Guyana chronicle e paper 12 07 2017 by Guyana Chronicle

President visits Nairobi National Park Page 5

No. 105119

THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

Price: $80 (VAT Inclusive)

GuySuCo operating in rogue manner – gov’t interested in saving jobs, preserving communities, says Heath-London

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Keep ‘sweet man’, ‘sweet woman’ out – they should not ride in police vehicles, Commander Alves warns

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The fleet of vehicles that was handed over to ‘B’ Division on Wednesday

GuySuCo Sugar workers to Taxi driver CEO quitting receive severance remanded for year-end month-end schoolteacher’s murder Page 11

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

GuySuCo operating in rogue manner

– gov’t interested in saving jobs, preserving communities, says Heath-London By Rabindra Rooplall HEAD of the Special Purpose Unit (SPU) Colvin Heath-London, said Cabinet is interested in saving jobs and preserving communities, even as it seeks to breathe new life into the ailing sugar industry. Several proposals were made for privatisation and/ or diversification of Skeldon, Rose Hall, Wales and East Demerara ‘Enmore’ factories, he told the Guyana Chronicle during an exclusive interview on Wednesday. He was at the time offering his views on GuySuCo’s decision to issue over 2000 sugar workers with redundancy letters. Minister of State Joseph Harmon had also expressed shock and disappointment at the move, noting that Cabinet had not been informed, but Agriculture Minister Noel Holder said the decision was in keeping with a State Paper presented to the National Assembly earlier this year. Heath-London said the SPU was created after the State Paper in order to handle privatisation and/or diversification. As such, he said the request for letters of interest by the SPU was identified as the first step in the process

of finding and shortlisting buyers or investors. The entity, he noted, was created in order to increase transparency while partnering with a suitably qualified international financial services firm “to provide technical and financial advisory support in the process, leading to a successful privatisation and diversification of the sugar industry.” He said Cabinet had never ratified the State Paper, but the SPU was ratified and its budget funded with Parliament’s approval. Heath-London explained that before the SPU was created, there was a State Paper which was presented by the Ministry of Agriculture on what should be done with the industry. However, he said Cabinet in its wisdom later put forward a Cabinet Paper which was supposed to trump the State Paper. But Minister Holder and GuySuCo decided to stick with the State Paper, ignoring the Cabinet Paper. “The difference in ideology is that we are saying, instead of the factories being closed entirely, let’s put it out into the international and global market and let’s see if there is anyone that wants to run the cane-producing

SPU Head Colvin Heath-London

industry or diversify while making the process transparent,” he said. The possibilities, he said, are that maybe multiple factories may remain in sugar, but the current management of GuySuCo does not want the possibility of a new owner or management to succeed at making the cane-producing industry profitable, because it would make them look bad. KEPT ALIVE The SPU had indicated to GuySuCo that in order to make the process transpar-

ent and the sale viable, the estates must be kept operational and alive. Heath-London said GuySuCo should have handed over stewardship to the SPU and in so doing sever the workers, who would have later been rehired by the SPU. “This should have happened on December 31 in order to have a smooth transition. GuySuCo was also supposed to share the list of workers to be made redundant, and the SPU would have gone through the names and skill sets for re-employment,” he said. Currently, he said, GuySuCo is doing everything possible to put estates at a disadvantage to ensure that they are not operational for the next crop. “They have moved the machinery, they have not given us the list of names made redundant in order to re-employ the workers, they want to damage the entity before handing it over,” he said. ROGUE MANNER He also said GuySuCo is operating in a rogue manner, because when the entity needs money for operations it cooperates with the State, but when there are decisions

to be carried out, the sugar company claims to be a limited liability company and does not have to follow orders. The government and SPU have assured the international community that there will be a totally transparent process and best practices during the privatisation. “We have a few people affecting the lives of thousands, they are struggling for survival at GuySuCo and not the survival of the cane-producing industry,” he said. Sugar production is only a small part of the cane-producing industry. Alcohol and beverage production accounts for a major part as well as the pharmaceutical industry. “Whatever happens in Guyana will have an impact on these industries in the Caribbean, because Guyana supplies the majority of molasses, so it’s not just about closing estates, we have to look at the far-reaching regional and international implications, which the current GuySuCo management is not looking at. They are just looking at their personal survival,” he said. He emphasised that mechanisms should be put in place to hire a majority of the workers while devel-

oping alternative areas of employment. Underscoring that privatisation of the sugar industry is the way forward, he said the cane-producing industry will enter a new phase of competition and recover from its ill-health. “The government will be able to gain revenue from it, rather than always spending,” he noted. The SPU head also pointed out that unlike what GAWU and the PPP want others to believe, the sugar industry is not wholly an Indo-Guyanese sector, pointing out that Afro-Guyanese comprise about 60 per cent of the workforce at the Wales Estate, while the majority of workers at the Enmore Estate were also Afro- Guyanese. “The only estates that had the majority Indo-Guyanese workforce is Skeldon and Albion, but GAWU and the opposition play into this sentiment to make it seem that Indo-Guyanese alone are victims,” Heath-London said. If the industry is not sustained, he said there will be many ghost communities and many underlying social factors and as such, called on Cabinet to enforce its decision across all agencies involved.

Sugar workers to receive GuySuCo CEO quitting year-end severance month-end

AMIDST the discomfort brought on by the issuance of redundancy letters to sugar workers, the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is adamant that workers will receive their severance pay before year-end. With many views being expressed regarding the recent retrenching of workers, particularly during the festive season, GuySuCo Chairman, Dr. Clive Thomas has affirmed that the sugar company will honour its obligations to the workers. He told Guyana Chronicle that the sugar company has been able to negotiate for an advance on a temporary loan from a local bank to the tune of $2.5billion and that would not only assist in paying the workers their severance, but aid in covering the company’s

expenses for the remainder of the year. When asked whether the severance would be paid before Christmas Day, Thomas said he could not give a definite date, but said the “workers will receive their severance by December 31”. When asked about the reactions regarding the redundancy of some 400 workers, Dr. Thomas said there should be no surprise, given that a State Paper outlining all the plans of the sugar company had been laid out in Parliament. That document also addressed the issue of which estates will be kept and which will go; as well as the matter of redundant workers. The chairman also noted that there are legal and trade union obligations that must be respected regarding the workers and that is being

done. GuySuCo had announced the ending of factory operations at the Rose Hall and Skeldon estates earlier this year. The company held several outreaches, explaining its plan to workers, their families and communities on how they would benefit or be affected by the changes. Respective Governments over the years have been pouring billions of dollars into GuySuCo to keep it afloat. Among the many strategies to revitalise the industry, it was noted that more than 2000 jobs would be lost from the almost 17,000 staffers at the company. Proposals for divestment and diversification had been put forward as part of the State Paper to save GuySuCo.

GuySuCo Chief suade him any lonExecutive Offiger. He has made a cer (CEO) Errol lot of sacrifices -Hanoman will personal sacrifices be parting ways -- and he will be with the sugar leaving by the end company when of the year.” his contract ends Hanoman prethis year-end. viously served as This is accordCEO of GuySuCo ing to chairman under the former of the corporation People’s ProgresDr. Clive Thomas, sive Party adminduring a telephone istration before GuySuCo CEO Errol Hanoman interview with the opting to resign in Guyana Chronicle 2010, after serving on Wednesday. just one year in the post. Then, he had cited Dr Thomas explained that the CEO opted “personal reasons” for his resignation. not to renew his contract with the company At the time of his last appointment, the due to other commitments, noting that his then government was trying to turn around departure has nothing to do with the issuance the fortunes of GuySuCo and years after he of redundancy letters to some 400 sugar rejoined the corporation, the new government workers. is trying to do the same thing. He said Hanoman has made personal Hanoman had said earlier this year sacrifices to head the company and has now that the company’s board and managemade a decision. ment have the firm view that GuySuCo “In terms of persuading him to stay, I has for years been running down its good have been persuading him for the last two estates to keep the poorly performing esand [a] half years. I don’t think I could per- tates afloat.

GUYANA CHRONICLE,Thursday December 7, 2017

Lawrence, Opposition clash in lively debate By Svetlana Marshall

‘SHOTS were fired’ in the

National Assembly when Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence hauled Oppo-

sition Members of Parliament Dr. Frank Anthony and Vishwa Mahadeo over

Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence

PPP MP, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo

PPP MP, Dr Frank Anthony

the coals for misleading the nation on critical health issues. On Tuesday, the Opposition members, in particular Dr. Anthony, had accused the Public Health Ministry of being the “lead violator of good tender board procedures and norms.” But on Wednesday they were kept on the edge of their seats as Minister Lawrence fired back. Despite being provided with accurate information by the staff of the Public Health Ministry, Minister Lawrence said, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) parliamentarians deliberated attempted to mislead the House. “Their presentation sounded like Fright Night,” the public health minister said as her colleagues on the governing side of the House burst into laughter. “It was like we were exposed to Freddy, Jason and Krueger at the same time,” she added much to the annoyance of the Opposition members. In setting the record straight, Minister Lawrence said while the Opposition Members of Parliament lamented the fact that the Public Health Ministry disposed large quantities of expired drugs in 2016, they failed to inform the National Assembly that since 1997, the Auditor General (AG), on a yearly basis, called for the disposal of expired drugs but it fell on deaf ears. “It was under the APNU+AFC Administration that we saw attempts to adhere to the AG’s recommendations,” Minister Lawrence boasted.

Clarifying more of the Opposition’s ‘misinformation’, the Public Health Minister told the House that after careful examination of the inefficiencies of the consultant and contractors working on the doctors and nurses quarters at the Port Kaituma Hospital Complex, the Health Ministry took a prudent decision to halt the project. The Attorney General Chambers was approached for advice on the matter.

reminded that the Public Health Ministry in October 2016 by way of a notice ended the contract. As the Opposition members were about to get comfortable in their seats, Minister Lawrence told the House that one is left to conclude that the Honorable Members are descendants of “Ananias and Sapphira.” “It was under their Government when Guyana entered into contractual arrangements in 2000 with GAVI,” she pointed out while noting that the terms and conditions are based on co-payment. GAVI – the Vaccine Alliance – is a public–private global health partnership committed to increasing access to immunisation in poor countries. Under the system, it is required that increment payments be made until Government pays in full. Since 2015 Guyana stopped qualifying for new vaccine support after it was classified as a low-middle income country.

