Guyana chronicle e paper 02 16 2018

Radio Aishalton 11 for Saturday launch 23 PAGE

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No. 105187

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2018

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

No place for the lawless

… President says service in the Force must be based on commitment, competence and incorruptibility 03 PAGE

President David Granger being escorted into the conference hall by Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud. Also in photo is Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge (Samuel Maughn photo)

Carjacking mastermind on the run … home raided; Mazda, 12 certificates of registration seized

Lindo Creek COI hearings on hold

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…Commissioner cites lack of prerequisite arrangements

Serial carjackers face more charges

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P AP GA EG E

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10 Children’s dance and masquerade competitions rock PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Carjacking mastermind on the run … home raided; Mazda, 12 certificates of registration seized A LODGE Housing Scheme, Georgetown resident who is suspected to be the mastermind behind a spate of carjackings, is being sought, the Guyana Police Force has said.

Investigators last night swooped down on his premises and conducted a search during which the ranks found a black Mazda Axela motor car with licence number PTT 2794, along with twelve certificates of registration for various vehicles, including some that were seized from the home of an ex-policeman who is currently in custody.

A 52-year-old female was found at the residence and has been taken into custody. The woman’s name was found on two of the seized vehicles’ registration. On Wednesday two persons were arrested and four vehicles, suspected to have been stolen, were seized during a police operation at Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

The police reported that acting on information, a party of cops, commanded by a senior officer, proceeded to a location at Yarrowkabra and found a black Toyota Premio, PMM 6979, which is suspected to have been stolen.

Shortly after, the police went to another location in Yarrowkabra and arrested a 39-year-old taxi driver on whose premises two

‘dirt’ bikes (a red and black Honda Tornado and a CRF Honda 150) suspected to have been stolen or unlawfully obtained, were found.

As the search continued, a 22-year-old taxi driver of Chand Sand Road, Timehri, was apparently alerted to the police’s operation and quickly handed over to the police at Timehri, a beige Toyoto Spacio motorcar, PPP 82, which he alleged was given to him to work as taxi since last Thursday by a named individual.

That person is now in police custody, along with the taxi driver. The vehicles are lodged at the Brickdam Police Station as investigations continue. Earlier this week, police ranks in ‘A’ Division conducted a 10-hour operation which concluded at 03:00hrs in the morning at Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, during which six persons were arrested.

Two motor cars, along with a Canter truck which is registered to a Barr Street, Kitty resident, loaded with the shell of a silver-coloured Toyota Spacio and a quantity of vehicle parts, suspected to have been stolen or unlawfully obtained, were also seized and lodged.

The suspects are reportedly employed by an ex-policeman, who is in custody along with others assisting with the investigations.

On Friday last, a former policeman, along with

a husband and wife and four women, were taken into custody following the discovery of several suspected stolen vehicles and parts at North Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara and Monument Hill, Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

It is believed that the vehicles might have been hijacked and stripped of their parts which are being sold.

Police ranks from the Major Crimes Investigation Unit swooped down on the North Vryheid’s Lust premises occupied by a 29-year-old taxi driver and his 25-yearold wife and found several car mirrors with engraved licence plate numbers, doors, lights, wipers and other vehicle parts for Toyota Allion, Spacio and Premio motor cars. As a result, the couple was taken into custody after the husband provided the police with conflicting stories as to why the suspected stolen vehicle parts were stockpiled at his residence.

Meanwhile, on the aforementioned day, the ex-policeman and four women were detained after police ranks in ‘A’ Division went to a property at Monument Hill, Kuru Kururu, and conducted a search, during which a quantity of vehicle parts and several vehicles suspected to be stolen or unlawfully obtained, were found.

The items have been lodged at the Timehri Police Station.

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No place for the lawless

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

… President says service in the Force must be based on commitment, competence and incorruptibility

“LAWLESS policemen have no place in a lawful force," President David Granger told the opening of a three-day conference of the Guyana Police Force on Thursday.

He said a force which is contaminated by corruption cannot safeguard the security of citizens. “Service in the Force must be based on the values of commitment, competence and incorruptibility,” the President, a former army commander, explained. The Police Force has been dogged by corruption over the years, fingered in extra-judicial killings and some of its ranks accused of aiding convicted drug lord, Shaheed Roger Khan, during his escapades here under the PPP government.

The three-day conference is being held under the theme “Forging ahead with effective policing through strategic human resources and operational management, partnership and professionalism.”

In attendance were Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, who is performing the functions of Prime Minister; and Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan; senior judicial functionaries and members of the diplomatic corps.

On his arrival at Eve Leary on Thursday, President Granger indicated that he was not there for a celebration but a declaration and after taking the salute, he dismissed the review of the guard of honour. He told the packed gathering of police officers, diplomats and politicians that “Security sector reform

is not a political sideshow.”

He said the exercise goes to the heart of law enforcement and good governance.

“I am confident that, with the implementation of

the causes, the then government was more concerned with concealing the symptoms of crime.

Government has since signalled its intention to

must be protected from the dangers of drug use. Citizens must be able to move around their communities free from the fear of crime. Citizens must be safeguarded from

“There is only one Government. That Government’s policy is executed through its 10 regions. Each region will be administered by a capital town. Each region must pro-

He explained that the system is still not seen as a trustworthy neighbourhood institution and is often perceived as projecting special interests rather than protecting the general good.

Further, he said conventional community policing practice requires that bonds of mutual trust should be forged between the police and the public. “That form of community policing establishes partnerships between the police and the public, emphasises problem-solving, public safety and public service with the aim of improving the quality of life in the community and of enhancing public trust,” he said.

Adding that change must take place also at the citizens’ level, the President said it is apparent that trust between President David Granger addressing the gathering at the Opening Ceremony of the Annual Police Officers’ the public and the Police was damaged during the Conference on Thursday at the Police Officers Mess, Eve Leary, Georgetown. (Samuel Maughn Photo) ‘Troubles’. He said never reforms, the Force will be investigate that period of attacks on their persons and vide its citizens with public before, and never since, in better able to protect our bloodshed and an inquiry into property. They must be safe services, including public the 179-year history of the country, our communities the slaying of eight miners at at home, at work, on the security. Each region must proud Force have so many Lindo Creek back in 2008 is street and at play.” and our citizens.” have its own police division policemen been slaughtered.

The United Kingdom is underway.

The Guyanese leader said that is coterminous with the Efforts must be made to reAdding that the Force human safety is necessary to administrative region. funding a comprehensive build public trust. reform of the security sec- cannot change if the old at- ensure our country’s stability.

Security sector reform President Granger extor and a report has already titudes persist, the President “Our country must be secured will reconfigure the police plained that security secbeen handed over to the said the causes of the erup- against trafficking in drugs, divisions, increasing them tor reform will strengthen tion and the continuation of guns, and people. Public se- to 10 so as to correspond partnerships between the Head-of-State. the criminal violence in this curity will signal to investors with Guyana’s administra- Force and communities. Citperiod of Guyana’s history that this country is a safe tive system,” the President izens should not consider ERUPTION OF must be ascertained if society destination for their invest- said.

VIOLENCE themselves to be passive President Granger said is to understand the factors, ments,” the President said. bystanders or onlookers to that the surge in corrup- features and forces which led Noting that change must POLITICAL crime-fighting. He said setion of the security forces, to such unprecedented levels take place at the level of ORNAMENT curity sector reform will help criminal violence, execution of violence in this small state the country itself, President U n d e r s c o r i n g t h a t to reduce crime and uncover killings and the failure to and to prevent a recurrence. Granger said government change must take place also the causal factors which give eradicate narco-trafficking He said that communities cannot continue to ignore the at the community level, the rise to crime. are interrelated and during should be free from criminal Constitutional reality that Head-of-State said that the The President said that the Jagdeo-era killings or activities and children must the Government governs 10 community policing system this will enhance coopera“Troubles” (2002-2009), be nurtured in a safe envi- administrative regions – not must not be treated as a tion between the public and instead of trying to cure ronment. “Our young people districts or divisions. political ornament. the police.

Integrated Solution ordered to honour minimum wage ––female guards warned not to entertain boyfriends on site

By Jeune Bailey Van Keric Labour Officer, Karen Van Sluytman- Corbin; and reMINISTER within the gional Labour Officer, NevMinistry of Social Protec- ille Nicholson visited the tion with responsibility for New Amsterdam branch of Labour, Keith Scott, has Integrated Solution Services ordered the management on Wednesday. of Integrated Solution SerThe ministry received vices to pay its guards, with several reports of underpayimmediate effect, an hourly ment, late payments, leave rate of $255. and other issues by guards, The company has been many of whom are single parpaying 480 guards at its East ent mothers who sometimes and West Berbice locations work in excess of 12 hours an hourly rate of $225. The per day. company was also cautioned As a result of the reports, to make overtime payments labour officers were disand honour the correct patched and they garnered monthly pay date. evidence garnered to support The order was issued af- the claims of the disgruntled ter Minister Scott accompa- group, some of whom are still nied by Chief Labour Officer to receive full payment for Charles Ogle; Deputy Chief December 2017.

The company was also ordered that the branch manager, Keran Ramhit, submit to the Labour Ministry the pay sheets which will indicate the hours of work by the guards, and deductions for the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), and taxes, along with the net pay.

In addition, copies of documents which should reflect the hourly rate and total hours of work if it exceeds 40 hours, must be submitted.

While the security company is expected to abide by the labour laws, Minister Scott also warned the female security guards that having boyfriends at the site or leaving the various worksites to visit their boyfriends will not

From left to right: Integral Solution Services Berbice Manager, Keran Ramhit; Chief Labour Officer, Charles Ogle; regional Labour Officer, Neville Nicholson; Deputy Chief Labour Officer, Karen Van Sluytman-Corbin and Minister of Labour Keith Scott, during a discussion at the New Amsterdam Branch office. the guards had highlighted such as disagreements with be tolerated.

“If you want us to support the many challenges they landlords, disconnections of you, then you too need to face, as they were unable electricity and other utility to meet their financial ob- services, and unpaid mortabide by the rules,” he said.

Meanwhile, during a ligations and resulting in gages among other personal protest action last month, embarrassing situations, issues.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Ramaphosa takes over as SA President Cyril Ramaphosa has become South Africa’s president a day after embattled leader Jacob Zuma resigned.

He was the only candidate nominated by parliament, which is dominated by his African National Congress. MPs broke into song at the announcement. In his first presidential speech, Mr Ramaphosa, 65, said he would tackle the corruption which allegedly became widespread under Mr Zuma.

The ANC had told Mr Zuma to step down or face a vote of no-confidence.

Mr Zuma faces numerous corruption allegations but denies any wrongdoing. One allegation is that he allowed the wealthy Gupta family, who whom he has personal

ties, to wield influence over policy, in an example of “state capture”.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Ajay Gupta, one of the three most prominent Gupta brothers, officials said on Thursday. This follows a raid by the Hawks, an elite police unit, on their home on Wednesday. The family has denied corruption allegations.

President Ramaphosa told parliament that corruption and state capture were “on our radar screen”.

He is due to deliver a State of the Nation address on Friday. This was delayed last week amid uncertainty about who should deliver it and Mr Zuma’s reluctance to step down. One opposition party, the Economic Free-

dom Fighters, walked out of the parliamentary debate. It wants new elections, rather than the ANC deciding on the identity of the new president.

It is often said that Mr Ramaphosa has had his eye on the position of president since the ANC came to power in 1994. The story goes that he was so upset at not having been chosen

by Nelson Mandela as his successor that he left politics and went into business.

But Mr Ramaphosa has now finally realised that dream.

He has said his priority is reviving South Africa’s battered economy. But it won’t be easy: Unemployment is currently at almost 30%, a rate which rises to nearly 40% for young people. Low growth rates and dwindling investor confidence were compounded by two credit agencies downgrading the economy to junk status. One of the first steps in improv-

early trading. Some will miss him though, pointing to achievements like announcing the abolition of fees for higher education, says the BBC’s Milton Nkosi in Johannesburg. Mr Zuma, a former member of the ANC’s military wing in the days of apartheid, rose through the ranks of the party to become president.

He led the country for more than a third of its time after apartheid. But he leaves office with several scandals hanging over him, and with South Africa’s economy in dire straits.

Cyril Ramaphosa speaks at Cape Town on February 11 from the same spot where Nelson Mandela addressed South Africans after being released from jail

ing that investor confidence is addressing the persistent claims of corruption at the heart of government.

NEW HOPE FOR THE ECONOMY There is a renewed

sense of hope as Mr Ramaphosa is taking over the reins of Africa’s most industrialised economy.

The markets appeared to welcome Mr Zuma’s resignation. The South African currency, the rand, reaching its strongest levels in three years - at 11.6570 rand for $1 in

MONEY LAUNDERING CHARGES Shaun Abrahams, head of the National Prosecuting Authority, told Reuters news agency: “I’ve been advised by my prosecuting team that Mr. Ajay Gupta is a fugitive from justice.” But eight other suspects did appear in court on Thursday on fraud and money laundering charges, local media report. The only member of the Gupta family to appear was Varun, who was Chief Operating Officer of the Gupta-owned mining firm Oakbay Resources and Energy. All eight told the court they had done nothing wrong.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Grant aid from Japan to build climate change resilience FARMERS and citizens of Guyana are set to benefit from a three-year project grant of US$5M signed between the government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through assistance from the government of Japan.

The project entitled, ‘Strengthening Women’s Disaster Management Capacities in Guyana and Dominica’ is administered by the UNDP and intends to build the capacity of vulnerable groups reliant on agriculture to withstand the impacts of climate change.

