Guyana chronicle e paper 01 03 2018

Baby dies after left home alone Page 19

No. 105143

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2018

Price: $80

Big cocaine bust in Waini River (VAT Inclusive)

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…10 arrested, large amount of foreign currency seized

Minibus driver takes watery shortcut

Sandra Adams passes away Cops accused of raping woman at station Page 10

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A ROUTE 48 minibus bearing the number plate BSS 9594 careened into the trench parallel to Vlissingen Road on Tuesday night.

The accident occurred at around 19:15 hours. Eyewitnesses told the Guyana Chronicle that the driver of the minibus was speeding south along Vlissingen Road when he lost control of the vehicle in the vicinity of KFC. The driver escaped unharmed. There were no passengers in the vehicle at the time of the accident. Only recently another minibus had plunged into the said canal. A man died in that accident. (Photo by Adrian Narine)

‘I’m ready for the job’ … new crime chief says upbringing prepared him for role

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Gov’t expects UN decision on ICJ soon -Foreign Ministry

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Gov’t expects UN decision on ICJ soon-Foreign Ministry

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it looks forward to sharing more information on the path ahead with respect to the Guyana –Venezuela border controversy once it receives the decision of the UN Secretary-General (SG), which is expected shortly.

The ministry made the comments in a statement reacting to a Stabroek News editorial of December 31, 2017 titled ’Border Controversy.’

President David Granger in his New Year message also noted that his administration had signalled in the year 2016, that the year 2017 would be spent in setting the settlement of the unlawful and unreasonable claims to our country’s territory on a definite course. He noted that the United Nations Secretary-General

this year is expected to discharge his commitment to setting that course in a manner consistent with justice and international law. “We shall continue to defend every ‘blade of grass’ of our homeland.

We shall never cede a centimetre of territory or compromise a tittle of sovereignty.”

Back in September 2017, President Granger had met Secretary-General, António Guterres for an update on the progress that has been made by his Personal Representative, Dag Halvor Nylander, who is mediating the matter. Former UN SG Ban Ki-moon and Mr. Guterres, in keeping with the tenets of the 1966 Geneva Agreement, had agreed that if by the end of December 2017, significant progress had not been made towards arriving at

a full agreement for the settlement of the controversy, the ICJ will be the next means of peaceful settlement, unless Guyana and Venezuela jointly request otherwise.

Meanwhile, the ministry observed that the Stabroek News editorial sought to remind readers of the challenges posed by an impending decision by the United Nations Secretary- General. “The paper anticipates an early choice by the secretary-general regarding a means of peacefully resolving the controversy arising from Venezuela’s contention that the 1899 Arbitral Award is null and void. The editor suggests that Guyanese are awaiting the ‘big news’ with bated breath. And well they might, for this is a very important decision with the potential to put

Guyana on a path that will enable us to attract investments -- local and foreign -- in quantities significant enough to permit the exploitation of our natural resources – not just our oil -- so as to have a dramatic impact on our economic and social well-being in the near and foreseeable future,” the ministry said.

The ministry added that the Stabroek News has, over the years, demonstrated that it is one of the few agencies, outside of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with a clear grasp of the intricacies of the issues surrounding this controversy and one is often forced to admire the quality of the analysis and deftness of language employed in their pieces.

“It also recognises that the list of options available to the UN Secretary-General includes referral to

the ICJ, the inclusion of which was approved by Venezuela in 1966. Contrary to a recent suggestion by a rival newspaper, the UN Secretary-General does have the power to refer this matter to the ICJ. What is more, his letter of December 16th explicitly acknowledges this. That referral does not require Venezuela’s approval beyond that given in the Geneva Agreement of 1966 and acknowledged by their then representative.”

The ministry said the paper is right in calling for more information for the people of Guyana. “We have involved the opposition in our preparations during this final year of a Good Offices process with an enhanced mediation mandate, but rules of confidentiality have bound us beyond that to this stage.

2017 is over.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs looks forward to sharing more widely the path ahead once we have received the decision of the UN Secretary-General, which we expect shortly.”

Dead: Aslam Baksh

proceeding south along the eastern carriageway of the public road when the other motorcar, HB 4105, which was proceeding in the opposite direction allegedly drove into his path, resulting in the collision.

Police reports indicate that as a result of the impact, the driver of HB 4105, 42-year-old Vijay Bidoor, of Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara and occupants of the vehicle – identified as Amanda Rickyram, 28, of Unity Street, La Grange,WBD; Gobin Dannyram, 29, of 225 Goed Fortuin,WBD; Diana Chand,19, of

Cemetery Road, Georgetown and the now dead Aslam Baksh, 24, of La Grange Old Road,WBD- were rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH).

They were subsequently transferred to the GPH. The driver of HC 7477 who was identified as a 24-year-old La Grange, WBD, resident is presently in police custody, assisting with investigations.

According to the dead man’s father Kadir Baksh, he is a father of five and his only son is now gone and will be buried Wednesday after the postmortem is done.

Man killed New Year's morning … four others injured in two-vehicle collision

A 24-YEAR-OLD man is now dead following a two-vehicle collision involving two hire cars on the Meer-Zorgen Public Road, West Bank Demerara (WBD) during the wee hours of Monday morning, which has left four other

persons hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Dead is Aslam Baksh of La Grange Old Road, West Bank Demerara. He worked as a wash bay attendant in La Grange and was returning home when the accident

occurred. According to police, the accident occurred at around 02:15hrs on Monday and Baksh succumbed to his injuries at around 13:45hrs, the same day.

The driver of the motorcar, HC 7477- who was involved in the accident was

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge

‘I’m ready for the job’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

… new crime chief says upbringing prepared him for role

…but concerned about info leak during investigations

By Lisa Hamilton COMPROMISED investigations due to premature leaking of information is just one of the challenges new crime chief Paul Williams has to grapple with, but he says he is sufficiently prepared for the job and is ready to employ all the skills he has acquired over the years to turn around the force’s criminal investigation arm.

Williams is now settling into his new role, having been pulled from ‘B’ Division late last year where he was serving as commander to take over from Wendell Blanhum. Blanhum’s career at the Criminal Investigation Department had come under scrutiny owing to his role in the investigation of the alleged plot to assassinate the President. He has since been shifted to ‘A’ Division as the second-in-command.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Williams related that even before he was accepted into the Guyana Police Force (GPF) approximately 30 years ago, as a youngster he always felt drawn to a life of service for his country.

Today, Williams looks back at his journey which began in 1987 when he was enlisted within the Traffic Department at the Brickdam office; a long way from his current position as crime chief.

Born in 1969 at the Georgetown Public Hospital, Williams describes his childhood experience as a “poor and humble upbringing” within a devoted Christian home. His mother, like many other Guyanese can relate to, was a “staunch Christian” and as such, he grew up in the church where he developed a relationship with and a respect for God. The crime chief told the Guyana Chronicle that his upbringing and religious mindset is what led him to develop a positive outlook on life and the many challenges that come along.

“With that type of thinking, I know that, definitely, everything takes time,” Williams said, “That [upbringing] would have made me committed and understand that nothing is impossible, all you have to do is dedicate yourself and stay focused.”

STAYING FOCUSED Staying focused is indeed on the top of the chief’s agenda as he is presently reading for a Masters in Criminal Justice and Executive Leadership, while in 2006 he expended similar efforts to complete his Bachelor of Laws at the University of Guyana.

New Crime Chief Paul Williams Throughout the years he also attained a Diploma in Public Management, a post-graduate certificate in Legislative Drafting and Certificate in Industrial Relations and Social Studies between 1992 and 2008, at both local and international institutions.

However, before he was hitting the books, he was hitting the tracks. During his high school years, Williams became well-known for his active performance as a national athlete, competing at the secondary school level and, perhaps, it was the period when his outgoing personality was cemented.

When Williams left school, a large portion of him looked forward to joining the GPF. However, his age presented a problem,“Because of my age at that time I could not have come on board immediately after school, so I went to the Guyana Post Office Corporation and I worked there for six months, allowing myself to mature…” Williams explained.

“When those six months were attained, I left the post office work and I wrote my exams in the Guyana Police Force in January 1987 and I was successful.” In February of that year, Williams joined the GPF as an apprentice.

He was eventually sent to the Guyana National Service -- Joint Services Recruits Orientation Course (JSROC) -- to be trained and subsequently sworn in as a policeman on October 7.

DETERMINATION THROUGH DIFFICULTY

As the years went by, Williams moved up the ladder serving in Divisions ‘B’, ‘C’, and ‘G’ in various roles such as the acting force training officer, deputy commander, commander and in 2017 as assistant commissioner law enforcement.

Throughout his progressions, the crime chief notes that it took a strong sense of determination and commitment for him to remain focused and on track. “My movement from a constable to assistant commissioner of the Guyana Police Force, it wasn’t easy, it was very challenging,” Williams told the newspaper, adding: “I met very wonderful and very supportive supervisors but on the other side, I met some who were very tough, very inconsiderate at times, who made certain decisions that really impacted my life.”

These circumstances nonetheless did not daunt Williams. Instead, he says, he decided to use them as building blocks to improve himself. “It never made me want to quit. It started to drive my interest much more and more to realise that definitely, I am to be committed.

“I think that is one of the things that helped me to become a very outstanding officer.

Because after I realised that so many persons were there giving me a hard time and tough time, I realised that definitely I have to do everything right, I have to be circumspect,” Williams recounted.

SERVANT-LEADER In striving to be vigilant, the crime chief describes the leadership style he developed as participative and one which looks out for the well-being of his team.

“I have an open-door policy for both members of the public and my staff.

Whatever problem is there we deal with it as a team from a team perspective,” Williams told the Guyana Chronicle.

He added that as long as the individual possesses the necessary experience and knowledge to make a valuable input, “I bring them from around the country, we sit, we deliberate and we discuss.”

“I am a servant-leader, I reach out to all my staff from the lower rank to the higher rank; in everything during my engagement with them, my utmost concern is about how they feel, if they’re comfortable and if they’re alright. “And I know once they’re within that same good stead and positive thinking, I’m going to get a lot out of them.”

Police-Community Relationship

Like any other organisation however, Williams faces challenges. Performance levels, insufficient resources and compromised investigations due to prematurely leaked information are just some of the complications.

In addition to these, the relations the GPF shares with the public is one which the crime chief hopes will improve to a standard of “second to none.” Williams says that when it comes to this relationship, oftentimes it feels as if the force takes one step forward and two backwards, when ‘bad apples’ cause the public to have a negative view of the entire police force.

“I want to tell the public that despite they may be seeing certain negative or bad things about the police, it’s not good for them to lose that confidence,” Williams said, adding: “There are many more good people than the bad ones that they’re seeing out there.”

The chief told of his love of interacting with community members and his personal interest in seeing the two parties forging a better and positive relationship. “Their support is what is critical to the success of the Guyana Police Force. This force is to serve the nation and as a result of that, the people out there can make this force what they want it be.”

Williams further encouraged the public to stand firmly and be willing to report and point out members of the police force whom they observe are not doing the right things. “There are persons who come to join the force, their backgrounds clean, there’s nothing known about them criminal in their record, but then you out there, you know something about them. Say what you know. Even if they’re already in uniform, you say what you know about them,” the chief encouraged.

Throughout his life, Williams has travelled across the world to participate in various forums, conferences and training courses, on matters of explosives and conflict resolution to interviewing and investigation skills. For 24 years, Williams has been married and is the father of four.

He considers himself to be an optimistic individual who wants to leave behind a favourable legacy and as such, he imparts these words of advice: “Be humble, patient, show respect to your superiors and persons placed in authority over you, because, at the end of the day, sometime you’ll be looking to meet to the top,” he counselled, adding: “Those lessons help me to understand people and what it is to strive to be a better officer.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

GPL records decrease in revenue collection -- promises better service this year

DESITE recording a revenue collection decrease in 2017, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has promised better service this year.

And the Power Producers and Distributors Incorporation (PPDI) believes that it can support GPL with quality and ample power.

GPL Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) Elwyn Marshall and PPDI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Arron Fraser expressed the optimism at a year-end press conference on December 28.

“Despite numerous challenges, GPL has managed to perform creditable in 2017 and credit must be given to the hard-working staff, especially those in the transmission and distribution sections who have been forced

company charges the utility company a fixed rate of US$16.87 per megawatt of electricity as compared to Wärtsila’s proposed US$20.51 for 2017.

Asked whether the decision to take over management of the engines from Wärtsila was a good one, Fraser responded in the affirmative.

In addition, Fraser said despite charging less, the company was still able to achieve its projected targets, and as a result, all planned major engine overhauls were completed.

However, Fraser said though PPDI has recorded notable successes, it continues to face major challenges. Some of these include convincing the public that quality of service would not be affected; understanding the dynamics of the supply chain; and transition from private to public corporation way of working and growth.

The company will be addressing these challenges, he said as it seeks to improve its image in 2018.

Some of PPDI’s major activities for 2018 include 10 planned major engine overhauls; major rehabilitation of plant auxiliary equipment; the implementation of International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 9000; and cross plant training with regional utilities by utilising clean technology.