INSTALLMENT SOON “As we speak, the refrigerator for the mortuary at the Port Kaituma Hospital Complex is in the country and will be installed during this month of December,” Minister Lawrence said as she sought to put to rest claims by the Opposition that the installation is further delayed. It was emphasised that all the necessary information on these projects was made available to the Opposition members but they chose to “misrepresent” the facts. “Mr. Speaker, what Dr. Anthony failed to mention that upon request for information on the installation of the CT scan at Bartica, he was informed that the contractor was approximately 55 per cent complete on the area to house the scanner, while at New Amsterdam, the area to house the scanner, is presently housing a laboratory, which will move to its new location in another week or so,” she further clarified. The controversial Sussex Street Bond had also taken centre stage in the PPP MPs presentations. In response, the National Assembly was

CHILD’S PLAY Turning her attention to the “claims of upfront payments to contractors,” the public health minister said the content of the 2016 Report of the Auditor General, which has been lamented by the PPP MPs, is child’s play to the comments of the Auditor General for the past 23 years under the PPP. “Just after two years into office the Auditor General in 1994, commented continuously of no evidence of adjudication, no evidence of competitive bidding, and no Turn to page 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE,Thursday December 7, 2017

President visits Nairobi National Park

PRESIDENT David Granger on Wednesday visited the world famous Nairobi National Park, which is located within the capital of Kenya and covers an area of 117 square kilometers. As part of the tour, the President visited an elephant orphanage located within the park. The President was briefed on the efforts being made to protect orphaned elephants, which are cared for until they are ready to be released back into the wild. President Granger's visit to the

park comes at a time when Guyana is looking to learn from the experiences of other countries, particularly countries such as Kenya, which has a world class tourism product and considerable experience in managing its ecotourism product. Established 71 years ago, the park is the home of a number of wildlife species, including the black rhinoceros, lions, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes and hundreds of species of birds. The park contains two main types of ecosystems: grasslands and wetlands.

One of the orphaned elephant calves seemed comfortable being fed by President David Granger during his visit to the Nairobi National Park

From page 4

Lawrence, Opposition clash ... involvement of central tender board. Sir, as far back as 2003, the AG’s comments on upfront payments to suppliers can be followed. Case in point, in November 2003 Cabinet gave its no-objection to a contract valued US$2.77M by July, 2004 the full amount was paid, delivery should have taken six months, yet Sir in 2005 US$68M was not supplied. In March, 2004 Sir, the same supplier got a contract for US$1.4M… In December 2005, US$309,000

was not supplied and this trend continued until their removal Sir,” Minister Lawrence pointed out. “Sir I hereby conclude that the descendants of Ananias and Sapphira are clearly bent in their ways. May God have mercy on their souls,” she added. Singling out PPP back bencher, Cornel Damon, Minister Lawrence said “look, brought your snack” as she waved a zip lock bag. “I brought grass for

Damon,” she later added causing uproar in the National Assembly with the Opposition Members asking the Speaker Dr. Barton Scotland for protection. Minister Lawrence was asked to withdraw the word, and respectfully did. Nonetheless, she said while her colleagues on the opposite side of the House is bent on injecting politics into every strata of life, the APNU+AFC Government’s priority is the health of the nation.

DISMAY PPP Member of Parliament Vindhya Persaud expressed dismay at the Public Health Minister’s statements, as she too fired back. Persaud told the National Assembly that there is a “big” difference between the delivery of healthcare and access to

healthcare. According to her, “delivery of healthcare is in total shambles in this country.” “I have had the opportunity with members on the other side to visit many of the health institutions across this country, the shelves are bare in the bond, equipment had

not been working since 2016 and there is a severe shortage of human resources. Today that has not been corrected,” the Opposition MP opined. Persaud told the House that Dr. Anthony and Mahadeo’s statements were based on the content of the Auditor general Report.

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE,Thursday December 7, 2017

Budget 2018 advances vision of capital towns THERE is a synonymous thread that runs through the seam of all the municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) in Guyana – their inability to carry out vital environmental and capital works that will not only enhance their communities, but also improve livelihoods. And this is because of grossly inadequate finances, from residents, many of whom do not pay their rates and taxes. A contradiction inherent in this situation, is that numerous citizens are still paying ridiculously paltry sums of taxes for their homes, although many of these have been converted into palatial sizes. Even this seems to be ignored by these home-owners. The shocking reality is that there has not been any evaluation of properties for the past two decades or more. Of course, this has been defeating the purpose of every municipality and NDC in their capacities to deliver appropriate services. BUDGET 2018, recently presented to the nation, has announced plans for a country-wide valuation of properties that will commence in the new year. It is a prayer that has finally been answered for the city fathers and mothers, as it ought to be for other such local bodies throughout Guyana. They all need the revenue. We hail this as a must, and decisive in aiding

these institutions to improve and increase the garnering of critically needed revenues. In fact, this amply supports President David Granger’s vision that municipalities and NDCs must find ways to raise revenues for improving their respective communities. It is timely that such a national plan of action, long due, occurs particularly against the background of the historic 2016 local government elections, which offers for the first time in this country’s modern social history, an opportunity for communities and residents at the local level to determine their socio–economic development, without any political interference. This is a stated position of the coalition government and is best supported by its position in allowing City Hall to remedy the controversial parking meter impasse with citizens. This is also an excellent advancement for another of President Granger’s visionary plans, that of capital towns being the engine for driving the socio-economic development of regions. This is definitely possible, given the new dispensation of the local government system, and the recently installed Local Government Commission, which wide-ranging functions facilitates the capacity and wherewithal for assisting both municipalities and NDCs to this level of development of capital towns.

Herein lies the potential for rapid development, since these areas are agriculturally productive with much poultry, dairy, and aquaculture production. These are well placed for agro-processing endeavours, and value-added culminations. But these have to be supported by vital infrastructure, such as improved farm roads, bridges and cleaner canals for access to farms wherever these are, as well as better illumination. However, citizens in those coastal municipalities and NDCs will have to understand their civic role in making these possible, thereby reaping the desired benefits. They must realise that improvements cannot be effected in their communities by Councils which do not have adequate financial resources. How can some residents convert their residences into commercial places and still pay rates on the former? This is very unconscionable and ought to appropriately be remedied. Capital towns can become the catalyst for regional development, giving impetus to national development. The 2018 budgetary proposal of property valuation with its extra s can significantly add to the realisation of this vision.

Sugar workers, their families and the PPP Dear Editor, AS the sugar industry has started to be scaled down under this government, I want to give my fair share of the take on this. I know that what I write here will be cussed out by some political commentators, especially those that are having TV programmes on NTN and LRTVS Channel10 in Berbice. Some of them may even write in the print media trying to swing the story as they want, just to get more fame through their lies and deception. As we all know, sugar is not profitable in Guyana anymore. But due to circumstances, the PPP had to get the industry rolling. Rolling in the sense that no matter what happens to the economy, sugar must stay. But we all know that was just a merry go round for political come around. I won't deal with the EU cut in prices, but will deal with what has been happening since APNU+AFC took government in May 2015. Many, especially the sugar workers attached to Rosehall Estate in Region Six, as was reported by the PPP and their supported media outlets to date, is that tears are flowing

from the eyes of both the worker and family members as they are wondering what they are going to do for Christmas, etc?. As I have said over and over, sugar workers need to think for themselves and not to allow the PPP and those political commentators to tell them what to do or how to think. Workers need to sit and reflect as to who are the ones that brought this hardship to them and downfall to the sugar industry?. I can recall in May 2015 that it was the then CEO of Guysuco, Raj Singh, and the PPP that announced to the nation that Guysuco is BANKRUPT and due to that the entire industry will have to be closed in a few days. Although the PPP, GAWU and GuySuco knew that the industry was cash-strapped, they never told the workers and their families before the elections as to what is the state of Guysuco. Why? Because they would have lost thousands more of their votes if they had so done. So, they decided to keep it as a secret and fool the workers along with their families. I am not hearing the PPP and GAWU, nor the political commentators saying anything of this nature. I am not hearing the PPP and GAWU telling the workers and their families,

we are the ones that fooled you all for our personal reasons and gains. No, they won't do that, because they have no respect for the sugar workers and their families. The PPP is parading around the villages showing sad faces as if they care for the workers. It is sad to see people who created this crisis that the workers are facing going around as if they never did any wrong when in government. The PPP had to pump the billions of dollars as they were doing into the industry to safeguard their political future, especially as a government, because we all know that the PPP’s strongholds are within the sugar belt. So they didn't care at that moment what the consequences would be for the industry and economy in the years to come. All they cared for was political power. If this government had wanted to close the entire sugar industry down, then they would have used Raj Singh and the PPP’s recommendations\announcement in May 2015. They would have told you the workers that the PPP had announced such and they have to do that because the PPP was a government then. But no, lo and behold, this government

did not do that. This government is seeking ways and means to preserve the industry. This government wants to make the industry profitable again and that is why they have decided to close a few estates that are not profitable and keep those burning that are making their targets. Yes, I see that this government will seek ways for those workers that will lose their jobs to regain employment. Yes, I see alternatives will be put in place for those workers. How can we trust the PPP? ALL of their MPs told the supporters of the party, the entire country and world at large that they would never take the raise this government gave them in their MP salaries and they would put it in a special account. What a shame and disgrace that today many of them collected that raise in salary. So the PPP cannot be trusted anymore with the running of this country. Brothers and sisters, we all know that not everything is ok in the sugar industry or country. Nowhere in the world will everything be ok in a country after Turn to page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE,Thursday December 7, 2017

Found guilty, jailed --for $28M Craig armed robbery

A 26-year-old man was on Wednesday sentenced to 56 months imprisonment by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman for the $28M armed robbery of a Chinese national at Craig, East Bank Demerara. After a few months on trial, Andre Vieira, of Meadow Bank, also on the East Bank, was found guilty of the May 20, 2017 armed robbery of Dai Zhung. During the commission of the crime, Vieira allegedly robbed Zhung of

a minibus valued $2.3M; a quantity of fish glue valued $25M; three cell-phones and $500,000 in cash, all totaling $28.8M. Initially, Vieira was jointly charged with Winston McKenzie, 35, of New Scheme, Eccles, East Bank Demerara and Feyaud Hamid, of Meadow Bank, for the same offence. However, during Wednesday’s hearing, the two other defendants had the matter dismissed against them due to lack of evidence.

Andre Vieira

However, the evidence against Vieira was stronger, due to an oral statement he had given to the police. When arrested, Vieira had allegedly confessed to the cops, and explained that he was the ‘lookout man’ during the robbery. Vieira, who was unrepresented, never challenged the oral statement as it was presented to him in court by police prosecutor, Shawn Gonsalves. Magistrate Latchman, in her ruling, said that after reviewing the evidence in its entirety and considering that the robbery was well

organized and violence was used, she had no alternative but to throw the book at Vieira. In response, Vieira, hands outstretched, pleaded with the magistrate: “I can’t do all the time! I didn’t do nothing!” Even family members, who were in court, tried pleading with the Magistrate. “My brother don’t thief; he innocent,” one of his siblings told the court. Nevertheless, the Magistrate demanded order in her court as she maintained her decision.

all care about the well-being of the workers and their families.

Regards Abel Seetaram Regional Councillor Region Five.

