom were found to have tortured a child.

After a careful assessment of the facts relating to this case, the Commissioners concluded that these promotions constitute a significant departure from the spirit and intent of Article 19 of the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) which establishes the right of the child to be free from hurt, both in body and mind.

Moreover, the Commissioners noted, that in addition to its breach of the UNCRC, the promotions also collide violently with Guyana’s treaty obligations under the UN Convention Against torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT).

The Commissioners reviewed the fact that the culpability of the policemen in question is beyond dispute, in view of the findings of the GPF’s own Office of Professional Responsibility and the decision by Justice Roxanne George in a civil case.

The Commissioners deemed as unconvincing the pronouncement that the two policemen would have under gone sufficient censure.

The Commissioners posited that the malevolence and depravity of torture, constitutes the worst form of human rights infraction.

Thus, the Commissioners concluded that, such malevolence and depravity, when imbued into the promotion equation, abolishes any legitimate and meritocratic prospect of promotion. The Commissioners mentioned that the singularity of the infraction does not in any meaningful way depreciate its depravity.

The Commissioners also found as unconvincing the reference to chapter 17:01 of the Police Act, as the decision by Justice George effectively took this matter beyond the confines of the Police Act and showed that the High Court of Guyana found this infraction to be repugnant to the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana as well as to the international treaties to which Guyana is a signatory.

The Commissioners reviewed the fact that ever since the unveiling of the Disciplined Forces Commission’s Report, the Guyana Police Force has embarked on a process of reform. Such has included ventures of community engagements, partnership with youth based NGO’s etc. These endeavours are to be commended.

However, the promotion of policemen found linked to the torturing of a child will undermine the process of reform and will moreover corrode public faith in the police to effectively discharge their mandate, centred

The Commission’s statement came a day after the Government ‘nipped in the bud’, the erroneous notion being peddled in some sections of the media that it “participated, authorised or concurred” with promotions of Sergeant Narine Lall and Constable Mohanram Dulai – two police officers charged with criminal acts.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, made it clear that “the Executive plays no part in the recruitment, promotion, appointment or discipline of members of the Guyana Police Force, other than the Commissioner of Police and Deputy Commissioner. Indeed, these are matters from which the Executive is specifically insulated by provisions of the Constitution and the Police Act.”

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS Sergeant Lall and Constable Dulai were charged with torturing a Sergeant Narine Lall and Constable Mohanram Dulai 15-year-old boy, Twyon Thomas, in 2008 at the Leonora Police Station and were, consequently, the subject of on service and protection.

“In a word, these promotions are not in an investigation that resulted in criminal the interest of the GPF, and as a significant charges being instituted by the Director of corollary, not in the interest of law and order,” Public Prosecutions (DPP) against them.

Sergeant Lall (regulation number 14526) the Commission stated.

Also, the commissioners have noted that and Constable Dulai (regulation number at the recent Universal Periodic Review 19028) were charged by the Director of Working Group meeting in Switzerland, Public Prosecutions and during the pendenstatements of concern have been raised about cy of the trial before the Magistrate’s Court, the prevalence of police excesses in Guyana. both Sergeant Lall and Constable Dulai “Such promotions will only serve to aggravate were interdicted from duty. These charges and entrench further international concern,” were subsequently dismissed for want of prosecution. As a result, the interdictions the Commission posited.

In this regard, the Rights of the Child were removed.

Also, a Constitutional Motion was subseCommission, at a minimum, calls for the “immediate rescinding of these promo- quently filed by Thomas against the Attorney General in respect of the same case. tions”.

Thomas was arrested on the 27th October, 2009, in relation to an investigation of an GOV’T HAD NO ROLE alleged murder of Ramenauth Bisram, which IN PROMOTION

had occurred sometime on or around the 26th October, 2009.

He alleged that he was taken to Leonora Police Station and he was allegedly tortured

by Constable Dulai and Sergeant Lall.

The legal proceedings filed against the Attorney General, culminated in an award of damages, which was duly paid by the State.

The Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Commissioner of Police have since promoted Sergeant Lall, regulation number 14526, and Constable Dulai, regulation number 19028, to the rank of Inspector and Corporal, respectively.

Given the controversy surrounding their service, the promotion of the two ranks has resulted in much public commentary.

NO ROLE BY THE EXECUTIVE However, Minister Nandlall, in a statement yesterday, maintained that the Executive had “no part to play” in their promotions.

He said, “Article 212 (1) of the Constitution vests in the Police Service Commission the power to make appointments to any offices in the Police Force of or above the rank of Inspector, the power to exercise disciplinary control over persons holding or acting in such offices and the power to remove such persons from office.

Article 212 (2) resides similar powers in the Commissioner of Police in respect of officers in the Police Force below the rank of Inspector.”

The Police Service Commission consists of five members, namely the Chairman of the Public Service Commission and four other persons, nominated by the National Assembly, as stipulated by Article 210 of the Constitution.

“In the discharge of its functions, the Commission enjoys constitutionally enshrined independence and autonomy which is captured in the imperative language of Article 226 (1) ‘…in the exercise of its functions under this constitution, a Commission shall not be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority’,” the Attorney General said.

Overloading of minibuses Use video, photographs to capture overloading as evidence for police —Traffic Chief IN response to concerns raised about the overloading of minibuses, Traffic Chief Ian Amsterdam told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday that passengers could use technology and record video and still photographs of defaulters and give it as evidence to the police.

The senior superintendent added that passengers

have to take the first step in providing the police with the information, so that they could deal with recalcitrant minibus operators, who are bent on breaking the law.

It has been recently observed that minibus operators plying the Enterprise/Georgetown route are charging passengers $200 per person with four persons in a row of seats, even though the

fare is $140.

When concerns were raised by disgruntled passengers, especially in the afternoons, the driver and conductor were rude and very disrespectful to elders and others and were asked to disembark the bus.

Some passengers were not pleased that they were made to pay $200 per person and still had to travel with

four extra passengers, 19, instead of 15.

The traffic chief said that in such instances, he would urge members of the public to record the licence number and make a report to the police so action could be taken.

He explained that although they do not have any control over bus fares, it is not right for minibus operators to be overcharg-

ing passengers; as such, he encouraged them to record video or take still photos of them.

Amsterdam pointed out that it is dangerous to travel in an overloaded minibus, not only because it constituted a breach of insurance, but the vehicle could tilt to one side and overturn easily when speeding is involved.

He noted that overloading

is also a breach of the Road Service Licence; as such, passengers need to expose those lawless minibus operators, so that the police could deal with them accordingly, but evidence is needed.

Amsterdam said they have been receiving many reports, but they need the evidence to deal with such minibus operators, because they are “overdoing” it.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

Glowing tributes as Faith Harding laid to rest

NIS takes call centre to court over workers’ contributions

Sacked workers outside the company protesting for their salaries

Patrick Harding jnr, Dr. Harding’s only son, pays a final view of the body inside the casket yesterday

A woman of substance and former Minister of Government in the Peoples National Congress Reform, Dr. Faith Harding, was laid to rest yesterday following a period of viewing and glowing tributes.

The funeral of Dr. Harding, who passed away last week Friday after being hospitalised for a short period attracted persons from almost every sphere and stature in society, who all showed up to pay their final respects to a courageous woman who championed the cause of women and children.

There were tributes, songs, hymns and prayers uttered to celebrate the life of the former politician, even as hundreds with whom Dr. Harding had worked while in government and in her private life ensured that they

were present to mourn with the woman’s son, husband, grandchildren and other relatives.

Family members kept the spirit of Faith Harding alive, even during the time of her death. Dr. Harding was laid to rest in a dress that many say represented one of her favourite colours and her hairstyle was no different from the usual one many have grown accustommed to seeing her with over the years.

Her lipstick was also the symbolic colour she wore with almost all of her outfits. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle some time back, Mrs. Harding was asked about the reason for her hair never being combed in one, to which she replied: “No one has ever asked me that question before, but

since you ask I will tell you: I like to be free and having my hair flying makes me feel free like a bird. I bought a convertible car to complement my hair style and is also another symbol of me being free; as you know, a convertible car can open up and natural air can be felt all around,” Dr. Harding added.

Those who took flowers to her viewing and graveside took fresh, colourful flowers which were another sign of Dr. Harding’s love and her passion for things natural.

Following her first viewing at the Merriman Funeral Home at Lime and Bent Streets, Dr. Harding’s body was taken to Christ Church, where it was again viewed and then closed to facilitate the funeral service and the tributes which followed.

Pall bearers carry the casket with Faith Harding’s body into Christ Church (Adrian narine photo)

THE National Insurance Scheme (NIS) of Guyana has taken the management of C Com Marketing Group Inc. to court, after discovering that the company, a call centre located in Kingston, Georgetown, has been deducting NIS contributions from workers’ salaries and not remitting them.