PPDI Chief Executive Officer Arron Fraser

GPL Deputy Chief Executive Officer Elwyn Marshall

to work under extremely adverse conditions… there has still been no noticeable improvement in our customer relations efforts,” said

DATE: Saturday, December 30, 2017

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Marshall.

According to Marshall, the company’s revenue collection rate slipped from 103.7 per cent in 2016 to 93.9 per cent in 2017.

Although the reason for the reduction was not stated, statistics showed that GPL recorded a net revenue of $28,456,224,000 ($28.4B) last year as opposed to $29,088,181,000 ($29M) in 2016.

Marshal said despite the odds, GPL was able to expand its network to provide

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electricity to areas such as Yarrowkabra, Den Heuval Housing Scheme, New Savannah Housing Scheme and Friendship Squatting Area.

PPDI generated 596,000 megawatts of electricity for last year and most of these projects are powered by this company.

PPDI, which is a fairly new company, replaced former producers Wärtsila early last year, and within that year GPL was able to save US$2.1 million.

The power producing

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

77 flee from Brazil jail during riot Police in Brazil say 77 inmates are on the run after escaping amid a riot at a jail in the central state of Goias.

The authorities say nine prisoners were killed and 14 injured when a group of armed inmates invaded a wing controlled by a rival gang. One of the victims was decapitated. Police say they have regained control of the jail and recaptured 29 of the 106 prisoners who escaped.

Riots are common in Brazilian prisons, which are notoriously overcrowded.

Warring factions Brazil has one of the largest prison populations in the world. The country’s jails are largely controlled by power-

ful criminal factions with access to drugs, mobile phones and weapons. A report by judicial authorities in 2016 described security at the rural penitentiary on the outskirts of the state capital, Goiania, as “bad”.

According to the report, the prison - part of a larger complex - was built to house 122 inmates, but at one point it held 423 inmates.

Brazil prison riots: What’s the cause?

The riot began in the afternoon of New Year’s Day when armed members of one criminal gang invaded a prison wing housing a rival gang, setting mattresses alight and firing weapons.

Riot police said they had

quickly suppressed the riot, but not before 106 prisoners had escaped after breaking

down part of the prison’s perimeter wall.

‘Five agents on duty’

“It was a clash between prisoners and it is all under control now,” said Lieu-

Several prisoners were re-arrested a few hours after the riot

tenant-Colonel Hrillner Braga Ananias. Worried relatives gathered outside the compound in Aparecida de Goiania. “My brother is inside and I don’t have any information about him,” Luana Cristina told O Popular newspaper. “No-one tells us anything. No-one tells us who is dead, who is alive, who was shot,” she added. Jorimar Bastos, the head of Aspego, the state of Goias prison wardens’ association, told Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper that only five prison officers were on duty on New Year’s Day. They were in charge of some 900 inmates across the whole complex, he said.

(BBC)

Scores attend wake for Gregory Lewis aka ‘Peppers’

SEVERAL joined relatives and friends of Gregory Lewis aka ‘Peppers’, proprietor of the Water Chris Hotel and Restaurant, on Waterloo Street, Tuesday night for a wake.

Among those at the gathering were Minister of State Joseph Harmon, Minister of

Citizenship, Winston Felix and many other prominent officials.

Lewis, who died on December 23, will be laid to rest today. His body can be viewed at the Lyken Funeral Home from 1pm after which a funeral service will take place at the Sacred Heart

Church on Main Street, Georgetown from 2pm. He was 64 years old at the time of his death.

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Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

An idea can spark the nation’s transformation THE idea of the government moving the country in the direction of establishing a green state is commendable since it presents opportunities to address deficiencies in the society.

To achieve this national planning will have to be underpinned by strong regional planning guided by the requisite census that would inform resources allocation. The Statistical Bureau plays an important role in this regard and it cannot be understated the importance of it being staffed with the competent skills.

Where there may exist strong views that the achievement of goals necessitates significant funding, thereby justifying deferral, the truth is some things can be addressed with limited resources yet still achieve transformative results. One such is our physical environment. The importance of tackling this as a matter of urgency is seen daily in our most densely populated

areas which continue to be a challenge.

As governments and world bodies are placing premium on health and wellness as critical in human development, emphasis needs to be placed on our physical environment for it impacts in significant and un-recognised manner. An unhealthy environment adversely impacts health, the air we breathe and poses threats to our wellness through various risks such as communicable diseases and injuries.

It may be opportune for Guyana to commence a programme of cleaning and maintaining all embankments and streets between Crabwook Creek, Corentyne and Charity, Essequibo Coast; the East Bank of Demerara to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri and Soesdyke to Linden. Using these areas as a pilot project would signal the country’s commitment to improving its human development. Much benefit can be derived from such

a programme since it can ensure continuous removal of solid waste, maintaining of the canals and channels which allow for freeing of the waterways and avoiding flooding. An investment of this nature could also realise not only a decorative planting programme but fruit trees which would result in increased production of fresh juices and other by-products, replacing the canned produce, and minimising the use of foreign currency.

Such a project could also shape Government’s intent in re-activating the village economy for it creates employment and other economic activities.

The Neighbourhood Democratic Councils could be encouraged to develop with Indigenous programmes to maintain the embankment and parapets in their communities, via by-laws with an eye at the same time of economically utilising the respective space. Jobs in this area are labour intensive and low skilled but such should

not be seen as a deterrence given the presentation of opportunities to earn. The cultivation and ensurance of pride in earning one’s money as against the syndrome of having to depend on others to provide should never be underestimated. Dependency undermines pride and retards self-determination, and where for years some out of necessity felt compelled to rely on the benevolence of others such ought not to become a cultural norm or deemed acceptable.

None can deny that travelling across Guyana there are areas pleasing to the sight and some worthy to be frowned on and condemned, and it is worse during the rainy season. However, what is woefully lacking is a universal strategy of maintaining the physical environment unlike other societies we have come to appreciate.

Pockets of attractiveness are far and too few apart, including within so-called upscale neighbourhoods.

Guyana needs a culture shift

in thinking and behaviour.

This may require laws and public education, but the time is past nigh where the cultivation of national pride should be exemplified in every sphere. Improving the physical environment should not only be confined to lawns, embankments and parapets but to correcting the appearances of buildings, lamps and telephone posts and cables. For instance, where government independently or in partisanship with communities and businesses sets the tone, home and business owners will be inspired and motivated to keep their surroundings attractive. Creating competition and neighbourhood associations can form incentives for setting and maintaining behavioural changes.

Government could partner with the utility companies in an advisory role to

ensure the physical appearance of poles and lines confirm to established acceptable standards. There’s no denying the appearances are unacceptable, evident with leaning poles, sometimes even into the roadways.

Wires are looping in an unsightly manner, including on buildings and trees. Corporate responsibility could attend to these hazards and threats.

As simple or taken for granted this project may sound, should it be implemented the physical transformation of this country would be impressive. In many instances, all that development requires is an idea and the will to make it happen. Not at all times does the development require significant up-front funding, though at all times it requires the will to implement and maintain.

THE alarm surrounding the stability clause in the petroleum agreement is unwarranted Dear Editor, I BEG to differ with Christopher Ram in his negative depiction of the Stability of Agreement clause in the Petroleum Agreement as “[s] trangling future governments” (Part 29 of his “The road to first oil” series). His statement prompted a hyped headline in the Kaieteur News of December 31.

A stabilisation clause is commonly inserted in contracts between investors and host nations to protect investors from future changes in the law that affect the economics of the project. Article 32 of the Petroleum Agreement captures this intention by stating, at its most extreme, that should our government either amend ex-

isting laws, enact new laws, or vary the interpretation and implementation of existing laws, it must ensure by “whatever means necessary” that the oil company suffers no economic loss. The agreement lists the hydrocarbon law, the tax and customs codes as examples of such laws. But in international practice, the laws mostly targeted also include those on labour, the environment, and health and safety. Whatever means necessary can range from exempting the company from the legislation changes, or financially compensating it for the cost of complying with the changes.

Is a stabilisation clause a good or bad thing for the country? To answer in a structured manner, I suggest we set down

a few assessment criteria. At minimum, four possible criteria for judging Article 32 or any other concession are (i) the objective of the concession; (ii) how necessary is the concession for attracting investors by creating a favourable investment climate; (iii) how widely–used worldwide is the concession in contracts between investors and host nations; and (iv) how costly is the jeopardy, if any, to the country.

We can address criteria (i), (ii) and (iii) together. Stabilisation clauses between foreign investors and host states have been around for donkey years.

They became standard diet from the 60s and 70s, as companies tried to protect their investments from nationalisation, expropriation, and other opportunistic

actions by governments. The longer the project life and the greater the sunken cost of the project, the more vulnerable the investor. Therefore, the greater the demand by an investor for a stability agreement.

Of additional significance, global investment banks, insurers, and company boards and shareholders now insist on a stability agreement as a condition for project approval. Developing countries on all continents, in the fierce competition to attract foreign investment (and probably to bury their nationalisation instinct for good), now offer stability agreements of their own free will.

Article 32 in the Petroleum Agreement (even as a fullblown version of such clauses) should therefore come as no

surprise, given the billions of dollars the Esso consortium has already ploughed into the Stabroek Block and the estimated decades-long life of the project.

The surprise would have been if it were missing.

But how costly is any likely jeopardy to the country of Article 32 (my criterion iv)? As the investor must comply with most existing laws, one can easily see in a general sense that the fewer and weaker those laws are, the greater the problem with exempting the investor from, or compensating it for complying with, emerging laws.

In Guyana’s case, I do not anticipate that Article 32 will create much future remorse because (i) laws here on critical matters, such as human

rights, labour, the environment, and health and safety are already in place and relatively robust, (ii) most of the country’s laws are already in compliance with international conventions—a fact that speaks to a main criticism of stability agreements as an obstacle for countries meeting their international obligations such as on human rights, and (iii) no government with mettle would allow any foreign investor to hide behind a stability agreement to avoid complying with a new law, especially one of general application, reasonably required for the good of its citizens.

Regards SHERWOOD LOWE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

2017 was yet another successful year for Region 5 Dear Editor, FIRST of all, let me take this opportunity in extending New Year greetings to the management and staff of your newspaper. I wish that in 2018 the good works will continue as to provide this nation with accurate news and views of the people.

I will like to bring to the attention of the readers and residents of Region Five, the many positives that took place in the year 2017. As we all know that the RDC was on a standstill for several months due to the unprofessional manner of the ‘PPP regional chairman’ by refusing to carry out investigations, whereby an NDIA excavator was misused in 2017 at Bath Settlement by PPP NDC officials and also the hiding of letters from the RDC pertaining to the housing rebate in 2016.

While during that time the PPP cried that there was a standstill in works within the region, works were actually ongoing at a tremendous pace.

Region Five in 2017 under

the watch of Mr. Ovid Morrison, who is the REO, did exceptionally well in ensuring that there was progress in all sectors across the region although the RDC statutory meetings since April 2017 wasn’t happening due to the ‘PPP chairman’.

I must congratulate Mr. Morrison for his professionalism and work ethics that he has shown to the workers of the region, the RDC councillors and also the public. This man is truly for the people and wants to see development within the region. He has ensured that all the workers are being treated and heard fairly. His interaction with the staff of the RDC and the public is being admired by all and that is one of the reasons why Region Five is once again on the road to major development in 2018.

In 2017, the regional administration must be commended for works in all sectors, be it in education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, etc. The region has seen vast improvements in road networks within villages and other facilities that bene-

fitted the people of the various communities. In the health sector, there have been tremendous improvements. Hospitals and health centres have seen major improvements-be it in staff, drugs, facilities, etc. There have been improvements in patient care at the health facilities and moreover better health services.

Several awareness programmes were kept so that the public can be health conscious and know the effects.

In 2017, the Health Department added two more new health centres that are being considered as smart facilities at No.3 Village, West Coast Berbice and at High Dam Mahaicony.

Both of the health centres are expected to be commissioned in early 2018.

I must commend the health department for the vision and also all the staff for putting lots of efforts into ensuring Region Five has better health services.

I know that in 2018 there will be more positives from this sector.

In the education sector, there have been lots of enhancements.

We saw the upgrade of school

facilities. Better teaching services in the various schools, be it nursery, primary or secondary.

The region’s children benefitted from several outdoor educational programmes, debates and work studies.

The schools’ welfare department has done a fantastic job once again in 2017 by ensuring that children go to school and after school, they quickly get home because the welfare officers are on the road. There have been fewer children liming on the roadways since. There were several programmes that benefitted the teachers, children and public during education month 2017. There are lots more happening but I will not go further.

The education department did not end their work there in 2017. As I have said in 2016 and would like to repeat in 2017, what could not have been achieved in the past decades under the PPP has been achieved by the department. It will soon be a reality for the children in Perth Village and surrounding areas, as works are ongoing for

a brand new nursery school in the area.

Allow me to say thanks to all the staff within the Department of Education Region Five for a job well done towards improving the education sector.