FROM PAGE 6

Sugar workers, their...

decades of corruption. Things will be difficult at times and we need to make much and work to ensure we have better days ahead. We need to cooperate to build our land, we need to be each other's keepers towards the future. We need to stand with each other for a better Guyana. Let's not allow the PPP to darken our minds and empty our brains towards thinking positively. We must open our minds and hearts and look at what's happening. Let's look at the positives that are taking place in every region of this country. Let's look at what

the future holds under this hard-working and people's government. Our future will be bright under the APNU+AFC government, but things take time and time is precious, so don't waste it. Let's unite and work for a better Guyana under this government, under your government. I will make yet another call on the leader of the PPP, who seems to so care for something that he has destroyed, to take his parliamentary salaries since January 2017 and donate it to the sugar workers and their families of Rosehall Estate if you so care about

their well-being. I will call on the leader of the PPP to demand that all his MPs that took the raise in salaries to bring back the monies along with their salaries since January 2017 and donate it to the workers and their families of Rosehall Estate. I call on GAWU who is now kicking up a storm after years of neglecting the rights of the workers by failing to

truly represent them, to take all of their union dues since January 2017 and donate it to the workers and their families of Rosehall Estate. Take the challenge, so the world will see that you

GUYANA CHRONICLE,Thursday December 7, 2017

Stronger collaboration needed -to effectively tackle transnational, trans-regional crimes--CANSEC forum hears

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo delivers his address at the opening of the 16th annual CANSEC at the Marriott Hotel, Georgetown

By Ariana Gordon AS TOP security officials from 20 nations gather in Guyana for the 16th annual Caribbean Nations Security Conference (CANSEC), the region’s stakeholders are being urged to strengthen and deepen collaboration to rid the region of transnational and trans-regional crimes. Themed, “Unifying regional action to counter trans-regional and transnational threat networks,” the two-day conference, which Guyana is hosting for the first time, is aimed at developing a master plan to tackle cyber-crime, terrorism, and piracy, among others. The region’s defence and public security leaders were called upon by Chief-ofStaff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Patrick West to continue to forge stronger ties with the aim of putting a halt to criminal networks. He told the participants gathered at the Guyana Marriott on Wednesday that the conference which is geared at examining threats to the region’s stability, sharing in-

formation about operations and strategies, and defining avenues for better collaboration to strengthen security in the Caribbean, will see the region being better prepared to tackle instances of piracy, terrorism, climate change and cyber-crime. He noted the growing number of threats from non-military sources while pointing out that CANSEC has been a sounding-board and a place of unifying action against these threats. Notwithstanding the existing partnerships, the Army chief made it clear that the region continues to struggle to adequately address the challenges of the

Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Patrick West

21st Century. “Evidently, we have noticed that organised networks are seeking to profit at all costs from the illegal sales, offer and or trafficking of drugs, humans and weapons and from the trading of other illegal commodities. “At the same time conflict groups are being increasingly funded by extreme groups, illicit trade and illegal activities,” he stated. Brigadier West believes that extremism in all forms must be mitigated to provide an enabling environment for growth and development in the region. Pointing specifically to cybercrimes, the chief-of-staff told the

gathering of security experts that the region has experienced and continues to be challenged by the increasing threats of cyber-crime. “The security forces are in many instances way behind the perpetrators of these crimes and we need now more than ever to be able to be in step with or ahead of this new level of technological challenge within the region. These networks are growing, their reaches are expanding, porous borders and powerful non-state actors challenge bilateral arrangements such as these.” He noted too that as criminal network grows, the region’s security apparatus

A section of the participants at CANSEC Wednesday

Commander, United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), Admiral Kurt Tidd

must also grow and “As they find ways to exploit security weakness, we must strengthen our bond.” Brigadier West also called on the region’s security forces and other stakeholders to seek to find new ways of dealing with the new and emerging challenges and to find ways to break their linkages. POOL RESOURCES “We cannot wish away these issues nor must we allow ourselves to develop any type of inertia. We must be energised to disrupt the information flow and lines of sustainability of organised criminal networks. We must commit to pooling our

resources and provide assistance to each other in times of environmental and other crises,” he declared. He noted the importance of formalising plans, strategising and operationalizing that which has been envisioned, while calling on the participants to use the conference to identify challenges and work on solutions. “Let us be honest about our short-comings and find real workable solutions about what is available to each of us individually, collectively as a region, and what can be reasonably expected from other partner nations.” Guyana, he said, has played and will continue to play a role in regional security as he pointed to the Defence Board which has committed to being of assistance at any time. “Our partners must be committed to strengthening our weaknesses because our vulnerabilities will create challenges for them, since we provide the gateway for many illegal activities which occur in Turn to page 9

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo with some members of the CANSEC delegation during a photo op.(Samuel Maughn photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

Good life continues in 2018 – Minister Broomes assures miners MINISTER within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes on Wednesday outlined her Ministry’s projections for 2018 as it relates to the mining sector. Broomes, a veteran miner, told the National Assembly, on day three of the 2018 budget debates that her most recent initiative, the mining syndicates is “up and running well.” She explained that more than 2000 persons stand to benefit from the employment from the initiative which was introduced earlier this year. She told the House, that the APNU+AFC Coalition Government is doing its best to fulfill its promises to the Guyanese people. Despite the criticisms made by the parliamentary Opposition, People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Broomes defended her administration’s 2018 budget, the fourth since taking office in 2015. “...it is because of a vision, that come 2018 all miners in the sector can look forward to the good life,”

Minister Broomes said of the syndicates. She noted that some 339 small miners from 13 organisations across Guyana have since been registered while stressing that over 10,000 are estimated to benefit from the initiative. Syndicates were introduced under the Coalition Government to address the issue of land allocation for small scale miners. Given the history of mining here, the minister said all illicit activities, be it labour violations, trafficking in persons and narcotics, unsafe mining, will not be tolerated. Stricter monitoring of mining districts will be done by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Broomes announced. In this vain, GGMC has been tasked with training members of the syndicates in proper mining techniques and safety. There has over the years been a number of mining pit cave -ins which resulted in the death of many. SWEEP UP UNTRUTHS Broomes dismissed state-

ments by the Opposition which suggests that her Government is uncaring. “I am here to sweep up the untruths,” she said as she boasted about her Government’s transparency, accountability and inclusivity. Turning her attention to the specific allocations in the budget for the mining, Broomes said special emphasis will be placed on greening the environment. She said the Environmental Division of GGMC has been allocated $81.6M for the environmental compliance monitoring and regulation. This includes the activities in the areas of ‘tail end’ management, turbidity monitoring, mercury inventory, retorts, sanitation, forest clearance measurements and occupational health and safety. Additionally, there would be the monitoring of water quality in and around mining districts and some $36M has been allocated for these activities which include water quality surveys and flow analysis.

Stronger collaboration...

From page 8

North America and Europe.” “The results of the two days of this course must engender determination to ensure a closer relationship, to ensure fervency of efforts to bring solutions and have firm commitments to deal with known and unknown threats,” he concluded.

PEACE ZONE Similarly, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo called on the security top brass to ensure that the region becomes a peace zone. Nagamootoo, who performed the duty of acting President said the region needs to be free from the scourge of money laundering, piracy and other illicit activities. In his address to CANSEC, the prime minister, like Brigadier West, emphasised the need for stakeholders to cooperate, thereby allowing for safe communities and a safe and secure region. “We need your cooperation to continue to make our region a zone of peace, a zone that is free from the scourges of money laundering; shouldn’t be seen as a haven for dirty money, scourge of piracy, a scourge of terrorism. We want to keep our region clean and secure,”

the Prime Minister said. “But we cannot do that alone. CANSEC offers us one significant platform where we can share our resources and pool our ideas. Yes, we can become a viable part of the world,” he continued. Meanwhile, the prime minister outlined Guyana’s developments with respect to the security sector and noted that all of its accomplishments thus far have been as a result of partnership. He pointed to 2015 when the Coalition Government took office, and noted that there were cries of a slowing economy. “I have been saying in the National Assembly that we are slower but better. We have made a resolve upon assuming office that we would smash the system where Government was compromised by the drug lords. Where they participated actively in national security, where the judiciary, magistracy and the security forces themselves were at threshold of being comprised.” Over the last 30 months, the prime minister said his Government has seen some of the biggest interceptions of illicit drugs and have been able, even with very limited resources, to waylay illegal

flights and aircrafts into Guyana, detect illicit airstrips, and intercept large trafficking shipment. “When we look back where we started 30 months ago, when we ask can we do it, we can answer positively; yes we can. We have been able through networking, sharing of intelligence, usage of computer, and with the fascination that accompany computers and the information they provide us, to be able to intercept those who have been involved in acts of piracy,” he stated while noting the power of intelligence sharing. STRONGER NETWORKING Meanwhile, Commander, United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), Admiral Kurt Tidd acknowledged the need for stronger networking. “We hope to deny criminal networks sanctuary and freedom of movement. By integrating and sequencing our respective operations and activities, we can sustain pressure against illicit networks and aggregate the impact of individual mitigation and preparation efforts,” Admiral Tidd stated. He noted that the world

As it relates to the use of mercury, Broomes pointed to the Minamata Convention. Some $15M has been allocated in 2018 for mercury surveys to be done. It is expected that at the end of surveys, a base level determination of the state of mercury pollution impact on miners will be derived. Strategies are expected to be employed to reduce same. Additionally, $140M has been allocated for the monitoring and inspection activities to ensure compliance in conformity with the

Mining Act, $419M towards the mines inspectorate, $32M for the Mineral Processing Unit, $40M for Mines Administration, $675M for the Geological Services Division, $27M for the Kimberley Process Certificate Scheme, and $15M to upgrade to a paperless office. HAPPY Broomes explained that miners are happy because the Government listened to their cries. Meanwhile, Broomes who has championed the

cause of women over the years and particularly, female miners, said the time has come for women miners to be respected as they too work hard. She said policies must be gender neutral to ensure that there is equality across the board. She chided the Opposition which claimed there was nothing in budget 2018 for women. “It is this Government which has recognised that in the extractive there are women… thank God for this Government. I am qualified to speak on the matter of women,” she said, pointing to years of PPP rule which saw many women and young girls being trafficked. “Where were they when women were being trafficked?” she asked while noting that her administration is rooting out all instances of corruption here. “This Government has a vision… this sector will become transparent, accountable and a gender-neutral sector,” she said as she noted that her Ministry will work with all stakeholders to put together a guiding policy.