The most vocal worker, Monett Samuels, who was allegedly fired without a reason

This newspaper was able to confirm that the principals of the company appeared in court on Thursday, since according to the NIS, the company has been registered with the Scheme since July 1, 2014, but to date has not remitted a cent on behalf of its employees.

The company, which has a high staff turnover, is also battling claims of wrongful dismissal, victimisation, withholding of salaries without proper explanations, delayed payments and other infringements which are not in keeping with the laws of Guyana.

On Tuesday, several employees expressed their displeasure over the manner in which the Kingston company has been conducting its affairs and how it has been treating them.

It was reported to this newspaper that several em-

ployees were dismissed on January 19 and up to Tuesday, they had not been paid.

They claimed that they were dismissed without being given any warning letters, and without knowingly committing any infringements; they believe that their dismissals were inspired by spite, because they had spoken out against the company’s failure to remit their NIS contributions, although those were being deducted.

One worker stated that she showed up for work, only to be told that her services were no longer needed. The young lady, Monett Samuels, explained that the company has no evidence of wrongdoing on her part, prior to her receiving her dismissal letter; yet, when she received the letter, it stated that she had already been issued three warning letters about her conduct on the job.

According to the young lady- who was very vocalher performance on the job was above board and she was loved by the supervisors. Additionally, her dismissal was done without her supervisors’ inputs or recommendations of any sort.

She said that after asking for her salary following her dismissal, her employer told her that they could not be paid, since the parent company overseas did not transfer any money to the local company to pay staff. This, Samuels said, is a lie since only Monday two other persons were dismissed and they were able to receive their salaries in full. The young lady is calling on the company to honour its lawful obligations to the Guyanese workers and ensure that they are paid their severance pay, back pay and salaries which they have already worked for.

One other employee who also spoke with the Chronicle said that upon signing her employment contract, she was told that within three months

of her employment she would receive an additional $10,000 on her salary, but to date that agreement has not been honoured.

She said that she also showed up for work and was told, by way of a letter, that her services were no longer needed. According to her, she believes that the company made the decision since she questioned management at a meeting a few days earlier about the deduction of $2500.00 from her salary to the NIS, although she has not registered with the scheme, did not have an NIS number or card and was reliably informed that the company does not remit contributions to the Scheme, after they have been deducted.

The other employee who spoke with the Chronicle also levelled claims of victimisation against the company, stating that the company decided to terminate her services because of a medical condition that she has. She too claimed that money had been deducted from her salary for the NIS. Yesterday, this publication requested an interview with a representative of the company, but our initial call was met with a response that the individual was in a meeting and that a call would be returned, but that was not done. When this publication subsequently called again, a gentlemen named, Hassan said that he would not be able to accommodate an interview with this newspaper until tomorrow.

However, when told that our story could not be withheld until then, the gentleman then proposed to facilitate an interview before 15.00 hrs yesterday, but that interview could not have been accommodated by this publication, since it would have clashed with another engagement that this reporter had already scheduled.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

In Dr. Ramsahoye’s lawsuit for defamation…

Court of Appeal awards $15M judgment against Glenn Lall, Kaieteur News THE Court of Appeal, on Thursday granted judgment of $15M against publishers of the Kaieteur News, Mohan ‘Glenn’ Lall and against the newspaper following a libel suit filed in 2000.

The suit was filed on behalf of Dr. Walter Ramsahoye, a medical practitioner and Neurologist of 32 years, with various degrees. He was represented by Senior Counsel, Rex McKay. The move to the Court of Appeal was made after the initial $4.5M awarded by Rishi Persaud in the High Court was considered “derisory and a denial of justice having regard to the severity of the libel” by Ramsahoye.

The award of $4.5M had taken into account the fact that Kaieteur News was not a daily publication and was not available on the internet.

The Court was also mindful of the fact that it was the highest award in Guyana and the potential of an award to inhibit responsible journalism and even economically ruin a publisher.

However, the Court of Appeal found that the findings of the trial judge justified a higher award and the doctor had given distinguished service and the case

was without precedent.

CARTOON CONTROVERSY The subject of the lawsuit is a cartoon, published

by Kaieteur News, used

Glenn Lall the term “Demi God” and “peerless.”

It depicted Ramsahoye as gloating about his achievements and basing the reputation of great doctors on the number of distinguished patients “who die under their care.”

The offending words were published during the period January 21 and Feb-

ruary 10, 2000, which was a weekly publication at that time.

Dr. Ramsahoye claimed that the publications were deliberately contrived to abuse the freedom of the press to his detriment and as a result of the said publications he was greatly injured and disparaged in his character, reputation and profession as a medical practitioner.

He was also brought into public ridicule odium and contempt and suffered great distress and humiliation and was lowered in the estimation of right thinking members of society.

All considered, the Court of Appeal found that the words cannot be protected by ones constitutional right to expression.

In a majority decision, Justice of Appeal B. S. Roy and Justice Diana Insanally increased the damages from $4.5 to $15M. Justice of Appeal Yonette Cummings Edwards gave a dissenting judgment and while she did not lower the High court award, she did not increase the award.

Mc Kay argued that the offending publication represented an “unrestrained and virulent attack” on the character, reputation and

competence of Dr. Ramsahoye as a medical practitioner who has won distinction in his field.

ADMISSION Lall was represented

Dr Walter Ramsahoye

by Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader and Attorney-at-Law, Khemraj Ramjattan, who also defended the defamatory publications in the lower court.

Although Ramjattan appealed the trial judge’s findings on libel, he admitted in the Court of Appeal that the words were libellous, but pointed out that the damages

awarded of $4.5 were too high.

Editor-in-Chief, Adam Harris, testified for the defendants and said the publications were fair comment of public importance and generally fair and accurate and were justified.

The defence also pleaded “fair and bona fide comment” on matters of public opinion, which the trial judge found were defences unknown to the law.

Ramjattan also pleaded that the words published were not defamatory and were a responsible exercise of their constitutional right to freedom of expression.

However, the Court found the full text revealed that the words were “unprovoked and unlawful injury” to the character and reputation of the doctor and he was effectively demeaned and humiliated in the eyes of the public and there were injury to his feelings. According to the Court, Ramsahoye was also painted as incompetent.

C o n s e q u e n t l y, t h e Court underscored that no other conclusion can be made considering Kaieteur News’ use of words like “Dictator” and phrases like “madness knows no bounds,” “indeed whom

the gods wish to destroy they first make mad”, among others.

The Court also noted the reference to Ramsahoye being childless as particularly disturbing.

NO REMORSE Also considered by the Court was the evidence of the fact that both Lall and his newspaper showed no remorse and the insistence of justification, fair comment and accuracy was deemed outrageous. Additionally, the fact that there was no apology was also considered as evidence of the fact of no remorse.

Also considered by the Court was the fact that Ramsahoye boasted impressive qualifications, as well as the ‘Giglioli Award,’ which recognised his personal sacrifice and dedication to the practice of medicine.

It also recognised his supremacy in diagnosis, his obsession with perfection and his abiding sense of civic responsibility.

As such, the majority of the Court of Appeal found that the findings of the trial judge justified a higher award.

The case is without precedent.

Increase recorded in export value for all forest product categories THE Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) has said it would like to clarify media reports which misrepresented the value derived from the exports of logs and other forest produce.

A GFC release said: “In this regard, the Commission wishes to advise the general public that this misinformation is based on a flawed assessment of the export value of timber products, which is dramatically used as a basis for concluding that “a national tragedy” has taken place.

Specifically, the analysis neglects to outline the following conclusions illustrated by the tables below: ‘Logs export for 2014 represents only a third of total log production leaving the majority (or two thirds), for added value manufacturing and local consumption. This can in no way be translated to “…a National Tragedy” since 267,931 m3 or a 66% of total log production volume remains in the country, for local manufacturing or utilisation.

Further, the table below shows that for each of the three main forest products, exports are only a fraction of total production. In the case of Logs it is 34%, Roundwood, 28% and Plywood 28%.”

Product Production Volume (m3) in 2014 Export Volume (m3 in 2014) % of Production that is Exported % of Production that remains in Guyana for local processing and utilization Logs 406,433 138,502 34% 66% Roundwood 24,667 6,871 28% 72% Plywood 18,798 5,278 28% 72%

“Additionally, an impartial analysis would have shown that although log exports increased over the 2013 value, there still has been a maintained high level of export value from processed wood products in 2014 (compared to 2013).”

“In other words, there was no decrease or trade-off in sawn timber value owing to increasing log exports in 2014. The table below illustrates this point very clearly:” Forest Product Exported Export Value in 2014 (US$ in Million) Export Value in 2013 (US$ in Million) Movement from 2013 to 2014 Logs 24.4 12.5 Increase Sawn Lumber 20.3 19.6 Increase Roundwood 4.1 2.7 Increase Plywood 2.6 2.3 Increase Splitwood 2.1 1.7 Increase There is an increase in export value for every product including Sawn Timber.