I know that 2018 will be better for our children and teachers under the department work programme. We saw works being done to great satisfaction throughout the region. It is being well monitored and I can clearly say, we are having value for money. Several village roads and bridges were constructed and some rehabilitated to the satisfaction of the villagers.

I must commend the Regional Engineer, Mr. Sukha and team for a job well done during 2017 and do look forward to more and greater success in 2018. The agriculture sector has seen vast improvements. We all know that Region Five is a heavy agricultural area. Works have been done to improve the lives of the people in all the sectors.

Works on drains and canals have been high on the agenda

so as to avoid major flooding in the region and also to get water to both the cash crop and rice farmers. Outreaches were done with organisations such as NAREI and the Agriculture Ministry so as to benefit the people.

In 2017, at Mahaicony a tarmac was constructed and saw the fisher folk benefitting tremendously since.

Overall, as a regional representative of the people, I must say that Region Five has done exceptionally well in ensuring that the people of the region benefitted in all sectors. On behalf of the APNU+AFC RDC Region Five councillors, I will like to say congratulations once again to the Region Five RDC Administration for working towards “Creating A Better Life For All” and looking forward towards greater development in 2018.

resources by elements in the PPP/C and their families and friends. In spite of these revelations the majority of these matters are yet to reach the courts. This failure to charge the people who are alleged to be at the center of these crimes, has resulted in citizen questioning the commitment of the government to bring to justice wrong doers in the former regime.

Not surprisingly, the PPP/C has deemed the audits political and acts of witch hunting, which are designed to mislead the public and malign the former ruling party. They have taken this position in spite of the known fact that during their 23 years of rule, Guyana has emerged as a criminalised state and one of the most corrupt countries in the hemisphere. With such a bad reputation it is amazing that the PPPC‘s leadership, in the face of their criminal past, today pretends that they are and have been throughout their 23 years of misrule, devotees of good governance, transparency and upholders of the rule of law in Guyana. Given our race-based politics their supporters have little or no difficulty accepting this questionable political metamorphosis of the former ruling party.

There is no doubt that the present administration has made a number of “missteps”

and in doing so, has contributed to the development of a cynical “mass consciousness” that cut across the political/race divide, on the issue of corruption in government – past and present.

It is to the PPP/C’s credit that it has effectively taken advantage of the coalition government missteps. Their propaganda in this regard has caught on beyond that party’s historical constituency. This must be a worrying concern of the APNU+AFC ruling coalition – since often in politics, perception becomes reality.

The ruling coalition by its poor, virtually non-existent PR response has helped the PPPC in its propaganda campaign of misinformation. The government’s poor responses to opposition propaganda and assaults have only made matters worse.

So much so that people are now debating which of the two governments have been/is more corrupt. This, to my mind, is an absurd situation, since there is no way under the sun that the present regime, in the two and a half years of its existence could be seen as corrupt as the PPP that governed for 23 years.

A good example of the government shooting itself in the foot and aiding opposition propaganda is the way it dealt with the US18 million dollars signing bonus from Exxon Mobil. While most Guyanese would support the govern-

ment’s position that it decided to reserve the money to pay legal fees in relation to the border dispute with Venezuela, the same is not true on its position of not informing the nation that it received the bonus payment.

The contention of the opposition and regime detractors that government’s intention was to steal the money is far from the truth, since the US18 million dollars was deposited into an account at the Bank of Guyana. This is the proper place for the nation’s money when it is borne in mind that the Consolidated Fund is housed there.

The issue of not wanting the Venezuelans to know that we got the payment and our intended use of the money is understandable. However, it can be argued that the Venezuelans, given their long history in oil, would have had knowledge of the signing bonus payment at the time it was made. And even without this knowledge, the Venezuelans would have calculated that given Guyana’s long stated position to have the matter dealt with at ICJ, that the government would have committed resources to pursue its objective. It is in that context that the government’s position of not wanting the Venezuelans to know of the signing bonus and our intended use of the money was misplaced.

Further, after having put the money in the central bank, then to believe that the opposition would not have known of it could not have been a serious expectation on the part of the government, given the fact that certain senior officials in the Bank of Guyana have close ties with the PPP/C. The government’s poor judgement of the situation can in part be attributed to its belief that public officials in high/sensitive office, notwithstanding their political affiliations, will adhere at all times to whatever confidentiality/security considerations they are supposed to observe in the positions they hold. Whatever may have been responsible for its misreading of the situation, it resulted in the regime playing into the hands of its detractors, including the PPP/C. It also feeds the growing perception of the lack of transparency in government dealings.

I believe it would have being politically prudent for the President to inform the Leader of the Opposition that the money was received and requested that he kept the matter secret. If this was done and the Opposition Leader had failed to agree, or having agreed leaked the information and the issue became public, the government would have being well placed to make the opposition pay the political

price of being unpatriotic. The opposition then would have had no leg to stand on and would have been seen as both unpatriotic and a facilitator in destablising the country’s national security image. In misreading and mishandling the matter, the government provided the opposition and its other detractors with the opportunity to force it on the defensive. In response to this crisis the President had to dispense with valuable “Presidential Capital” and addressed the nation, in the course of which he took responsibility for what had transpired.

In closing, I am of the opinion that both the government and the opposition at times have been irresponsible in dealing with Guyana’s business and want to use this opportunity to urge both sides to a more objective in the dissemination of facts on critical national issues. Finally, I wish to reiterate my outright rejection of the reckless talk that the APNU+AFC government is as corrupt as the PPPC government. By any standards this is nonsense.

But the fact that we have to confront this perception speaks volumes. Our work is cut out for 2018.

Regards ABEL SEETARAM Regional Councilor Region Five

The coalition government has confronted corruption Dear Editor,

IN the present political climate in Guyana it is very difficult, if not impossible, to claim objectivity when assessing the performance of either the government or the opposition. This difficulty is even more profound when you are politically aligned to one or the other of those elements, as most political commentators, including myself, are.

However, in spite of this situation, we, citizens of a country who wish to be recognised as being responsible people, have a duty to the nation to honour our civic responsibility. It therefore becomes necessary at times, to rise above party and political preferences and express our views on the performance of both government and opposition in relation to their mandate.

In this and in every democracy, governments are expected to govern in the best interest of the nation. On the other hand the responsibility of the opposition is to ensure governments are accountable to the people for their handling of the people’s business.

The APNU+AFC coalition government after coming to office have commissioned audits of many ministries and agencies. Those audits have revealed damning evidence of corruption and theft of state

Regards TACUMA OGUNSEYE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

National efforts needed to save the sugar industry Dear Editor,

THIS letter supports fully the recent call of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) to the Government to reconsider its decision to contract the sugar industry at this time. This is in keeping also with the recommendations of the APNU–AFC Government’s appointed Commission of Inquiry into the Sugar Industry in 2015.

The Government, led

by His Excellency David Granger, has a critical facilitating and enabling role to bring the relevant stakeholders together, to arrive at a national consensus to save the

industry. It requires commitment, political maturity on all sides, and leadership to forge a mutually agreed way forward. This may also be a confidence building measure for developing high political trust, which can motivate discussion on other pressing matters of concern in the national interest and contributing to national unity.

It is well-known that the sugar industry has survived and provided the livelihood, and contributed massively to the development of our country for centuries. The industry was built and cultivated by the blood, sweat and tears of our forefathers, many martyrs during the

degradation and inhumanity meted out to our forefathers of slavery and indentured labour. Today, it is still the largest employer of thousands of workers, and supports tens of thousands of people who depend directly or indirectly on the industry for their livelihood, and supports viable communities in and around the various sugar estates, including cane farmers and suppliers of various inputs for the industry.

The contributions of the sugar industry to the national treasury of foreign currencies over the years have been immense, and the industry is still a significant foreign currency earner. Many knowl-

edgeable and experienced persons of the sugar industry are convinced that the industry can be saved and revived to profitability. This requires determination and the right decisions from the cultivation of sugar canes to producing sugar, and its potential for value-added and other revenue earning ventures flowing from the sugar industry.

The industry has the capacity to increase its production by at least 100,000 tons of sugar annually which can turn around the industry.

Why has sugar production dropped to 183,491 tons of sugar in 2016 from 231,076 tons in 2015, from 216,186

tons in 2014? It is to be noted that the industry produced 332,457 in 1976, 156,690 in 1991; 243,010 tons in 1992, and 321,438 tons in 1999 and declining to the 2016 level. What are the critical agricultural causes for the progressive decline in sugar cane cultivation and sugar output from the factories?

The Commission of Inquiry Report into the Guyana Sugar Corporation, October 2015, should be given serious consideration by the proposed national consultations, on the way forward for this vital industry. Recent studies and the views and positions of various stakeholders should all be put on

the table, and discussed to find a broad-based national consensus approach to restore the viability of the sugar industry In this Centenary year of the end of indentureship, and continued existence of the sugar industry which employs thousands who continue to depend on earnings from the industry for their livelihood and that of their families and surrounding communities, it would be a noble and prudent act to save and revitalise the sugar industry.

Regards SAMUEL J. GOOLSARRAN

Both have demonstrated integrity and independence in their decisions Dear Editor,

THE matter of the appointment of a substantive Chancellor of the Judiciary is one of public interest.

Whatever the outcome (over which we have no control), we wish to put on record the following in relation to Acting Chancellor, Madam Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Acting Chief Justice Madam Roxane George-Wiltshire: 1. Both have demonstrated, particularly since their acting appointments,

integrity and independence in their decisions in constitutional and citizens’ rights cases and in upholding the rule of law, and have clearly not allowed governmental expectations to influence their decisions.

2. In an ideological and structural context where gender discrimination and inequality in Guyana are too often the norm, it would be disappointing if either or both of these women jurists had applied for the posts of Chancellor and Chief Justice and not been recommended

by the advisory panel appointed by the president. We are not aware of any other acting appointments in which the holders have not been substantively confirmed and have been effectively demoted in preference for someone else. It seems that the notion that women are dispensable and should be ready to step aside for a man when asked to do so is alive and well in Guyana, despite all the rhetoric about gender equality.

3. The appointment of Justices Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Roxane

George-Wiltshire as acting chancellor and chief justice gave hope and encouragement to women and girls that survivors of the brutality and trauma of sexual assault, sexual harassment and other forms of gender-based violence would receive the justice, fairness and dignity that they deserve. The

non-confirmation of their appointments will be a blow and setback to them.

4. We salute Justices Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Roxane George-Wiltshire for their energy and the positive changes they have made towards the improvement and modernisation of the

justice system in Guyana.

Regards DANUTA RADZIK ANDAIYE JOSEPHINE WHITEHEAD KAREN DE SOUZA VANDA RADZIK PATRICIA SHEERATTAN-BISNAUTH

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Body of Linden woman washes up in Demerara River THE body of 22-year-old, Kenisha Schroeder was retrieved from the Demerara River Monday evening after she had reportedly walked into the river Old Year’s Day. According to reports, the incident occurred around 16:30hrs on Sunday. Residents recalled seeing Schroeder of 12 Gardener Street, Wismar, Linden, walking down the Titanic boat landing on the Mackenzie shore where she walked into the river and “disappeared” from sight.

A report was subsequently made to the Mackenzie Police Station.

She was believed to be of unsound mind.

Her body was discovered by police and residents at the Omai Landing, Wismar at about 21:00hrs on Monday. Police say no foul play has been suspected and are awaiting the results of a post mortem examination.

The mother of one grew up with her grandparents, Euwhart Cameron and Olive Cameron who were in shock when they received the devastating news on Sunday Kenisha Schroeder morning. “We didn’t accept it as so, we were hoping that it wasn’t so, we were hoping that it was somebody else or maybe she went into the water, bathe and come out and nobody saw,” Mrs. Cameron told Guyana Chronicle.

Mrs. Cameron, told this newspaper that she is not certain if her granddaughter had committed suicide or not, stating, “I am not certain if she committed suicide because what we understood is that she was going to bathe and apparently like she go too far and she slip.”

Mrs. Cameron described her granddaughter as a nice, bold, outgoing and kind hearted young woman. She recalled, “Sometime when you wake up in the morning she say, granny, grandfather good morning, did you have a good night rest and duh kind of thing.”

Schroeder would have been 23 on January 27, 2018 and leaves to mourn her 3-year-old son, Kayden Schroeder, her grandparents, family and friends.

“When you look at it, there is a pain and a sadness in your heart to know that you mind her from 10 months old to bring her to this stage and to see her, you expected you to go and leave her, we never expected her to die before us, so it’s very painful,” expressed her grandmother.

CG bandits waylay, rob schoolteacher outside her home A 50-YEAR-OLD teacher of Alberttown, Georgetown was robbed of $1.2M by gun-toting bandits on a CG motorcycle outside her home, after making a withdrawal from a city bank on Tuesday morning.

Reports are that the woman left home in a taxi, and upon reaching the bank, asked the driver to wait on her while she finalised her transaction.

When she was done, she put the money she’d taken off her account into her handbag in which she also had some other cash, her National Identification Card and house keys and rejoined the taxi.