is driven by networks, while noting that they are a defining characteristic of “our daily lives”. “We rely on them. We’re part of them and we’re threatened by them. “The evolution of networks--in all their forms--is reflective of the profound change happening all around us. Everywhere we look, we see volatility, uncertainty and interconnectedness of challenges. Regional and global risks are materialising in new and unexpected ways. “We see both traditional and non-traditional threats co-existing and reinforcing one another. We see state and non-state actors competing for influence and challenging democratic values. And we see the rising frequency of extreme weather events and their far-reaching impacts on our people and economies,” said Admiral Tidd. He noted that though the security cooperation within the region has evolved and grown beyond individual and bilateral organisations like the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the CDEMA, IADB and partners from across the Atlantic, including the UK, the Netherlands and France. “This network was born of sustained engagements that emphasise collective action and cooperative solu-

tions. It is built upon the foundation of information sharing. It is inclusive and principled, binding together like-minded nations who share common values and a commitment to work together,” he stated, pointing to varying training programmes and operation exercised. He noted that the collective investments made are not just investments in shared security and prosperity, but are investments in one another. “The payoff of these investments is stronger partnerships, deeper trust and increased unity of effort. Our hemisphere is more secure, and our forces more capable because of them. We know more, share more and do more because of close, regular engagement,” he stated. Admiral Tidd noted that moving forward, the question of the next step in the network’s evolution has to be asked “How to expand it, sustain it, and connect it to other network’s evolution…how to improve sharing agreements to match the challenges we face, increase collaboration across countries, areas of expertise and unique skill sets of civil society and the sector?” The SOUTHCOM said too that aligning security efforts, community resiliency is not only improved but the criminal networks sanctuary

and freedom of movement is denied. “By integrating and sequencing our respective operations and activities, we can sustain pressure against illicit networks and aggregate the impact of individual mitigation and preparedness efforts. Any by doing all this together as one network, we can also build another network…an interconnected network of security, prosperity and resiliency that extend throughout the Americas,” said the SOUTHCOM. CANSEC is sponsored annually by the United States (US) Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) and has seen participation by Guyana and the United States, along with Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Nations participating as observers include Brazil, Canada, France, Mexico, the Royal Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Also present at Wednesday’s opening ceremony was U.S. Ambassador Perry Holloway, Ministers of State and Natural Resources, Joseph Harmon and Raphael Trotman, along with several former army chiefs.

Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, making her contribution to the House Wednesday (Adrian Narine photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

– says public telecommunications minister

all the ministries, especially Education, Finance, Health, Infrastructure and Social Protection, while spearheading the expansion of the national e-Government fibre- optic network from the coastland (Charity to Skeldon) to inland areas.

PPP spreading fake news By Ariana Gordon PUBLIC Telecommunications Minister Catherine Hughes on Tuesday lashed back at the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) for spreading “fake news” about the progress made in her sector. During her address on the second day of the Budget 2018 debate, Hughes told the House that the country’s ICT sector could have been way more advanced than it is today, but the previous PPP administration squandered some $2B on the fibre- optic cable project. “We could have been further along the way if we hadn’t thrown $2B down the drain,” declared Hughes, much to the satisfaction of the governing side of the House. The minister’s remarks came in response to statements by opposition Member of Parliament Gillian Burton-Persaud, who on Monday criticised the pace of ICT development in the hinterland regions. “Mr. Speaker, today we pay a premium price to connect these regions… that is our commitment. The PPP’s commitment was to build a fibre, instead, our indigenous residents and all of us saw over one billion dollars go down the drain. Nothing but damaged cable to show! Where did those billion dollars go? And you talk about

corruption,” said Hughes. Her response saw members of the government benches thumping their desks in approval. “Mr Speaker now they shout in the usual abusive way – you’re in power now, fix it… yes, we are fixing it. We are going across the country, across all sectors… picking up the pieces and fixing it. It is taking longer than we thought, but we will fix it,” Hughes continued. She also responded to Burton-Persaud’s claim that ICT development has been “marking tim.” “But I will remind my colleague that she got her years mixed up… yes… in 2012, the government fibre-optic network -- through which we are increasing Internet connectivity – was completed but lay dormant or dead for three years… until this government came along and operationalised in latter 2015,” said Minister Hughes. Meanwhile, this year, she said a number of initiatives were the focus of the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) while pointing to the operation, expansion and security of the national eGovernment Network, which provides Internet connectivity. PROGRESS Thus far, free Internet access has been provided to 53 government ministries

and agencies; more than 95 secondary schools; the University of Guyana campuses and the Cyril Potter College of Education; to over 37 technical/vocational institutions, including the Carnegie School of Home Economics; to the offices of Regional Education Officers, and several NGOs. “Mr Speaker, I am excited to boast that the NDMA has worked closely with communities and villages in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Nine and 10 and has set up 86 ICT hubs [and counting] with computers donated by government, thus providing nearly 200,000 citizens with access to the worldwide web,” said Hughes. “Drop in to any of these hubs and you will see a flurry of children and teenagers rushing to complete homework or just to play. So rest assured this was achieved in 2017 and is not fake news,” she declared. Regional offices, public hospitals and airports, along with the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Revenue Authority, Guyana Power and Light, Guyana Defence Force and other service organisations are now connected to the Internet and to each other via 23 virtual private networks. “Mr. Speaker, finally, after some construction delays, the NDMA has completed the rehabilitation of

Public Telecommunications Minister Catherine Hughes

the Centre for Excellence in Information Technology with support from the Government of India to the tune of $70M.” The centre is located on the University of Guyana campus and is slated to be commissioned in March, 2018. It is expected that the Centre of Excellence in IT will bridge the gap between academia and industry, providing specialised ICT training to develop competencies among Public Sector ICT professionals, the public telecommunications minister stated. Though not commissioned, it has begun to fulfil its purpose. So far, three training courses have been conducted. Over 100 students are expected to graduate in 2018. The NDMA is simultaneously providing technical support services to almost

EXPANSION “While we await the commencement of a nationwide expansion programme as part of a National Broadband Expansion Project (to be executed by Huawei Technologies of China), the networks have been expanded to inland/hinterland locations via private lease-circuit agreements with two providers - Digicel and Imon Wireless Solutions,” said Minister Hughes. Additionally, Digicel’s lease this year has provided Internet services to Linden, Bartica, Kwakwani, Mahdia, Port Kaituma, Santa Rosa, Matthew’s Ridge, Baramita and Mabaruma, along with satellite services to nine hinterland locations - Waramadong, Masakenari, Aishalton, Annai, St. Ignatius, Iwokrama, Sand Creek, Karasabai, and Paramakatoi. “Mr. Speaker, it is important to note that contrary to the fake news disseminated by my misinformed, honourable colleague MP Pauline Sukhai at a recent press conference, places like Masakenari have never had Internet connectivity before …never… so this is not some recycled, failed PPP project,” Hughes remarked.

Hughes called on Sukhai, who at a recent press conference said the 2018 budget included nothing to bridge the gap between the hinterland and the coast, to speak the truth. “I want to reassure my indigenous brothers and sisters that we are committed to you, we have come to several of your villages providing sustainable Internet access that will allow you to sell your hammocks, tomato ketchup, tourism services, to participate on line, to learn and grow,” she noted. “Well I have informed you to the contrary, so spread the word. Next time honourable MP on the opposition side, just the facts please, the facts,” said Hughes. Some $50M has been allocated for improved solar solutions for the ICT hubs in hinterland regions, while $15M to procure more fibre-optic cables, $16M for more Internet access points and $20M for power redundancy at the data centre. “We have provided Internet to your students at the Bena Hill Institute and to St. Ignatius High School, both of which I visited personally; you are now running six of your own stations that inform, educate and entertain your communities… these are all new! Delivered by the same AFC+APNU government that those on the other side love to hate!” the public telecommunications minister stated.

Keep ‘sweet man,’ ‘sweet woman’ out Taxi driver goes down – they should not ride in police vehicles, Commander Alves warns

– for ‘fondling’ a minor

BERBICE Divisional Commander Assistant Commissioner Lyndon Alves has said that a zero-tolerance approach will be taken against cops who use police vehicles to take their wives, “sweet woman” and “sweet man” to the markets. He issued the warning at the handing over of 10 4x4 Foton Tunland pickups gifted by the People’s Republic of China to the Government of Guyana on Wednesday at the Divisional Headquarters in New Amsterdam. Alves said local administrators will ensure that due diligence is done at all levels, including the stations, the sub-divisional officers’ level and at the level of headquarters. Once a week, station sergeants are required to ensure that inspections are done, while on the last Saturday of each month, there will

A 36-year-old taxi driver was on Wednesday sentenced to two years jail for sexually assaulting a sevenyear-old girl. Anansuaruddin Khan of Diamond New Scheme, East Bank Demerara was found guilty of the offence after being on trial, in camera, before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates Court. Particulars of the charge read that between June 1 and June 30, 2017 at Georgetown, Khan sexually assaulted the under-age child. He had initially pleaded guilty to the charge and was out on $150,000 bail during the trial. But the case strongly stood on the evidence of the seven-year-old, who was described as ‘brave’ while she led her evidence behind closed doors against the perpetrator.

Berbice Divisional Commander Lyndon Alves

be inspection at the level of commanders . “Persons will be held accountable. The administration has developed a checklist … a hand-over, take-over form which must be filled out at the end of tour of duty. The persons who are taking over are to

ensure there is no infraction such as broken lights or missing parts. If so, it must be reported immediately and persons will be made to pay,” he said. He added: “We must understand it is not business as usual. If we had to wait on the Government of Guyana for 10 brand new vehicles, we would have been waiting for a lifetime. We respect the input government made to the People’s Republic of China, so we must care these vehicles. We must give quality service and timely intervention to the people of Guyana. I am looking forward to getting calls from members of the public. All who are bent on being reckless that these vehicles will not serve the purpose in this division will be dealt with. But you will be assured this management... indiscipline, and insubornation, will not

be tolerated,” he stressed. The vehicles will be distributed throughout the length and breadth of the division from Abary, West Coast Berbice to Sister’s Village, East Bank Berbice to Moleson Creek, Upper Corentyne. And to ensure accountability, each vehicle will be marked with the respective station’s name and telephone number along with the 911 number. Deputy Commander Edmond Cooper said the vehicles will enable the division to respond to crime in more timely manner. Among those who attended the handing-over ceremony were Regional Chairman David Armogan, Regional Executive Officer Kim Williams, members of the business community and the Disciplined Forces.

The ‘fondler’, Anansuaruddin Khan

According to reports, the defendant was hired by the child’s mother to pick her up from school and drop her home daily. However, it is alleged that on one occasion when the child was in the car, the accused fondled her. The matter was reported to the police, after the child told her mother.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

Bandits pounce on Ruimveldt residents A 55-year-old telephone technician of the Ministry of the Presidency was robbed by two armed bandits at his Soufriere St, North Ruimveldt, Georgetown home in the wee hours of Tuesday morning. Reports indicate that the victim resides with his family in a two-flat wooden and concrete structure which is secured in a fenced yard. About 03:00hrs Tuesday morning, they were awoken by a strange noise. Upon checking he saw a man entering through the eastern window of his bedroom. The robber held him at

gun point but he resisted and was gun-butted in the face while his accomplice came through the same window and commanded the technician and his family to sit. The two bandits then collected the valuable that were in the bedroom and escaped through the western door. The armed bandits then mounted a motorcycle and fled the scene. They escaped with laptop computers, video cameras, cell phones, gold jewellery and other values. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, two armed bandits with

handguns riding a pedal cycle robbed an 18-year-old on Front Road, West Ruimveldt, Georgetown. Reports indicate the youth who lives in East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme was walking on the front road when he was approached by two men on cycle. One of the men brandished a handgun and demanded his valuables. The youth frozen with fear did not comply and was searched by the bandits who relived him of his cell phone and $40,000. The robbers then made good their escape.