The GFC added that it would like to highlight that there cannot be a generalised comparison of unit value for Logs, Lumber and Other Value Added Products since these products do not have a standard unit cost of production.

In this regard, the GFC said stakeholders-especially those directly involved in the sector would appreciate the following clarifying points: • It takes approximately twice the volume of Logs (or

more) to generate one cubic meter of lumber, given the current level of recovery of the forest industry.

• There is a significant additional investment that is required to be in place, for certain types of added value operations.

• The large majority of logs exported are not of the Prime species, but are from the lesser used and lesser known species, such as Wamara.

• 2014 log production values show an increase of 42% over the 2013 total for Classes 1 to 3 (categories which include Wamara and the other lesser utilised species), and a mere 11% increase for those species in the Prime category (also called Special Category).

Further, the forest sector continues to grapple with inherent challenges such as the high cost of energy, challenging physical environments, forest areas with limited accessibility, and fluctuations in local and overseas markets where emphasis is shifting from tropical timber to less expensive competing products.

Notwithstanding these uncertainties, in 2014, the forest sector in Guyana saw significant improvement compared to 2013 (21 % increase in total production; 38 % in export value…).

Meanwhile, the forest sector has a bright future, especially in increasing productivity, promoting the use of a wider range of species, and manufacturing of much more quality added value forest products. This is based on factual evidence and stakeholders can rest assured that there is no “national tragedy”. (Guyana Forestry Commission)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

GRPA to do more for hinterland communities

By Telesha Ramnarine

THE Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA) has a reservoir of information on family planning and various issues affecting the public, but has concerns about sharing such with those who are most vulnerable, especially in the hinterland communities.

Reaching these areas is definitely possible and the GRPA is hoping for an opening this year, Executive Director, Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth told the Chronicle in an invited comment recently.

Money is the major problem holding back the GRPA

Programme Director Renuka Anandjit

from venturing into these communities, but the organisation is nevertheless hoping to form partnerships with other bodies so as to reach them. “These are the most

needy communities,” Sheerattan-Bisnauth observed.

Discussions have already begun with some of those organisations, but they cannot be definitively named just yet.

“We hope this year we can do some work there.

In terms of us budgeting money, we don’t have that.

We really want to look at other ways, but I think it’s possible we can make some connections.”

“It takes so much to travel to these communities, but there are organisations set up with volunteers on the ground. We don’t have money to invest in the logistical costs. In terms of how much we can do is quite

dependent on these partnerships,” Sheerattan-Bisnauth explained.

The GRPA’s interest lies in sensitising the public on family planning and on issues surrounding cervical cancer, prostate cancer, HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. In fact, GRPA is developing outlines of programmes to do comprehensive sexuality education.

Programme Director, Renuka Anandjit told the Chronicle in an invited comment that GRPA would be scaling up a lot of its services when it comes to targeting teenage pregnancies.

She observed that there are a lot of information gaps that result in unwise life choices.

Mrs. Sheerattan-Bisnauth just recently observed that more ought to be done to address the “unmet” needs of family planning in Guyana.

“Family planning is an important issue for this country. There is still a big gap in family planning education and in having access to contraceptives, so we are rolling out this project (the community-based family planning initiative that was launched last August) with the intention of addressing this unmet need,” she disclosed.

“So far, the CMO gave the contraceptive rate in Guyana at 43, while we should be 75. So there is quite a large gap,” she in-

formed. “It means we still need that kind of community-based programme. Some people because of poverty and lack of access, don’t go to health centres,” Sheerattan-Bisnauth posited.

“We have the second highest rate of teenage pregnancy for Latin America and the Caribbean. Some people have problems with contraceptives, and instead of sorting it out, they come up with their own ideas. We want to provide the correct kind of information, so they can then make a decision,” she said.

GRPA works closely with the ministries of Health and Education, among others.

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Command at Base Camp Ayanganna changes hands – as Lft. Col Baird says adieu COMMAND of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Base Camp Ayanganna changed hands on Wednesday when Lieutenant Colonel Clement Baird formally handed over command of the base to Lieutenant Colonel Mark Thomas at a simple yet significant ceremony held on the Drill Square at the base.

Lft. Col Baird proceeds on retirement this year. He says that in handing over command to Lft Col Thomas, he knows that the base’s administration is in competent hands.

Acknowledging the challenging nature of the appointment, Baird says that his tenure as Base Commander was a good one. “There have been ups and downs; but, by and large, it has been rewarding,” he said. “I ask that you all support Lft Col Thomas as you have supported me

during my command.”

Reflecting on his 32 years of service to the GDF and Guyana, Baird said it is a phase of his life for which he would always have fond memories. “If I had to ask God to (permit me to) live my life all over again, I would ask to be allowed to serve with the GDF. There is nothing better than military service!” he said.

Almost overcome with emotion, he went on to thank all the troops with whom he had the opportunity to serve.

As a parting shot, he challenged the serving soldiers to embrace education.

“This is the best time to be serving in the GDF. There has never before been such an effort to educate our ranks like there is today. Seize the opportunities! The education products of the Force are to go online soon. Make use of your time to access the mate-

Outgoing Lieutenant Colonel (Lft Col) Clement Baird handing over a flag to the new Base Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Mark Thomas

rial and learn,” he entreated.

Lft Colonel Baird also thanked the GDF for allowing him the opportunity to serve, and said he is confident that the leadership of the Force would ensure its progress and prosperity.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

Angoy’s Avenue get new water service connections 200+ households to benefit, community meeting scheduled for February 4

THE Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) said yesterday that it would be installing new water service connections in Block Four, Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice on February 4, 2015.

Public Relations Officer, Timothy Austin told this publication that the programme is meant to improve the water service provided to the community, as well as to enhance the overall quality of life experienced by residents.

He said that more than 200 households within Block Four, Angoy’s Avenue would receive new water service connections.

Austin noted that the company would also be metering all new customers in an effort to promote water conservation, and the entity would sensitise residents of the community, commencing with a community meeting.

Austin said, “It is pivotal that new customers understand the process involved in the installation of new pipelines and meters, hence we have invited all beneficiaries of the programme, as well as RDC and other authorities, so that all parties involved are fully aware of the company’s plans to improve the service provided to the community.”

Austin pointed out that the activity is part of GWI’s overarching plan to improve community relations and to educate

customers about the benefits of a metered water service. The PRO explained that some customers may not realise the advantage of having a water service meter, which is a vital part of their community meeting with residents of Angoy’s Avenue. The intention is to fully educate customers so they might fully understand that they would be paying for actual consumption.

He added that all residents of Angoy’s Avenue, particularly Block Four, are invited to interact with GWI officials on February 4, 2015 from 2pm at Nigel’s Shop at Patrick Dam, Angoy’s Avenue.

Austin pointed out that hosting the meeting would be a team from GWI, consisting of Operations, Customer Services and Public Relations, and he said residents are encouraged to share concerns or ask questions about the installation of pipelines, new water service connections, and the metering programme.

Customer service representatives would also be available at the engagement to facilitate residents’ applying for new service connections.

Residents are accordingly, kindly being asked to present their national identification cards, proof of ownership and proof of address in attempting to access the service.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

Four facing the courts for break and enter and armed robbery TWENTY-FOUR-YEAROLD Carl Mangal, a stevedore of Charlestown, Georgetown and a father of two; Joel Gopaul, known as Joel Grant, of Lot 27 Edinburgh, Village, East Bank Berbice (EBB), who had previously been charged for wounding and had served a 24-month sentence; Gregory Anthony Simmons, called ‘G’ of Curtis Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, who had served three years for trafficking in narcotics; and 41-year-old Kurt Grant, single and of East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, who had been sentenced to nine months’ imprisonment, appeared on Thursday before New Amsterdam Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs Marcus and were not required to plead to two joint charges of robbery under arms, along with break and enter and larceny.

They were refused bail and are expected to return to court on February 16.

Particulars of the charges, sworn to by Detective Constable Quincy Calder, stated that (a): On January 27, at Brothers Village, EBB, they broke into the dwelling house of Poorandai Daniels and stole therefrom an Apex 32” flat screen television set, two laptop computers, a skate board, a video adapter, a portable camera, a water pump and a Rolex wristwatch, all to the total value of $1,009,000,

Joel Gopaul

Gregory Anthony Simmons

Kurt Grant

Carl Mangal

property of the said Poorandai Daniels.

In the second charge, the police contend that on Sunday January 25 last, at Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice, while being armed with offensive weapons, to wit cutlasses and being in company of each other, the men robbed Chinese Restaurateur Tia Hong Fen of a cellular phone and cash totalling $340,000.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Phillip Sheriff objected to the men being granted bail on ground that the stolen items were found in the said car in which the defendants were occupants.