But upon exiting the car on reaching home, she saw one of the two perpetrators, who were apparently waiting for her, get off the motorcycle, gun in hand, and demand that she pass him the handbag.

Obviously afraid, she did as told, and the robber, who was the pillion rider, hopped back onto the motorcycle and he and his accomplice made good their escape.

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Importers, distributors warned –– Food and Drug Department says breach of law will not be tolerated

By Svetlana Marshall IMPORTERS and distributors of food, drug, cosmetics and medical devices, who continue to act in violation of the Food and Drug Act, could find themselves on the wrong side of the law, Director of the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department Marlan Cole has warned.

In an exclusive interview with Guyana Chronicle, Cole said the sale of substandard food, drug, cosmetics and medical devices continues to be a major problem on the local market, but with an expected boost in tools and human capacity, the Food and Drug Department will be redoubling its efforts in 2018.

“The landscape is changing, the risk is greater, and the department’s position is now stronger, and so some of the practices they would have gotten away with in the past, that might not be possible going into the future,” Cole warned, as he pointed to the issues such as faulty labeling and poor storage facilities.

“One of the risks, is that, if you have unsuitable storage facility, you could have proliferation of rodents where they can contaminate your product, which can lead to events such as leptospirosis,” the Food and Drug Department Director added, while stating clearly that such cases will not be tolerated.

For years, the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department has been understaffed – a situation which has crippled its ability to carry out its function on a much larger and wider scale, though it would have recorded many successful cases.

But with the intervention of the Public Health Ministry, in particular the Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence, these issues are soon to be rectified.

The department is expected to be complemented with additional technical staff.

BETTER PACKAGE “We are getting more persons and the remuneration package is being ad-

justed because for quite some time, because of the remuneration package, the positions were not attractive enough for skilled persons.

Like a pharmacist wouldn’t come and work at the Food and Drug Department and, you could only be a drug inspector if you are a pharmacists and we would have suffered over the years due to the lack of personnel to carry out enforcement activities as it relates to drugs,” Cole explained.

The excuse of not having sufficient staff will not be applicable going forward, and as such enforcement activities on the part of the department will be heightened.

It was on that note, he warned that Customs Entry Documents, for products, must be accompanied with the original Health or Free Sale Certificate issued by the Regulatory Authority of the Country of Origin as is prescribed in the Food and Drug Act 32 (2) or they (products) will not be permitted entry.

According to the Food and Drug Act 32 (2), “no article of food… shall be imported into Guyana unless the article wholly conforms to the law of the country in which it was manufactured or produced, and is accompanied by a certificate in prescribed form and manner that the article does not contravene any known requirement of the law of that country…”

Cole noted that in 2017, the department was inundated with requests for waivers by importers which are a clear violation of the Act. He made it clear that in 2018 requests for waivers will not be facilitated by the department, emphasising that only custom entries that are accompanied with the relevant documents will be released for sale on the local market.

“If you are exporting a product from let’s say Vietnam, Singapore or Thailand, we don’t have officers located in those jurisdictions to supervise or inspect the facility or the product before it comes to Guyana, so globally, what most regulatory agencies

do, like ours, we depend on documentation from our sister regulatory agencies, Food and Drug in Vietnam, Food and Drug in Singapore, or Food and Drug in Thailand, so we would depend on their assenting document to say, look the facility where this product is manufactured or made is under our supervision and record is being kept,” he explained, while emphasising that the authority must state that the food is safe for human consumption.

ISSUES CERTIFICATE In Guyana, he said the Food and Drug Department issues original Health or Free Sale Certificates to exporters of rice, rum and pharmaceuticals, coconut water and other products made in Guyana.

Additionally, he reminded that the exact name and complete address of the manufacturer and the country of origin must be stated in English on all labels, in accordance with the Food and Drug Act, Chapter 34:03, Part II of Section 6.

It was noted that the department has been consistently encountering imported items where the name and address of the manufacturer is not stated and in some cases the country of origin is unknown.

“Look, examine, inspect, ensure that you purchase products that are in English language so you can read and understand the storage instructions, and you can know for sure the country of origin, to ensure that labels are complete,” Cole urged consumers.

Despite the shortage of staff, the Food and Drug Director said his department recorded a successful year, winning at least four High Court cases brought against importers and distributors who had breached the act.

“With respect to food, misleading labels, erroneous labels, we were successful in court matters, with erroneous labels, and with false and misleading labels, we would have been successful

Government Analyst Food and Drug Department Director, Marlan Cole in getting those products off the market. With respect to products bearing a brand name that is not consistent with the location where the product is harvested, we were successful as well in removing those off of the market,” he noted.

Additionally, he said the department was the first in the Caribbean to comply with a regional system. “In terms of advancing, we were successful in utilising recommendations from the Caribbean Registration System; they would have assessed the safety and efficacy of a drug to be used in the entire region, and they would have recommended that drug to member states, and we have registered that drug, and we were the first country in the Caribbean to do so,” he explained.

But, he said, these successes could not have been recorded without the support of the Public Health Ministry and the National Food Safety and Control Committee.

“The National Food Safety and Control Committee has members from all the regions in Guyana, and we meet monthly and whenever we meet we try to highlight some of the substandard foods that are currently on the market, and some of the initiatives that we have to take to ensure that there is no proliferation of substandard food drug or cosmetics on our market,” he noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Cops accused of raping woman at station … victim says attempts were made to settle matter

TWO constables attached to the Turkeyen Police Station are now in hot water after a woman who went to the precinct on Old Year’s Night to make a report claimed that they raped her in the barracks there.

Detailing the circumstances leading up to the alleged rape, the woman said that she was selling at Sophia a few blocks from her home, when persons who were playing with squibs tossed one in the direction of her business place and it exploded in her son’s face.

She said that she left her business and went to the station to make a report and after making that report, she asked to use the washroom at the station.

One rank reportedly indicated to her that the washroom in the lower flat of the building was not working, and as such, she was escorted to the upper flat of the station by a male rank, who pointed her in the direction of the washroom area.

Detailing the chain of events that occurred after she was shown to the bathroom, the young lady said: “Upon pulling up my underwear, I hear the door push and he barge in in front of me and he choke me by my neck; vice me behind my neck, and say ‘Hold she foot, hold she foot.’

“And I see a next one come and hold meh foot, and

I start fighting up, and I fell down. And he say ah gaffuh give he f**k, or else he gone murder meh heah. “And I start fighting with them, and they lift me to a room, and they start sexually assaulting meh, but I could not really fight back anymore, because the choking and the abusing that I got in the bathroom was too much, and I got scared for my life.”

The terrified woman told the Guyana Chronicle that it was the first time she’d ever seen the two ranks who allegedly raped her, and that though they had only vaginal sex with her, they took turns, and when they were done, they both ran out of the room.

The woman said that after sorting herself out, she ventured onto the lower flat of the building and went to the police corporal on duty and told him what had transpired; that two police ranks had just raped her.

VERY DISMISSIVE But instead of showing any concern, she said, the corporal was very dismissive, saying that she had come to the station to make one report, and here she was making another.

He then advised her to join the patrol which the same two ranks that allegedly raped her were on and let them accompany her to investigate the first report.

He then suggested that

The Turkeyen Police Station where the woman was allegedly raped when that investigation was till I get justice, and he keep who were calling on her done, she should return to telling meh husband to take phone, and telling me they the station, by which time he me out of the station; take me get money; don’t let me create no scene; that all ah would be in a better frame of home,” the woman said. mind to entertain the report In the height of the com- we is women alike. But I about the rape. motion, however, a police tell them I don’t want no According to the woman, sergeant, who had apparently money.” she was at first hesitant to go just come off the road, interPEACE OFFERING with the ranks, but decided vened and after hearing what The settlements which to go as she knew that her had transpired, immediately husband was in the direction took the woman into a room, were reportedly being ofthat the patrol was heading. summoned a female rank fered were in the sums of Once there, she said, she from another station to come $40,000 at first, then that informed her husband about and escorted her to the hospi- figure climbed to $60,000.

She said that when she what had transpired, and as tal for a medical. he attempted to confront the However, the nightmare refused to heed the constant ranks with the allegation, did not end there, as accord- bombarding, the police took they drove away and went ing to the victim, the very a drastic decision to remove back to the station. female rank was attempting her from the hospital enviShe and her husband re- to facilitate a settlement in ronment and take her back portedly gave chase, and the matter between her and to the Cove and John Police when they arrived at the relatives of the two accused Station, where they had her sit for more than six hours station, the officer in charge ranks. refused to entertain their reSaid she: “When I come, trying to get her to give them port and instead chased them in the process of getting the a statement that was favourout of the station. rape kit and getting myself able to the two officers.

She said that although “I had to lie down on look after, every minute the ground, cry and holler. she interrupting me to an- she was not feeling well, I say me ain’t leaving here swer these various people and was drowsy, they kept

putting the story to her, and before she could respond to say if they had the details correct or not, the ranks were recording those as if the utterances were hers.

The Guyana Chronicle also learnt that the woman, during the process of giving the statement, kept fainting and falling off the chair, as she had not eaten since the incident. But instead of allowing her to go get something to eat or drink, the ranks kept propping her up, and continued grilling her until they were satisfied that they had gotten what they were after in terms of a satisfactory “statement”.

A police source has since confirmed being aware that the relatives of two policemen have been seeking to have the matter settled out of court.

Divisional Commander Calvin Brutus, when contacted on Tuesday, said that he was really embarrassed at the allegations being made against the ranks at a time when the force is looking to foster stronger relationships with members of the public.

He said that already the matter is under investigation at the level of the police Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) as detectives work around the clock to have the file properly completed and sent for legal advice.

Sandra Adams passes away

PEOPLE’S National Congress Reform (PNCR) top Region 10 executive and Assistant Director of Community Development, Sandra Michelle Adams, passed away Tuesday morning after a massive heart attack.

The younger sister of Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Patterson-Yearwood, Adams, had only recently been discharged from the hospital after suffering a heart-related ailment.

In confirming her death, Regional Chairman of the Region 10 Regional Democratic Council, Renis Morian, told the Department of Public Information that Adams’s passing has left “a lot of things shaken in Region 10. He noted that she was a

strong advocate for the CDCs she had helped to establish in the region. Morian said she will be remembered for her “commitment to what she did.”

He added that she has served within the local government system in one capacity or another for some 20 years. Morian noted that apart from her position with the CDC, Adams headed the RDC’s Local Government Committee. Adams also worked closely with women and children’s groups in the region. She was a “hard worker” who did her work with “zest and exuberance,” Morian said.

In a statement, President David Granger said he is deeply saddened at the passing of Ms Adams M.S.

Sandra Adams Ms. Adams was a dedicated public servant, community

organiser and political activist, President Granger said.

She was also the Principal Political Secretary and member of the Central Executive Committee of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and also the Regional Chairman of the party’s Upper Demerara- Upper Berbice region. Adams served her country in the National Assembly as a Regional Member of Parliament from 1997 to 2006. “She devoted her life to service and was a stalwart of her party the PNCR and her community,” Granger said.

Born and raised in the mining town of Linden, Ms. Adams attended Mackenzie High School. Apart from her community work and political activism in the Upper

Demerara-Upper Berbice region, she also worked as a former administrator of Duncan International Shipping and a supervisor of Voices of Praise International Radio, Brooklyn, New York.

In May 2017, she was the recipient of a National Award -- the Medal of Service -- for her long and outstanding service in social and community affairs in the Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice region and as a parliamentarian. His Excellency extends heart-felt sympathy to her children Deron Montrose and Delroy Anthony, grandchildren, Dericia and Dariana Anthony, siblings, Valerie Patterson-Yearwood, Frank Mackenzie, Marilyn Sinclair, Robert, Berthyle, Royston and Marcia Adams

and the relatives and friends of Sandra Michelle Adams.

Outgoing Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland, in a facebook post described Adams as “an ambassador for Linden, for women, children, a hard worker and fearless advocate.” “I stand with the people of Linden and our nation in mourning the passing of a stalwart for Guyana’s progress, Ms. Sandra Adams.

An ambassador for Linden, for women and children, a hard worker and fearless advocate -- our community and nation have suffered a great loss in her passing.

To her family, friends and loved ones I express deepest condolences. May God’s comfort and peace surround you in this time of grief,” Holland said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

44 gov’t buildings to be solar-powered this year

CHIEF Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Authority, Mahender Sharma has said that 44 government buildings across the country will have approximately 648 kilowatts via grid-connected and energy storage solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

Sharma who was speaking on the agency’s 2017 performance and plans for 2018 at a recent forum, explained that the investment cost of this initiative is estimated at $260M with a simple payback period of

four years. According to the CEO, in 2017 the GEA installed solar PV systems on the roofs of 70 government buildings. He added that with regards to the 2017 energy efficiency programme, inefficient lights were replaced and contracts were awarded to install 10,427 light-emitting diode (LED) lamps and 3,766 occupancy sensors at 46 government buildings, all of which will be completed in the first quarter of this year.