Primarily, it will focus on women and indigenous groups, who are among the most vulnerable sections of the population during floods, droughts, hurricanes and other severe weather conditions.

The signing of the grant was hosted on 15 February, 2018 at the Ministry of Finance where UN Resident Co-coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Guyana, Mikiko Tanaka said the project directly addresses

Tanaka said.

She noted that for the past year, 22 countries in Africa and Asia have received solar lanterns and that Guyana is the first country in South America and Central America to receive same.

The mobile lanterns are

fitted with a small solar panel which charges the lantern during the day and provide four levels of lights. In six hours, the lantern reaches its full energy and if maintained well, it can last for up to five years.

During the signing of the US$5M grant towards the ‘Strengthening Women’s Disaster Management Capacities in Guyana and Dominica’ project, Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan (left), UN Resident Co-coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Guyana, Mikiko Tanaka (centre) and Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Japan, Yoshinori Yakabe (right) engage in conversation. (photo by Samuel Maughn)

six Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

She said, too, that the initiative will help in the fight against climate change and disaster risk management.

“Climate change is real. It has greatly impacted lives in Dominica and, fortunately to a lesser scale and degree but certainly, in Guyana.

“We have learnt that community risk mitigation and coping capacities are the foundations…we have also learnt that women play an important role in agriculture and disaster risk management

as all other developmental sectors,” Tanaka said.

Delivering brief remarks, Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Japan, Yoshinori Yakabe, said the grant will be utilized to build the capacities of these individuals, helping them to change the negative outcomes of climate-related disasters for the betterment of themselves and their families.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan highlighted food security and poverty reduction as areas which will also be addressed

at the national level of both countries as they work towards the removal of threats to sustainable agricultural development.

These actions will also see the countries honouring their commitments made with the United Nations (UN) on its 2017-2021 Multi-Country Sustainable Development Framework, Jordan said.

“Each year, our government commits substantial resources to rehabilitate, maintain and construct sea defenses in order to protect the farmlands, crops, live-

Japan gifts Guyana 120 solar lanterns THE private sector of Japan has donated 120 solar lanterns to Guyana to improve the lives of students, teachers and pregnant women in the remote regions.

The lanterns from Panasonic Incorporated of Japan were handed over to the Ministries of Public Health and Education on Thursday.

Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Japan, Yoshinori Yakabe, in handing over the gifts, urged local stakeholders to make full use of the equipment.

Education Minister Nicolette Henry, said the lanterns are a welcomed contribution to meeting the needs of teachers and students of the hinterland communities.

Thirteen residential schools and centres in Regions One, Two, Seven, Eight and Nine were selected by the ministry to receive the lanterns.

“Most of us here on the coastland take electricity and lighting for granted. With this donation, the ability to have light to do simple things, like read a book and do your homework will now be possible,” Henry said.

She praised the Ministry of Finance, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Panasonic Incorporated for

stock as well as residential and commercial areas.

“Despite our efforts, our physical infrastructure still require massive investments if we are to effectively mitigate the repercussions of rising sea levels on coastal and low-lying areas among others,” the minister said.

As such, he expressed his deep appreciation to the government of Japan for its timely assistance and the support which will be provided to Guyana over the years.

He added that the grant will afford Guyanese the op-

portunity to share experiences and best practices and at the same time creating synergies with the people of Dominica and hopefully to the wider Caribbean in coming years.

“I trust that the lessons we learn from the implementation of this project would be shared and replicated within our sister CARICOM countries,” he said, adding: “I acknowledge the tireless efforts of the United Nations country team in support of our development efforts over the years.”

The UNDP Resident Representative also thanked the government of Japan for its timely assistance as well as the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) for the fruitful cooperation the UNDP wishes to build upon.

In addition, to tackle the SDGs of the project, the UNDP will work together with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

assisting the Ministry of Education in helping to improve education in the hinterland.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Health, Collette Adams said the lanterns would be beneficial to the health huts, health posts and centres in the hinterland communities.

“These lanterns will be equally shared within the

communities that are without electricity,” she said.

As Panasonic Incorporated celebrates its 100th anniversary in Japan, UNDP representative Mikiko Tanaka said the company launched its “100,000 Solar Lanterns Project” which has now made its way to Guyana.

“This is an example of active engagement of

Friday, February 16, 2018 - 05:00 hrs Saturday, February 17, 2018 - 05:00 hrs Sunday, February 18, 2018 - 05:00 hrs

Japan’s private sector in helping countries and communities around the world towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Embracing small businesses INCOME-GENERATION or business is an integral part of our day-to-day lives and is a serious matter when it comes to government’s management of the economy.

How well an economy performs depends heavily on the level of investment it attracts and how well it is managed.

The current administration on assuming power saw the importance of business in their fresh start to a good life.

Businesses, including small enterprises, play a vital role in empowering citizens, reducing unemployment, while promoting and sustaining development. President David Granger himself has gone almost on a campaign, encouraging the setting up of small enterprises and making the case for greater agro-processing businesses. His vision was seen in the creation of the Ministry of Business. Under the previous administration, this component was subsumed in the Industries and Commerce portfolios of the Ministry of Tourism.

Now with a dedicated ministry, it shows that the government means business when it comes to serious business- wooing investors and creating a conducive business environment in Guyana. Of course, it has Go-Invest whose task is to promote Guyana as a good place to invest, actively promote Guyanese exports to foreign countries and facilitate investments, both domestic and foreign, through the granting of permits, concessions and other incentives, once all requirements are met.

The minister, in the scheme of things, has a broad

oversight role and has thus far demonstrated maturity in the execution of this function. Attracting investors to Guyana is one thing; promoting local business is another, but both are vital for a stable economy and a sound investment climate.

Just after the May 11 elections, there was some unease in the business community over whether GuyExpo will continue since, notwithstanding its dominating entertainment feature, it played a key role in showcasing their products.

The expo, though catering for small businesses, is not wholly about small businesses as efforts were made to get large enterprises to sponsor small operators who sell their products. It is a novel, synergetic relationship which should be fostered, but it will require more buy-in from larger businesses. In short, it is the promotion of large enterprises through their smaller, enabling partners.

The importance of small businesses to Guyana cannot be underestimated. Small businesses here account for about 40 per cent of total employment and remain a key driver in tackling poverty and unemployment. It would not be surprising to find out that many young people who are unemployed and vigilant for opportunities to earn, are creative but they lack the capital and collateral to engage in self-employment. And there are others who see themselves as employees at some firm or business. With these situations in mind, it is imperative for the government to look at existing programmes and see what modifications can be made to give guidance and support, especially to persons

who depend on getting a job, rather than putting their creativity legally in motion, to earn a livelihood.

Guyana’s poverty rate is below 35 per cent, but generally speaking, in a resource-rich nation such as Guyana, with an abundance of arable land and water, no one really should be poor. It would be surprising to know that a large percentage of the persons who are still in poverty today, are in that condition because of inaction. Getting these persons to improve their station in life will require the creation of a new culture, one that is focused on discipline and utilising the opportunities that do not contravene the law at their disposal. The promotion and creation of sustainable small businesses can be of some help in the climb out of poverty, but investment in innovation is the viable solution for a more prosperous Guyana in the long run.

GWI debunks Harry Gill water disruptions claims Dear Editor,

IN response to a letter published in your daily newspapers on Thursday, February 15, 2 0 1 8 , c a p t i o n e d “ U n s c h e duled water disruptions in Region Five”, by Mr. Harry Gill (PPP Member of Parliament), I would like to issue the following statement to rebutt the allegations regarding the general water situation in Region 5 and water stoppages at the Cotton Tree Water Treatment Plant over the last two years.

Raw Water to the Cotton Tree Water Treatment plant is sourced from [the]Rosignol Well Station, which operates on a 24-hour basis using electricity provided by the Guyana Power & Light (GPL) and a standby generator, equipped with an automatic changeover switch, in an effort to negate any unplanned stoppages due to power supply issues.

Last Saturday (February 10, 2018), the period of stoppage which Mr. Gill referred to was an isolated case and this was due to an unbalanced voltage supply from GPL to the Rosignol well station.

At the time of my response to his letter, that issue [was] still to be resolved by GPL as we continue to operate on the standby generator. The changeover switch that was put in place to start the generator only reacts when there is a power outage and high or low voltage condition, and neither occurred at the time.

Mr. Gill’s assessment of the situation is void of facts and seems to be hinged on this isolated incident, which was beyond the control of the water utility.

He also has the phone number of the GWI Regional Manager who is usually in contact with him on GWI matters and whom he could have contacted for additional information.

Please note there is a continuous supply of water to the communities supplied by the Cotton Tree Water Treatment plant from 4:00 am to 9:00 pm daily with maximum demand pressure supplied between the hours of 5 am and 12 pm and from 3 pm to 9 pm. Off-peak periods are used to facilitate the cleaning of the filters, which is a necessary part of the operation and boosting the system for the next peak

operation. GWI is also currently working to increase water supplied to the treatment plant in an effort to move to 24-hour supply at this facility.

The management of GWI Region 5 can boast of remarkable improvements in water quality, level of service, improved coverage and the continuity of supply across the Region, as we strive to meet the needs of our customers in every zone.

Below is a list of achievements and accomplishments that have benefitted the Region over the past 2 years: ● 3,330 customers served from the Ithaca well-station are now seeing cleaner tiles and whiter clothing in their homes due to the chemical treatment of the water supplied to those residents at the same cost. ● An increase in coverage of the Cotton Tree Water Treatment Plant has seen residents from No. 5 and No. 6 Villages being supplied with treated water. ● A well was resuscitated to increase the production and service hours of the Cotton Tree Water Treatment Plant. Auxiliary works are currently ongoing to bring

this water to the plant. ● Extension of water distribution mains in the villages of Ithaca, No. 22, Lovely Lass, Golden Grove, Onverwagt, Trafalgar, No. 30, Tempie, Belladrum, Lichfield, No. 40 - 42, Ross, Catherine, Calcutta; Farm to La Raisonable Villages have seen 550 households receiving water in their homes for the very first time, while others benefited from improved level of service. ● The construction of a river crossing at Wash Clothes Village, Mahaicony River, and installation of one Km of distribution main in Hyde Park and Esau and Jacob, Mahaicony Creek have seen residents receiving potable water for the very first time. ● The Region can also continue to boast of its continuous development, rehabilitation and maintenance of its network with upgrades of 11 trench-crossings in several villages. ● Metering and upgrade of 850 service connections have resulted in improved level of service between the villages of Ithaca and Farm and this exercise is ongoing. ● The installation of 46 new

service connections was done for residents of the New Hope Housing Scheme in Onderneeming Village, who now benefit from potable water in this new housing area. ● A mini water quality laboratory was constructed and staffed to monitor the water quality supplied to residents on a daily basis. ● GWI has now taken ownership of testing water quality of storage facilities at schools and health facilities, providing recommendations where necessary. ● The Region has embarked on the successful chlorination of water wells and rehabilitation of water supply network for residents in the riverain community of Moraikobai, Region 5.

G.W.I continues to partner with all communities in the Region and welcomes comments that are factual, unbiased and free from any ulterior motive, as we continuously seek to improve the service provided to all.

Regards Mr. Garfield Archibald Regional Manager (ag).

– Region No. 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

We need some peace and quiet in Enterprise Dear Editor

MR. PRESIDENT, I am writing this letter from Enterprise, East Coast Demerara. We are having a lot of problems in our once beautiful village. First, I must thank the people of Guyana for electing you to the highest office. I can see you mean good for all Guyanese. I am so sorry you were not elected years ago.

Enterprise is 15 miles from Georgetown, one mile south from the main Highway. The PPP/C always get the most votes here, but in the past 23 years they have forgotten us, neglected us, treated us with little respect

and hardly did any development for us. But in May 2015 the people had enough and quite a number of people voted for the coalition government and you became the elected President.

Among our problems is noise nuisance--too much loud and vulgar music all over the place day and night.

At the moment of writing the noise is unbearable. On the 9th January about 1:30 am, a loud music started in Jagan Street, close to the Christian Church and very close to the Hindu Mandir and two houses away from a Member of Parliament’s mother-in-law who is in her late 80s. The person was

playing his music from his small white car and if you hear the curse words from the music. Several calls were made to the nearest police station, Vigilance, which is five minutes away by driving, but honestly no help or assistance was given. This music woke up most of the hard-working people and school children and finally stopped about 4:30 am. Tell us Mr. President, who to call and seek help [from] in the middle of the night.

Since the Super Bet Gambling shop came to Park Street is more problems. Gambling all hours, plenty noise, smoking of illegal substances, loud and

vulgar language and how the authority allow licence to operate one house away from a place of worship; that licence should have never been issued or it should be revoked now. This betting shop increases a lot of petty thieves, drugs smoking and people not feeling safe again.

Also of great concern is the ruthless bus service. A lot of letters have been written of the buses. They play the most loud music and we, the travelling public, have to endure it, whether it’s senior citizens, sick infants; there is no respect being shown.

Then it’s the overload of the buses. How can a bus, Mr. President, leave Enterprise,

travels 15 miles to the city, pass so many police stations and not being stopped or being charged, all because some police are allegedly accepting money from the bus drivers for breaking the rules. Do a survey and see if the bus driver is paying tax and have NIS coverage. Of great concern too is too much illegal rum shops where private car drivers will stop and drink and open up their loud music and disturb the neighbourhood.

Please Mr. President, with your help and the Ministers in your government and the police, the Crime Chief, the Police Commissioner, the Guyana Defence

Force, caring citizens and the media, if steps are soon taken, we will have some quiet and peace and development under your presidency.