He said the virtual complainant actually saw the accused persons parked in front of her yard about twenty minutes prior to her discovering items missing from her home.

However, Carl Mangal told the court that he knew nothing about the robbery.

“We ain’t tek the stuff the officer talk about! We see a junkie in the corner of the road with these things, but I not know about the robbery, and I asking for bail!”

Defendant Joel Gopaul, alias Joel Grant, said his name is ‘Grannum’ and that “these guys come up to me. He pass an Indian junkie with these things. I went on an identification parade and I was not picked out at all. I am requesting bail!”

Questioned by the magistrate as to whether he had previously been charged, the defendant replied, “Me and Adrian Bishop was charged.”

Defendant Gregory Anthony Simmons said whilst he was at Whim (Police Station): “We were placed on an identification parade for a robbery in relation to a Chinese man.

No Rasta man went on the robbery; it was three bald head. When the identification

parade finish, we went to the lockups and the officer say we gon get a break-and-enterand-larceny charge.”

Defendant Kurt Grant said he had driven to Berbice to do a drop-off. “The men saw a man with something and he told us to put it in the trunk. After doing so, the police approach us. I got two little children at home and I am the sole bread winner.

I don’t know nothing about

this! I have been on the identification parade and I was not picked out!”

Reports are that on January 27, Poorandai Daniels, a school vendor of Brothers Village, EBB, had left her home shortly after 07:00 hrs to ply her trade at the learning institution. She had secured her home and had left several electrical appliances intact, but on her return, had observed that her home had

been broken into and several items had gone missing.

As a result, she rushed to the Sisters Police Station to lodge a report; and it was whilst she was at the station that she learnt that the police had intercepted a car in which the defendants were the occupants and in which several items were found in the trunk of the vehicle.

On the day of the incident, residents along the East Bank Berbice corridor had observed a yellow Toyota 212 motor car, HC 1288, with the Cyril Taxi logo, being driven within their community; and it was the very car which had driven off with the bandits who had robbed the Chinese restaurateur Tai Hong Fen on Sunday night.

They also observed that the number plate had been changed from HC 214.

They contacted the police, who subsequently intercepted the vehicle as it was about to

Turn to page 18 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Finnish-born song writer/ artiste considers Guyana her second home

By Michel Outridge

MEET Finnish-born song writer/artiste, Sandhjia Kuivalainen, who says she is not the typical ‘white girl’ having deep Guyanese roots as she has been visiting Guyana since she was just three months old and considers Guyana as her second home.

The 23-year-old returned to Guyana two years ago and got married in traditional Hindu style to her sweetheart, Joni Salovaara, who is an athlete and is pursuing studies to become an electrician.

Sandhjia was born in Finland to a Finnish father and a Guyanese mother, the daughter of a well-known local photographer who hails from Herstelling, East Bank Demerara.

Sandy - Sandhjia Kuivalainen and one of her Finnish friends here in Guyana (Michel Outridge photos) She told this publication that her mother is Hindu and she grew up in the culture which fascinates her and she even performs puja (religious prayers) as part of her daily routine in her homeland.

Sandhjia and some of her friends at a Hindu wedding recently

Sandhjia and some of her female friends who are visiting Guyana

“ALBUM TITLED “GOLD” This upbeat young lady has her album “Gold” with her single “Hold Me” being released on Finnish airwaves on more than 10 radio stations.

She graduated as a nurse two years ago but likes music, including our local music and prefers Indian songs to which she can dance very well.

At a traditional Hindu wedding recently she wore a sari as well as her friends, who are here in Guyana to attend the Hindu wedding ceremonies of two of her male cousins.

Sandhjia said she enjoys the best of both Finland and Guyana even though the cultures are very different. However, she has adopted and grown accustomed to Guyana although at first she was in awe as it relates to hospitality and our togetherness as a people.

But after visiting for more than a dozen times she understands the way our people live.

She stated that even though she is not Guyanese, she fits in anywhere she goes and admires the local people and their lifestyle and even has many friends here.

This talented young lady has a small band of four with two back-up singers and recorded her song in English which is being played on the more popular radio stations in Finland.

She acknowledged that at first the Finnish people were not taken up by her song since they felt she was a foreigner but nevertheless it became a hit.

Sandhjia told this publication that life in Finland is diverse, the climate is very cold and they have free education and health care.

She noted that their society is one where there is minimal crime and it is a safe place to live since women can walk at any hour of the night without coming to any harm.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

BIT-Making a good name for Guyana A GINA Feature

“BIT has been a big opportunity for me.

It’s a big step for me. I will follow my dream and make a better life for me and for my family.”

Those were the words of Reginald Innis, who is today a heavy-duty machine operator after being trained under the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) programme last year.

Although no man is really programmed to fail, many do end up in places of incompleteness and flop. However, no decent government will allow this reality (of missed goals and lost opportunities) to remain the ultimate destiny for those many ‘first-time missers.’ This is where BIT makes a good name for Guyana.

The training provided by BIT, under both the Single Parents Programme and the National Training Project for Youth Empowerment (NTPYE), offers opportunities or “another chance” to improve their skills and marketability.

BIT continues to provide vulnerable individuals with opportunities to gain some form of qualification in technical fields. In this regard, 2,736 persons across the country graduated in 2014, following training in several areas. These persons were trained in various regions and out of these, females numbered 1,469 while males were at 1,267.

They were drawn from all the regions, except Region 8 (Potaro/Siparuni).

It also consists of on-the-job training and exposure to life skills, educational classes.

The youths targeted are usually between the ages of 15 and 25. Most of them do not have the requisite CSEC qualifications to enter the job market, or may not have completed secondary education.

BIT which has trained more than 8,000 people since its introduction in 2005 was conceived by former President Bharrat Jag-

deo and aims at giving unemployed youths a second chance to a secure future. This programme forms part of the fundamental principles of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration to ensure the equitable access to education by all its citizens.

Many of these BIT students actually left school prematurely and even though this could be considered a waste of free education, these young ones are not abandoned by the Government. The BIT output is all about salvaging young lives, which otherwise might just go astray.

The graduation ceremonies reveal how valuable BIT is, as some of the graduates usually tell of already receiving jobs such as heavy-duty equipment operators, concrete-block makers, caterers and cosmetologists. Many persons also gained skills in the areas of general catering, Information Technology, and Welding and Fabrication.

With Government’s continuing investment of millions of dollars for training skills for young people, inclusive of single parents and mothers, the target focus are those who completed school, but are without any solid academic qualification. This intervention is conducted through BIT programmes which provide opportunities for participants to be empowered with skills. The 2014 graduates have expressed their pleasure at being part of the workforce and to now be able to provide goods and services to their fellow Guyanese to the point of even making some of them entrepreneurs.

Of worthy note is the fact that most of the persons trained thus far are now with jobs in highly skilled areas. For last year, in Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice), 18 persons were trained and have all been placed in jobs. In Region 9 Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo), for the first time programmes were started, while in Region

7 (Cuyuni/Mazaruni), the heavy-duty equipment operators were trained. The large number of people trained for 2014 represents yet another huge block of youths being invested in.

In Region 2(Pomeroon/Supenaam), 100 were trained; Region 3 Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara), 349; Region 4 (Demerara/ Mahaica), 641; Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice)343; Region 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne) there were 907; Region 7, 138; Region 9, 83; and Region 10 there were 175. These all reflect the emphasis placed on those who did not complete school in a satisfactory manner, or those who actually left before finishing. The important thing to note is that these various groups of young people from across Guyana needed to become employable in a meaningful and dignified manner,

and BIT came to the fore At the end of their training, participants were also given specialised kits and so they are now thinking ahead. They are making themselves gainfully employed more and more.

The provision of these skills-courses was seen as the opportunity to not only offer the youths and single parents a second chance, but to give the recipients the opportunity of working for themselves rather than with others.

In addition to the skills-training, the recipients under training under BIT were also exposed to morality teachings and the basics of Mathematics and English.

The programme consists of on-the-job training and exposure to life skills educational classes.

Items made by BIT graduates who completed training in garment production

BIT graduates from Mahaica

BIT graduates from Region 3

BIT graduates from Kamarang, Region 7

A batch of single parents at their graduation ceremony

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

Squatting prohibited on all – Guyana Forestry forest reserves Commission warns THE Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) has said it is illegal for any person to clear, build unauthorised structures on, and unlawfully occupy, the GFC’s Reserve in the

vicinity of Long Creek, Linden Highway.

T h e C o m m i s s i o n i s calling on all unauthorised persons to immediately cease this unlawful occupation and all associated

activities, or necessary measures will be taken as prescribed by the law.

GFC is reminding all citizens that squatting will not be tolerated on the lands that it manages

on behalf of the Government of Guyana. Members of the public are e n c o u r a g e d t o re p o r t any suspected squatting on forest reserves to the Guyana Forestry

Commission on telephone numbers 226-7271/72 or

at the nearest forest station.