Bandits hijack car after robbery TWO bandits robbed a man of his black Toyota Premio motorcar PVV1678 on Lamaha Street Kitty, Georgetown, on Tuesday. Reports indicate that the 30-year-old labourer of Triumph, East Coast Demerara parked his vehicle on the western corner on Lamaha Street and was sitting inside it in the vicinity of ‘Rams Bar’ when the robbery occurred.

He was in the company of two females--a gold miner who was standing outside the vehicle and another who was sitting in the back seat of the car, but who later exited, leaving her purse containing cash, ID card and a cell phone. The woman went into the bar to make a purchase while two men--one armed with a handgun--approached the car from a

southern direction on foot. One of the robbers approached the female gold miner and pointed a gun at her while grabbing her bag. She resisted but was gun-butted in the head. The robbers then ordered the man out of the vehicle and made good their escape in it. Police said no shot was fired and statements were taken as investigations continue.

Taxi driver charged, remanded – for young schoolteacher’s murder AT approximately 14:30hrs on Wednesday afternoon, 47-year-old taxi driver, Matthew Munroe appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, shackled and handcuffed, charged for the murder of schoolteacher, Kescia Branche. Munroe, dressed in a white shirt and dark blue jeans, brought much media and public attention as he made his way from the unmarked police van to the Court lockup. Around 14:45hrs, the accused made his way into the courtroom of Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to await his hearing. The father of one, who appeared unperturbed, sat quietly in the court dock cleaning his spectacles and occasionally conferring with his attorney, George Thomas. The Chief Magistrate came out and read the particulars of the charge to Munroe. It is alleged that he, on November 7, 2017 at Georgetown, murdered Branche. His attorney told the court that his client resides at Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, and that besides being a taxi driver, he is also a part-time public relations consultant. According to the lawyer, on the night of Branche’s alleged attack/murder, his client was out of the country, and has phone records to prove these claims.

DEAD: Kescia Branche

Thomas further pointed out that his client was pressured and beaten by the police to confess to the murder. Police Prosecutor, Inspector David Mansfield told the court that there are several issues that need to be clarified by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and on that note he requested that the matter be adjourned for a month. The Chief Magistrate agreed and remanded Munroe until January 9, 2018. Branche, a mother of one, who resided in Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown, was last seen on November 4, when she left for a night out with her friends. However, her unconscious body was found in the vicinity of Princess Street and Louisa Row the following day. Her left leg was broken and there was evidence that she’d sustained multiple head injuries. The Richard Ishmael Sec-

ondary School teacher died at the Georgetown Public Hospital two days after being found battered in the City. A post-mortem indicated that she died as a result of brain haemorrhage. During police investigations, three suspects who were being questioned regarding the death of Branche, were released. The father of Branche’s three-year-old son was released on November 14 and placed on station bail, along with two police constables. The two policemen were placed under open arrest and will be working out of the Tactical Services Unit (TSU). At the time of the trio’s release, police were seeking to contact a taxi driver whose cell phone number appeared repeatedly on Branche’s mobile device. The taxi driver’s car was impounded at the Brickdam Police Station, and he had reportedly left the country after Branche was found with a broken leg and in an unconscious state on November 5. Investigators are of the opinion that the driver may have been the last person to see the teacher alive. When arrested, the taxi driver claimed that his car was involved in an accident after he drove into a pothole. However,according to a police report, the damages on the car are consistent with the injuries Branche received.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

New departments to strengthen health sector By Svetlana Marshall PUBLIC Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, has announced that a number of new departments will be established in her Ministry, such as Human Resources Department, a Procurement Department and a Public Relations and Health Awareness Department, to address the issues facing the country’s health sector. The public health minister

made the announcement on Wednesday in the National Assembly as she defended the 2018 National Budget presented to the House just over a week ago by Finance Minister, Winston Jordan. Though faced with many challenges, she assured the House that her ministry has kept the momentum with focus on Goal #3 of the Sustainable Development Goals, which seek to ensure the health and well-being for all

at all ages. But in order to achieve this goal, Minister Lawrence argued that the coordination and efficient management of the available human, financial and physical resources is critical. It is for this reason the Public Health Ministry has sought to establish a Human Resources Department in partnership with PAHO/WHO and the Public Service Ministry. “The Ministry of Public Health cannot continue to op-

erate efficiently with a small Personnel Division, managing a workforce of over 3000 employees. Mr. Speaker, you can well appreciate the challenges and constraints, and the duress under which the staff has been operating, so this valuable department is being established to identify and fill the critical gaps of key and critical positions,” Minister Lawrence told the House. This move, she argued, would pave the way for the

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence addressing the House on Wednesday

services provided by all departments under the Ministry to be enhanced. A Procurement Department has also been established, Minister Lawrence announced. The department is established at a time when the press has been flooded with reports of drug shortages linked to lapses within the supply and delivery process. The Procurement Department is now responsible for the acquisition of drugs and medicines that meet prescribed safety and health standards at a cost-effective price. “In light of the issues and recommendations from the Commission of Inquiry into the Ministry of Public Health’s procurement procedures, the reports and comments emanating from the Auditor General’s Office that have remained unaddressed for several years, and the investigation into the award for emergency drugs at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) together with the Public Procurement Commission’s findings on the matter; all these factors, Mr. Speaker, have emboldened the Ministry to establish a Procurement Department,” Minister Lawrence said as she defended her Ministry’s decision. It was noted that the Procurement Department is fully staffed and includes a USAID-trained and experienced manager, supervisors and support staff. This capable team, she assured, will ensure that the Public Health Ministry follows the guidelines stipulated in the Procurement Act. Another strategic step that the Ministry has taken is to establish a Public Relations and Health Awareness Department, Minister Lawrence told the House. “It is the Ministry’s belief that this Department has a

pivotal role to play in educating the Guyanese population through the schools, media and outreaches about healthy practices and lifestyles, and ways of maintaining optimum health of the family. Sir, the Ministry is convinced that with this knowledge-based focused on preventative measures, citizens will make better choices and this will strongly impact and redound to less people falling ill and more persons at all levels enjoying health and well-being envisioned in our Health vision 2020,” she justified. While the Statistical Department has been established for some time, it is currently deficient in terms of its human capacity, the Public Health Minister noted. Important health decisions, she stressed, cannot be arbitrarily taken based on assumptions, but must be guided by empirical evidence, hence, the critical need for current data and statistical information. “This department will therefore be strengthened in terms of equipment and human capacity so that pertinent information can be accessed in a timely manner and the department can function with a greater level of efficiency and effectiveness,” she noted. To further improve the services offered within the public healthcare sector, the ministry, in collaboration with PAHO/ WHO and E-governance Unit, is embarking on enhancing the health information system in order to effectively collect and retrieve timely and accurate data and reports in keeping with our strategic Health Vision 2013-2020. The partnership aims to enable standardised and complete documentation of patient’s health information in order to increase capacity for surveillance, reporting and decision-making activities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE,Thursday December 7, 2017

‘Nothing unusual’ about Blanhum’s reposting

--Top Cop says

David Ramnarine

Wendell Blanhum

ACTING Top Cop David Ramnarine has said that there’s no ulterior motive in making former crime chief, Senior Superintendent Wendell Blanhum deputy commander of ‘A’ Division. “It is nothing unusual; Blanhum’s re-posting is also not without precedent,” he said. “Blanhum’s performance as crime chief is nationally known, and when he was going on leave a lot of people thought he was kicked out and that was not necessarily so,” Ramnarine told the media on Tuesday when pressed about the issue. Earlier into the conversation, he had said: “At this point in time, we have launched several initiatives for the Christmas policing arrangement, and you don’t want to chop and change. “I must say that, for example, there is an assistant commissioner in charge of crime... For example, I know you want to get to the issue of Senior Superintendent Blanhum who is a senior officer. “I want to add that Senior Superintendent Calvin Brutus was the Commander of ‘C’ Division; he was on leave and has resumed, and is presently holding as second-in-command of Operations.” As he went on to explain, at one point Senior Superintendent Stephen Mansell had held for Commander Brutus when the latter was on leave, and that he has since asked him to continue as the Commander of ‘C’ Division until perhaps after the Christmas season is over. But in the interest of clarity where the reassignment of Senior Superintendent

Blanhum is concerned, Ramnarine, a former crime chief himself, confirmed that for now, he is out of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). And while he did not indicate whether or not the transferral is permanent, he did say, somewhat cryptically, that since there’s no telling what changes next year may bring, one should brace oneself for the unexpected. He, however, conceded when pressed that there’s no denying that Blanhum is indeed one of the more successful crime chiefs. Asked how he felt about no longer being at the helm of CID, Ramnarine simply said that the nature of law enforcement doesn’t allow him to make such decisions. “I am a professional, as well [as] Blanhum,” he said, “and the officers have proven that thus far. And I will leave it at that.” According to a statement issued by the Guyana Police Force, Senior Superintendent Blanhum, who was crime chief when he went on leave, has been temporarily reassigned as Deputy Commander of ‘A’ Division (Georgetown-East Bank Demerara), and is working under Assistant Commissioner of Police, Marlon Chapman who is the commander. The statement further said that Assistant Police Commissioner Paul Williams, who was Commander of “B” Division (Berbice), will continue to act as crime chief. Back in September, Commissioner Ramnarine was quoted as saying: “Blanhum requested to proceed on another short period of annual vacation leave, which was approved, taking

into account that it was again deserved and that he, as well as other senior officers, will have to resume duty in time for the commencement of the police’s Christmas period; a period where the intensification of operational and preventive law-enforcement strategies are paramount.” The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the alleged

plot to assassinate President David Granger had called for Blanhum to be replaced, reportedly due to poor leadership and questions surrounding his role in the successes in solving crimes under his watch. The Paul Slowe-led CoI chided Blanhum for his failure to properly supervise the investigation, though so

instructed by the acting commissioner; for allegedly lying to Ramnarine; not conducting due diligence on a report containing factual errors sent to the National Security Council (NSC); neglect of duty; and insubordination. “Blanhum should be replaced as crime chief and reassigned in order to gain command experience,” the

report recommended. Blanhum was the first person in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to receive information in relation to the plot to assassinate the President. He received a call from the Ministry of Public Security informing him that Andriff Gillard had made the allegation on March 29 this year.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

Heated battles expected for GT Motorsports Grand Prix Finale By Stephan Sookram DRIVERS from four countries will converge next weekend on the GT Motorsports facility for the season-closing Georgetown Grand Prix Finale. Contingents from Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, and Canada will assemble to take on the locals in the ultimate display of bragging rights. From Canada, driver coach Daryl Timmers is expected back here for another crack at his former student, Kristian

Jeffrey, in the pro shifter class. The Barbadians will also send a ‘returnee’ in Orry Hunte who is also seeking to better his performance and climb higher up the podium. The Trinis will once again be represented by Kristian Boodoosingh along with several newcomers in Reza Ali, Zachary Boodram and Enrique De Leon. While Boodoosingh will be in shifter kart action, both Ali and Boodram will be expected in the 125cc senior class while De Leon will be in the smaller division.