We feel there should be a police outpost set up soon in Enterprise to assist with our many problems or allow the Guyana Defence Force to set up a base to do some patrol day and night. My final word and wish to you is I pray and hope that God will protect you and give you long years and good health to bring back the pride which we had but was destroyed by the previous government.

Regards Concerned citizen

Local radio practitioners should be proud of their native land Dear Editor, IN continuing my letter of February 14 relevant to Word Radio Day, which was celebrated on February 13, 2018, I would like to share a bit more on the impact of Radio.

Radio has evolved in our world today, from analog to digital technology. This evolution provides for better frequency tuning and precision. From my own experience, many radio stations hosted DX-ing clubs for Short Wave radio listeners. These clubs encouraged listeners to provide feedback on broadcast quality and the frequency on which the transmission or rediffusion was received.

Some radio stations offered various tokens for feedback accuracy, such as bumper stickers, clothing and other promotional material. In my younger years, that exercise was a particularly exciting one. Receiving mail from renowned radio networks generated greater enthusiasm than my routine pen-pal exchanges. That analogous approach has evolved over the years as a consequence of advancement in digital technology.

Local radio has also seen significant improvements over the years. We no longer have unending breaks in transmission. There was a time in Guyana when power outages created unceremonious disruptions to regular programming on the 3- Channel, 2-Station radio network. Today, this country boasts close to 20 radio

stations, many of which have live streams. Oh, no!

The streams I refer to are not water filled creeks. Live streaming is digital broadcasting via the internet. Live streams reach all across the world. When I’m on visits overseas, I can still listen to radio in Guyana instantaneously. Other people can also listen to us, whether they are in the UK, China, South Africa, USA or Australia. So, this is where we need to look at our content. It is often disturbing to hear non-Guyanese talk, accents, or slangs coming from the lips of Guyanese announcers. There are exceptions. Those exceptions are non-nationals or natu-

ralized Guyanese who may be making audio presentations. Those persons will obviously still have their native twang or be making linguistic transformation to (Guyanese) English. I can tune to the VOB in Barbados and know I’m on to a Barbadian radio station, or I.S.A.A.C in T&T and know that I’m on to a Trinidadian radio station, but many times when I tune into local stations I wonder if they have relocated to Portmore in Jamaica or Syracuse, New York.

Local radio practitioners should be proud of their native land, native tongue, and strive to give a representation of

local content. Maybe this is something the broadcast authority should look at, not as an imposition but as encouragement, to promote Guyana as Guyana

for Guyana. As this country realizes the influx of various nationalities and cultural influences, we can use radio as an effective tool to help preserve our culture,

customs, patrimony, and as an organ for protection of our sovereignty.

Regards Orette Cutting

8

Police seek to improve response time to crime

–– says Top Cop

CONTROLLING the level of unprofessional behaviour, reducing response time and cybercrime investigations are amongst the concerns to be addressed at the 2018 Annual Police Officers’ Conference.

This was disclosed by Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud during his farewell address at the Conference which commenced Thursday at the Officer’s Mess, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

He said there will be a review of the system of police prosecutions, since the Force has found over the years a number of negative issues associated with those.

“So it is anticipated that there will be intense discussions, regarding the development of systems for commanders in order to achieve that control function of management,” he said.

Adding that the previous year brought its own challenges to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the top cop said the Force has demonstrated its resilience at the end of the year, since serious crime statistics show a decrease of 10 per cent, relative to the previous year.

“I know that from time to time these statistics are questioned, but I wish to say they are reported statistics and that there are always a number of crimes that are unreported; those are referred to as the dark figure of crime and it is not reflected in our statistics of reported crimes,” the commissioner said.

He explained that for several reasons, people choose not to report certain crimes, such as persons who sell or buy narcotics and consume narcotics.

“They are participating in those

Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud during his address crimes, in addition there are other reasons why people don’t report crimes, some measure the utility they will gain from justice against the time they would have to spend in order to achieve that justice,” Persaud said “And this will determine whether they will report or not. Public trust is a major issue. [If] people don’t believe that the matter will be treated professionally, and a justified outcome [reached], then they will not be motivated to report it.”

Further, he said when compared to the last two years, the GPF had a 19 per cent decrease in reports and during 2017, the Force ‘clear up’ rates for reported murders stood at 77 per cent.

He said that while there are doubts in the statistics, in countries like Guyana with a small population, it is extremely difficult to hide murders.

“Murders get reported, people report when their friends, family, relatives, neighbour, whatever go missing

and on that incident we are not tolerant to persons killing other persons unlawfully in Guyana; our society is not tolerant to that so it gets reported,” he said.

Regarding capacity throughout the year 2017, the commissioner of police said the Force recruited, trained and deployed 471 new recruits; 572 ranks benefitted from in-service and overseas training and this include training conducted by the Justice Education Society under funding from the US Embassy.

Meanwhile, he said that the 140 vehicles donated via a grant from the Chinese government and the 170 bicycles along with training of bicycle patrol received from the US Government will aid in crime prevention.

“This is likely to have a great impact on crime prevention, crime detection and traffic control and response time. In addition, we have provided security for various local, regional and international events, including the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting which was held in February 2017 here in Guyana,” he said.

He also said many reviews of performances over the previous year in addition to plans, are presented and finalized. As such it is anticipated that there will be intense discussions regarding the development of systems for commanders in order to achieve that control function of management.

“This happens to be my final conference; I am and will be proceeding on pre-retirement leave in a couple of weeks. I have had a wonderful journey, but I do look forward in entering the next phase of my life, I have nothing but the best wishes for the GPF and for Guyana,” Persaud said in his closing remarks.

Police Service Commission expected soon –– President Granger

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF of the armed forces, President David Granger on Thursday said he expects the Police Service Commission to come on stream soon.

According to the head-ofstate, once the matter of the Public Service Commission chairman is handled, the Police Service Commission will eventually follow.

“We have settled the Teaching Service Commission and the Integrity Commission and then we will move onto the Police Service

Commission,” the President said.

The Police Service Commission is expected to be on stream by March. With the absence of the Police Service Commission, the Guyana Police Force will not see the promotions of senior officers.

Last year, the President advised that the promotions which were about to be effected by the last Police Service Commission be placed on hold due to several concerns which were raised regarding the process.

At the moment there are

several vacancies within the Guyana Police Force with many senior officers gone into pre-retirement. Those include officers from the rank of Inspectors to Assistant Commissioners of Police. There are also several other officers who are expected to head into retirement this year which would eventually widen the gap of vacancies to be filled.

The commissioner of police himself is also preparing to head into his retirement and the Guyana Police Force like most of the citizenry, is anxiously waiting to see who

will be the person filling that chair.

There are names of individuals which are being circulated both at the level of the police and other sections of society but government has not given an indication as to who the replacement for Seelall Persaud would be.

On Thursday, President David Granger, while addressing the Police Officers Conference, reiterated that only someone who is fit and proper and not corrupt should be the next commissioner of police.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Serial carjackers face more charges TWO alleged serial carjackers and robbers who are currently on remand for a series of robberies around Georgetown were yesterday back before a City Magistrate this time on a number of carjacking charges and were further remanded to prison.

They are 29-year-old Shawn Archibald of Unity Place South Ruimveldt and 39-year-old Timothy Waldron of the same address.

It is alleged that on 4 November 2017 at Irving Street both Waldron and Archibald while being armed with a gun robbed Ryhann Shah of 1 Toyota Allion car worth $4M, cellphone worth $10,000, groceries worth $5,000 and $15,000 cash.

The second charge alleges that on the 28 No-

worth $350,000 and an iPod worth $200,000. The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges. The prosecutor objected bail on the grounds that a gun was used in the commission of the crime and the seriousness of the charge. Both of the defendants were refused bail and were remanded to prison until March 5, 2018.

Back in January both

Shawn Archibald

Timothy Waldron vember at Kitty both Waldron and Archibald being armed with a gun robbed Nadir Williams one Samsung Galaxy S6 phone worth $120,000; one hand bag worth $3000; wallet worth $10,000 and $10,000 cash, also a Allion motor car worth $2.9 million.

They both pleaded not guilty to the charges that were read to them by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

Waldron was also slapped separately with three robbery under-arms charges.

It is alleged that on 16 June 2017 at Station Street Kitty while armed with a gun robbed Gregorick Layne of two iPhones worth 204,000; one flat screen television set worth $100,000 and a quantity of footwear and clothes worth $250,000. On the same day he also robbed Layne of a Toyota Axel car worth $2.5M property of Naomi.

The second charge alleges that on the 16 June 2017 Waldron also at Station Street Kitty while being armed with a gun robbed Roxanne Rambisham of $400,000 cash, two iPhones

men were charged with armed robbery that was committed on a miner on Old Year’s Day. Particulars of that charge state that on December 31 at Republic Avenue, McKenzie, Linden, the duo while being armed with a gun robbed Trevor Campbell of five gold chains valued $740,000. They pleaded not guilty to the charge. Archibald was charged for being armed with a gun on January 1, at West Ruimveldt, and robbing Roy Jaundoo of two gold chains along with an iPhone totalling $406,000.

He was further charged for using a fake number plate on motor vehicle PTT 233 on December 5, at Festival City knowing same to be false. He denied both of the charges and was remanded to prison until February 2.

Meanwhile, Waldron was charged for using a fake number plate on PTT 1946, knowing same to be false.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge and was granted $156,000 bail and the matter adjourned until February 2.

Archibald on that occasion following his appearance before two separate magistrates in the city was then taken to the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court to face a charge for the theft of a motor vehicle.

The vehicle was hijacked during an armed robbery at Better Hope on the East Coast of Demerara on December 30, 2017.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Guyana better equipped to respond to disaster

By Svetlana Marshall

GUYANA is now in a better position to respond to any form of disaster now that it is equipped with close to 90 certified Mass Casualty Management System and Incident Command System Officers.

Drawn from approximately 15 organisations across the country, including the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Public Health Ministry, Guyana Police Force, Guyana Fire Service, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Guyana Defence Force (GDF), St. John’s Ambulance Brigade and the Red Cross Society, the participants were on Thursday presented with internationally recognised certificates during a simple ceremony at the Herdmanston Lodge, following a week of intense training.

The Mass Casualty Management System and Incident Command System Courses were organised and facilitated by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO)

sets you have attained during these training sessions are valuable assets to a Government and its people,” he told the graduates.

The country currently has in place a Mass Casualty Management System and the 24-Hour National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS).

One of the participants receiving his certificate from PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. William Adu-krow (Adrian Narine photo) year in 2015, to in excess of $90M per year in 2018.

EVERYONE’S BUSINESS “We have worked and will continue to strive to ensure that we are better prepared and able to deal

we will be in a position where we can respond positively.

We have limited resources and if we are to have optimum use of those resources, we have to plan carefully and apply the resources we have in a practical and efficient way,” he said.

Some of the participants of the Mass Casualty Management System and Incident Command System Courses (Adrian Narine photo) in collaboration with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), the Public Health Ministry and the Canadian High Commission.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon, who has responsibility for the CDC and Disaster Risk Management, told those present at the closing ceremony, that Government remains committed to building the country’s resilience to disaster risks.

He added that the CDC’s subventions have increased from approximately $4M a

with the increased risks expected from climate change and manmade hazards,” the state minister said, while stating that Disaster Risk Management is everyone’s business.

In underscoring the importance of planning, Minister Harmon said the Government will ensure that the requisite systems are in place in the event that there is a disaster or mass casualty.

“We must plan for all eventualities. It is only by planning and preparing that

Alluding to the Mass Casualty Management System and the Incident Command System Courses, the state minister said they are integral in the preservation of public safety and security during emergencies and disasters, as they facilitate the provision of prompt medical response and victim care, effective and efficient resource mobilisation and management, and strengthened inter-agency coordination during mass casualty incidents.

“The knowledge and skill

AUGURS WELL PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. William Adukrow while acknowledging the Government of Guyana’s commitment and resolve to strengthening the nation’s capacity to deal with mass casualty incidents, said the collaboration and multi-stakeholder approach augurs well for the country.

He noted that the courses will have a direct impact in enhancing the technical capacity of the officers to respond effectively to mass casualty incidents.

“Our training courses are not static and will continue to evolve to meet new development needs. In this context, we welcome feedback from the Government,” Dr. AduKrow said while pointing out that in addition to the close to 90 personnel trained, six persons completed the instructors training programme for Mass Casualty Management System.

“This will certainly place us in an advantageous position since these esteemed professionals can now plan, organise and conduct training in all the administrative regions in Guyana. Consequently, I would endeavor to proffer a candid challenge to the instructors, the CDC and the Ministry of Public Health to convene Mass Casualty Management training in all regions.”

However, he noted that limited human, material and transportation resources and even poor communication can prevent a smooth and well-coordinated dispatch of victims of a mass casualty incident to various healthcare facilities.

Dr. Adu-krow explained that responders and/or rescuers may be forced to carry all victims to the only care facility available, which may

Minister of State Joseph Harmon, delivering remarks during the closing ceremony of the Mass Casualty Management System and Incident Command System Courses (Adrian Narine photo) overwhelm the healthcare Incident Command System system.

Course was conducted from The PAHO/WHO Repre- February 5-7 with 42 persons sentative said as such it be- undergoing extensive training comes necessary for a policy geared towards command to be established to address control coordination. those challenges.

The Mass Casualty Man“The PAHO/WHO will agement Programme comwork closely with the CDC menced on February 8 for a and the Ministry of Public period of a week.