Four facing the courts...

From page 15

exit Edinburgh Village, which lies along the lone access road that serves the East Bank Berbice corridor.

RESTAURANT ROBBERY On Sunday night January 25, Chinese Restaurateur Tai Hong Fen was beaten and robbed by armed bandits as he was about to close his business at Lot 23 Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice shortly after 22:00 hrs.

The 49-year-old Tai Hong Fen, recalling the incident in a deep Cantonese accent, said it was about 22:00 hrs when he decided to close the family-run Four Sea restaurant, although a few customers were still drinking beverages.

“The customers left, and

I was about to close the door when one of the bandits went into the business and asked to purchase a hundred dollars’ worth of cigarettes. He presented a thousand-dollar bill, and seconds later, two other identifiable males with cutlasses forced their way into the shop.”

Visibly shaken, Fen said: “I tried to run to the kitchen; and in doing so, I failed to close the inner door dividing the restaurant and the kitchen.

One (of the men) viced me while another, both sporting dreadlocks, cuffed me in my eye and beat me; and they asked, "Whey the money deh!"

“They break the drawers and took out cash and an Alcatel cellular phone valued $40,000.”

Saturday, January 31, 2015 - 14:30 hrs Sunday, February 01, 2015 - 14:30 hrs Monday, February 02, 2015 - 14:30 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 31, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Golden Jaguars off to Barbados; to play tomorrow SOME pundits are calling them the ‘redemption’ squad but to them, they are just a team who want to win against Barbados on Sunday and get a result which doesn’t include losing.

Guyana’s Senior National Football Team, more popularly known as the Golden Jaguars, departed Guyana yesterday from the Ogle International Airport with the aim of winning their International Friendly against the ‘Bajans’ at the Barbados National Stadium.

The last time the two sides met was on October 7, 2011 and Guyana posted a 2-0 victory over Barbados, also at the National Stadium.

Christopher Nurse, will once again be given the hand band while Canadian Emery Welshman will have his first International cap after being selected in the 18-man squad.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Pro-League side Central FC goalkeeper Akel Clarke and Derrick Carter are the chosen custodians while the defence will be managed by Solomon Austin (Western Tigers), Jamaal Smith (Caledonia AIA), Colin Nelson (Slingerz FC), Kris Camacho (Alpha United), Joshua Brown (Slingerz FC) and Dwain Jacobs (Slingerz FC).

Trayon Bobb (Caledonia AIA), Daniel

Wilson (Alpha United), Vurlon Mills (Slingerz FC), Eusi Phillips (GDF), Calvin Shepherd (Slingerz FC) and Clive Nobrega (Slingerz) FC along with Nurse are the midfield players.

Welshman, the former Toronto FC forward, is joined by Alpha United’s Sheldon Holder and Caledonia AIA’s Pernell Schultz “We’re optimistic because we have a lot of talented players. We had ten days working together and we were very organised and disciplined heading into this game, so, we’re looking forward to getting this result. We also expect everyone to work hard because it’s the first time the players are actually going to be playing together,” Nurse said, prior to their departure yesterday.

Head coach Jamaal Shabazz had told Chronicle Sport recently that the game will reveal the truth about where Guyana football is at the moment; a statement which Nurse endorsed and stated, “The result will come once all of them go out there and play to the best of their ability.

It’s not about putting pressure on players to get the result, but to actually play to the best of their ability and let the result take care of itself.” (Rawle Toney)

Windies arrive in Australia for World Cup campaign SYDNEY, Australia (CMC) – A weary but upbeat West Indies side arrived here yesterday to begin preparation for the 2015 Cricket World Cup. They arrived to a warm reception from fans and well-wishers, following a 12-hour flight from South Africa, and are expected to get right down to preparation ahead of the February 14 start of the tournament.

The team will spend eight days in the glitzy east coast city prior to the start of the World Cup, and will focus on specific skills of death bowling, power play bowling and batting, and fielding.

They will utilise local club facilities.

Off the field, West Indies are expected to meet with a few members of the West Indian community in the Sydney area.

The Caribbean side enter the World Cup on the heels of a solid 4-1 drubbing in the fivematch one-day series against South Africa which finished earlier this week.

In Wednesday’s final game, they went down by 131 runs, a result that summed up the tone of the entire series.

They face old rivals England in their first warm-up game at the Sydney Cricket Ground on February 9 before taking on Scotland at the same venue two days later.

West Indies will then fly to New Zealand for their first game of the World Cup, taking on Ireland at Saxton Oval in Nelson.

They have been installed in Group B of the competition alongside the likes of Pakistan, Zimbabwe, South Africa, India and United Arab Emirates.

Racing Tips Arab Emirates Racing Tips

Turffontein

11:00 hrs Polamco

Meydan

08:20 hrs Desert Destiny

11:35 hrs Benny’s Mist

08:10 hrs Genius Boy

08:50 hrs Eloquence

12:10 hrs Amidon

08:45 hrs Grilletto

09:30 hrs Amber Orchid

Ffos Las

09:20 hrs Washaar

10:10 hrs Form Up

08:55 hrs Souriyan

09:55 hrs Press Room

11:05 hrs Rushing Josh

09:30 hrs Foxbridge

South Africa Racing Tips

11:40 hrs Lavish Gal

10:05 hrs A Doll In Milan

English Racing Tips

10:40 hrs Smiles For Miles

Wetherby

11:10 hrs Kudu Country

09:00 hrs May Hay

11:45 hrs Princess Tara

09:35 hrs Kylemore Lough

12:20 hrs Captain Mc Ginley

10:10 hrs Pepite Rose

Irish Racing Tips

10:45 hrs Join The Clan 11:20 hrs Ned Stark 11:55 hrs Twirling Magnet 12:30 hrs Rinnca Fada Sandown

Fairyhouse 08:50 hrs Los Amigos 09:20 hrs De Benno 09:55 hrs Carrigmoorna Rock

08:40 hrs The Saint James

10:30 hrs Hostile Fire

09:15 hrs Bristol De Mai

11:05 hrs Badgerfort

09:50 hrs Greywell Boy

11:40 hrs Jumptoconclusions

10:25 hrs Champagne West

12:15 hrs Whistle Dixie

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

England reach tri-series final after Taylor-made victory (REUTERS) - James Taylor revived England’s wobbly chase to lead them to a three-wicket victory over India yesterday which secured a place in the tri-series final against Australia.

Taylor (82) added 125 runs with Josh Buttler (67) for the sixth wicket to help England overcome a top-order collapse and chase down a 201-run victory target with 19 balls to spare.

It was, however, their disciplined bowlers who had laid the victory platform, shooting out India for 200 in 48.1 overs in what was effectively a semi-final at the WACA. The pitch was not easy to bat on, as was evident in the 43rd over when James Anderson hit Mahendra Singh Dhoni flush on the helmet and, five balls later, struck the India captain below the knee-roll almost from same area to trap him lbw.

Barely two weeks before they start their World Cup defence, India would still be worried as only Ajinkya Rahane (73) shone with the bat in yet another

capitulation.

Put in to bat, Rahane added 83 with opening partner Shikhar Dhawan (38) in 20 overs before the wheels fell off the Indian innings.

Chris Woakes sent back Dhawan to get the breakthrough but it was Moeen Ali’s double strike - dismissing Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina - that broke the back of the Indian batting.

From 134 for three in 34 overs, India collapsed to 165 for nine in the next 10 overs. Even the 200-mark did not look a possibility until number 11 Mohammad Shami smacked 25 runs off 18 balls as India were dismissed in the 49th over.

England lost both openers early and looked in trouble as their first 66 runs cost them the top half of their batting order.

Taylor, beneficiary of a missed runout chance, and Buttler, dropped by Raina in the slips on 21, arrested the slide and put the chase back on track with sensible batting.

James Taylor and Jos Buttler share a 125-run stand in England’s win at Perth.

Taylor and Buttler fell in quick succession to inject excitement to the contest but England’s victory never looked in any real doubt.

The final takes place in Perth tomorrow.

Torch relay going to almost 250 cities before Rio 2016

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (Reuters) - The 2016 Olympic torch relay will pass through nearly 250 cities in Brazil, giving 90 percent of the population the chance to see it, before finishing in Rio. “The torch will go to all corners of Brazil, to the furthest and most difficult points, to allow the Brazilian people to participate,” organising committee president Carlos Nuzman told reporters at a launch event yesterday.

The relay will pass through the capitals of all the 26 states, plus the federal district of Brasilia, via a route of 20 000 kilometres and

Quarter-finals action tonight ...

Dwayne St Kitts scored in the 18th minute to give West Side Street Ballers a much needed 1-0 victory over Jetty when the two sides collided in the final preliminary-round matches to advance closer to realising their dreams of playing in the final.