Jamaica’s Collin Daley will also join the shifter kart battle after dominating his country’s Double Trouble meet just under four weeks ago. He will have to tangle with the likes of local ace Kristian Jeffrey who is yet to be defeated in this division. Added to that is the fact that pocket rocket Elliot Vieira has announced his intentions to be among the frontrunners and it will make for a thrilling twonight event which is set for December 16-17.

IOC stops payments ... change the IOC will not make any financial contributions to AIBA,” Bach said. He said the next payment to AIBA would be in a few months for referees for next

year’s Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires. This is not the first time AIBA has IOC funds blocked. The Olympic ruling

body withheld payment of more than $1 million of television rights from the Athens 2004 Olympics after a refereeing scandal at those Games.

Athletes support ... reational purposes and “all of the regions have been targeted, because of the value of sport and particularly the availability of open spaces for promoting cohesion.” “In Region 1, the Mabaruma Settlement Ground is being upgraded, as well as the Pomona Ground in Region 2, Parika and La Retraite Stanleytown ground, to name a few. Region 6 would see work done at the Number 53, Union Ground and Gibraltar/Fyrish ground,” Dr Norton highlighted. Meanwhile, the Social Cohesion Minister told the National Assembly that Government is pursuing the application of a comprehensive National Sports Policy, based

on consultations, as a matter of good governance, transparency and accountability. Looking ahead, Dr Norton related that phasing into 2018 two additional synthetic tracks will be laid in Guyana, in the coastal and interior hubs of Regions 6 and 10. The remodelling of the National Gymnasium, Norton told the ‘House’, will see the addition of two multipurpose courts to facilitate Futsal, Tennis, Basketball and Volleyball as well as the addition of bleachers. This allocation, Norton said, would ensure that the Multipurpose facility being established in Bartica to cater for at least six disciplines (Circle Tennis, Volleyball, Football, Tennis, Cricket and Futsal) at the Bartica Community Centre ground, would be completed. The support of athletes through the provision of grants will continue to be a permanent feature of the Guyana Government, with the budget providing G$25M being made available to assist athletes to participate in local and international tournaments. “We plan to not only participate in the Commonwealth Games, but to participate with 23 athletes, as well as in the Central American and Caribbean Games in Colombia with a large number of athletes. The male and female hockey teams

Continued from back page

have already qualified,” the minister said. He further added, “We must also not forget about boxing where we gained a silver in the Commonwealth Youth Boxing Championship in Mr (Keevin) Allicock as well as winning the Caribbean Boxing Championship in 2015 and 2016.” “Mr Speaker, the budget of the Ministry of Social Cohesion would be expended, in the areas outlined. It would enable the Ministry to make contributions to support Guyana in achieving the UNDP sustainable development goals, particularly Goal 10, which addresses Reduced Inequality, Goal 11 which gives attention to Sustainable Communities and Goal 16, which emphasises Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.” “Summarily Mr Speaker the allocation would also position the Ministry to provide support to my Government’s vision of a Green Economy. It would allow me to continue to lead the Ministry to ensure that our country becomes a unified one, where diversities are embraced, conflicts are resolved, networks and collaboration with stakeholders strengthened, equity promoted and decision-making processes result in equal opportunities and benefits for all.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday December 07, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Lawrence Rowe became the first (and to date the only player) to make a double century and a century on Test debut. (2) Lawrence Rowe & Charlie Davis Today’s Quiz: (1) Who took most wickets in the WI/NZ test series in 1972? (2) Who scored most runs? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

Hazlewood, Starc help Aussies storm to 2-0 series lead By Nick Mulvenney

ADELAIDE, Australia (Reuters) - Josh Hazlewood snuffed out England’s hopes of a remarkable second Ashes Test triumph with two wickets in the first 16 balls of the final day as Australia wrapped up a 120-run victory in brilliant sunshine at Adelaide Oval yesterday. England, with six wickets in hand, needed 178 runs to win the maiden day-night Ashes Test and level the series at 1-1 but fell well short of their victory target and will head to Perth 2-0 down with three matches to play. Left-arm quick Mitchell Starc mopped up the tail with the new pink ball to take five for 88, his eighth five-wicket haul in Tests, but Hazlewood shared the plaudits after his key early intervention. The paceman delivered a hefty blow when he removed Chris Woakes with the second ball of the day and two overs later landed a knockout punch when he had Joe Root caught behind before the England captain could add to his overnight 67.

referred. Root, however, walked after he got late to a good length delivery from Hazlewood and the ball nicked off his bat into the welcoming gloves of Tim Paine. Moeen Ali, who made two off 20 balls, used up England’s last DRS referral when he attempted a sweep off Nathan Lyon, with the ball-tracking only confirming the umpire’s lbw decision. Starc then got to work with the new ball and Craig Overton (7) departed plumb lbw from the first delivery with it, Stuart Broad following not so long afterwards. Jonny Bairstow, En-

gland’s last recognisable batsman, had stood tall for 36 in difficult circumstances but edged another Starc fizzer onto his middle stump and the tourists were all out for 233. ”Obviously very disappointing,“ said Root. ”I don’t think we did ourselves justice today. “But we’re still massively in the series. We showed that from the way we played yesterday.” Smith had been relying on his bowlers to save his embarrassment after he failed to enforce the follow-on and England’s bowlers got them back into the game.

SCOREBOARD

Teammates celebrate with pacer Mitchell Starc after taking the wicket of England’s Craig Overton, left, during the fifth day of their Ashes Test match in Adelaide, yesterday.

“If I‘m being honest, I was a little nervous last night,” said Australia captain Steve Smith. “So it was very pleasing that Josh was able to come out and do what he did this morning and obviously to get the wicket of Root really

put us in a good position and I was able to breathe a little more easily.” Root’s innings was always going to be crucial to his team’s chances of chasing down a record 354 at Adelaide Oval and although the innings limped on into a

second hour, the hope raised among the English on Tuesday was gone. The dismissal of Woakes had an element of fortune in that the feather the nightwatchman got on the ball was picked up by snicko but not the hotspot when it was

AUSTRALIA 1st innings 442 for 8 decl. (S. Marsh 126 n.o, T. Paine 57, U. Khawaja 53) ENGLAND 1st innings 227 (N. Lyon 4-60) AUSTRALIA 2nd innings 138 (J. Anderson 5-43, C. Woakes 4-36) ENGLAND 2nd innings (o/n 176-4; Target: 354 runs) A. Cook lbw b Lyon 16 M. Stoneman c Khawaja b Starc 36 J. Vince c Handscomb b Starc 15 J. Root c Paine b Hazlewood 67 D. Malan b Cummins 29 C. Woakes c Paine b Hazlewood 5

M. Ali lbw b Lyon 2 J. Bairstow b Starc 36 C. Overton lbw b Starc 7 S. Broad c Paine b Starc 8 J. Anderson not out 0 Extras: (b-7, lb-5) 12 Total: (all out, 84.2 overs) 233 Fall of wickets: 1-53, 2-54, 3-91, 4-169, 5-176, 6-177, 7-188, 8-206, 9-224. Bowling: M. Starc 19.2-3-885, J. Hazlewood 20-7-49-2, P. Cummins 20-6-39–1, N. Lyon 25-6-45-2.

Dhananjaya de Silva century earns Sri Lanka honourable draw By Amlan Chakraborty NEW DELHI, India (Reuters) - Sri Lanka’s Dhananjaya de Silva struck a heroic hundred and Roshen Silva made a gallant unbeaten 74 to help secure a morale-boosting draw in the final Test against India, who won the three-match series 1-0 yesterday. Playing his first match in the series, de Silva braved a thigh injury to score 119 before retiring hurt. Debutant Silva and Niroshan Dickwella then batted out the final session as the tourists secured their second draw of the series at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium. The tourists, who finished on 299-5, could not chase down the 410-run victory target but battled superbly to salvage some pride after being outplayed in the series. India’s ninth straight Test series triumph puts the world number one side into an elite club with Australia and England. “When you’re not able to finish off in the second innings after having them three

down on day four is disappointing,” India captain Virat Kohli said at the presentation ceremony.

two hours as the smog-hit Test finally saw a mostly sunny day. India tasted success in

Dhananjaya de Silva scores a third Test hundred and steers his side towards safety.

“But they played well, they showed composure and confidence,” added the batsman who was given the man-of-the-match and man-of-the-series awards. SRI LANKA RESISTANCE Resuming the final day on a precarious 31-3, Sri Lanka lost Angelo Mathews early in the morning session but de Silva and Dinesh Chandimal resisted India for

the sixth over of the day

when Mathews was caught in the slip off Ravindra Jadeja for one. Dropped three times in his first innings knock of 111, Mathews was not so lucky in the second, given out on a no-ball which went undetected by umpire Joel Wilson. Jadeja bowled Chandimal, then on 24, with a drifted, sharply-turning ball but replays confirmed the left-arm spinner had marginally overstepped. Nimble-footed de Silva scored freely, especially against the spinners, while Chandimal looked content playing second fiddle. Ashwin ended the 112run partnership when he lured Chandimal out of

SCOREBOARD

INDIA 1st innings 536 for 7 decl. (V. Kohli 243, M. Vijay 155, R. Sharma 65; L. Sandakan 4-167) SRI LANKA 1st innings 373 (D. Chandimal 164, A. Mathews 111) India 2nd innings 246 for 5 decl. (S. Dhawan 67, R. Sharma 50 n.o., V. Kohli 50) SRI LANKA 2nd innings (o/n 31-3; Target: 410 runs) Dimuth Karunaratne c Saha b Jadeja 13 Sadeera Samarawickrama c Rahane b Shami 5 Dhananjaya de Silva retired hurt 119

Suranga Lakmal b Jadeja 0 Angelo Mathews c Rahane b Jadeja 1 Dinesh Chandimal b R. Ashwin 36 Roshen Silva not out 74 Niroshan Dickwella not out 44 Extras: (b-5, lb-1, nb-1) 7 Total: (for 5 wickets, 103 overs) 299 Fall of wkts: 1-14, 2-31, 3-31, 4-35, 5-147. Bowling: I. Sharma 13-2-32-0, M. Shami 15-6-50-1, R. Ashwin 35-3-126- 1, R. Jadeja 38-13-81-3 (nb-1), M. Vijay 1-0-3-0, V. Kohli 1-0-1-0.