Health to develop an Incident “Throughout the course Command and Mass Casualty of that training the particiManagement Policy docu- pants were taught a number ment,” he assured. of theoretical sessions, as Canadian High Com- well as a number of educamissioner to Guyana, Lilian tional videos on disasters and Chatterjee, in her remarks different incidents,” Burgess said that Canada has been a said, while adding that as a partner to the Caribbean and multi-sectorial group they Guyana in providing support were challenged to share their for disaster response and risk experiences within the differmanagement and will contin- ent professions. ue to do so.

“That culminated with a “I must commend the or- desktop exercise as well as a ganisers for arranging this, practical exercise in Durban particularly at a time when Park last night (Tuesday), we here in the Caribbean are and coming out of that pardealing with the effects with ticipants were taken through climate change. The Caribbe- a lot of disaster type scenaran is seen as one of the most ios where they had to treat exposed regions to natural victims and transport them disasters. Canada remains to hospitals,’ the facilitator committed to helping the further explained. Some 39 Caribbean rebuild better and persons undertook the Mass stronger for the future. We Casualty Course. are working to improve the That course recorded an capacities of countries in the 85 per cent pass rate while response to natural disasters the Incident Command Sysand to reduce their impact on tem Courses recorded an 80 the people,” she said. per cent success rate. The The facilitator, Peter Bur- certified officers will be gess, in an interview with deployed during the MashGuyana Chronicle said the ramani celebrations.

Rice farmers picket millers for payment

THE Guyana Rice Producers Association (RPA) has joined scores of rice farmers to protest the management of the Rumzeight Rice Processors/Alesie facility, West Coast Demerara (WCD) for payments.

Scores of farmers staged a protest in front of the facility on Wednesday, calling for the management to pay them for produce they supplied to the company.

According to a press statement from the RPA, the facility is closely associated with Turhane Doerga, who allegedly had numerous issues with the payment of farmers over the past few years.

“Some of the farmers have already gone to

court and in some cases the court had awarded judgment in favour of the farmers but because of the many companies operating out of the Ruimzeight location enforcement of the judgment by way of assets seizure is extremely difficult,” the RPA explained.

RPA assured the farmers that they will receive maximum support from the association as they seek to get their money.

The association also called on the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and the Ministry of Agriculture to take steps to protect the interests of the farmers and to lend support to ensure payments.

Some of the rice farmers on the picket line on Wednesday

‘Consultation is a must’ 10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

–– Broomes says to Moblissa residents

HAILING the visit of junior Natural Resources Minister Simona Broomes to their community as ‘God-sent’, residents of Moblissa voiced their concerns of the indiscriminate mining of sand and loam in their community by private contractors.

Moblissa is located on the Linden Soesdyke Highway and is geographically located in both Regions Four and 10. The mining of the natural resources has been taking place in the community for many years by private contractors and the residents recently brought it to the attention of regional officials of Region 10. They noted that their community is being exploited of its mineral wealth and is currently starved for development. This they deemed as unfair and are in dire need of amicable solutions to the problem.

Minister Broomes upon hearing of the concerns from regional officials visited the community on Thursday, along with Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira, Regional Chairman Renis Morian and other regional officials. Residents braved the inclement weather to meet with the officials. Speaking on behalf of the residents was Chairman of the Community Development Council Arthur Reynolds who said that the community demands financial benefits from the mining of the loam pit. He also proposed that two checkers be employed in an effort to ascertain the amount of loam leaving the community via trucks on a daily basis.

Reynolds posited that the contractors should contribute to the repairing of the community’s access road as well as to put provi-

Minister Simona Broomes, Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira and other officials during the meeting at Moblissa

Minister Simona Broomes holding discussions with the residents of Moblissa concerning mining in their community sions in place for the reclamation of the soil in an effort to push agricultural production in the community. This he said is in keeping with the Government’s drive for a green economy.

These proposals were all endorsed by Regional Chairman Renis Morian who posited that the community should benefit from the mining.

Minister Broomes upon listening to the concerns reminded the residents that the contractor, as well as three others, is a licenced miner but her investigation revealed that no consultation was done when these licences were issued by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission. This is something that must be stopped, she said. “I am saying that consultation must be done, it is not only what is written on the book, you have persons living in the community and once strangers are coming into the community, you ought to know, you should be informed….” Broomes said. In this regard, the Minister said that the three other licensed miners will not start

mining without consultation being done with the people.

Going forward, she said, it is not about confrontation with the mining contractor but to bring amicable solutions to the issue, so that both parties can benefit. She suggested that a toll can be placed for trucks to pay upon transporting loam out of the community. In addition, she rallied with the contractor for residents of the community to also be employed with his company as local content is important. The contractor had no objection to this and will be meeting with the residents as well as other regional officials on Monday for further consultation on the way forward.

Broomes also revealed that for 2018, she will be focusing on sand pit mining, quarrying, and loam mining to have a better understanding on what is going on in these areas.

Before leaving the Minister visited the mining pit and held further discussions with the contractor and also donated a football to the community youth group.

Children’s dance and masquerade rock

WITH animated hip-hop performances, dramatic dances and colourful masquerade performances, the Ministry of Education Children’s Mashramani Dance and Masquerade finals concluded at the National Cultural Centre before a boisterous crowd on Thursday.

Georgetown’s Westfield Prep, South Ruimveldt Secondary, Ann’s Grove Primary of Region four and New Silver

City Secondary of Region 10 were a few of the schools that picked up wins as the day ended.

The day saw performances across four age categories: namely 5-7, 8-10, 11-13, and 14- 17, performing in group and hip hop dances and masquerade competitions.

Representing the Georgetown District, Westfield Prep Primary collected the first two prizes of the day as they

ruled in the 5-7 and 8-10 Dance (Group) category.

The last act in the category--the all-girls group--was by far the best performance with their piece titled “Praise and Worship”.

For their piece “Wishawow” which saw a medley of dancers decked out in princess costumes, One Mile

Cotton Field Secondary’s Erron Caesar takes centre stage during the Masquerade 11 – 13 years flounce off (Adrian Narine photo)

See page 11

Dancers from Leguan Secondary during their energetic performance in the Dance 11 – 13 (hip hop) competition (Adrian Narine photo)

Dancers from Corentyne Comprehensive High performing “Protecting Our Legacy, Lef We Thing” (Adrian Narine photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

NGOs receive US$270,500 in grant funding

THREE local organisations together received a total of US$ 270,510 in grants for major Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) on Thursday.

The Japanese GGP grant assistance programme supports small developmental projects in the fields of health, education, skill training and social welfare.

St. Francis Community Developers, one of the recipients, received funding valued at US$90, 797 for the construction of a skills training resource centre in Corentyne, Berbice.

The centre will facilitate non-traditional skills training for over 500 adults and youths.

Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development received US$89,900 for the construction of a medical service centre which will also provide literacy, numeracy and vocational life skills training for over 385 locals.

And the third recipient, Special Needs for Life, received a grant for US$89,813 to construct a multi-purpose centre in Kuma Village in the Rupununi area which will serve as a hub for the provision of social services to 1,200 residents of the area.

The provision of grants to the three organisations in Guyana was solidified with a handshake between Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Japan, Yoshinori Yakabe (centre) and Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock (right). Included in photograph is Honorary Consul-General to Japan, Kashir Khan (left) (photo by Samuel Maughn) The joint signing of the of providing essential, edu- to our people there [in the agreement between the gov- cational and social services hinterlands], we would not ernments of Japan and Guy- to the people of Guyana,” be doing justice to the total ana was held at the Ministry Yakabe said. development of our country,” of Foreign Affairs on ThursHe added: “The Govern- Allicock said. day. ment of Japan views this type He elaborated: “We are Counsellor and Depu- of cooperation with NGOs in box which we call the ty Head of Mission of the and civil society organisa- coastal line and we have not Embassy of Japan, Yoshi- tions as a key part of main- been able to move out… it nori Yakabe said that the taining [good] relations… to is a time for opening up so three organisations, through strengthen the bond of friend- that other Guyanese can the grants, will be better ship with your country.” see what real Guyana is equipped to address the huMinister of Indigenous and how we could interact man security needs of Guy- People’s Affairs, Sydney and how we could be able to anese.

Allicock, said the grant pro- have a better understand“Japan is very pleased to vides much-needed aid for ing of the coast and the support these organisations underrepresented commu- hinterland so that we could in their efforts and we hope nities. truly unite this nation.” they will continue their work “If we do not reach out

Children’s dance ...

From page 10

Some of Abrams Zuil Secondary, Region Two students performing “Golden, Golden Africa” (Adrian Narine photo) Primary brought Region 10 second place.

Third place for this category went to Region Three’s Genesis Early Childhood with their inspiring act called “Fluttering Fairies”.

Over in the 8-10 dance category, Westfield Prep again stood out, with their dramatic dance to the lyrics of Michael Jackson’s “Heal the World” embodying their theme of “Cries of Hope”.

This time, second place went to Region Three’s Uitvlugt Secondary for their moving, African-themed piece “Celebrate the Legend” that dripped with creativity and energetic choreography, and set the tone of Angelique Kidjo’s “Shango”.

Tapakuma Lake Primary of Region Two finished third.

Ann’s Grove won the 8-10 masquerade, Malgre Tout Primary of Region Three brought second while One Mile Primary was placed third.

In the 11 – 13 dance (group), South Ruimveldt emerged winner, Three Miles Secondary of Region Seven brought second and One Mile Primary copped third place.

New Silver City bagged the 11 - 13 dance (hip hip), while La Bonne Intention Secondary of Region Four was placed second and Houston Secondary, representing Georgetown, came in at third.

The Children’s Mashramani programme continues today, again at the National Cultural Centre with the Calypso and Dramatic Poetry competitions.

KIND GESTURE On behalf of the Government of Guyana, the Ministry of the Presidency and the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Allicock thanked the Government of Japan for its years of friendship and the kind gesture to Guyana.

Agreeing with the minister’s comments was Honorary Consul-General to Japan, Kashir Khan.

“Guyana is a large, vast, largely untapped country where there are so much more people outside of what we generally see on the coastal belt. It is therefore heartening when I attend ceremonies such as these which show clearly that the emphasis is not only on the people who live on the coast but all of Guyana.”

According to one of the organisation representatives, Principal Executive Officer of Special Needs for Life, Mark Adams, the constructions will help to provide opportunities for the Kuma culture groups to host their Brazilian counterparts as well as provide easier access to medical services.

“The construction of this building allows the community in Kuma to come together at a particular location to

receive whatever interventions the other stakeholders can provide,” Adams said.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development, Dane Gobin said the 400-500 persons who utilise their medical aid will be now treated in a better facility.

“These kinds of facilities are extremely useful to be used to train people not only by our personnel, but also by government and visiting personnel. Because of the remoteness of the location, not too many medical services are available, so we provide a very important service in that region,” Gobin said.

President of St. Francis Community Developers, Alex Foster said the grant will facilitate training and capacity-building for at-risk individuals in the region, especially those affected by the sugar estates closures.

Adviser to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Rawle Lucas said Guyana’s 50-year strong relationship with Japan helps to fill a special gap, providing critical solutions to social and economic deficiencies present in many communities.

The recipients thanked the Japanese Government for the support.

State’s witnesses take the stand in Timothy Adams murder trial THE main trial for the Turtle Creek Road, Five Star Backdam murder of a city gold miner/dredge owner, Timothy Adams continued in the Georgetown High Court on Thursday following a voir dire before Justice James BovellDrakes and a 12-member jury.

On trial is Marlon Freeman who was indicted for the December 23, 2013 murder which took place at North West District (NWD).

In presenting the state’s case, Prosecutor Lisa Cave told the court that between December 22 and 23, 2013, the accused murdered the miner.

The accused has since pleaded not guilty for the offence he stands indicted and is being represented by defence attorney Folio Richards.

The state called Detective Constable, Collis Duke to take the stand after which he was asked to identify the 16 photographs he took of the crime scene. The were marked, tendered and admitted as evidence in the trial.

The police witness then explained what each of the 16 photos depicted.

Under cross examination by defence counsel Folio Richards, Duke admitted that because of the terrain, he was the only police present at the crime scene on the day in question.

He added that that same day he used his Blackberry smartphone to take photos

of the crime scene and he cordoned off the area, which he failed to mention in his deposition.

When questioned, Duke stated that he kept the memory card for the 16 photos he photographed of the crime scene in his possession and did not lodge same with a senior officer.

He told the court that he first went to Powis landing where he met a miner who took him to Turtle Creek Road, Five Star Backdam, where he spent about two hours at the location.

Duke, when further grilled by defence attorney Richards, told the court that he did not find any sharp instruments at the crime scene even though he carried out a search of the area and could not say who found the body of the deceased, Timothy Adams.

Medic Coleen Edgillo testified that on December 23, 2013, she was called to Pakera Hospital to examine the body of Timothy Adams. She explained that she found no heartbeat or pulse, that there was no rise and fall of the chest nor did she hear any breathing. Further, the pupils of the eyes were fixed and dilated.

She added that the body of the deceased bore a deep puncture wound to the right side of the neck and there was a laceration to the left side of the head.

The witness then pronounced the See page 13

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Lindo Creek COI hearings on hold … Commissioner cites lack of prerequisite arrangements

By Svetlana Marshall

THE first public hearing for the Lindo Creek Massacre Commission of Inquiry (COI) was postponed on Thursday over what the Chairman (Ret'd) Justice Donald Trotman described as absence of internal prerequisite arrangements.