Meanwhile, Brothers United humiliated the home side Vergenoegen All-Stars 3-0 after Adami Hoyte doubled in the 13th and 22nd minutes and a

will last about 100 days.

Nuzman said work was being carried out to ensure the relay was safe.

“The federal government is working on security together with local and state governments for all the places the torch will pass,” he explained before adding that the plans “should put everyone at ease”.

A recent survey by Mexican advocacy group Citizen Council for Public Security and Criminal Justice found Brazil had 19 of the world’s 50 most dangerous cities as calculated by murder rates last year.

From back page

lone goal from Gadi Hoyte.

Patentia Street Ballers remained unbeaten heading into tonight’s quarterfinals. After a goalless regulation score, Patentia Street Ballers went into penalty kicks against Majee, winning 3-2. $300 000 along with a chance to represent the ‘West Side’ at the National Championships later in the year is on the table in the first-ever Guinness Greatest of the Street in Region 3.

Lots have been drawn before IN a 1954 World Cup qualifying match in Rome, Turkey and Spain were tied after 90 minutes. At that point, a 14-year-old boy, the son of a stadium employee, was summoned to draw lots from a trophy, sending Turkey to compete at the tournament in Switzerland while Spain were sent home.

Some reports suggest balls were drawn, others say it was a slip of paper.

In the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations, Algeria profited at the expense of Ivory Coast after the

Scoreboard

drawing of lots.

At the 1990 World Cup in Italy, the Netherlands and Ireland were tied for second place in their group. Straight after the match, Sepp Blatter, then second-in-command at FIFA, conducted a drawing of lots ceremony live on TV in Rome.

Both teams were guaranteed qualification for round two but an attendant drew a ball from two bowls to determine their ranking. (BBC Sport)

INDIA innings A. Rahane c Buttler b Finn 73 S. Dhawan c Buttler b Woakes 38 V. Kohli c Root b Ali 8 S. Raina c Woakes b Ali 1 A. Rayudu c Buttler b Broad 12 M. Dhoni lbw b Anderson 17 S. Binny c Bell b Finn 7 R. Jadeja c Finn b Broad 5 A. Patel c Bell b Finn 1 M. Sharma not out 7 M. Shami c Buttler b Woakes 25 Extras: (lb-2 w-4) 6 Total: (all out, 48.1 overs) 200 Fall of wickets: 1-83, 2-103, 3-107, 4-134, 5-136, 6-152, 7-164, 8-164, 9-165.

Bowling: J. Anderson 9-1-24-1 (w1), C. Woakes 9.1-1-47-2 (w-3), S. Broad 10-1-56–2, S. Finn 10-0-36-3, M. Ali 10-0-35-2.

ENGLAND innings I. Bell lbw b M. Sharma 10 M. Ali c Rayudu b A. Patel 17 J. Taylor c Binny b M. Sharma 82 J. Root c & b Binny 3 E. Morgan c Dhawan b Binny 2 R. Bopara c Jadeja b Binny 4 J. Buttler c Rayudu b Shami 67 C. Woakes not out 4 S. Broad not out 3 Extras: (nb-2, w-7) 9 Total: (for 7 wickets, 46.5 overs) 201 Fall of wickets: 1-14, 2-40, 3-44, 4-54, 5-66, 6-191, 7-193.

Bowling: S. Binny 8-0-33-3 (w-3) M. Sharma 10-1-36–2, M. Shami 9-031-1 (nb-1, w-4) A. Patel 10-1-39-1, R. Jadeja 9.5-0-62-0 (nb-1).

Clarke back to prove fitness for World Cup SYDNEY, Australia (Reuters) Australia captain Michael Clarke will return to club cricket this weekend as he continues his bid to prove his fitness for the upcoming World Cup, Cricket Australia said yesterday.

Clarke sustained the latest in a long line of hamstring injuries while fielding in the first Test against India in Adelaide in December and underwent surgery soon afterwards.

The 33-year-old batsman has been given until Australia’s second World Cup match against Bangladesh on February 21 to prove he is fit to play a part in the tournament, which Australia are co-hosting with New Zealand from February 14 to March 29.

Clarke will play only as a batsman for his Western Suburbs against Gordon this weekend and will get another chance to bat when he features in a Cricket Australia XI in a match against Bangladesh in Brisbane next Thursday.

“I am really happy to be playing for my Grade club this weekend and regard this as a positive step on my road to a return to full fitness,” Clarke said in a Cricket Australia statement.

“It is exciting to be at this stage where I can consider walking onto a cricket field again and ... the signs are positive.

“But at the same time I know I have to respect the fact that I am on a daily programme and there is no point in us getting too far ahead of

Michael Clarke ourselves.”

Australia’s team physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said Clarke had been making good progress since undergoing surgery on his right hamstring six weeks ago.

“We are determined to maintain a conservative approach to the management of Michael’s recovery but should he come through these matches without any adverse reaction, he remains on target to return as per our original schedule,” he said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Djokovic beats Wawrinka, into fifth Australian Open final

By Greg Stutchbury

MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) Novak Djokovic once again stood tall at the Australian Open as he reached his fourth final in the past five years with another five-set victory over Stan Wawrinka, the man who dumped him out of Melbourne Park last year.

Djokovic, bidding to become the first man to win five Australian Open titles since the game went professional in 1968, ran hot and cold but seized the points that mattered yesterday to beat the defending champion 7-6(1), 3-6, 6-4, 4-6, 6-0.

“As it was the case in the last two years we played five sets and I was ready for the battle,” Djokovic said in a courtside interview. “We pushed each other to the limit.

“Stan is a quality player. I made my life very complicated on the court.”

The Serb world number one’s life will not get any easier tomorrow when he faces old friend Andy Murray, with the Briton looking to win his first Melbourne Park title in his fourth final.

“Andy and I go back to when we were 12 years old, that’s when we first played each other,” Djokovic added. “We’ve known each other a long time, it’s nice to play another grand slam final against him.”

NO TOMORROW Wawrinka had steadfastly refused to be

drawn into comparisons to his grand slam tilt last year by sticking to a mantra, ‘this is a new year, nothing in the past counts for today or tomorrow’.

Aware the result of yesterday’s match could mean there was no tomorrow this year at Melbourne Park, on his march to Rod Laver Arena his eyes searched for the large picture of himself that is the most recent in the ‘Walk of Champions’.

Symbolism, and history, were not on Wawrinka’s side.

Djokovic’s picture occupies all three of the spots before his and the Swiss had won just three of their 19 previous encounters.

The past two at Melbourne Park, however, had been modern day epics.

Both went to five sets with the winner then going on to clinch the title and anticipation had been high for ‘The Djoker v the Man 3.0’.

Yesterday, the standard of play was not as high as in the past; indeed Djokovic was atypically enigmatic and lacking in vigour, though there were flashes of genius, with both applauding shots that were simply too good for their opponent.

Statistically little separated the pair, but the points Djokovic won were more crucial, especially early in the fifth set that allowed him to break twice and race through the decider.

Novak Djokovic of Serbia celebrates winning a point against Stan Wawrinka of Switzerland during their men’s singles semi-final match at the Australian Open 2015 tennis tournament in Melbourne, yesterday. (Credit: Reuters/Issei Kato) FIRST-TIME PAIRING Earlier, American Bethanie MattekSands won her second Australian Open doubles title after she and Lucie Safarova combined to beat China’s Zheng Jie and her Taiwanese partner Chan Yung-jan.

Mattek-Sands won the mixed doubles title at Melbourne Park with Romania’s Horia Tecau in 2012, but it was her first grand slam women’s doubles title.

They beat four seeded pairs on their way to the final, before they secured the title with a 6-4, 7-6(5) victory over the 14th seeds.

The unseeded duo were playing their

first tournament together and are the first new pairing to win the women’s doubles title at Melbourne Park since 2005, having got together the day before they played singles.

“I know some teams kind of plan for the year a little bit,” the American said. “During the off-season it was literally, ‘let’s play Australian Open’.

“We practised the day before we played singles here.

“No doubles practice. Actually, we didn’t even really know which side we were going to play.

“Obviously we’ll be playing some more.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Ginola withdraws FIFA presidency bid LONDON, England (Reuters) Former France winger David Ginola has abandoned his bid to stand in the FIFA presidential elections after failing to secure the five FA nominations needed, he said yesterday.

The 48-year-old launched his surprise attempt to oust Sepp Blatter as head of world football’s ruling body under the slogan “Rebooting Football” two weeks ago.

Ginola’s campaign was exposed as little more than

a publicity stunt, however, when a bookmaking firm said they paid him £250 000 to stand.

“I have to conclude that having not obtained confirmation of the required five nominations by the (Thursday) deadline that unfortunately I will not be able to continue with my FIFA presidential candidacy,” Ginola said in a statement.