“Some locations where the LED lights were installed

include Vergenoegen, Uitvlugt, Stewartville and Anna Regina Secondary Schools, Ministry of Business and the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD),” Sharma explained.

Further, in 2018 the agency will continue its energy programme, which will see over 10,000 inefficient lights being replaced with energy saving LED lamps and over 900 manual operated switches being replaced with energy-saving occupancy sensors

at 54 government buildings.

Sharma said, “the buildings were selected based on a request by GEA to the various Ministries and government entities to identify the buildings for the installation of solar PV systems and the replacement of inefficient lighting systems.”

Though the previous year was a challenging one with tough deadlines, Sharma said the agency was able to deliver its work programme and will continue to so in the new year.

Woman killed while crossing road –on way to draw pension

A PENSIONER who was on her way to the Bourda Post Office to collect her allowance died Tuesday morning after being run over by a motorcar while crossing the road.

The accident reportedly occurred at around 04:30hrs at the intersection of Winter Place and Brickdam, Georgetown.

The woman has been identified as Jocelyn Joseph, 72, of YY Bent Street, Wortmanville,

and the body is currently at the Lyken’s Funeral Parlour awaiting the post mortem, which has been scheduled for today.

The police say that based on their investigations, the driver of motorcar PLL 2838, reportedly a 35-year-old labourer of ‘A’ Field Sophia, was proceeding east along Brickdam and “doing it” when the accident occurred.

According to the police, he was apparently trying to

beat the traffic light at the intersection of Winter Place and Brickdam, which at the time was giving him the goahead with just a few seconds to spare.

Ms Joseph, who was reportedly crossing the road from south to north when she was hit, was pronounced dead at the scene by Emergency Medical personnel.

Such was the impact, the police say, she was dragged about 39 meters from the point of collision. The vehicle, on the other hand, came to a halt

some 158 meters from the point of impact as recorded by investigators.

A breathalyser test, however, proved that the driver, who is assisting the police with their investigations, was not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.

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Major drainage, irrigation works for Mocha and Ithaca RESIDENTS and farmers of Mocha on the East Bank of Demerara and Ithaca, West Coast Berbice, are soon to benefit from drainage and irrigation works aimed at reducing flooding and improving access to lands situated aback the communities.

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon at a December 29, post Cabinet media brief said the projects will cost a total of $338,883 million. “For the construction of drains, canals, access dams and hydraulic structures at Mocha in Region Four, the Ministry of Agriculture has awarded a contract in the sum of $182,509,000 to Rupan Ramotar Investments. For the construction of drains, canals, dams and hydraulic structures at Ithaca, West Berbice in Region Five, the Ministry of Agriculture contract in the sum of $148,374,000 was awarded to H. Nauth and Sons,” Minister Harmon said.

In addition, Minister Harmon said when completed the projects will help to reduce unemployment among the residents of the two communities “The objective of these two projects at Mocha and Ithaca is to improve the drainage systems and access to the backlands of these two communities; to increase their productivity and competitiveness while promoting employment and entrepreneurship in these communities. It will also lead to increased revenue for farmers who have access to great amounts of lands that are irrigated,” the Minister of State added.

Works on the two projects are expected to begin within a fortnight and be completed during the first half of this year.

They form part of the project which is being funded by a combination of loans and grants from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Whisky-smuggling cop removed from SWAT unit

DEPUTY Superintendent, Motie Dookie, who was the Commander of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), has been removed as head of that unit.

Dookie was reportedly busted with 30 cases of smuggled Johnnie Walker whisky on Saturday night in a minibus. He was subsequently placed under close arrest as investigations into the incident are ongoing.

No replacement has yet been made to head the unit, as senior officials of the force are meeting to decide on a name. The Police, in a release on Sunday, stated that Dookie and the driver were the only occupants of the minibus. According to initial reports, the senior officer indicated that there were 10 cases of whisky in the minibus intended for usage at ‘a party.’

However, a search of the minibus revealed there were

in fact 30 cases. They were all seized. Dookie, who is based at Police Headquarters in the city, was not granted permission by his commanding officer to leave Georgetown. The man and his relatives had disputed reports that he escaped from the custody of ranks

Motie Dookie

of the Whim Police Station shortly after his arrest on Saturday night. The man’s wife claimed that he had asked the driver of the vehicle for a ride to Georgetown after which the vehicle was stopped by the police.

Two months ago, Dookie took over re-

sponsibility of the SWAT unit. His predecessor was transferred after his service firearm and vehicle were allegedly stolen from him on October 2, 2017 while on the Industry Seawall, East Coast Demerara in the company of a female.

Millions spent on water distribution and supply across Guyana – GWI THE Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) with support from the Government of Guyana has spent millions of dollars distributing and supplying water to regions across Guyana over the last year.

Water supply and improvement at Port Kaituma, Oronoque and Yarakita, all villages in Region One (Barima-Waini), saw a total of $51.8M being expended.

This is according to GWI’s Managing-Director (CEO) Dr. Richard Van-West Charles who, at the entity’s year in review on December 29, said that some 786 persons from Yarakita benefitted from that project, while the combined beneficiaries for Port Kaituma and Oronouqe stands at 2000.

“We have completed an improvement project in Koberimo, which benefitted 400 persons. Works are ongoing for water supply in Kamwatta and Koko to approximately $17 million.”

Over in Region Three (Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara), a population of 105,919 benefitted from the installation of eight independent transmission mains and valve chambers from the Cornelia Ida well to the Fellowship Water Treatment Plant at a value of $50 million.

In Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), residents received a $58M transmission distribution main and service connection in Albouystown. A $1.7M access road to

the Sophia Water Treatment Plant was also constructed, along with a reinforced concrete foundation for the storage tank at the Sophia and Eccles Water Treatment Plant totalling $30 million. Regions Five and Six also benefitted from such services with upgraded river crossings totalling $13.7 million in Region Five (Mahaica -Berbice), while 45 households from Mara, East Bank Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice Corentyne) benefitted from a new water supply system, totalling some $5 million.

“A new treatment plant is due to be installed at Sheet Anchor and that is part of the agreement signed with IDB…a new transmission main is being constructed in Philippi to give access to treated water on a 24/7 basis,” Dr. Van-West Charles disclosed.

In Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), residents benefitted from a $30.8M water supply system at Wayaleng and Tasserene.

Residents of Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) were also gifted a $30M water supply system at Chenapau, while works are ongoing on a new water-supply system in Paramakatoi which costs some $4.2 million. Works are ongoing on a $4.9 M water-supply improvement at Rupertee-Aranaputa Region Nine (Upper Takutu/ Upper Essequibo).

Projects valued at $44.47M are also ongoing in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice). (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Businessman knocks police probe into crash

A MAHAICONY businessman is calling on the Guyana Police Force to conduct a thorough investigation into a crash that totally destroyed his Toyota Rav 4 vehicle, PVV 1109, which was parked on the parapet in front of Lot 17 La Jalousie, West Coast Demerara (WCD) on New Year’s Day. The businessman, Navindra Singh, who owns a lumber yard and hardware store in Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara said that his vehicle was completely off the roadway when a Suzuki

vehicle, PTT 9200, crashed into the parked vehicle, moving it several feet away, squeezing it between a fence and utility pole.

He noted that the driver who identified herself as Candice Canzius claimed that she fell asleep behind the wheel resulting in the crash.

Singh, however, said that the police corporal who visited the scene did not conduct a proper investigation.

“He operated like he was not even a police, not even a breathalyzer test was done, and this was on New Year’s

Bandits blitz America St vendor BANDITS in a Toyota Premio motorcar robbed a vendor of his jewellery and cash on America and Longden streets, Stabroek, Georgetown on New Year’s Day. Reports indicate that the 27-year-old vendor of Two Friends Housing Scheme, Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD) who sells clothing, phone, accessories and costume jewellery was robbed by two men one of whom was armed with a handgun.

At the time of the robbery he was packing his stocks into his car which was parked on America Street when he observed a silver-grey Premio motor car heading East on America Street, which is a one way.

The car then drove past him and turned around stopping parallel to his vehicle.

One of the robbers then exited from the back seat with gun drawn, pointing it at the businessman. Another perpetrator then exited from the back left side passenger seat and rushed to the businessman commanding him to lie on the ground where he was relieved of his valuables.

The armed perpetrator discharged a round in the air before rejoining the getaway car with his accomplice and fleeing the scene.

Police visited the scene and questioned several persons who claimed they heard a loud explosion but thought it was fireworks.

Bandits grab $600,000 in gold jewellery from Linden miner A 31-YEAR-OLD gold miner was attacked and robbed on Old Year’s Night of $600,000 worth in gold chains while standing outside the Mackenzie Market, Linden.

The miner was identified as Trava Campbell, of Dakama Circle Mckenzie, Linden. Reports indicate that the miner was standing on the market pavement with friends when three armed men walked up to him and one of the suspects said, “You owe me from the bush,” and pulled off the gold chains.

In the process, one of the robbers gun-butted him to the head and calmly walked away and entered a waiting silver grey Toyota Allion which drove off east on Pine Street, Mackenzie, Linden.

The robbery was reported to the police as investigations continue.

Day when many persons are driving under the influence,” the businessman said.

Further, the businessman said when he visited the Den Amstel Police Station and later the Leonora Police Station he noticed that his vehicle along with the other involved in the accident were not in the police custody but was in Hague WCD where the driver lives.

“Now the police at the station tell me that the driver was placed on $40,000 bail and she will settle the matter, now there is no statement and nothing legally binding

this claim. Now on Tuesday when I visited a lawyer with the driver, she later objected to a settlement and there was no agreement,” he said.

He questioned the poor police work that results in citizens having to face the royal run around in order to have things properly done in a systematic manner.

“Now someone has to be charged, and my vehicle has to be replaced, can the commander and commissioner of police advise me on the path to take since it’s in their oath to serve and protect,” he said.

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The Rav 4 that was squeezed between a utility pole and the fence after the crash.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

President ushers in new year at church

PRESIDENT David Granger joined with the congregation at the St. Mary’s Anglican Church at Soesdyke on the East Bank Demerara to ring in the new year.

According to the Ministry of the Presidency, the Head of State was accompanied by his daughter, Ms. Afuwa Granger.

Breaking the new year in worship is a tradition to which the President stays true (MoTP photo)

President David Granger and his daughter Ms. Afuwa Granger participating in communion at the New Year’s Eve service at the St. Mary’s Anglican Church.

(MoTP photo)

Gold Board appoints new GM … contracts for Ramotar, others not renewed

THE Guyana Gold Board (GGB) has announced the appointment of Miss Eondrene Thompson as its new General Manager, effective January 1, 2018 and also mentioned that the contracts for the former GM, Lisa Ramotar and two others have not been renewed.

Miss Thompson, who was the substantive Finance Manager, has acted as GM since April 24, 2017, when the then GM, Ms. Lisa Ramotar, along with two other senior officers were sent on administrative leave, the board said in a release.

“The board of directors unanimously agreed that the GGB needs to proceed in a new direction under new leadership. The board holds

in high regard the integrity, skills, and commitment of Miss Thompson to positioning and leading the organisation forward,” the release added.

The new GM has been at the Gold Board since March, 2010 after a 15-year stint at the Bank of Guyana. She is a graduate of the University of Guyana and holds an Executive MBA in Executive Leadership from Liverpool John Moores University.

The contracts for the three officers sent on leave expired on December 31, 2017. In keeping with its vision of new direction and new leadership, the board of directors decided not to renew the contractual relationships. Back in April last year, Ramotar was

sent on administrative leave along with her deputy and the compliance officer. Ramotar is the daughter of former President Donald Ramotar.

The trio had been probed by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) as well, based on a forensic audit report and a simultaneous police investigation into an alleged money-laundering ring.

At a November 2017 news conference, GGB Chairman Gabriel Lall had disclosed that instances of financial irregularities have been discovered at the board and had resulted in two members of staff with decades of experience being sent home pending the outcome of investigations. Lall’s statement had come one day after

the media reported that the GGB’s accountant and clerk have been sent home for fraudulent activities.

But notwithstanding discovery of the financial irregularities, Lall gave the assurance that clients’ assays are intact and its operations have not been compromised.

“We had to send home two workers and we have an investigation ongoing, where some financial irregularities have surfaced. Without going into any detail, let me say the documentation is thorough, the evidence is persuasive and comprehensive; that is about as much as I can say,” said the GGB chairman.

He said too that the investigation is ongoing and noted that it would be unfair for the

GGB to make its own conclusions, “even though we have our arms around it to a very satisfactory extent.” The two persons sent on leave have been identified as an accountant and a clerk.

The duo were identified because on every false document their names and signatures were attached. “They identified it, they were shown it and they admitted that it was their signature.”

The GGB chair said too that miners are involved in every process when they take their gold to be purchased at the Gold Board. In fact, he disclosed that miners (clients) are provided with a document which they take for their payments to be processed, while emphasising that the

General Manager of the GGB, Miss Eondrene Thompson “opportunity to shave off is simply non-existent.”

“We want to send the reassurance out there that up to date, despite our numerous discoveries, no miner’s assay is compromised,” said Lall, who did not disclose the amount of money tied up in the illegal activities.