The first of a series of public hearings into the June 2008 massacre was scheduled to commence at 9:00hrs on Thursday at the Department of Public Service but after approximately one hour of waiting, Justice Trotman, notified reporters that the public hearing was postponed until further notice. “We had scheduled the commencement of public hearings from today but due to regrettable circumstances over which we had no control, the commission has no control whatsoever, because of certain important prerequisite arrangements for the functioning of the commission have not been put in place, we are unable to hold any public hearings, and for that matter any other inquiries until these important perquisites have been put in place,” the Commissioner explained.

A staff of the CoI Secretariat had earlier indicated

to the press that four persons were scheduled to take the stand. The Commissioner confirmed that those persons are relatives of some of the eight miners whose burnt remains were found at Lindo Creek in the Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice District on June 21, 2008. “We have been expecting relatives of the deceased whose deaths are being inquired at Lindo Creek. Some of them have not been able to come and some may arrive late and the uncertainty of their presence is one of the factors,” Justice Trotman further explained.

He, however, ruled out that the relatives may be somewhat hesitant to appear before the Commission. “No, I think it is a matter of logistics, transportation, many of them live pretty far out and while we have been in telephonic communication with them, we have not had, in many cases, direct communications with them,” he said. Justice Trotman said he remains hopeful that the outstanding issues would be addressed soon to allow for public hearings to commence on Monday February 19.

Public hearings were scheduled for Thursday February 15, Monday February 19 and

Thursday February 22, 2018.

The CoI has been established to enquire into the circumstances surrounding the killings of Cecil Arokium, Dax Arokium, Horace Drakes, Bonny Harry, Lancelot Lee, Compton Speirs, Nigel Torres and Clifton Berry-Wong, on or about June 21, 2008 and to report its findings and recommendations to President David Granger. Leonard Arokium, the owner of the mining camp in which the eight miners were found dead, had long argued that the killings were committed by members of the Joint Services but the police on the other hand had said that the men were murdered by the then Rondell Rawlins, alias ‘Fine Man,’ gang.

Arokium’s son, Dax, 29; his brother, Cedric called “Brother” were among those killed. Arokium was not among those who were scheduled to speak on Thursday Guyana Chronicle has confirmed.

One of the key witnesses, Courtney Wong, in an interview with this newspaper earlier this month, had said that the “truth is out there.”

Courtney Wong – the brother of Clifton Wong who was among the eight miners

Justice (Ret'd )Trotman brutally killed– said news surrounding the massacre had been smeared with lies by political leaders and the security forces, but the CoI will give the world a chance to know the truth – “the full truth” about the incident.

Close to 10 years later, Wong, who had worked

along with Arokium at the mining camp as a mechanic, expressed the belief that the men had been killed by the Joint Services.

“I am glad that the truth will be able to come out now,” he told this newspaper.

Wong’s brother had journeyed to the Lindo Creek mining camp in the Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice Region to replace him after he had left for Georgetown to conduct business.

He had said when the time comes, he will testify at the CoI to ensure that justice is served. Wong was among those who had journeyed with the police to Lindo Creek after the discovery was made

by Arokium on June 21, 2008.

The CoI Secretariat, in a notice, said all persons wishing to testify are asked to submit statements of their intended testimonies in writing to

the commission prior to their appearing before it. Persons who wish to testify, but may need assistance in composing their witness statements will be assisted by the Commission’s Secretariat and are invited to contact the secretariat at the email address and/or telephone number lindocoi@ dps.gov.gy or 227-2292.

The CoI was established to investigate and make findings of fact on all matters in relation to the killings of the eight miners. It will also make recommendations on actions to be taken against all persons and/or organisations that are deemed responsible for the deaths of those persons.

The commission will be accepting original and follow-up statements from interested parties during its life and will be setting subsequent hearings to facilitate the attendance of witnesses.

Lima man on bail for robbing pump attendant LESLEY Conway called “Pickie”, 50, of Lima sea dam, Essequibo Coast was on Thursday slapped with a robbery-under-arms charge after he made his first appearance before Magistrate Esther Sam at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge

which stated that on February 07, he robbed pump attendant Shahabudeen Baksh called “Reyaz” of $39,000 at Lima, Essequibo Coast and fled the scene.

Conway denied the charge when it was read to him and was granted bail in the sum of $30,000. His next court appearance is on March 8.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

West Bury labourer remanded for stabbing ex-lover LEONARD Grant called “Snakie”, 36, of West Bury Village, Essequibo Coast was on Thursday remanded to prison for allegedly stabbing his ex-lover when he appeared before Magistrate Ester Sam at the Suddie Magistrate's Court on Thursday.

He was not required to plead to the indictable charge of attempt to commit murder and was remanded to prison until March 5.

It is alleged that on February 12, Grant with intent to commit murder, stabbed Shenella Marks at Charity Water Front.

Police Prosecutor Haimraj Ramsewack told the court that Marks is hospitalised and had to undergo emergency surgery to remove the knife which was stuck in her neck.

He asked the magistrate to refuse bail due to the seriousness of the offense.

Meanwhile, according to information reaching Guyana Chronicle, Marks, 23, of Dredge Creek Upper Pomeroon River, Region Two was stabbed four times about her body.

She received a stab wound to her left lower back, two to her right side just below her arm pit and one behind her ear.

Information reaching this publication revealed that Marks and Grant were in a common-in-law relationship for nine years. The relationship produced a son, Orlando Grant, eight.

Due to alleged constant abuse by Marks, the couple separated. The couple also has numerous domestic violence matters pending in court and were ordered by the court to keep the peace.

According to mother of the injured Marks, Jenita Anthony, her daughter was threatened numerous times by Grant that he would end her life. The mother said the suspect had approached her just before they entered the boat.

“I was there, he told me that very soon you will be crying for your daughter,” the mother claimed.

The mother then said she immediately went and made a report to the Charity Police Station, leaving her daughter on the landing, and as she was returning to that location, she saw a crowd at the waterfront.

“I couldn’t believe my eyes, my daughter was stabbed and he threw her in the river. When I saw her, the knife was stock in her neck, I then immediately went for help,” the saddened mother related.

Marks was rushed to the Oscar Joseph Hospital at Charity and was immediately transferred to the Suddie Public Hospital where she is still a patient.

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Minister Scott honours young hero

THE Ministry of Social Protection has stepped forward and rewarded seven-year-old Kissun Henry for her bravery in saving her four-yearold brother after their Glasgow New Housing Scheme home caught fire.

The gift was presented to Kissan by Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection with Responsibility for Labour, Keith Scott, during a simple ceremony at Edinburg Primary School--the school the girl attends.

Donette Henry, grandmother of the child, told Guyana Chronicle that while she is grateful that no life was lost during the incident on February 5, she is saddened by the fact that her daughter, Kemila, was ordered by the Child Welfare Department not to make contact with the children. The minors are now in her care.

Henry said her daughter, who is a ‘drug addict’, needs professional help so that she can be employed

Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection with Responsibility for Labour, Keith Scott hands over the gift to young Kissun Henry in the presence of her grandmother, Donette Henry and a teacher

State’s witnesses take the stand ...

From page 11 body dead before arrival and handed over same to Detective Collis Duke for post-mortem.

Under cross examination

by Richards, Edgillo was asked whether she could determine the time of death and she replied in the negative.

Neither could she say if the blunt trauma to the head was caused by a fall.

Police witness, Detective Eric Scott took the stand and

testified that on December 24, 2013, he was part of a roving police patrol and he contacted the suspect, Marlon Freeman, based on information received and transported him from Five Star Backdam to Matthews Ridge Police Station.

There, he told the court, he put the allegation of murder to the suspect after which he cautioned him and escorted him to the Port Kaituma Police Station where he placed him in the lockups.

Detective Scott identified the suspect Marlon Freeman

and provide proper care and supervision for her children.

“My daughter attended Vryman’s Erven Secondary. Because of financial challenges, she did not get to write CXC. But she is not naïve…. She needs help, not separation from her children. That will do more harm than good,” the mother contended.

The 24-year-old mother had left her two under-aged children at home unsupervised.

After the incident, she returned home in a taxi, but fled on seeing officials, who were regular visitors to her home Two days later, she was found at a known ‘drug yard’ at St Ann Street, in New Amsterdam, Berbice, and was handed over to the police.

She was charged with child neglect and appeared in the New Amsterdam Court where she was placed on $50,000 bail and ordered to return for trial on March 26.

who was present in court as the man he placed in police custody following the alleged murder of Timothy Adams.

He told the court that the suspect was in good health when he was taken from a mining camp to the police station.

The state is expected to present more witnesses.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

GNBA Monitoring and Compliance Department operational THE Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) has announced that the Monitoring and Compliance Department is now fully operational.

According to a statement from the GNBA, one of its major functions is to ensure that broadcasters comply with the Broadcasting Act 2011 and its 2017 Amendment.

“This function is actively undertaken by the GNBA’s Broadcast Monitoring and Compliance Department which is now fully operational. This department serves to critically analyse broadcast content,” the GNBA explained.

The authority is also responsible for archiving content aired by local radio and television stations in keeping with the act and amendment as well as the guidelines for broadcasters established by the authority.

Members of the broadcasting sector and other stakeholders are reminded that these may be accessed on the website gnba.gov.gy.

GNBA comprises a full complement of staff, trained and equipped as broadcast, monitoring and compliance officers.

Its core objective is ensuring that broadcasters adhere to legal and other obligations under the law.

Specifically, the department monitors and identifies all content contravening the act, amendment and guidelines.

These include news reporting with close-ups of serious injuries; undignified images of the dead, those suffering or in distress; footage of persons in emergency situations, indecency, racial, ethnic or other forms of incitement, religious or sectional hatred and disaffection in programmes.

GNBA also monitors political broadcasts that are abusive or derogatory to race, colour, creed, religion or gender.

Some of things that are monitored include suicide and self-harm presented as acceptable solutions or presenting domestic violence as desirable and acceptable; advertisements transmitted during children’s programmes such as alcoholic drinks or trailers of films with adult content are strictly monitored including promoting public events containing explicit sexual overtures or exposing children to danger.

The Monitoring and Compliance Department is using a colour code to categorise infractions. Yellow: minor infraction which can be easily rectified; orange: infraction with significant impact and effect and which is not easily rectifiable; red: fundamental breach of the Broadcast Licence, the Act, the Amendment or any combination.

According to the statement, the department forwards infractions to the Monitoring and Compliance Committee of the GNBA which advises the Board of such infractions and procedures for dealing with them.

According to section 38 (2) of the Act: “Licensees are required to retain, for a period not exceeding five years, a recording of every programme included in the licensed service and are required to produce at the request of the authority, any such recording for examination or reproduction.”

The authority, through its Monitoring and Compliance Department, is looking forward to a harmonious working relationship with all stakeholders as it endeavours to improve the standard of broadcast content across Guyana in compliance with the Act, amendment and the guidelines.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Solar panels needed in riverine areas –– to effectively store vaccines, Region Two RDC hears

PEOPLE'S Progressive Party (PPP) Councillor and Chairman of the Health and Sanitation committee Arnold Adams is requesting solar panels for all Amerindian communities within the riverine areas of Region Two. Adams made this request at a recent Regional Democratic Council (RDC) statutory meeting held this month.

Addressing fellow councillors, Adams said there is need for effective management of vaccines along the coast, especially in the hinterland areas and such solar panels are needed to ensure the vaccines are preserved.

He was at the time making reference to the spoilage of vaccines which was recorded last year.

“Last year records show that thousands of vaccines were spoilt due to the fluctuation of elec- PPP Councillor Arnold Adams tricity and other factors.

Let us ensure that this doesn’t happen in this New Year, solar panels are needed,” Adams said.

He said with the installation of solar panels, it will ensure that the vaccines are kept at the right temperature, thereby avoiding spoilage.

Regional Chairman Devanand Ramdatt said an investigation was recently launched into the spoilage and the findings were appalling.

The findings point to fluctuation of electricity and called for the generator at the Suddie Hospital to be maintained.

“Vaccines are costly and as such staff needs to be more responsible and ensure that they are stored properly,” the regional chairman said.

Another PPP Councillor Doreen Jacobus, from Tapakuma, supported the call for solar panels. Jacobus, who served as a midwife for some 20 years, said most health posts in the Amerindian communities do not have a refrigerator and often health workers are forced to store vaccines in ‘flasks’.

She said health posts and centres should be equipped with proper refrigeration to store vaccines as well as a system should be in place to monitor same.

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The

By Telesha Ramnarine

‘Big Haresh’ is back!

FOLLOWING an accident which rendered local chutney singer Haresh Singh to the confines of a wheelchair, he was unable to participate in the 2017 National Chutney Competition.

This year, though, he wants everyone to know that he is back in the game with his new song “Chutney Raja.”

Singh has done his own writing and has also composed the music for the song. At last week’s semifinals held in Bartica, he was selected as one of the top 10 to perform in the finals on Sunday at the Leonora Track and Field, West Coast Demerara.

Singh told The Buzz in an interview that “Chutney Raja” is all about the story involving his accident, and how he has managed to get back into the competition.

He described it as the only traditional chutney song in the competition that features pure Hindi.

The accident happened on his birthday last year when he was struck down by a vehicle and sustained a broken leg. For about seven months, he had to seek the assistance of a wheelchair and then crutches.

– National Chutney Competition finals on Sunday night

Singh has won this competition in the past five times ever since it got underway in 2001 or has otherwise been placed among the top three. Haresh believes though that he can do much better if copyright laws come back on the scene.

As such, he is only hoping that the government will do something for the struggling artistes in the country who work hard on their music.