“Contrary to some reports I did not withdraw.

Just as I did as a player, I gave everything until the

final whistle.

“Today I have mixed emotions.

There is disappointment, anger, but there is also hope. I’m very proud of my campaign and the policies I proposed to reform football,” added Ginola.

“I want to thank all those who supported me, football fans, member associations, players and journalists. I am a stronger person for this experience.

“I have no regrets.

Former footballer David Ginola from France speaks at a press conference where he announced his campaign to stand for the FIFA And the fight to put transparency, democracy presidency in London, January 16, 2015. (Credit: Reuters/Neil Hall)

Minister Anthony acted within the confines of the Cricket Administration Act - MCYS THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) noted the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) recent press release and would like to state that the steps taken by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony were within the confines of the Cricket Administration Act 2014.

Firstly, after following due process in the National Assembly, the Cricket Administration Bill was assented to on August 14, 2014 when the Head of State, President Donald Ramotar affixed his signature to the document. That step made the Cricket Administration Bill an Act. That Act – ACT NO. 14 of 2014 GUYANA CRICKET ADMINISTARTION ACT 2014 – stipulates the two core responsibilities of the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony. These are as follows: Pursuant to Section 17 of the said Act, the Minister after meaningful consultation with the Wes Indies Cricket Board shall be responsible for the appointment of a Cricket Ombudsman, who shall be responsible for the verification of the Register of Clubs and for performing the functions of Returning Officer for the first election of the membership of the Guyana Cricket Board.

In keeping with the requirements of the ACT the Minister wrote Mr Dave Cameron, president of the West Indies Cricket Board, on October 9, 2014. Enclosed in that correspondence was a copy of the Guyana Cricket Administration Act 2014. The Minister further pointed out Section 17 of the Act pertaining to the appointment of

the Cricket Ombudsman.

The Minister had also requested the submission of five possible candidates to take up the post of Ombudsman. The WICB was given fourteen days to provide the names and contact information for those candidates. However, after time elapsed and no submissions were made, by the WICB, Minister Anthony proceeded to appoint Dr Winston McGowan.

That appointment was officially announced on December 31, 2014 – almost three months after Minister Anthony had written to Mr Cameron.

Secondly, Minister Anthony was tasked with selecting a date for elections by the GCB following consultation with the WICB. Again, the Minister wrote the WICB on January 19, 2015 indicating that Section 7 of the Guyana Cricket Act 2014. Act, #14 of 2014 provides for the following: The first election be held in accordance with Section 17 on the date appointed in writing by the Minister acting in consultation with the West Indies Cricket Board.

In that correspondence, Minister Anthony proposed March 15, 2015 as the date for the GCB elections. It is expected that by that time the County Boards would have completed their respective elections thereby enabling them to participate in the Guyana Cricket Board Elections.

These are the facts of what has transpired so far. We urge all parties concerned to comply with the law, so that cricket administration in Guyana can be properly restored.

and equality at the heart of the game we love goes on,” added Ginola.

FIFA will announce the list of election candidates on February 8. Blatter bidding for his fifth term in office and former Portugal playmaker Luis Figo have confirmed they are standing.

Prince Ali bin AlHussein of Jordan, Michael van Praag of the Netherlands and former FIFA official Jerome Champagne are also expected to submit their nominations.

NOTABLE DATES

MIDDLEWEIGHT Guyanese boxer Howard `Battersea Bomber’ Eastman needed less than one round to take out Paul Wesley when the two met at the Aston Villa Leisure Centre in Birmingham, England on January 31, 1996.

Eastman’s heavy-handedness caused referee Jim Pridding to rush in and stop the contest at two minutes and 32 seconds of the opening round, of a scheduled sixrounder. The win improved his record to 10-0.

The lanky Eastman was born in New Amsterdam, Berbice but fought out of England during the early and middle stages of his career. The former European and Commonwealth champion had his first pro fight on March 6, 1994. When he knocked out John Rice in the first round.

He would later secure two shots at world titles but was unsuccessful on both occasions. Eastman was undefeated in 32 fights when he clashed with William Joppy on November 17, 2001 for the WBA middleweight title.

In a keenly contested battle, Eastman dropped the American in the latter stage of the 12th round but surprisingly lost by a majority decision.

He was provided a second chance at a world title in February of 2005. The Guyanese lost by unanimous decision to undisputed world champion Bernard `The Executioner’ Hopkins. Eastman is still active and turned 44 last December 8.

From a total of 62 fights, Eastman has won 49 (38 KOs) and lost 13.

Howard `Battersea Bomber’ Eastman

NOTABLE DATES LALTA Narine had secured six victories in nine fights when he signed up to fight Malcolm Darson. The contest was held on January 31, 1988 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. At its conclusion, Narine was adjudged the winner of the six-rounder by unanimous decision.

Born on April 3, 1968, Narine is a part of a small group of Indo-Guyanese to have taken up the fistic sport. Motee `Kid’ Singh, Ramesh Best, Robin Lall and Elton Dharry are also members of that group. Narine was given the pseudonym `Coolie Bully’ which he represented with gusto in the ring.

He had his first professional fight in October 1986 and was three times unsuccessful when challenging for the featherweight title of Guyana. Narine had 18 fights (11 wins and seven defeats) in a career that spanned eight years.

However, his last fight is still regarded by many boxing buffs as his best performance. Fighting against Robin `The Albion Prince’ Lall at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on April 30, 1994, Narine boxed and brawled for 12 rounds but came up on the losing end.

He quit the sport soon after.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

3rd Petra /Milo Under-20 football kicks off today

FOUR matches are set to mark the opening of the 3rd Annual Petra Organisation’s Milo-sponsored Under-20 schools football tournament today, at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue in Georgetown.

Following the opening ceremony and the march past by the 32 participating schools at 10:00hrs, the opening game brings together Charlestown Secondary

and Freeburg Secondary from 11:00hrs.

Game two will be contested between Mae’s and North Georgetown Secondary while Queen’s College and School of the Nations collide in game three. The day’s final game pits Kingston Secondary against Tucville..

The teams will vie not only to dethrone defending champions Lodge Secondary, but also to lift the tournament’s first

prize of $500 000, which will go to their school. The schools finishing second through

Allen wins

by KO

LENNOX `2 Sharpe’ Allen

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday January 31, 2014) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Bangladesh (284 ODIs) (2) WI vs SA, East London, 1998/99 Today’s Quiz: (1)Which Test team has contested the most ODI games to date?

(2) Who were the captains involved when the WI and SA once played to a tie in an ODI game?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

LENNOX `2 Sharpe’ Allen secured his 18th professional victory following a second round knockout of Ghanaian Koso `Dangerous’ Issah, Thursday night at the BB King Blues Club in New York.

Allen stopped his opponent at 51 seconds of the round.

It was the first fight for Allen since August 2013 and the win puts him back on track for a world title bid, as Issah is the holder of the WBO Africa middleweight title.

Last October the 29-year-old Allen, a southpaw, was scheduled to battle Julio Garcia. However, in a bizarre twist of fate his opponent weighed-in a whopping 15 pounds over the168-pound limit, forcing the plug to be pulled on the contest.

Allen turned pro in 2004.

He secured the vacant World Boxing Council, Caribbean Boxing Federation (CABOFE) title in 2011 following a unanimous 12-round decision over Kwesi Jones at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

However, his career has slowed in recent time with him having one fight in 2012 and a similar number in 2013.

fourth will win $300 000, $200 000 and $100 000 respectively.

LABA holds special general meeting today THE Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) will today hold a Special General Meeting for its affiliated clubs namely Kings, Amelia’s Ward Jets, Retrieve Raiders, Half Mile Bulls, Victory Valley Royals, Block 22 Flames, Blueberry Hill, Bankers Trust Falcons, Wismar Pistons at the Mackenzie Sports Club Lounge.

At this meeting plans for the staging of the Annual General Meeting of the Association which is tentatively set for Sunday February 15, at 13.30hrs at the

Linden Enterprise Network, Macaw Boardroom will be addressed.

Also to be looked at are the staging of Referees and a Table Officials’ Clinic, National Club Championship 2015 Road to Mecca and Linden club competition(s) among others Each club is asked to attend by sending two representatives who will register their players on the official LABA Players Form and Club Affiliate Form to be returned before the AGM.

PM Browne leads tributes to Sir Viv’s mother

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Tributes have poured in for the mother of National Hero Sir Vivian Richards, Grathel Richards, who died early Thursday at age 91.

According to the Antigua Observer newspaper, Richards passed away at the Mount St John Medical Centre after being admitted on Wednesday.

In a letter of condolence to Sir Viv, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne described Grathel as “an outstanding citizen” and “a parent of outstanding abilities”, noting she would be a loss to the nation.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda, I extend sincerest and deepest sympathies to the entire Richards family on the death of your dear mother, Mrs Grathel Richards,” Browne wrote.