Giftland gives back to the underprivileged EIGHT charitable organisations have each received G$50,000 worth of gift vouchers from Giftland Office Max during the Christmas season, as the company sought to put smiles on the faces of the underprivileged.

The recipients are: Bless the Home, St John Bosco Orphanage, Shaheed Boys, Shaheed Girls, Mahaica Children’s Home, Joshua House Children Centre, Red Cross and the Palms Rehabilitation Facility.

The contributions, which amounted to G$400,000, were made to organisations thought to be lacking ade-

quate public support, says Graphics and Media Coordinator, Arian Brown.

The presentation ceremony was done on December 22 at the department store’s Plantation Pattensen, Turkeyen location.

In 2016, Giftland raised G$512,000 which was divided amongst and donated to 10 local charities. This year’s undertaking, however, was self-funded by the company.

According to a release issued by the company, the act of giving back is one which is greatly supported by the establishment’s head.

“This has been a tradition within the company, and the

Representatives of four of the eight organisations receiving their vouchers at the Giftland Shopping Centre (Photo courtesy Giftland Office Max) deepest request of our Chairman Mr. Roy Beepat, since one of his pillars is to always

give back to the community and had made this a must for the company,” the release

said.

The company says it intends to continue its an-

nual donations as well as other contributions to the Guyanese society.

Big cocaine bust in Waini River

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

…10 arrested, large amount of foreign currency seized

THE Joint Services have seized a large shipment of cocaine and arrested close to a dozen persons including foreigners during a major drug bust in the Waini River, top sources in the security have confirmed to this newspaper.

The Guyana Chronicle was told that the operation was launched during the weekend and intensified on Monday. So far reports suggest that thousands of dollars in foreign currency was seized and 10 persons were arrested among them Guyanese, Venezuelans and persons of other nationalities.

The M.V. Tamakay, a floating police

station, is now permanently stationed at the mouth of the Waini River. It was in the Waini River some years ago when a suspected cocaine semi-submersible vessel was uncovered. This latest bust comes on the heels of disclosures that through their combined efforts the law enforcement agencies seized over $11B worth of cocaine for last year. Since coming into office the APNU+AFC government has strengthened inter-agency collaboration and has made significant gains in combatting narcotics.

Government also established the National Anti-Narcotics Agency (NANA), headed

by Major General (ret’d) Michael Atherly who also heads the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU).

In its 2017 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report, the United States said the Government of Guyana cooperates closely with it but is limited by resource constraints and high levels of corruption in the country. The current administration elected in May 2015 has expressed a strong willingness to cooperate with the United States on drug control, extradition, and mutual legal assistance, and other international crime issues. The

report also states that the United States would welcome increased levels of cooperation with the Government of Guyana, to advance mutual interests against the threat of international drug trafficking.

Guyana has shown strong interest in furthering collaboration under CBSI. The United States looks forward to tangible progress on investigations, prosecutions, extraditions, security sector capacity enhancement, the engagement of at-risk communities, and enforcement of laws against money laundering and financial crimes.

Revellers turn out in their numbers –– to ring in the new year at Stabroek Square

The traditional fireworks display by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to usher in 2018 at the Stabroek Square. At right, is a smaller display from festive locals

Heavy police presence at the Stabroek Square

By Vishani Ragobeer

HUNDREDS gathered at the Stabroek Square on Sunday just before the stroke of midnight, in anticipation of the traditional New Year’s Eve fireworks display.

There were intermittent downpours of the ‘Old Year’s rain’ that night, but it didn’t seem to deter anyone from basking in the glow emitting from the lit-up Stabroek Market. Umbrellas were in abundance.

For a minute, there was a bit of confusion as some citizens set off their own grand illuminations along the Route 40 Bus Park, rivalling the expected grandeur of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF)’s fireworks.

But at the stroke of midnight, huge fireworks, in hues of green, gold and red, appeared behind the market, rising as high as the clock’s tower.

A cheer erupted from the crowd at the indication of the

New Year, with each illumination seeming to outshine the previous one. And at times when there were many in the air at once, they seemed to be rivalling each other, jostling for attention. There was smoke, too, of course, but it was no match for the lights from the pyrotechnics.

Many persons stood in the Square with their umbrellas opened, while some sought refuge under buildings in the vicinity, but none could take their eyes off of the spectacular display until its culmination some eight minutes later.

Choosing the Stabroek Square as the venue for the 2018 display was a welcome change from the usual Camp Ayanganna venue. It was reported that the new venue was selected because it allowed those on both the east and west banks of Guyana to witness the spectacle.

Guyanese all over the world were not left out of the mix, as they were able to watch the events unfold as they

happened through the Guyana Chronicle’s livestream. Well wishes for the nation poured in, as many mentioned their hope that 2018 would not only be a year of prosperity for Guyana, but also one of togetherness.

Here at home, persons in other parts of Guyana also delighted in the spectacular display through this Online medium.

When the GDF’s stream of fireworks ended, many persons opted to continue the celebrations by setting off their own fireworks ( firecrackers) in the Square. Subsequently, the bright lights on the market were dimmed by the thick layer of smoke from the pyrotechnics.

Eventually, the crowd dispersed, some to spend some time with their families, some to enjoy the abundant parties around the town, while others called it a night.

Definitely, for those who were able to see it, the display ushered the year in with a bang.

Seeking shelter from the rains under the Demico House building just to witness the magnificent fireworks display (Photos by Delano Williams)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

NY-based Guyanese kills wife, commits suicide –– in borough’s first murder-suicide for 2018

IN what has been described as the borough’s first murder for 2018, a Guyanese woman was fatally stabbed on Monday by her allegedly abusive husband in Queens, New York.

According to the New York Daily News, Stacy Singh, a 26-year-old mother of two small children, was stabbed repeatedly in the back and left face down in the couple’s Richmond Hill home on 103rd Avenue near 113th Street.

The woman’s husband, Vinny Loknath, 46, re-

Stacy Singh

portedly hanged himself later from a tree in a city park. Singh had migrated from Guyana five years ago. She lived at Novar, Mahaicony, before leaving these shores.

The report quotes police sources as saying that the authorities in New York were investigating the deaths as a murder-suicide, after the bodies were discovered about three hours apart on New Year’s Day. A knife was found near Singh’s body when the police arrived around

New Year’s Day hampers

Vinny Loknath

14:00hrs on New Year’s Day. Loknath committed suicide just after 11:00hrs in Forest Park, about 1½ miles from the murder scene, sources said. He was found hanging from a tree in the park.

Loknath “was very abusive to her,” said the dead woman’s brother-in-law, Romain Shaw.

According to Shaw, Loknath was drinking heavily and using cocaine when family members gathered on New Year’s Eve at a Queens restaurant.

“He was so drunk, so very drunk,” said Shaw.

“He always beat her up

when he went home high.”

The report stated that a neighbour recounted that the couple fought constantly, recalling one incident that ended with the battered wife leaving their home in an ambulance.

“The cops are always there,” the neighbour said.

“They were always having big fights, but she still came back to him.” The couple had a five-year-old son and a one-year-old daughter.

The neighbour said that though Loknath was into construction, he was often seen sitting on the front stoop of the house, smoking cigarettes and drinking beer.

–– Bundles of Joy

ANSA McAL Trading Limited ushered in the New Year sharing “Bundles of Joy” hampers to all babies born at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on New Year’s Day. At the time of the team’s arrival, the GPHC had delivered nine babies from one hour and 50 minutes to nine hours and 20 minutes.

Four of the nine babies were boys. The

first baby was a boy for mother Cindy Parboo and the second, a girl for mother Natasha Caravaio.

All mothers were congratulated by the Ansa team Joel Lee and Oneca Benjamin and were given SOFT TAILS Diaper hampers.

Brand representatives Joel Lee and Oneca Benjamin wished the mothers and the GHPC staff a Happy New Year.

Cindy Parboo, whose baby was the first to be born on New Year’s Day, 2018.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Baby dies after left home alone

A MATTHEWS Ridge woman is under investigation by the police after her one-month- old baby who was left unattended for several hours died under questionable circumstances.

Reports from the North West District community are that the woman took the lifeless body of the baby girl to the Pekera District Hospital at Matthews Ridge on Monday night, several hours after she was seen consuming alcohol at a rum shop.

The woman told hospital staff that the child was sick; however, persons at the hospital observed that the child was lifeless. Hospital staff subsequently learnt that the woman had left the child alone at home for several hours. They said the child may have been dead for at least four hours, following which the intoxicated woman took the child to the medical institution.

Reports are that the woman was in the habit of leaving the child at home

Baramita youth dies after ATV ploughs into hole A North West District (NWD) businessman is among the country’s first set of victims of road fatalities this year following an accident at Baramita on Monday night.

Dead is 24-year- old Shurland Medas , popularly known in the area as “Sunny”.

Reports are that the father of two was riding home from a hangout spot on an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) around 21:30hrs on Monday, when he lost control of the bike after riding into a Shurland Medas hole. The accident occurred close to the Baramita Police Station.

Medas reportedly was flung onto the roadway and sustained head and neck injuries. He was rushed to the health centre in the area where he was pronounced dead on arrival Medas was well-known in the area.

His death occurred a few days shy of his 25th birthday.

Robbed of his valuables on New Year’s Day AN unsuspecting East Ruimveldt resident was robbed at gunpoint of his valuables on the evening of New Year’s Day. The victim, Ray Jaundoo, 23, was reportedly walking along the roadway in Phase Two, East Ruimveldt, at about 22:14 hrs when he noticed a silver grey Premio motorcar following him.

The car passed him but stopped a short distance away and two men exited and pointed a gun at him.

They ordered Jaundoo to be quiet while they took away two gold chains he was wearing valued at $220,000, along with an iPhone worth $186,000.

They then made their escape in the same Premio motorcar.

The victim subsequently raised an alarm but by then the robbers had already been whisked away from the scene.

alone as she partied at the rum shops. Only last week hospital staff visited the woman’s home, but found her at a rum shop in an intoxicated state as the baby slept unattended at home. At the time, the woman’s skin bore marks of violence and residents suspected that she was beaten by her partner.

The police are investigating the matter.

Matthews Ridge Hospital

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Lethem businessman on $1M bail for illegal aircraft charge FORTY-four-year-old Tabatinga, Lethem businessman Hutashan Ramsingh was on Tuesday granted $1M in the High Court for the offence of conspiracy in relation to the abandonment of a Beach King Air aircraft near Santa Fe, Rupununi last August.

Ramsingh called Seon Singh, was charged and appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on December 18,2017 with conspiring with persons known and unknown to facilitate the illegal landing of an aircraft on an unauthorised port of entry between August 10,2017 and August 13, 2017at Mandacoro Island, Savannah (Santa Fe), Lethem.

Ramsingh was denied bail and was remanded to prison. Nevertheless, his attorney Jerome Khan made an application for bail before Justice Brassington Reynolds in the High Court on Tuesday and it was Hutashan Ramsingh granted with the condition called ‘Seon Singh’ that Ramsingh reports once weekly at the Lethem Police Station. The matter has been adjourned until March 5, 2018.

Two other men are currently before the courts for the same matter. On September 15, 2017, Wazim King, 37, and Nathan Hamilton, 21, appeared before City Magistrate Judy Latchman charged with aiding and facilitating the illegal landing of an aircraft suspected to be involved in the trafficking of narcotics and firearms at an illegal port of entry. The matter was also transferred to the Le-

The illegal aircraft. them Magistrates’ Court.

The men’s attorney had contended that their clients had no knowledge that the airstrip or airplane was illegal, since the men were hired by Ramsingh to construct a road. Acting Police Commissioner, David Ramnarine, had disclosed that five males and one female were arrested initially in connection with the case and legal advice was given to charge two of them. The others were released on bail.

The twin-engine aircraft bearing registration PR-IMG was discovered by the security forces in mid-August. No one has come forward to claim ownership of the aircraft and to date, the Brazilian companies with which its registration is affiliated have not reported it as stolen.

On August 13, 2017, police ranks were in Santa Fe, Rupununi conducting a search when they stumbled upon over a dozen 10-gallon jars hidden in the bushes.

The party of policeman observed that a long strip of land had been cleared to make what looked like an airstrip. As the ranks were leaving, they saw an aircraft circling the cleared area. When they returned, they observed three men running from the plane after it had landed. The men managed to escape, but the aircraft was secured. The lawmen upon searching the aircraft found a quantity of dry rations, medical supplies, gents clothing and footwear, two hand-held radios, flashlights, cellular phones and an identification card, amongst other items.

The discovery was made a mere week after soldiers had found another illegal airstrip, a chainsaw, aviation fuel, 12 abandoned camps and several dugout trenches in the same area.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Wednesday, January 3, 2017

05:00 hrs

Thursday, January 4, 2017

05:00 hrs

Friday, January 5, 2017

05:00 hrs

Saturday, January 6, 2017

08:30 hrs

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Rain wrecks West Indies (CMC) – ANY hopes West Indies entertained of rebounding to win their three-match Twenty20 series against New Zealand were dashed when rain wiped out the second match here on New Year’s Day. The adverse weather, which had forced a 20-minute delayed start, returned after nine overs with New Zealand on 102 for four, ending play prematurely in the contest at Bay Oval.