Haresh, 45, was born at Bush Lot, on the Essequibo Coast, and is well known there as the ‘Big Haresh’ or ‘Kumar Sanu’. He

leagues is the fact that he composes his own songs. “I compose my own songs, own air, melody, everything! The rule is originality, and other singers in Guyana should adopt this,” he said. “Right now, many artistes are using back Bollywood songs and fitting in their voice and lyrics. Do not pirate people’s songs! Try to compose your own songs. When you pirate, you kill the culture. It’s just like a copycat.”

He continued: “You have young children who never knew and heard about the original singers, and who therefore give all praise to the copycats. And that’s bad.

That’s what I like Anand [Persaud, the karaoke singer] for. You singing, sing back the original Bollywood thing. Don’t try to put in your own words.”

Locally, Harresh gives much respect to Celia Samaroo, owner of Shakti Strings; and Queen Yasmin, of the Originals Band, now residing outside of Guyana.

‘Big Harresh’ who attended Anna Regina Secondary School, believes that he will significantly improve his skills within the next 10 years. “I’m sure that I will make it. I’m following my dream.

I hope to get bigger and better,” he said.

Haresh Singh

previously released a CD with 10 songs including the popular ‘Dulahin run away’, ‘Indian Gyal’, and ‘Margarita’.

He believes that the thing that most sets him apart from his col-

Haresh and fellow chutney artistes promoting the national chutney competition a few days ago

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Jackie Jaxx talks “Blackout”, being yourself and more

By Michel Outridge FANS of local songstress Jackie Jaxx will know that this sassy entertainer is popular for her songs that relate to Guyanese life. Now, her latest single “Blackout” is cementing that fact and is a testimony to Jackie’s aim of becoming a voice of the people through her music.

“Blackout” is a based on social commentary, more specifically, the ever-frustrating power outage situation in Guyana and it is full of humour, to say the least.

Jackie said that when she wrote the song she was simply frustrated because she does her own recording at home and after a week she sat down and penned what she was feeling.

The 27-year-old told The Buzz that she feels her role in her community is to preserve the history and based on her own experience as an artist she wanted to tell that story and did just that through the song.

The song certainly connected with the public, because, only eight days after, it already had 21,000 hits of Facebook and Jackie says she is very happy with the response.

EDUCATION IS NECESSARY TO BECOME SUCCESSFUL

Jackie is a simple down-to-earth young lady who is determined to succeed in becoming an internationally acclaimed artiste and having noted the changes in the music industry, she is ready to take on the challenge.

“Somebody just don’t show up and make you a star. With the digital world, things have changed so much so the way people consume music in which they don’t buy records or CDs anymore, it is all done online,” Jackie said.

This Bagotville, West Bank Demerara resident stated, however, that online sales of her songs would not be lucrative if her fan base isn’t large because streaming will be low and that would not generate any returns for her.

As previously reported by this newspaper, Jackie took a short break from the public. In that interview, she admitted that she learned the hard way and realised that she could not do it all alone. After becoming overwhelmed with her career, she suffered a ‘burn out’ and had to re-group to sort herself out.

With the knowledge she acquired, she has managed to set up her own publishing company, has control over her work, catalogue, and collects her royalties from

as a toddler Jackie knew she wanted to become a singer and often told her mother. She describes her journey as a life-changing experience at which she can only get better at.

She is the middle child of six siblings and has told herself she has what it takes to become successful.

THE STRUGGLE ISN’T EASY Jackie said the journey is rough and it has been difficult yet she is pressing on because the mental, physical and environmental issues she experienced has opened her eyes to a lot of things.

She explained that when she fell out with some people she was blacklisted from shows and events and she has trust issues since and will not sign-on to a manager.

For instance, she added that a few local artistes who have managers are successful and is of the opinion she can manage herself to do her country proud.

Jackie told The Buzz that the struggle has been real and opined that artistes need education, not some manager signing them on.

Since her return to the music scene, Jackie said she has what it takes to ‘make it’ in the music industry but also is aware that music is very addictive.

“I had a dream but I crashed and burned, Before, I did not have a plan and now I do,” she said.

overseas.

Jackie told the Buzz that she is in the know about branding, marketing, networking, sponsorship, and merchandising of her own songs- a total of 15.

Jackie admitted though that Guyana lacks professional graphic artists, sound engineering and photography and when she finds the few talented ones their services are too costly.

Jackie is of the opinion that the few professionals overcharge for their services and, since she operates on a budget as such, they are squeezing local artistes out of the little they have.

Fortunately, she is happy with the support from the sponsors and is thankful for their contribution which enabled her to continue her music journey locally and overseas.

WORKING TOGETHER Jackie pointed out that for progress to take place locally, artistes need to work together since there is a cost attached to everything they do.

The sassy singer started singing as a child at school and church and when she was 19 she morphed into an artiste. Even

BE YOURSELF She, however, urges local artistes to get away from being the Jamaican artiste and embrace their culture and language to be unique and desist from imitating the foreign accent that many have adopted.

She related that it is quite disappointing to hear local disc jockeys imitating the Jamaican accent and it needs to stop because people should be themselves and The sensational be proud of their Jackie Jaxx (photos roots.

by Clinton Duncan) “We should embrace the things that make us unique and authentic as Guyanese because that is what people crave ‘unique and authentic’ music which is real entertainment at its best,” Jackie said.

This reggae/dancehall singer/songwriter and emcee is in the process of making a music video for the song “Blackout” and the remix for the “Guyana” song.

She is expected to release newer songs as well titled “Brown Boy” and “El Dorado Gold” and her other songs will portray her take on domestic violence, her culture, history and things she is passionate about.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

The consequences of 21st century manhood ...as defined by shape-shifting crusades IN 2016, President Granger pronounced that correcting the wrongs of the PPP was turning out to be very expensive. It was a tremendous understatement, as the damage done to the human mental and spiritual infrastructure far outweighed the physical inanimate failures of the Kato Secondary School and the Skeldon [white Elephant] Sugar Factory etc. In 2017/18 a judge gave a young man 80 years in jail for killing his wife in a fit of rage and another judge, some years earlier, gave a young woman less than nine years for killing her pregnant friend in a fit of pure sadistic envy. Is evil in its instant possessive rush gender different in Guyana, and is there an imbalance in our social and professional consciousness?

Don’t misinterpret, one must be punished for crimes. Murder through instigation and physical execution should be punished with equal severity. Harsh penalties should especially be heaped upon sexual exploiters of children, traffickers in weapons and narcotics. But domestic murder seems to have pivoted into the crusading zone without corrective initiatives visibly applied. That there’s an imbalance in both the upbringing of men versus the not well thought out definitions that the gender crusaders are imposing despite the data existing on the active consciousness of the system towards a confused male generation, must be explored.

The escalation of domestic murders in Guyana skyrocketed in the late 90s and onward as a result of several factors, decline in the economy, the emergence of narcotic trading and the rise of the criminal nouveau riche with its flaunting culture of conspicuous consumption that fragmented perceptions on social worth, with dire effects on the value of manhood and the domestic interaction. Men don’t talk, we don’t complain and advocate our grief. In too many cases we apply the physical force that human culture and philosophy have developed in us as a means to solve problems, and end up losing at the public relations war on the domestic disputes that turn violent. With male aggression as the ‘Poster boy’, seldom in media articles where fatal abuse is featured do the cultural balance between both involved placed in the public domain. Sometimes mental problems were forewarned and ignored.

In 2011 at Ithaca a man killed his reputed wife. He subsequently broke down submitted himself to the police and before the court admitted his guilt. His contention was the constant torment [nagging] about the limitations of his income, which he couldn’t endure, and it exploded into something other. Another situation was with a young cane cutter who gave all he had to his beloved who contended to him that “Cane cutter money can’t do” while inviting another man into her life. He stole his boss’s shotgun and killed them both, and told his story to Guyana. Another

told the media that “Meh ketch she once, meh warn she, twice, meh warn she again, de third time meh kill she.” His reference was to her infidelity.

Let’s explore the public reports and warnings. During October 2005 Stabroek News carried a statistical article on ‘30 women murdered in nine months- No sign of abatement in violence against women’.

This continued despite reports and appeals, even serial killer type disappearances of women, that dwindled and merged with the disappearance of young men at the hand of the government/drug cartel death squads and random killings. In 2012 Andrew Hicks, Sociologist and Social Worker declared: ‘It is time to treat domestic violence as a public health [issue]’. In February 2012 a US State Department report presented by Anita Botti declared that ‘Sexual violence rates in the Caribbean highest in the world-report’. At home, in January 2013, the Legal Aid Clinic Managing Attorney Simone Morris-Ramlall declared “Many magistrates lack knowledge to help domestic violence victims.” Also in December of 2013 , Tiffany Barry of the University of Guyana related in a broad article that ”Our cultural norms reinforce Gender-Based Violence”. Also in January 2014, Stabroek News carried another survey on 2013 that ‘2013 saw 29 domestic violence-related murders’ [of male and female victims] none of the above includes wounding, burning of houses and deaths at

the hands of hired assassins by spouses.

What else was not included was the context of the trained male perspective, that we were trained by our mothers and fathers in a certain mould. It was nine years later, January 2014 Kaieteur News under a slogan unchanged: ‘Upsurge in domestic violence - Is enough being done to reach out to young men?’. The article featured opinions by Patrick Findlay, Margaret Kertzious and Kwame Gilbert. Kertzious [Crisis Coordinator of Help and Shelter] outlined: “They don’t have a shelter for men who are abused and society doesn’t deal with men in an appropriate way...when they complain to the police or go to doctors they are being laughed at, so the whole process has to change, I don’t know how we are going to change it but it has to start from somewhere.”

The final quote and more to the point that ricochets from the criminal culture allowed by the last government came in Chronicle July 7, 2014: ‘Young men under pressure’, Sociologist Patricia Sheeratan-Bisnauth inferred “When you want to get rich quickly which happens among many youths, there is no focus on growth and expansion of one’s self. It’s a get-rich-quick environment we are living in, and that is what the youths and many children are living by.” This article will be concluded next week with a clarification on this aspect of our cultural being.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018 It’s the INAUGURAL event called “FOG - ALL WHITE SOCA PARTY”. This is going to be an exciting one. LOCATION: Magic City/ Fireside Grill n Chill Car Park, 139 Garnett Street, Newtown, Kitty. From TRINIDAD - Boyaka Smash feat. TITAN Vibes. Fun Events will be launching its Signature Moscato Snow Cone Shots at the event! General Presold Tickets $1,500. Three females on one (3 on 1) Ticket: $4000 This is the party you all have been hearing about. It’s fun, exciting, and filled with entertainment. It’s the party called “SOAK Street Festival” Paint and Water -it’s going down at the 704 Parking Lot. Don’t miss it!

SUNDAY Get warmed up for Mashramani with our Kid’s Mash Costume Competition!!! This Sunday, 14:00hrs-18:00hrs. Bring the kids down to Massy Stores for a day of FUN!There will be Games, Face-painting, Bouncy Castle, DJ on Site and a Kid’s Costume Competition!!

You can WIN amazing prizes!

Costumes will be judged for the following categories: 1. Best Cultural Design 2. Best Folklore design 3. Most creative design depicting Mashramani theme “Let’s cooperate and celebrate Republic 48” So head down to Massy Stores this Sunday, it’s FUN for the entire family!

AS the Mashramani season approaches partygoers will experience the hottest fetes of the season! One thing is for sure, there will be no shortage of entertainment in store. Here’s what’s Buzzing this weekend.

It’s the Red and White Mashramani Boat Cruise Boat leaves Parika at 09:00hrs sharp! Music by Stereo Sonic, DJ Magnum and One Man Band. This is going to be an Exhilarating event!

TODAY It’s the Wet Fete Party called “Ah wan give it to you”. Ladies come out in your short pants and ‘lil’ tops.

Fellas you just be there. It’s going to be crazy. It’s all happening at the BV Post Office corner E.C.D. Music by Father Moey and One Man Band.

Extra beer brings to you Jouvert, Water and Powder. This event is happening at the back of the old bank. Lots of giveaways, including cutters and phone cards. This is going to be a fun event. Music by DJ Fresh and selector Cool.

TOMORROW For fun and excitement for all the people who are big fans of reggae music, the place to be is at The Strip Lounge. Jah Cure is Live at The Strip, Giftland Mall!!! This is an event you don’t want to miss!

Beenie Says He Makes Five Songs Per Week Talks Spice & Legacy In Dancehall Beenie Man says he is one of the hardest working deejays in dancehall even after so many years.

The dancehall legend also made it clear that he has nothing against Spice despite their run in last year. During a sit down on Nightly Fix, Beenie Man opened up about a number of topics including his legacy and current status in dancehall. The deejay insisted that he is still the king of dancehall because he isn’t baptised.

One of the criticisms of Beenie Man and other older deejays in the business is that they still feel the need to compete with the younger generation of artists. When asked about that top, Beenie strongly pushed back against the assumption saying he doesn’t compete with any other artists in the business but still work hard because that is naturally who he is.

“The problem is I cannot go a week without making five songs, I will be a mad man,” the Doc said. “Listen, music just come by the beat, you hear the beat and lyrics start build,

so every beat that plays in the studio you build a different song for it. It’s not competing, this is my job, this is what I do, I make music, so without me making music then me at my yard sit down a watch TV or a play game and I don’t do that.”