“She was a parent of outstanding abilities, a remarkable woman, and an outstanding citizen. The nation is poorer as a consequence of her passing.

“Your mother gave of herself through her church, her charitable works, and her embracing love of so many. Despite having a large family of her own, she cared for others

right up until the moment of her death. Mrs Richards was truly a good neighbour.”

Opposition leader Baldwin Spencer also paid tribute, asking for Richards to be accorded an official funeral, “in deference, not only to her in her own right, but even more appropriately to her son, Sir Viv, our nation’s living national hero. I sincerely trust that this request will be given very favourable consideration.”

Sports Minister Paul Greene said his thoughts were with Sir Viv and the family.

“As one of our two national heroes alive today, I think I can extend condolences on behalf of the entire Antigua & Barbuda community.”

Richards lived on the street named after her famous son, who emerged as the most dominant Test batsmen of his era and also went on to become a legendary West Indies captain.

Sir Viv gathered 8 540 runs from 121 Tests at an average of 50 and also went on to be voted Wisden’s greatest one-day batsman of all time for his 6 721 runs at an average of 47 in 187 appearances.

He famously holds the distinction of being the only West Indies captain never to lose a Test series.

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 31, 2015

Johnson, Deonarine return as Guyana Cricket Board names team for Regional 4-day resumption THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) yesterday named a 13-man squad for the resumption of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Regional Four-Day tournament, which restarts on February 6.

The Guyana Jaguars will head off to the Land of Wood and Water, where they will play the Jamaica Franchise at Sabina Park.

Fresh off their tour of South Africa with the West Indies team, captain Leon Johnson and Narsingh Deonarine

will make a return to the Guyana Jaguars who sit atop of the points table after four rounds with 57 points.

Shemron Hetmyer, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Vishaul Singh (vicecaptain), Raymon Reifer Christopher B a r n w e l l , Anthony Bramble (wicketkeeper), Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Keon Joseph and Ronsford Beaton are the other squad members.

Esaun Crandon returns as coach while Rayon Griffith will

Narsingh Deonarine serve dual roles as manager and assistant coach, along with physiotherapist Paul Gomes.

Leon Johnson will lead the Guyana Jaguars.

Guyana’s opponents next weekend, Jamaica, are in second place with 50 points,

followed by Barbados Pride on 44 points while the Windward Islands Volcanoes (26), Trinidad and Tobago Red Force (24), and Leeward Islands Hurricanes (10) follow in that order.

Devon Smith of the Windward Islands Volcanoes leads all batsmen in the tournament with the most runs so far, accumulating 334 followed by Johnson Charles (262) and Guyana’s Narsingh Deonarine (206).

Charles has the highest individual score in the tournament with a

151, doing so against the Barbados Pride. He is among just seven batsmen to score centuries. Guyana Jaguars’ Narsingh Deonarine and Vishaul Singh, Orlando Peters, Devon Smith, Kraigg Braithwaite and Lendl Simmons are the others..

Permaul is the leading wicket-taker so far, taking 33 scalps, his Jaguars teammate Devendra Bishoo and Imran Khan both with 21, Alston Bobb (20), Daimon Jacobs (18) and Jamaica’s Nikita Miller (17) are the other top bowlers.

Cheddi Jagan Over-40 Windies coach ‘Candyman’ returns to the Williams takes competition pushed charge of Zouks ring February 13 back by a week THE unavailability of grounds, coupled with inclement weather, has forced the organisers of the Cheddi Jagan Memorial Over-40, 20over round-robin competition for teams in the Demerara sub-associations to delay the start of the competition by a week.

The competition, which is being coordinated by the East Coast Cricket Committee (ECCC) and the Lusignan Cricket Club (LCC), was scheduled to bowl off this weekend, but will now start on the weekend of February 7-8.

In the opening double-header on February 7 at the Everest ground, Buffaloes will come up against Colts and Lions will tackle Bears, while the following day, Mavericks will play Tigers and Bulls will face Seals at Lusignan.

The competition will be held in observance of the 18th death anniversary of Guyana’s former President, Dr Cheddi Jagan. It is expected to be completed in March.

Eight teams - two from each sub-association - will vie for top

honours. The registered teams are East Coast Bulls, East Coast Tigers, Georgetown Buffaloes, Georgetown Bears, East Bank Colts, East Bank Lions, West Demerara Mavericks, and West Coast Seals. Trophies will be awarded to the winners, the runners-up, and the Man-of-theMatch of each game.

According to information emanating from the organisers, there will be 14 rounds, comprising two matches each, with games spread across the Demerara corridor.

Interested persons can contact the following persons in the respective teams: Nazimul Drepaul on 6158683 for Georgetown Bears, Garvin Nedd on 617-9381 for Georgetown Buffaloes; Johnny Azeez on 649-0243 for East Bank Lions, Rohan Sarjoo on 668-1565 for East Bank Colts, Sudesh Persaud on 658-7943 for West Demerara Mavericks, Dhanpaul on 6688865 for West Coast Seals; Anil Persaud on 624-6098 for East Coast Tigers and Seeraj Bhimsain on 647-2480 for the East Coast Bulls.

CASTRIES, St Lucia, (CMC) – Current West Indies coach Stuart Williams will be in charge of St Lucia Zouks for the upcoming Caribbean Premier League.

The 45-year-old, currently on tour with the Caribbean side in Australia, will replace Englishman Matthew Maynard who has taken up a post as Director of Cricket at English county Somerset.

Williams served as Maynard’s assistant last year.

The Antiguan is a former West Indies batsman who played 31 Tests and 57 One-Day Internationals during his career. He was dominant at first class level, amassing nearly 10 000 runs at an average of 40.

He quit international cricket in 2005.

Williams joins another former West Indies batsman, Carl Hooper, who has already been appointed Guyana Amazon Warriors head

New St Lucia Zouks coach Stuart Williams. coach.

Meanwhile, South African Mickey Arthur will head 2013 champions Jamaica Tallawahs, Australian Simon Helmot will again be in charge of the Trinidad & Tobago Red Steel while Indian Robin Singh has returned to lead reigning champions Barbados Tridents.

SIMEON `Candyman’ Hardy could be heading into the sweet life in the near future. Hardy is scheduled to match gloves with Vito Gasparyan of Armenia in a six-round contest to be held at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut on Friday, February 13.

The fight is a part of ESPN 2015 Boxinco tournament and according to USA-based boxing promoter/manager Seon Bristol may be the catalyst to Hardy making a name in the USA. Bristol said that a win could earn Hardy much needed television exposure.

“If he can continue doing what he has done since he came here, then I think that the sky is the limit. I think that Hardy has been put against a tough opponent and a victory here could see things start moving in the right direction at a faster pace,” Bristol said.

A southpaw knockout specialist, Hardy has put to sleep all three opponents since moving to North America last year. Hardy is the World Boxing Council Caribbean Boxing Federation (CABOFE) welterweight champion but is moving up to the super welterweight division to tackle Gasparyan.

He is undefeated in 13 fights winning 10 of them by knockouts while the Armenian has 14 victories three defeats and five draws.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Windies arrive in Australia for World Cup campaign See story on page 26

Golden Jaguars off to Barbados; to play tomorrow

Golden Jaguars - prior to their departure to Barbados from the Ogle International Airport yesterday. (Rawle Toney photo)

See story on page 26

Guinness Greatest of the Streets ‘West Side’ Edition

Quarter-finals action tonight at Vergenoegen Rice Mill Tarmac UITVLUGT, De Kinderen United, West Side Ballers, Showstoppers, Patentia Street Ballers, Den Amstel FC, Raiders and Brothers United have all advanced to play in tonight’s quarter-finals at the Vergenoegen Rice Mill Tarmac, as action continues in the Guinness Greatest of the Streets ‘West Side’ Edition.

Tonight’s action gets going at 20:00hrs, De Kinderen United will play West Side Ballers while Showstoppers oppose Brothers United in the second quarter-final match.

Patentia Street Ballers battle Uitvlugt and Den Amstel face off with Raiders in the final knockout game.

Uitvlugt booked their quarter-final berth

with a 1-0 win over rivals Den Amstel at the Vergenoegen venue last Thursday, thanks to a 12th minute strike from Colin Benjamin.

Den Amstel, through Delon Lanferman, could have equalised and forced the game into penalty shootout, but his shot, though on target, was swiftly taken off the goal line by a Uitvlugt defender.

Raiders entered the knock-out round following their 3-0 win over Demerara Speedboat Service. The winners’ goals came from Kevin Marshall (6th minute), Alonzo Bowman (18th minute) and Ronsdale Knight (25th minute).

See story on page 27

Part of the action on Thursday at the Vergenoegen Rice Mill Tarmac

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SATURDAY, JANURY 31, 2015