With the disappointment, the Windies will now head into the final game today at the same venue needing a win in order to avoid another series defeat.

They trail 0-1 following a 47-run defeat in the opener in Nelson last Friday.

In the play possible before the rains arrived, opener Colin Munro stole the show

with a pulsating 66 of 23 deliveries, following up his 53 in the first game.

The 30-year-old lefthander smashed 11 fours and three sixes, an innings which put the visitors under pressure early after they won the toss and opted to field first.

West Indies claimed an early victim when left-arm pacer Sheldon Cottrell had Martin Guptill caught at the wicket for two off the fourth ball of the match, with three runs on the board.

But Munro then took charge, dominating a 75run, second-wicket stand with captain Kane Williamson (17 not out) which required a mere 31 deliveries.

His mood was evident when he took a couple offside boundaries off leg-spinner Samuel Badree in the second over before follow-

ing up with a pair of sixes over long-on off Cottrell in the next over which leaked 17 runs.

Munro then ripped into captain Carlos Brathwaite in the fifth over, smashing a six and three fours in the medium pacer’s solitary over which went for 21.

He clipped the final delivery of the over for a single to backward square to raise his half-century off 18 balls – the second fastest-ever for New Zealand.

In the following over from pacer Kesrick Williams, Munro punched consecutive boundaries off the first four balls of the over and appeared to be eyeing something special when he holed out in the deep trying to clear the long-on boundary with the fifth delivery.

West Indies them admirably clawed their way back,

picking up three wickets for 19 runs in the space of 16 balls.

Glenn Phillips missed a straight one from Badree and was lbw for

10 in the eighth over and Brathwaite produced a one-handed stunner at mid-wicket to account for Tom Bruce for three off off-spinner Ashley Nurse.

SCOREBOARD NEW ZEALAND innings M. Guptill c wkp. Walton b Cottrell 2 C. Munro c Powell b Williams 66 K. Williamson not out 17 G. Phillips lbw b Badree 10 T. Bruce c Brathwaite b Nurse 3 A. Kitchen not out 1 Extras: (w-2, nb-1) 3 Total: (4 wkts, 9 overs) 102 Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-78, 3-92, 4-97.

Bowling: Cottrell 2-0-21-1, Badree 3-0-23-1, Brathwaite 1-0-21-0, Williams 1-0-24-1, Nurse 2-0-13-1.

WEST INDIES – Carlos Brathwaite (captain), Chadwick Walton, Chris Gayle, Andre Fletcher, Shai Hope, Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, Ashley Nurse, Sheldon Cottrell, Kesrick Williams, Samuel Badree.

Result: No result.

Series: New Zealand lead three-match series 1-0.

The ‘Army’ take the crown! … GDF stop Grove Hi-Tech 2-0 to win GFF Year-End Classic

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) showed why they are the country’s top football team, having stopped Grove Hi-Tech’s fairy-tale in the inaugural Guyana Football Federation (GFF) ‘Year-End Classic’, winning 2-0 on New Year’s Day at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora.

Setting up the $2M win for the ‘Army’, was Eusi Phillips, who scored from the penalty spot in the 58th minute, and Delroy Fraser who put the icing on the cake with his strike in the 80th minute.

Grove Hi-Tech, who had a great run to the fi-

nal, including an upset win over Fruta Conquerors in the semi-finals, had to settle for $1M following their defeat to the Army.

In the third place game, Jermaine Junor starred with a double on the night, to lead Fruta Conquerors to a 3-1 win over Milerock FC in a Linden versus Georgetown encounter.

With $500 000 on the line, Junor rocked the net in the 23rd and 83rd minutes, while Ryan Hackett had giv-

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en the Tucville-based team the perfect start with his goal

in the third minute.

Kester Randolph scored

the Linden team’s lone goal in the 85th minute.

CRICKET QUIZZ 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) Evin Lewis-76 (2) Henry Nicholls-83* Today’s Quiz: (1) How many dismissals NZ wicketkeeper Tom Latham

effected in the recent ODI series against WI? (2) How many dismissals WI wicketkeeper Shai Hope effected?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

Race 9 Hola Princess

09:10 hrs Bounderby 09:40 hrs Kommander Kirkup

South Africa Racing Tips

10:40 hrs The Gtreat Wall

Fairview

11:10 hrs Tatlisu

08:55 hrs Miracle Bureau

11:40 hrs Princess Way

09:30 hrs Final Judgement 10:05 hrs Leadman

Musselburgh

10:45 hrs Gitango Tonight

09:00 hrs Heartasia 09:30 hrs Mullaghmurphy

English Racing Tips

Blue

Southwell

10:00 hrs Rhythm Of Sound

08:40 hrs High Kicker

10:30 hrs Randy Pike

11:00 hrs Ut Majeur Aulmes 11:30 hrs Paper Promise Ludlow 09:20 hrs Look My Way 09:50 hrs Peculiar Places 10:20 hrs Copain De Classe 10:50 hrs Ellens Way 11:20 hrs Hedgeinator 11:50 hrs Simonia

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Vickery stuns the tennis world

… dumps defending champ Lauren Davis from ASB Classic DEFENDING ASB Classic champion Lauren Davis has been dumped out of this year’s event, humiliated 6-1, 6-2 by the unheralded Sachia Vickery.

Having muscled her way through the qualifying rounds, the 22-year-old Vickery made easy work of her American compatriot, winning in just over an hour.

Davis, ranked 48 in the World as of January 2018, and who made a name for herself in Auckland last year with her tenacious style and grit, was merely going through the motions by the end of the match.

She managed to win just 41 per cent of service points - including just 19 per cent of her second-serve points - and was visibly frustrated with herself. The 24-year-old lashed out in irritation on multiple occasions.

Vickery, meanwhile, was far from perfect but nailed more than 60 per cent of her first serves and capitalised ruthlessly on Davis’s implosion.

The Florida-based world No.122 will face Veronica Cepede Royg next, following the Paraguayan ace’s 6-3, 6-3 demolition of Spaniard Lara Arruabarrena. The victor is then likely to play Agnieszka Radwanska.

“Honestly, me coming through qualifiers, maybe I had a slight advantage because I’d already played a few matches and this is her first,” Vickery said.

She added, “Sometimes it’s not such a bad thing, to go through qualifiers. I’m just taking it match by match - I’ve been playing well, I like the courts here and the atmosphere, so I’m just going to keep on playing and fighting.”

Vickery defeated Pole Magdalena Frech, Swiss player Conny Perrin and Italian Deborah Chiesa on the way to this week’s Classic main draw.

Davis, meanwhile, has won just 10 matches since the start of April.

Sachia Vickery, despite not being born in Guyana, would let the world know that her heart belongs to the homeland of her parents Rawle Vickery and Paula Liverpool, and she showed many that she belongs in tennis and isn’t going anywhere.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Andy Murray considers hip surgery after withdrawing from Brisbane International ( B B C ) - B R I TA I N ’ S Andy Murray says he may have to consider surgery after withdrawing from the Brisbane International because of his long-term hip injury.

The 30-year-old is down to 16th in the world having not played since July.

Murray said on Instagram, surgery was a “secondary option, some-

thing I may have to consider but let’s hope not”.

The Australian Open starts in Melbourne on January 15 and Murray added he would decide by the weekend whether

Murray has won three Grand Slams, the last of which came at Wimbledon in 2016.

to stay in Australia or fly home.

Murray had been given a bye to the last 16 in Brisbane and was due to play American Ryan Harrison tomorrow.

The former world number one said: “It’s quite demoralising that when you get on the court it’s not at the level you need it to be to compete at this level.

It’s really hurting inside.”

In an earlier state-

ment announcing he would not be playing in Brisbane, three-time Grand Slam champion Murray, who won the event in 2012 and 2013 said: “I’m very disappointed to be withdrawing.

“I came here with every intention of making a strong start to the year.”

Murray has not played competitively since his defence of the

Wimbledon singles title ended in a five-set defeat by Sam Querrey in July, when he was hampered by the hip injury.

He made an unsuccessful attempt to return at the US Open in August, pulling out two days before the start of the tournament.

His only public oncourt appearances since then have been in exhibitions against Roger Federer in November, and on Friday against Roberto Bautista Agut in Abu Dhabi.

I n a r e c e n t i n t e rview, Murray said he would be content to be playing at “30 in the world level” given his lengthy injury problems.

“I just want to enjoy playing again. I’ve really missed it the last six months or so,” he said.

Wenger charged by FA for comments

Arsenal’s Arsene Wenger

(BBC) - ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger has been charged by the Football Association over comments made to match officials after Sunday’s 1-1 draw at West Brom.

The Frenchman was angry after referee Mike Dean gave the Baggies a last-minute penalty, which they scored.

It is alleged the 68-year-old’s conduct in the match officials’ changing room was abusive and that he questioned the in-

tegrity of the referee.

Wenger has until 18:00 GMT on Friday to respond to the charge.

With just a minute remaining at The Hawthorns, Calum Chambers was penalised after Kieran Gibbs pushed the ball onto his arm, but Wenger felt his player had not deliberately handled.

Football’s laws state handball must be a “deliberate act” and the distance between the opponent and ball should be considered.

Chambers was standing

about two metres from Gibbs.

Speaking yesterday, before the charge was announced, Wenger said: “It was very disappointing.

“What is more frustrating for me is it happened many times this season - at Stoke, Watford, Man City, now West Brom.

“It is a concerning coincidence for me. That is why as well I was not at all happy with the movement the referee made as to why he gave the penalty. It did not correspond at all with what happened.

“On that front, it’s a bit worrying.”

Last January, Wenger was given a four-match touchline ban by the FA after being found guilty of misconduct after an incident with fourth official Anthony Taylor during a league game against Burnley.

Wenger’s side, who are fifth in the Premier League, host thirdplaced Chelsea today (19:45 GMT).

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

England desperate for Ashes win SYDNEY, Australia (Reuters) - Even with the series beyond them and Ashes already returned to Australia, England will be desperate to back up an encouraging performance in Melbourne and secure a consolation victory in the fifth and final Test in Sydney this week.

Avoiding a whitewash may not be much to crow about but Joe Root’s party must take a modicum of pride in apparently not disintegrating as the 2013-14 tourists did - an impression which a taste of victory in the Harbour City would confirm.

Given the fierce nature of the rivalry, though, Australia will be looking to ruthlessly drive home their advantage with a big win in front of a big crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground, which is sold out for the first three days.

Australia captain Steve Smith’s magnificent century helped save a draw in the Boxing Day Test and the hosts are confident he will recover from the stiff back that prevented him from training on Tuesday in time

for tomorrow’s toss.

Left-arm quick Mitchell Starc, who missed the fourth Test with a bruised heel, did bowl in the nets and should return to terrorise the English batsmen as he did with his 19 wickets in the first three Test victories in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

tions posed to Australia,” opening batsman Mark Stoneman told reporters yesterday.

“It’s given us a lot of confidence moving forward that the things we tried to put in place earlier in the series have come through to a certain degree, but ultimately we want to win a game of

Joe Root has carried a heavy burden as a defeated England captain. (Getty Images)

In his absence, Alastair Cook’s double century and the bowling of the experienced seam duo of Stuart Broad and James Anderson gave England the sniff of a win at the Melbourne Cricket Ground only for the weather and Smith to deny them.

“If we’d won the game, then you’d maybe say there’d be more ques-

cricket on this tour.”

The SCG traditionally offers some turn and with slow-bowling all-rounder Moeen Ali out of form, leg-spinner Mason Crane looks set to become the third Englishman to make his Test debut in the series.

Australia drafted left-arm tweaker Ashton Agar into their squad to give them an

Guyana bids for WT20 World Cup matches (CMC) – SPORTS authorities here are confident Guyana will get the nod as one of the official host venues for this year’s Women’s Twenty20 World Cup. The country has put in a bid for the government-owned national stadium to host matches during the November 3-24 showpiece and believes the odds are in its favour.

“I rather suspect because of the fact that the stadium is owned by government and because the stadium has no branding on it, this puts Guyana in a position where we can very likely be one of the four to host the Women’s International World Cup,” said Director of Sport Christopher Jones.

The Guyana National Stadium at Providence was one of 11 venues inspected by the International Cricket

Council (ICC) last November, in preparation for the upcoming tournament.

Venues in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, St Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua and St Kitts were also visited by the ICC team.

In order to host games during the tournament, the country will have to meet several prerequisites like ensuring the erection of a replay screen at the stadium.

Jones said while the national budget had made provisions for some of the costs associated with hosting the World Cup, talks were underway with the Ministry of Finance to ensure everything was approved.

“We are still engaging the Ministry of Finance with a view of reprioritising some of those requests from the budget that would have been

made by the various facilities,” Jones noted.

“Those discourses are still ongoing and we are confident we will see the allocations being made available.”