On whether or not he is taking away attention from younger artists, Beenie Man said, “This is the problem with dancehall music, why one man have to get all the glory, why everybody cannot get them own glory?”= “Alkaline have him own fans, Vybz Kartel have him own fans, Popcaan have him own fans, everybody have them own fans, so everybody is getting them own glory,” he continued. “Why is it that I am a threat to everybody? Because you is that man fan and you want that man to be where I am? Two entity can’t hold the same space one of us is going to blow up. Each and every individual in music have their own space, have them own respect and have them own time.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Radio Aishalton to be switched on

COMMUNITIES located in the deep south of the Rupununi Savannahs on Saturday will be able to switch on their radios to 95.1FM, as the Government moves to commission Radio Aishalton.

Radio Aishalton is

the first radio station to be established in the deep south of the Rupununi. Equipped with the latest technology in radio broadcasting, this $45M radio station is fully powered by See page 24

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Dr Rovin Deodat giving a tour of Radio Aishalton spanking new studio to Aishalton Toshao, Douglas Casimero and residents of Aishalton

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Radio Aishalton to be switched...

From page 23 solar energy.

The radio station is expected to serve not only residents of Aishalton but also residents of Shea, Maruranau, Awaurewaunau, Karaudarnau, Achawib, Parabara, Ma-

sakenari, Bashauzon and Churikadnau.

Potential broadcasters from within the district are being trained by Dr. Rovin Deodat, the Coordinator for Government’s Regional Radio Project. The Government considers connect-

ing communities in the ‘hinterland’ as vital to improving people’s lives and creating more opportunities for them. Having already connected many communities in Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region Nine), through the establishment of Radio

Lethem, in May 2016, and in Barima-Waini, (Region One) with the setting up of Radio Mabaruma, in June 2016, the Office of the Prime Minister commissioned Radio Mahdia, Potaro-Siparuni (Region Eight) on October 8, 2017

and recently Radio Bartica in Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region Seven) on November 17, 2017. Also, in the pipeline for 2018 is Radio Orealla in East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six).

His Excellency Pres-

ident David Granger, along with Government Ministers, Community Leaders and National Communications Network (NCN) officials, will be commissioning Radio Aishalton on Saturday. (DPI)

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Patrick Ford Memorial Open

Ferrari speeds into Guyana Mash Day for ring date with ‘Superman’ Lewis TOP St Lucian light welterweight boxer Nathan `Flash’ Ferrari is scheduled to arrive in Guyana on February 23 for a ring date with Colin `Superman’ Lewis. Ferrari will be accompanied by his trainer Conrad Hunte.

Lewis and the St Lucian will feature in the main bout of the Patrick Ford Memorial Open to be held on February 25 at the National Gymnasium.

The 14-fight card is being organised by the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) and McDonald Promotions.

GBA president Steve Ninvalle yesterday disclosed

that his St Lucian counterpart David Christopher called to confirm Ferrari’s arrival date. “St Lucia is quite confident of turning the tables on Lewis at the upcoming event.

“I have been informed that Mr Ferrari has been turning heads at a training camp being held in Trinidad and Tobago and his president believes that he (Ferrari) is ready to stamp his authority as the top light welterweight in the region,” Ninvalle said.

The gangly Lewis stopped Ferrari two months ago when they met at the Caribbean Championships on

the latter’s home turf. Since then, the St Lucian president has been clamouring for a rematch to “finally decide” the best in the Caribbean.

The card will also feature Youth Commonwealth Games silver medallist Keevin `Lightning’ Allicock. The highly skilled 18-year-old will come up against top Trinidadian bantamweight Christopher De Freitas. Meanwhile, four boxers from Suriname and president Remie Burke are scheduled to arrive in Guyana on February 24.

The Patrick Ford Memorial Open will punch off GBA activity for 2018.

‘Jackie Chan’ stars as Sparta... the penalty spot to advance.

In the evening’s final game, Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson carried Sparta Boss to a 2-1 win over Ol Skool Ballers.

Richardson scored his first of two goals just three minutes into play, but, in the ninth minute, Quason McAulay pulled one back for Ol Skool Ballers.

However, 10 minutes later Richardson scored the eventual winning for the team who are considered the ‘proverbial’ kings of futsal in Guyana.

Paul earns maiden West...

Miguel Cummins, was expected to join the squad in Jamaica yesterday.

Paul, the 19-year-old, will remain with the squad for the final two unofficial Tests. The second four-day Test is scheduled for Sabina Park from February 18 to 21, before the teams switch to day/night action at the Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua for the final Test from February 26 to March 1.

The Windies-A won the first four-day Test by two wickets in a close encounter on the final day on Wednesday at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium in Jamaica.

Following the ‘Unofficial Tests’ Windies-A will face England Lions in three 50-over matches at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua. The squad for these matches will be named at a later date.

Meanwhile, an official from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has confirmed that fast bowler Paul Wintz has been drafted into the Guyana Jaguars squad for

the ongoing Regional Super50.

Wintz, who played 21 List-A games, capturing 34 wickets, departed for Antigua on Wednesday evening.

The Jaguars’ hunt for a tenth Regional one-day title is on track. The victory Wednesday evening against the Leeward Islands Hurricanes pushes them atop the five-team standings on 22 points from seven games, three ahead of Jamaica

From back page

From back page

Scorpions (19 points), The Jaguars will play the Scorpions from 14:00hrs today at Coolidge in their final preliminary game, while third-place Kent will play bottom-place USA in the 09:00hrs game at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground.

The top two teams from each group at the end of the preliminary round will contest the semi-finals.

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Yadram, Albert win big at Enterprise Busta SC 2017 awards WEST Indies Under-19 all-rounder Bhaskar Yadram and Vivian Albert took the lion’s share of awards when the Enterprise Busta Sports Club (EBSC) hosted its 2017 awards at a gala ceremony in the club’s auditorium last weekend.

The 18-year-old Yadram, who represented West Indies in the ICC Youth World Cup in New Zealand this year, copped the Cricketer-of-theYear award, along with three

other trophies.

Yadram was also rewarded for making the Guyana senior team and the West Indies Youth side.

He was recognised for being one of the club’s centurions during the last season, and he also carted off the Most Improved Player accolade.

Meanwhile, Albert also bagged four awards after an outstanding year with bat and ball. The talented cricketer got the most runs by an Enterprise batsman during

West Indies Under-19 all-rounder Bhaskar Yadram receives the Cricketer-of-the-Year trophy.

the season, 637, and also captured the most wickets - 24.

Albert recorded the highest individual score of the year, 150 not out, and was also recognised for being one of the centurions.

Other centurions were Rajendra Chandrika, Kamesh Yadram and Ameir Habib. Siblings Pradesh Balkishun and Shelly Balkishun and Chandrika were also rewarded for making the national team.

Bishram Samaroo copped two awards: one for the best bowling figures (4-14) and the best bowling average of 3.5- while Chandrika’s batting average of 112.3 was the highest for the club during the period under review.

Off the field, there were persons who were hailed for their contributions to the successful and smooth operations of the club. Seemangal Yadram, V. Gobin and Khalel Mohamed were recognised under the category of Outstanding Helper, while curators Chatterpaul Singh and V. Gobin

Premier League clubs back on the march in Europe

By Martyn Herman LONDON, England (Reuters) - Liverpool’s 5-0 victory in Porto on Wednesday and Manchester City’s 4-0 stroll alongside the Rhine in Basel 24 hours earlier were a Premier League show of force that reverberated across Europe.

The continent’s most wealthy domestic competition has not punched its weight in the Champions League since Chelsea ambushed Bayern Munich to lift the trophy in 2012.

Since then the spoils have been shared out by clubs from La Liga and the Bundesliga with Real Madrid winning it three times, Barcelona once and Bayern Munich once.

Juventus, Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund have reached the finals in that period in which only Chelsea and Manchester City from England have contested semi-finals.

Last season, Leicester City were the only English representative in the quarter-finals while in 2012-13 and 2014-15 no English team made it to the last eight.

That relative drought could be about to end during a season in which Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have turned the Premier League title race into a procession.

Liverpool and Man City look 99 percent certain to be in the hat for the quarter-finals while Tottenham Hotspur, who drew 2-2 away to Juventus on Tuesday, are favourites to join them.

Manchester United and Chelsea are still to play the first legs of their last-16 ties.

Jose Mourinho’s United will start as favourites against Sevilla, and while Chelsea could have their work cut out to

get past La Liga leaders Barcelona, it is not too fanciful to imagine five of the last eight coming from the Premier League.

It is the first time that five clubs from one country have advanced from the group phase and on five of the six previous seasons that all of the English clubs involved reached the knockout stage at least one has made it to the final.

While the road to Kiev is still a long one, the statistics underline the resurgence of the English clubs this season.

Liverpool are the competition’s top scorers with 28 goals so far and their win in Porto was the joint-biggest away Champions League knockout victory, equalling Bayern Munich’s 5-0 win at Sporting in February 2009 and Real Madrid at Schalke in February 2014.

Individually four of the top eight scorers are from English clubs with Tottenham’s Harry Kane and Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino in second place on seven, with Liverpool’s Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah on six.

United manager Jose Mourinho warned during the Champions League hiatus that the competition only really began in February when the cream inevitably rose to the surface.

He also downplayed the chances of English clubs, saying the weekly intensity of the Premier League took too much of a toll.

Yet with the so-called ‘big four’ of English football now expanded to a ‘big six’ it appears that competitiveness at the top end of the Premier league has raised standards.

It may only be the early skirmishes in the knockout rounds but already it appears the balance of power might be shifting back across the English Channel.

Awardees pose for a photo opportunity after the Enterprise Busta Sports Club (EBSC) hosted its 2017 awards at a gala ceremony in the club’s auditorium last weekend. were given medals for their Avenash Ramzan, Guyana year both on and off the work in 2017.

Times/TVG Sport Editor field, hence the reason to Club Secretary Chan- John Ramsingh and Kai- show appreciation to those drapaul Tickaram was also eteur News Sport Reporter who made it possible. honoured by president Par- Zaheer Mohamed for their National Sports Commanand Dindyal for his ded- coverage of the club’s ac- mission Administrator icated and hard work during tivities during the past 12 Gervy Harry and East the past season. months.

Coast Cricket committee Additionally, the club During the formal pro- executive Jitlall Jowahipresented trophies of ap- ceedings, Dindyal and Tick- rlall were also present at preciation to News Room aram told the gathering that the event and delivered Sport Editor/News Anchor the club had an outstanding remarks.

Jumbo Jet inaugural Triple Crown series gallops off Sunday ALL plans are in place for Jumbo Jet inaugural Triple Crown series which gallops from 12:30hrs on Sunday at the Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice.

With over $20M in cash prizes along with trophies, turfites and racehorse owners are already tongues are wagging as to who is likely to win this `Triple Crown’, which will be held on three days on two different race tracks.

The event, which is being organised by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred committee will stage the first leg on Sunday and this will continue on March 4 at the same Arima Park, West Coast Berbice, race track.

The third and final day of the championships is fixed for Easter Sunday, (April 1) at the Port Mourant Turf Club, Corentyne, Berbice.

Both days at the Rising Sun facility, there will be the following first place cash prizes in the respective classes: `C’ Class and Lower $1M; `F’ Class and Lower/E’ Class non-earners/last start $400 000; three-year-old Guyana-bred $350 000; `H1’ and Lower $300 000; `J/K’ and Lower $240,000; `K’ Class non-earner/last start $230 000; `L’ and Lower $200 000.

(Note), cash prizes will be awarded

from first- to fifth-place.

For the final leg in Corentyne (Port Mourant), the stakes will be higher and are as follows;: `C’ and Lower $1.2M; `F’ and Lower/`E’ Class non-earners/last start $500 000; Three-year-old Guyana bred $400 000; `H1’ and Lower $350 000; `J’/`K’ and Lower $240 000; `K’ Class non-earners/last start $200 000; and `L’ and Lower $150 000.

There will be bonuses for any horse that wins all three of their races in the `Triple Crown’ event with a maximum bonus payout of $500,000.

According to the organisers, horses will not be promoted or demoted for any event in their class, to give them the opportunity to win the bonus and to be hailed the `Triple Crown’ champion of their respective class.

A deposit of 50% of the total entry fee must be paid before February 11 with the balance to be paid on or before February 11.

In order to win the bonus, a deposit of $5 000 for each of the three races must be paid on or before February 11.

For further information, race horse owners/trainers can contact Chandra Ramkissoon (624-9063, 608-9063, 2320633); Alan Padmore (232-9115, 6191909) or Nikita Ross on 662-4668.

29

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Barnwell, Hetmyer propel Jaguars to crucial Super50 win ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Devon Thomas’s maiden regional one-day hundred proved in vain as half-centuries from Chris Barnwell and Shimron Hetmyer propelled Guyana Jaguars to a crucial five-wicket victory over luckless Leeward Islands Hurricanes here Wednesday night.

Chasing an unimposing 217 for victory under lights at Coolidge Cricket Ground, Jaguars overhauled their target courtesy of an aggressive 89 from Barnwell and an unusually measured unbeaten 60 from Hetmyer.

The pair posted 144 for the third wicket to pull Jaguars around from 65 for three at the end of the 16th over, after they had lost quick wickets.

Hurricanes did little to help their cause, dropping four catches in a sloppy fielding effort that helped ease pressure on the Jaguars during the contest.

There was nothing mediocre about Thomas, however, as he carved out a polished unbeaten 103 which lifted the hosts to 216 for eight off their 50 overs.

The right-hander faced 118 deliveries and struck 10 fours but he got precious little support as Akeal Hosein, batting at number 11, was the only other batsman to pass 20 with an unbeaten 23.

Sent in, Hurricanes were slumping on 24 for three in the ninth over,

following two key strikes from pacer Romario Shepherd who ended with three for 40.