the crease and spun the ball past his bat to hit the stumps. The Sri Lanka captain, who smashed a career-best 164 in the first innings, made 36. FULL-BLOODED DRIVE Ashwin had a chance to

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catch de Silva, then on 110, off his own bowling but the off-spinner spilled the full-blooded drive. By then, de Silva was struggling with his thigh injury and the 26-year-old eventually hobbled off the field, passing on the baton to Silva, who proved equal to the challenge.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

Ronaldo sets new record as Real eventually see off Dortmund

MADRID (Reuters) - Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo set a re c o r d f o r s c o r i n g in every Champions League group game as his side won an entertaining encounter 3-2 on Wednesday at home to Borussia Dortmund, who clinched a spot in the Europa League. Real were guaranteed a place in the last 16 as Group H runners up behind Tottenham

Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo

H o t s p u r, b u t c o a c h Zinedine Zidane still fielded a strong side for the game, only resting Marcelo, Karim Benzema, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. R e a l ’s S p a n i s h striker Borja Mayoral got his first Champions League goal in the eighth minute with a chipped finish from close range while four minutes later Ronaldo struck for the sixth

group game in a row, sending a wonderful curled shot into the top corner from outside the box. Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang led a shortlived fightback by scoring either side of the break for the Germans, who have failed to win a game in the group stage campaign, but finished above APOEL Nicosia on goal difference to

qualify for the Europa League. Real averted a third consecutive draw in all competitions thanks to an 81st-minute strike from Lucas Vazquez to end their group campaign with 13 points. They could, however, be without defender Raphael Varane for the next few games after the Frenchman limped off with a muscle injury.

Gym to open in honour of Bermuda’s only Olympic medallist HAMILTON, Bermuda (CMC) – Clarence Hill, Bermuda’s only Olympic medallist, is to be honoured with the opening of a new boxing facility in St George’s, the island’s second town. Minister of Social Development and Sport, Zane DeSilva, said on Monday that it is hoped the gym in the Catterick Building on Old Military Road will open this month or early next year. Hill, 66, who won the heavyweight bronze medal at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal, has long called for government to help to fund a state-of-the-art gym. The Progressive Labour Party (PLP) announced more than five years ago when it was previously in power that it intended to erect a bronze statue in his honour, but Hill said the money would be better invested in a boxing facility. Hill was also in talks last year with the-then ruling One Bermuda Alliance government – which lost July’s general election to the PLP – about opening a boxing gym at the St George’s Community Centre. He admitted to feeling let down by previous administrations, which merely paid lip service to his longtime ambition, but said he was confident DeSilva would deliver on his promise. “I’ve been waiting so long for this, it’s like, is it really going to happen?” said Hill, who plans to train fighters himself at the gym. “I appreciate the fact my name is going to be on the gym. It’s a step forward towards the recognition that I deserve.” Hill turned professional in 1980 and had limited success in the heavyweight division before retiring in 1986 with a pro record of 17-3-1. His most notable fight, which was televised, was in 1982 when he knocked down then-undefeated American Tony Tubbs in the first round before tiring and losing on a unanimous points-decision.

Liverpool report alleged racist abuse of youth player

Serena has entered Australian Open, says tournament director SERENA Williams has entered the Australian Open in January, tournament director Craig Tiley has said. The 36-year-old won this year’s event in Melbourne while in the early weeks of pregnancy and gave birth to a daughter in September. Tiley told the Herald Sun the 23-time Grand Slam winner is “very likely” to return to tennis in Melbourne. “She’s got her visa, she’s entered, she’s practising,” he said. “There’s no question she’ll be ready in our view.” Williams, who has won the Australian Open seven times, has posted on social media that she has returned to training.

England’s Rhian Brewster wins the Golden Boot for the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup. (REUTERS/Danish Siddiqui)

Serena Williams

Australia’s Margaret Court, with 24, is the only player still ahead of Serena in terms of Grand Slam

singles titles. “She wants to break a record that is Margaret Court’s,” added Tiley.

“It would be a pretty significant accomplishment for her to be able to do that.”

LONDON, England (Reuters) - Liverpool’s Rhian Brewster has alleged he was racially abused by a Spartak Moscow player during a UEFA Youth League game yesterday and the club reported the incident to European soccer’s governing body. The England Under-17 international had to be calmed down by team mates and staff at the end of the match and Brewster informed referee Mohammed

Al-Hakim about the incident during the closing stages of Liverpool’s 2-0 win, the BBC reported. A club spokesman said Liverpool had “followed the proper procedure by reporting the alleged incident to UEFA”. Liverpool Under-19 coach Steven Gerrard told the Liverpool Echo: “It’s difficult for me to comment on it right now. It’s something that the club will look into and deal with.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

Black Caps ready for Windies fightback HAMILTON, New Zealand (CMC) – Despite a crushing win in the opening Test in Wellington, the Black Caps are not writing off a West Indies fightback, in the second and final Test starting here Saturday. The Caribbean side played poorly to lose by an innings and 67 runs inside four days, to fall 1-0 behind in the twomatch series. However, head coach Mike Hesson said recent history suggested the Windies could be back stronger at Seddon Park, and stressed his side needed to be prepared for the backlash. “We’ve seen how well the West Indies have bounced back in previous series so we certainly expect them to do that,” he said. “History suggests they are (a threat). In England they got dealt a pretty severe blow in the first Test and then came back at Headingley and beat England. “We’re certainly expecting them to sustain pressure over a longer period of time.” West Indies showed their

character against England last August, rebounding to stun the hosts by five wickets at Leeds just days after slumping to an embarrassing innings and 209-run loss inside three days at Edgbaston. The core of that same side has travelled for the current tour, with the likes of Kraigg Brathwaite, Shai Hope and Roston Chase all expected to suit up against for the second Test. At the Basin Reserve last week, West Indies showed glimpses of their quality, especially through Brathwaite, Shimron Hetmyer and seamer Kemar Roach, but Hesson said New Zealand had been able to stay patient. “I just think we sucked up West Indies pressure in those first couple of sessions. That was really important and it’s an area that we have to do well again in Hamilton,” he noted. Batsman Henry Nicholls agreed with Hesson’s assessment, pointing out that the Windies had bowled well up front, before the Kiwi batsmen got on top to pile up 520

for nine declared. When the visitors batted, especially in the second innings, Nicholls said they had also threatened at periods.

“I felt they really bowled well for 80 or 90 overs. It felt we were under pressure the whole time,” said Nicholls. “And then with the nature

Guyana’s Shimron Hetmyer batted well for 66 in the West Indies second innings in the first Test.

Trophy Stall Doubles tennis tournament 8th edition starts

Grace McCalman, Jamal Goodluck and Devi Sunich

GUYANA’S foremost tennis doubles tournament, the Trophy Stall Doubles, started last Saturday at the courts of the National

Racquet Centre, thanks to the continued sponsorships of the event’s title sponsor Trophy Stall. Celebrating its 8th edi-

of Test cricket, we were able to wear them down I guess at the back end of that last session – the guys did extremely well not just to build a part-

tion, the annual tournament will close off activity on the tennis calendar in Guyana. The tournament is the only exclusive doubles tour-

nament on the Guyana Tennis Association’s (GLTA) calendar and is an opportunity for seasoned doubles players to take part in one of the most intense forms of the game. Trophy Stall has been a valued partner in keeping this form of the game alive, proprietor of Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich, said while reflecting on the support received from the tennis community for many years. Last year Sunich recognised the problems tennis is currently facing, but the association has continued to work with degrading facility and players endure the circumstances to have fun and engage in battle for the titles. The tournament started last Saturday with action in a few matches in the ladies’ doubles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles categories. The tournament will also see competition in the Men’s Over-45 Doubles. This year will provide high drama and battles as players strive to end their season strong and secure their spot at the top of the ranking table. Coordinator for the tournament is Shelly Daly. All games will be played at the National Racquet Centre and Le Resouvenir.

nership but the way they went about it and the scoring rate was impressive.” He added: “But I think we saw at times when they batted, the way they were able to put partnerships together both with bat and ball, the bat in the second innings with Kraigg and the number three (Hetmyer) and four (Hope) … It can turn pretty quickly in Test cricket.” West Indies will be without their captain, all-rounder Jason Holder, for the second Test after he was suspended Tuesday by the International Cricket Council for his second over-rate offence in 12 months. Under ICC regulations, the Windies were adjudged to be three overs short of their specified target during the first Test at the Basin Reserve. Each player was fined 30 per cent of his match fee while Holder, as captain, was fined double the amount and slapped with a one-game suspension.

Bolt not worried over Carter case

CAS will disclose its judgement on Nesta Carter early in the new year.

USAIN Bolt is paying cursory attention to the drug case involving Nesta Carter, though it has implications for the gold medal from the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games he had to return. Carter tested positive for Methylhexanamine during a re-test of the samples from the Beijing Olympics, meaning the gold medal he won as part of Jamaica’s 4x100-metre team was revoked. That team was made up of Bolt, Carter, Michael Frater, Asafa Powell, and Dwight Thomas. Carter took his case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in November, where he argued the drug was not on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s prohibited list in 2008. The court will disclose its judgement early in the new year. “I can’t really stress. I haven’t really been following it (Carter’s hearing). I am

just waiting on the time for them (CAS) to say what is what,” said Bolt. According to Bolt, his performances have not been questioned and he is a satisfied man, only looking forward to what’s next. “I am just focusing on which direction I want my career to go. I have already done it. Yes, the medal is gone, but I already performed, and I’m now just trying to figure out what I want to do with the rest of my career, and when they decide, they decide,” Bolt said. “It was all worth it. The losses, the injuries - everything I’ve been through - it’s all worth it. It’s a wonderful thing to look back and see what your career has brought you. I’m very happy and proud of myself for the work. It’s just a good time and I am in a good place,” he added. (Sportsmax.com)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

Jaguars to exploit Volcanoes ‘weakness’, says Johnson … Sixth round Regional 4-Day bowls off today

By Rajiv Bisnauth The Guyana Jaguars will be aiming to exploit some of the chinks in the visiting Windward Islands Volcanoes’ armour when the two teams meet in the sixth round of Cricket West Indies (CWI) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Four-day game from today at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. The three-times defending champions have been virtually flawless in the tournament, winning four of their five matches so far, to sit comfortably on top with 86.4 points. On the other hand, the Volcanoes sit at the bottom of the points table on 21 points. However, captain Leon Johnson has urged his team-mates to seize the moment and capitalise on visitors’ vulnerability. “We are very confident heading into tomorrow’s (to-

day) clash … obviously coming off a good win against Barbados Pride. We played excellent cricket during the

Islands (Volcanoes) have been struggling somewhat … so we will be looking to exploit their weakness,” John-

Head coach Esaun Crandon going through some catching practice with Chanderpaul Hemraj and Tagenarine Chanderpaul. (Samuel Maughn photo)

first half of the season, and we are just looking to continue down that road, but having said that, the Windward

son said during an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport yesterday. The Jaguars have been the

CWI medical panel hit by two other resignations … Chairman Dr Donovan Bennett along with Dr Renee Best quits KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Cricket West Indies’ medical panel has been struck by two further resignations, including that of chairman Dr Donovan Bennett.

in carrying out our responsibilities. I don’t think we got the type of support or respect that was due to voluntary professional people,” Bennett told the Observer, without going into specifics.