It emerged last month that two of the region’s major cricketing nations, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, were set to miss out as venues after failing to submit bids.

Eight countries – South Africa, England, Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and title-holders West Indies – have already qualified for the showpiece.

Bangladesh, Ireland, Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Uganda and two Asia qualifiers will vie for the two remaining spots courtesy of a qualifier in the Netherlands next June.

option of a twin spin attack with Nathan Lyon but the more likely change to the side will be the return of pace spearhead Starc for Jackson

Bird.

“I know he’s pretty confident he’s going to play,” fellow quick Pat Cummins said of Starc yesterday.

“I haven’t spoken to him but it looked like he was bowling quick, running around and wasn’t limping.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Radford backs Gayle to overcome batting slump (CMC) – WEST Indies batting coach Toby Radford believes conditions in New Zealand have been behind Chris Gayle’s muted performances on tour but has backed the superstar opener to come good.

The powerful left-hander has managed just 38 runs in three innings but Radford said the player was still adjusting to the bouncier pitches, especially having come straight from playing in the recent Bangladesh Premier League.

“The bounce in general has probably undone us more than anything,” said Radford.

“For instance, Chris has come from Bangladesh where the ball reaches knee

Superstar opener Chris Gayle

height, so suddenly when he’s trying to hit through the line, it’s climbing and he’s getting top edges.

“That was a fantastic catch the other day by wicketkeeper Glenn Phillips running back but they’re shots you might get away with in other places,” he added, referring to Gayle’s dismissal in the opening Twenty20 International in Nelson.

Gayle has been one of the main drawing cards for the limited overs series, especially coming off heavy scoring in the BPL where he plundered 485 runs, including two hundreds in the knockout round – the last coming in the final.

He is one of the premier batsmen of the T20 game

with a record 11 068 runs – the only player to have passed 10 000 runs.

And even though Gayle was still looking for a major score in the series, Radford said there was absolutely no reason to offer advice to the self-proclaimed ‘Universe Boss’.

“No, you don’t (offer advice). Chris goes out and plays; he’s been performing at this level for years.

Around the world he’s taken on every attack and is a great player,” the Welshman stressed.

“If he doesn’t get runs, it doesn’t affect him. Nothing really affects him. He’ll always go out confident and positive and hopefully he’s in good nick.”

Following two warm-up matches, two Tests, three One-Day Internationals and two Twenty20 Internationals, the Windies are still searching for their first win on tour.

Their last chance will come tonight when they clash with New Zealand in the third T20I and Radford is hoping Gayle and can play a key role. “ We k n o w h e ’s t h e world’s best T20 batter when he’s playing well,” he noted.

“If he could come out and play one of his big innings to get us a good start, then hopefully we would play New Zealand’s spinners better than we did in Nelson.

“It would be nice to leave these shores with something positive.”

UDFA GT Beer final

Botofago crush Net Rockers 4-1 in New Year’s Day final

By Joe Chapman

STUNNING double strikes by Donovan Francis and Shane Haynes helped Botofago crush Net Rockers 4-1 to lift the Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) GT Beer yearend football championship.

With the win, Botofago carted off $1.2M, the bragging rights and a trophy, all on the first day of the year leaving Net Rockers with $600 000.

The final saw Net Rockers start well, threatening as early as the 4th minute. A headed conversion from a corner called to action the Botofago keeper Wayne Wilson.

Two minutes later the Rockers again looked positive but the Botofago custodian came out bravely to quell the anxiety of the large crowd on hand.

By then the concentration was in the middle by the Rockers where Botofago had much to do to keep out the offensive forays which were being created.

In the 10th minute, however, it was Botofago who got first on the score sheet when forward Donovan Francis, later named the Most Valuable Player, found the back of the net.

He outran his marker before darting inside the box, where he dribbled two defenders before placing the shot to the far post away from the flailing hands of the Rockers

goalkeeper, Ryan Rose, for that 1-0 advantage.

As the goal rocked the back of the net, the Rockers were unable to organise themselves.

Within two minutes of the opener, the Botofago side were again on the score sheet, this time through a Shane Haynes goal which came off a cross from his brother Jamal.

In the 15th minute the Rockers goalkeeper Rose made a good save from a shot from outside the 18yard box after a free kick was won by Botofago.

By now the Rockers right winger Clarence Huggins was trying his desperate best to harass the Botofago left wingback constantly, but a number of his crosses were not met by his fellow strikers At one time, as Huggins made his way down the right wing he was confronted by a triangle of defenders which made it difficult for him to get off a shot.

Huggins, however, got a cross to Orande Wills in the 32nd minute, only to see Wills’ shot fly over the crossbar. He then created space for Denzil Pryce to slip through in the centre, with Pryce making good of the chance and the half ending 2-0.

After play resumed Net Rockers had two early chances which they could not put away.

However, Botofago would increase their lead through Francis, this

time a cross from the left

by Jamal Haynes as the Rockers goalkeeper could not grab in the middle.

Rose was caught on top the penalty area when Francis slapped past him into an open goal for a 3-0 lead in the 61st minute.

Three minutes adrift, another play down the left flank would see the Rockers goalkeeper bring off a nice save.

Net Rockers again pressed for their second goal by the 69th minute as they attacked from inside left, only to see a good clearance from the defence.

Shane Haynes scored the team’s fourth to complete the rout while Shane Luckie scored a consolation goal for Rockers in the 78th minute.

The third-place playoff game saw Eagles United win by a 2-1 margin over Silver Shattas thanks to a brace by Kendolph Lewis in the 60th and 90+1 minutes.

Eagles can now soar with their $300 000 thirdplace win after producing that come-from-behind victory in which Shattas Dexter Garraway opened the game’s scoring in the 6th minute.

B o t o f a g o ’s F r a n cis won for himself as MVP a motorbike which was donated by Mayor of Linden Carwyn Holland. Other individual prizes won were the Best Goalkeeper by Botofago’s Dwayne Wilson and Best Defender Floyd Headley also of Botofago.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Guyanese Karate Master conducts grading examinations in Suriname

Persaud, Seaton close year on high … Guyana end with 26 medals at Suriname meet

WITH four medals apiece, Guyana’s top junior swimmers Aleka Persaud and Leon Seaton ended the year on a high note, finishing as the most successful swimmers on the touring team that participated in the Annual VOS End-ofYear Invitational Swim Meet, in Suriname last month.

record.

Persaud’s other two gold came in the 100m IM (1:17.98s) and 50m backstroke (36.43s) events in her category.

Patrice Mahaica, was also in this category, and took bronze in the 50m freestyle (32.23s) and 50m backstroke (37.24s).

Anderson won bronze in

Shihan Wong second from right with some of the Surinamese Karatekas

GUYANESE Seventh Degree Black Belt Karate Master, Shihan Jeffrey Wong, Vice Chairman and Senior Instructor of the Guyana Karate College, has just returned from Paramaribo, Suriname where he had travelled to grade more than 70 students of the Suriname Karate College.

Shihan Wong who last November obtained the rank of Schichi Dan or 7th Dan and as a consequence attained the title of Karate Master, undertook this as his first official international assignment since being elevated to this prestigious

martial arts position.

He was accompanied to and assisted by William Grant, a black belt Karateka who is also Special Assistant to Kancho Frank Woona-Tai Chairman and Chief Instructor of the world karate umbrella organisation, the International Karate Diagaku, that is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Master Wong examined and graded all of the students who were eligible to undertake the examinations ranging from 10th kyu or white belts all the way to 1st kyu or brown belt. He was impressed with the standard of the students

there.

As with many martial arts, a belt system is used in Shotokan Karate to show the progress and proficiency of students. Belts are earned through their proven dedication to training in combination with an examination (grading).

Students’ progress moves from Novice (White Belt) through the coloured Kyu grades (9th to 1st Kyu) to Black Belt (1st Dan).

Learning Karate is unlimited and 1st Dan Black Belt is only the first in a series of Black Belt grades. Students (karatekas) become eligible to grade providing they

have fulfilled all technical requirements, have held a current IKD passport and have appropriate permission from their Senseis.

The Suriname Karate College Chief Instructor Gayendra ‘Penny’ Jaipersaud has indicated his commitment to teaching students to maintain the high level set by the International Karate Diagaku and to ensuring that individuals can achieve their Karate ambitions to the fullest extent.

As the most widely practised style, Shotokan is considered a traditional and influential form of karate do.

Police FC detain Monedderlust FC in GT Beer/BFA tournament … Roncey Caleb shot seals the deal

By Colin Bynoe ACTION in the GT Beer/ BFA/Candy Boss Berbice eight-a-side football tournament intensified on New Year’s Day with a scintillating matchup between GT Police Football Club and Monedderlust Football Club at the All Saints School ground in New Amsterdam (Scotts School).

The match was the first semifinal of the eight-a-side tournament. In soggy conditions the first semi-final action saw a determined display of football from both teams.

For Police FC Rawle Haynes found the back of the net early in the 7th minute to signal their intention. Acho Wallace then got jealous and made a name for himself as he nailed goal number two in the 10th minute for Police FC. Monedderlust FC brought some life into the large crowd with a late first-half response in the 24th minute from Kevin

Goal scorers for Police FC at the end of regulation time, Acho Wallace (left) and Rawl Haynes.

Cottoy to bring the score 2-1.

The scoreline remained 2-1 when the first half ended.

When play resumed in the second half both teams were resolute in their effort to force home the advantage. Moneddurlust FC’s Arthley Bailey got an opening and sent their supporters in frenzy with an eye-catching equaliser in the 39th minute.

The game continued with a number of feisty tackles and goal-scoring moments for both teams as time was evidently waning. This 2-2 stalemate remained intact when regulation time ended.

With the penalty kicks taken, the win was sealed by Police FC goalkeeper Roncey Caleb who had the first kick and his shot rocketed into the goal.

Caleb showed his allround ability with his efforts saving two on-target shots to lift his team over Monedderlust FC. The penalty stage ended 1-0 in favour of Police.

Leon Seaton

Guyana collected a total of 26 medals, more than doubling the 11 medals the team raked in at the meet in 2016. The count included 12 gold and four silver medals.

Persaud and Seaton who also won a bronze medal were one of nine swimmers who medalled at the meet, which saw a team of 55 swimmers from Guyana attend this year.

The only other swimming to land gold was Andrew Fowler, who procured a total of three.

The other medal-earners at the meet included little Shareefa Lewis with three silver medals; Trumaine Cole a silver and two bronze; and bronze medallists Nikita Fiedtkou, Patrice Mahaica, Jaleel Anderson and Andica Vieira.

Aleka Persaud

Along with the medals, Persaud also ended the meet with her name in the record books. She broke the records in the Girls’ 9-10 50m butterfly and 50m freestyle events. In the 50m butterfly, Persaud clocked 32.50s, and erased a previous 32.68 seconds record, in the 50m freestyle her time of 29.98s was just inside a previous 30.02s

the Boys’ 9-10 50m freestyle with a time of 30.95 seconds.

Meanwhile, building on the bronze medal he finished with in 2016, Seaton ensured he improved on his performance. Once again swimming in the Boys 11-12 category, the 100m breaststroke was the only race where Seaton was outclassed. With a time of 1:23.65s he took third in the 100m breaststroke, which was won by Feranto Stuger in 1:16.29s.

Seaton then got the better of Stuger in his other events however. He won the 100m freestyle in a time 57.23 seconds, while for the 50m freestyle it took him 25.40 seconds to touch the wall.

He also bagged the 100m butterfly in 1:04.36s, and took just 1:09.88s to champion the 100m backstroke.

Fowler took his medals swimming in the Boys’ 18 and over category, ruling in the 100m IM (1:06.58s), 100m freestyle (53.98s) and 50m freestyle (24.08s).

Also in this category was Cole, who finished behind Fowler in the 100m freestyle (59.90s). He was third in the 100m IM (1:10.16s) and 100m butterfly (1:09.56s).

The youngest medallists on the team, Lewis and Vieira collected their medals while performing in the Girls’ 7-8 category,.

Lewis took silver in the 50m breaststroke (51.82s), 50m freestyle (38.34s) and 50m backstroke (47.67s); Vieira took a bronze in the 50m freestyle (39.17s).

Swimming in the Girls’ 15-17 category, Fiedtkou took bronze in the 100m IM (1:18.52s) and 50m freestyle (29.19s) events.

Guyana bids for WT20 World Cup matches

See story on page 29

The ‘Army’ take the crown!

See page 26

… GDF stop Grove Hi-Tech 2-0 to win GFF Year-End Classic Director of Sport Christopher Jones hands over the winners’ trophy to GDF captain Keivin Sullivan at the presentation ceremony.

GDF goalscorers (L-R) Delroy Fraser and Eusi Phillips

See e pag 26

Rain wrecks West Indies

See e pag 27

Vickery stuns the tennis world

Fast bowler Kesrick Williams celebrates a wicket during the second Twenty20 International on New Year’s Day. (Photo courtesy CWI Media) Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

… dumps defending champ Lauren Davis from ASB Classic

Sachia Vickery

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2018