Dr Donovan Bennett has quit the CWI medical panel.

The Observer newspaper here reported yesterday that Bennett and Dr Renee Best had both stepped down, following in the footsteps of Dr Akshai Mansingh who resigned as chief medical officer last month, citing an untenable relationship with the CWI board. Bennett, who had previously warned that more resignations were likely to follow Mansingh’s, said he had also found difficulties in properly discharging his duties. “It (the resignation) has to do with some difficulties

most dominant team in the history of the Franchise cricket, winning 32 of the 35 games they played to date.

“It’s the appropriate move to make to give the president (Dave Cameron) room for him to have the type of panel that he is comfortable with.” A frayed relationship has existed between CWI and the medical panel for some while, stemming from differences with the board. At the time of his resignation, Mansingh said obstructions had increasingly been put in the panel’s way, preventing it from functioning properly. He had also indicated that enough input was being

garnered from medical personnel in arriving at decisions. Bennett, a Jamaican Cricket Association vice-president and CWI director, said his relationship with Cameron remained “cordial”. “I wouldn’t say the relationship with the president is great, but I would say that it is quite good and cordial,” Bennett explained. “Having said that, when you have professional people working for you, you should basically respect their professional ability and allow them to do the job you ask them to do. “I don’t have any bitter feelings. I’m still hoping one day to be able to serve West Indies cricket. There’s a vacuum now, I hope they can fill it. I’m even prepared to help in whatever way I can until they reconstitute a panel.” Dr Anyyl Goopesingh is the last remaining medical doctor on the panel which also comprises West Indies team physio CJ Clark; strength and fitness coordinator Ronald Rogers; CWI chief executive Johnny Grave; COO, Verlyn Faustin; and Director of Cricket Jimmy Adams.

They surely start today’s contest as firm favourites and with home advantage, the visitors are definitely up for a

tough battle. “It will be nice to get a win since we are 25 points ahead, and a victory here will put us way ahead on the table … Providence has been good to us over the years so we just have to continue to do well here,” said the 30-year-old. Meanwhile, Windward Islands Volcanoes head coach Andre Coley says the visitors are bracing for a strong challenge from a dominant Guyana Jaguars unit but will be going all out to play tough cricket. He pointed out that, while his side are expecting a tough battle, they would be looking to execute their game plan clinically. Play starts at 09:30hrs and admission into the venue is free. The other sixth round fixture will see Jamaica Scorpions host Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at Sabina Park while Leeward Islands

Hurricanes play Barbados Pride at Warner Park. Meanwhile, the Jaguars have named an unchanged 13man squad for the key sixth round clash. Guyana Jaguars squad reads: Leon Johnson (captain), Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Vishaul Singh, Anthony Bramble, Keemo Paul, Akshaya Persaud, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Veerasammy Permaul, Gudakesh Motie and Keon Joseph. Windward Islands Volcanoes squad reads: Tyron Theophile (captain), Taryck Gabriel, Miles Bascombe, Shermon Lewis, Delorn Johnson, Kyle Mayers, Roland Cato, Shane Shillingford, Audy Alexander, Devon Smith, Donwell Hector, Dennis Smith and Kenneth Dember.

Archery Guyana represented at the BOA Independence Invitational Games 2017

Archery Guyana’s Dwayne Grovesnor (first from left) in action in Barbados

ON the weekend of November 25-26, over 20 archers from across the Caribbean gathered in Barbados for the 2nd Annual Barbados Olympic Association’s Independence Invitational Games. The tournament was hosted by the Barbados Olympic Association (BOA) in association with national sporting federations to commemorate Barbados’ 50th Anniversary of Independence at two different locations: Coverlet Terrace, Bridgetown, and Codrington College, St. John, Barbados. Teams competing were from Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Martinique, Guadeloupe and Guyana. Guyana was represented in its first regional Archery tournament by Archery Guyana’s member Dwayne Grovesnor.

Competitors shot over 3 000 arrows throughout the event, in both Recurve and Compound men’s and women’s categories. The tournament commenced with 12 rounds consisting of 6 arrows in each round during heavy rainfall and the unpredictable wind conditions. At the end of the first day, Guyana’s Grovesnor and Trinidadian Lallo were the only two not securing a bye thereby having to compete against each other. Their set wound up to a score of five-all which then called for an exciting one-arrow shoot-off. Guyana shot a nine which meant that Trinidad needed a 10 to take their specific match but luckily for Guyana, they did not secure this so Guyana moved forward to face Martinique. Unfortunately, however,

Guyana’s Grovesnor was unable to secure a win against Martinique to join Trinidad in the finals. Martinique won 6-0, with scores of 24, 24 and 25 as compared to Guyana’s 7, 12 and 23. The exciting Final was between Trinidad & Tobago and Martinique, while Guyana faced Barbados in the third-place game. Guyana started off leading in the first set but the Bajans came back to tie at two. After a cat-and-mouse game, with scores being levelled after every round, the scores reached 4. Regrettably, in the final set Barbados took the set and therefore won the bronze medal by one point. Martinique emerged the gold medallists as they thrashed Trinidad and Tobago 6-0.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 7, 2017

It would be a shame for Guyana to miss the Caribbean Boxing Championships – ‘Shakes’ DAVID Christopher, president of the St Lucia Boxing Association, said Guyana missing the December 13-16 Caribbean Boxing Championship will be a shame and a big blow to boxing in the Caribbean. Christopher, more popularly known as Shakes, was at the time speaking exclusively to Chronicle Sport, after a report was published that the Steven Ninvalle-led Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) could miss the third staging of the tournament due to the lack of funding. The financially-strapped GBA is seeking to raise $3.5M to send a 13-member team to defend their Caribbean Championship title they retained in Barbados last year, after winning the inaugural championship in Guyana in 2015. The St Lucian Boxing Association boss considers Guyana the ‘backbone’ of

boxing in the region, stating, “Guyana is the team everyone wants to see. It would be disappointing if the team that won 10 of the 11

gold medals last year should miss this year. There must be something the Government of Guyana and those in charge could do to get that team

David ‘Shakes’ Christopher

here.” “Imagine, the Cayman Islands are confirmed, Barbados, Bermuda and those countries will be coming and Guyana are a high doubt for this event? That doesn’t sound good because everyone knows, Guyana has some of the best fighters in the Caribbean,” said Christopher, who also happens to be Guyanese. Shakes said if Guyana should miss the tournament it will not be a blow not

only for them as hosts, but to boxing in the Caribbean. The tournament started in Guyana and Guyana’s attendance was more than important to help in the development of the sport in the Caribbean. Guyanese fighters will bring out the best in the others, so if they miss this year, it will be a shame. Christopher said his sentiments are echoed by other regional boxing associations’ heads who all would love to

see the Land of Many Waters in St Lucia. The 13-member team of boxers will be spearheaded by Keevin Allicock and Colin Lewis, who both won gold medals at the last Caribbean Development Tournament (now Caribbean Championship), with Allicock going on to win a silver medal at the Youth Commonwealth Games in The Bahamas earlier this year.

It would be a shame for Guyana to miss the Caribbean Boxing Championships – ‘Shakes’

Athletes support and infrastructure to be hallmark for Minister Norton in 2018 By Rawle Toney

MINISTER Dr George Norton yesterday said the $520M allocated for sports in the 2018 Budget, will help to create a cohesive society, while touting athletes and infrastructural development, as well as coaches’ education and support for national sport teams. In his over 35-minute presentation, the Minister of Social Cohesion who also holds the

portfolio for Sport, spoke passionately as he highlighted the vital role of sports in today’s society, while adding how proud he is of Guyana’s achievement in sports since the change of Government in 2015. Norton mentioned the achievement in the field of athletics alone. “Guyana now stands out as a proud nation, not only in the Caribbean but in all of South America. “For the first time, Guyana hosted the South American Ju-

nior Under-20 Championship in June of this year and Guyana gained, for the first time, 25 medals, including 3 gold, 10 silver and 12 bronze medals but that, not being a flash in the pond, we also participated in the CARIFTA Games held in Curacao in April where with 5 athletes, we got 4 gold, 1 silver and 3 bronze medals. “The icing on the cake was the feat of Daniel Williams from Linden, who copped a silver medal in the world U-18 Cham-

IOC stops payments to boxing federation AIBA

pionship in Nairobi, Kenya and in the South American Senior, Winston George won a gold medal in the 400 metres. “Only recently in the South American Youth Games in Chile, we had young rising female star, Deshanna Skeete winning gold in the 400 metres, also from Linden and Jermaine King from Cumberland, Canje placing second in the 200 metres and Kenisha Phillips gaining silver medals in both the 100 and 200 metres,” said Norton. In 2017, Dr Norton noted the Ministry moved to enhance a number of grounds for rec-

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Minister of Social Cohesion Dr George Norton during his presentation in the National Assembly yesterday. (Adrian Narine photo)

Heated battles expected for GT Motorsports Grand Prix Finale See Page 22

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach arrives for an Executive Board meeting in Pully near Lausanne, Switzerland December 6, 2017. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse By Karolos Grohmann Wu, an IOC member, was are still questions open with replaced by interim chief Fran- regard to judging, refereeing LAUSANNE, Switzerland, co Falcinelli and the federation and anti-doping and therefore (Reuters) - The International will convene an extraordinary we have asked AIBA for a full Olympic Committee (IOC) on congress with its national mem- report by the end of January.” Wednesday said it would not ber federations on Jan. 27 in Bach said he wanted to see make any payments to the in- Dubai to consider proposed what measures AIBA would ternational boxing federation changes to its governance. take to tackle the problems AIBA until problems over “The IOC executive board that have tarnished the fedgovernance and finances are has major concerns with re- eration. Wu remains an IOC sorted out. gard to the situation within member as his membership to IBA has been riven with AIBA in different aspects,” the Olympic body does not dein-fighting for months, with IOC President Thomas Bach pend on the AIBA presidency. former president CK Wu first told reporters. “We want to see the meaprovisionally suspended and “There is the governance is- sures AIBA is taking to address then stepping down in Novem- sues, there is the fact that finan- these issues. Until things will ber after a bitter dispute with his cial statements have not been Turn to page 22 executive committee. made fully transparent, there

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Jamaica’s Collin Daley will be a part of shifter cup action at the Georgetown Grand Prix Finale.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2017