Twenty-year-old Kofi James, skippering Hurricanes in only his second regional outing, was the first casualty of the innings, taken at fine

Shimron Hetmyer leg off Shepherd in the fourth over for two with the score on seven.

His opener partner Keacy Carty followed four overs later, caught at the wicket for 15 also off Shepherd, and when debutant Akeem Charles was also caught at the wicket off seamer Keemo Paul in the following over for two,

Hurricanes were against the ropes.

Thomas then put all his experience on show, holding the innings together by anchoring key partnership.

He put on 53 for the fourth wicket with Terrance Warde (18) and when four wickets tumbled for 54 runs, he added a further 44 for the eighth wicket with Justin Athanaze (15) to again bolster the innings.

Thomas’s first half-century required 64 balls and his second fifty was only slightly faster, coming from 46 balls.

When Athanaze was caught at mid-wicket off Shepherd, Thomas found an ally in Hosein to put on 41 for the ninth wicket, and to give the innings some impetus at the end.

West Indies leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo helped to dent the middle order with three for 35.

Jaguars’ run chase started strongly with Chandrapaul Hemraj stroking 30 off 29 balls in a 41-run stand with veteran left-hander Shiv Chanderpaul (14).

The left-handed Hemraj was attacking, belting three fours and a pair of sixes but paid for his cavalier approach when he skied off-spinner Terrance Warde (4-37) and was caught at mid-wicket

by Shane Burton.

Two overs later, Chanderpaul’s 48-ball labour ended when he holed out to long-on off Warde and

when captain Leon Johnson top-edged at sweep at the same bowler and was caught at square leg for 14 Jaguars were in need of revival.

Barnwell arrived to dominate, however, smashing eight fours and a couple of sixes in a 93-ball knock while Hetmyer, showing restraint from his normal attacking style, counted four fours in a 95-ball knock.

Both batsmen were

dropped twice – all relatively easy chances – and the misses allowed Barnwell to bring up his half-century off 43 balls and Hetmyer to reach his off 81 deliveries.

With victory assured but time running out to reach three figures, Barnwell holed out on the ropes at deep mid-wicket, gunning for the first of the two sixes which would have taken him to his landmark.

SCOREBOARD HURRICANES innings K. Carty c wkp. Bramble b Shepherd 15 K. James c Chanderpaul b Shepherd 2 A. Charles c wkp. Bramble b Paul 2 D. Thomas not out 103 T. Warde run-out 18 J. Searles c Johnson b Bishoo 9 J. Clarke c wkp. Bramble b Bishoo 9 S. Burton b Bishoo 6 A. Hosein not out 23 J. Athanaze c Hemraj b Shepherd 15 Extras: (b-1, lb-3, w-9, nb-1) 14 Total: (8 wkts, 50 overs) 216 Fall of wickets: 1-7, 2-24, 3-24, 4-77, 5-91, 6-117, 7-131, 8-175.

Bowling: Paul 8-0-37-1, Shepherd 10-1- 40-3, Permaul 10-0-40-0, Barnwell 4-0-24-0, Bishoo 10-0-35-3, Ruth erford 2-0-14-0, Hemraj 6-0-22-0.

JAGUARS innings C. Hemraj c Burton b Warde 30 S. Chanderpaul c Charles b Warde 14 S. Hetmyer not out 60 L. Johnson c Burton b Warde 14 C. Barnwell c James b Warde 89 A. Bramble c Carty b Berridge 3 S. Rutherford not out 2 Extras: (w-4, nb-1) 5 Total: (5 wkts, 47.1 overs) 217 Fall of wickets: 1-41, 2-49, 3-65, 4-209, 5-215.

Bowling: Berridge 9-2-39-1, Athanaze 10-2-33-0, Burton 5-0-36-0, Warde 9.1-0-37-4, Hosein 10-0-46-0, James 4-026-0.

First leg of Three-stage Forbes Burnham Memorial cycling road race on this Sunday THE annual Three-stage Forbes Burnham Memorial cycling road race which has been set for this month and will pedal off on two days begins on Sunday in the ancient county of Berbice.

The first stage on Sunday will see cyclists match pedals from Corriverton, Berbice beginning at 07:00hrs and finishing at Main Street, New Amsterdam.

The following Sunday (February 25), cyclists will begin their race at 07:00hrs in the mining town of Linden and head to the finish line in front of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Office on Homestretch Avenue.

They will take a breather before pedalling off again at 14:00hrs from Homestretch to Belfield, East Coast Demerara and returning to finish at the point of origin.

In 2017, Berbician cy-

clist Andrew Hicks had edged Stephano Husbands to win the first stage of the annual race.

However Hamzah Eastman won the second stage while Shaquelle Agard took the third leg. Consistent placing in the top six saw Husbands win the overall event.

The race, which has become an annual fixture on the cycling calendar, is sponsored by the Burnham Foundation and is supervised by the Flying Stars Cycling Club.

Transportation arrangements are as follows: On Sunday (February 18), transportation leaves the Ministry of Social Cohesion, Main Street, Georgetown at 05:00hrs.

On Sunday (February 25), transportation leaves the Ministry of Social Cohesion, Main Street, Georgetown at 05:30hrs.

On Sunday cyclists will head to the ancient county of Berbice for the first leg of the annual Three-stage Forbes Burnham Memorial cycling road race.

Former football coach Bennell convicted of seven more sex offences LONDON, England (Reuters) - Former football coach Barry Bennell was found guilty of seven further sexual offences against young players yesterday, bringing to 43 the total number he has been convicted of.

The 64-year-old, once a scout for Manchester City and Crewe Alexandra, abused 11 boys aged eight to 15 between 1979 and 1990 on an “industrial scale”, Liverpool Crown Court heard.

Bennell was charged in November 2016 after prosecutors received a file of evidence from Cheshire Police.

He had denied 48 alleged offences relating to 11 complainants, choosing not to give evidence in his defence during the month-long trial and appearing by video link from prison due to illness.

He had pleaded guilty to seven counts of indecent assault involving three boys.

In testimony, several victims estimated Bennell had sexually abused them on more than 100 occasions.

Jackie Lamb, from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), said Bennell was a “predatory paedophile” who groomed and abused young boys dreaming of a career in professional football.

“He claimed his accusers were making up stories about him following previous convictions and stories in the media but thanks to the evidence from his victims, the CPS and police were able to build a strong case to expose Bennell’s denials as lies,” Lamb said. ”Because of the scale of Bennell’s offending, the prosecution faced a number of challenges, including selecting charges which would adequately reflect the scale and seriousness of what Bennell did.

“The indictment before the court properly reflected that offending and will allow the court to sentence appropriately.”

Bennell will be sentenced on Monday, according to the BBC. Allegations of child sex abuse in English football from the 1970s through to the 1990s have shocked Britain and led to deep soul-searching in the game amid fears hundreds of young boys might have been in volved.

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ West Demerara/East Bank Demerara Zone

ESPN looking to topple Showstoppers in tonight’s final EVER since their opening night loss, ESPN have upped their game and have not placed a foot wrong along their path to tonight’s final where they will face the defending champions Showstoppers.

However, Showstoppers themselves stumbled in the early stages of the tournament and have staged a remarkable comeback and are looking every bit of the champions that they are. It bills for an enthralling matchup between the two sides and the crowd will be divided at the Pouderoyen tarmac this evening.

ESPN had a fairly easy path to the final with comfortable wins on Tuesday.

They took on Ballers Empire in the quarter-final but found the going tough

in the early stages of the game. However, Trevon ‘German’ Lythcott blasted in the only goal of the game in the 15th minute to ensure progression to the semi-finals.

In the matchup against the Dream Team, Pernell Schultz guaranteed ESPN a spot in the final. He scored in the seventh minute before closing off the game with a ‘Guinness Goal’ which meant ESPN won 3-0.

The Showstoppers, on the other hand, hit two late ‘Guinness Goals’ past Boom Bang to win their quarter-final 4-0. The goals came courtesy of Dexroy Adams and Stephon Jupiter in the 31st and 33rd minutes respectively.

In their semi-final against the West Side Bal-

lers, the Showstoppers ran riot with Marvin Josiah netting three ‘Guinness Goals’ to leave the final score line at 6-0.

Action begins at 20:00hrs with a number of exhibition matches which will be followed by the third-place play-off and then ESPN will take on Showstoppers to determine the ‘Greatest of the Streets’.

The winners of the tournament will claim $400 000 and the championship trophy while the runners-up will receive $200 000 and the corresponding accolade.

The third-place finishers will receive $150 000 and a trophy, while the fourth-place unit will walk away with $100 000 and a trophy.

Tonight’s final between defending champions Showstoppers and ESPN promises pulsating action on the Pouderoyen tarmac.

Malteenoes cricketers to kick off the first Fernandes eases through first match of many fundraisers this weekend as Bounty Farm squash tourney starts WHILE they are accustomed to being the centre of attention on the field during play, the cricketers of the Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) will themselves be spectators this weekend when they hold the first of a number of fundraising activities in the form of NBA All-Star weekend-viewing parties.

Speaking to Chronicle Sport, MSC’s Steven Jacobs revealed; “It’s a series of fundraising events we have coming up, starting from this month heading into the next couple of months. The fundraiser this weekend is basically to keep the club running smoothly.”

He further explained; “Time has changed in terms of active members in clubs around Georgetown. The

Steven Jacobs

cricketers of Malteenoes are trying to do something for the club while at the same time enhancing the facility. The funds raised will be used to paint the facility. In addition it will be used for gear, for example, having balls readily available for practice and having the necessary stuff for playing cricket matches during the weekends.”

Jacobs pointed out, “This

is just a start, instead of the administration of the club actually doing all of the work, the cricketers have decided to come on board and do something to raise funds. We have a series of events coming up that we will disclose in the near future.”

The viewing parties will be held on February 16, 17 and 18. Fans will have the opportunity to mingle with the cricketers and watch the NBA All-Star teams, led by Stephen Curry and LeBron James on big screen televisions.

Snacks and drinks will be on sale, the doors open at 16:00hrs daily and admission is just $500. The venue is the Malteenoes Sports Club which is opposite the GMR&SC on Thomas Lands. (Michelangelo Jacobus)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER 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) The 'popping crease' (2) 22.86cm (9 inches)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What is the maximum length of a cricket bat?

(2) What is the maximum width of a cricket bat?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

AS Taylor Fernandes prepares to take on the challenge of competing at the Commonwealth Games, she is getting some much-needed preparation in the Bounty Farm Ltd Handicap Squash Tournament, where she easily took out Jonathan DeGroot last Wednesday night when the tournament began.

Playing at the courts of the Georgetown Club, in a category-A match, Fernandes (-4) breezed past DeGroot (8) to claim the first game, dropping just three points as she amassed 19.

Taylor Fernandes Jonathan fought back in the her nerve to win the third second game by taking the game and the match 15-11, game 15-13.. Fernandes 13-15, 15-14. triumphed in the third deIn another match of the spite a shaky moment after night, Javid Rahaman made reaching 0 from a 4-point light work of Tian Eddeficit. She then showed wards, while Brian Young her superior skill, and held closed the 3-point hand-

icap gap on Andrea King to take both games, and the best of three matches.

Other category-A matchups for the night saw Shiloh Asregado win straight games against Ashanti Persuad, while Abosaide Cadogan did not drop a point as she easily took care of Kayden Pynaendy.

Scores for Wednesday’s evening matches were as follows: Javid Rahaman (-2) beat Tian Edwards (13) 15-13, 15-14 Taylor Fernandes (-4) beat Jonathan DeGroot (8) 15-11, 13-15, 15-14.

Brian Young (8) beat Andrea King (11) 15-9,

15-8 Abosaide Cadogan (0) beat Kayden Pynaendy (13) 15-13, 15-13.

Shiloh Asregado (0) beat Ashanti Persuad( 0) 15-4, 15-3.

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 16, 2018

Red Force misses chance to confirm Super50 semi-final spot LUCAS STREET, Barbados (CMC) – Trinidad and Tobago Red Force missed the chance to confirm their spot in the semi-finals of the Regional Super50, when they slumped to a surprise three-wicket defeat to Windward Islands Volcanoes here yesterday.

Playing in their final Group A match of the competition at Windward Cricket Club, Red Force failed to defend 254 and will now have to wait on the outcome of Volcanoes’ final preliminary match against English county Hampshire tomorrow, before knowing their fate.

The defeat, the third for Red Force, left them on 22 points but still favoured to advance to the final four along with title-holders Barbados Pride.

Volcanoes, third on 17 points, need a victory and a bonus point from their final match – along with a superior net run rate – in order to eclipse Red Force.

Sent in, Red Force got half-centuries from Tion Webster (58) and captain Denesh Ramdin (50) as they

got up to 254 for eight off their 50 overs.

Left-handers Nicholas Pooran and Isaiah Rajah supported with 34 apiece, as Red Force got themselves out of a hole at 184 for six in the 41st to reach a competitive total.

Amir Jangoo (10) was an early casualty with Red Force on 34 in the 11th over but Webster and Rajah added 74 for the second wicket, to rally the innings.

Webster stroked four fours and a couple of sixes in a 77-ball knock while Rajah faced 60 deliveries and counted three boundaries.

Red Force suffered a double blow when both batsmen fell in successive overs to leave the innings perched on 108 for three in the 29th over but Ramdin then produced a captain’s knock to prop up the innings.

He stroked five fours and a six in a 44-ball stay at the crease, first adding 44 for the fourth wicket with Pooran, 30 for the sixth with Sunil Narine (15) before putting on a further 41 for the seventh with Roshon

Primus (11).

Former West Indies off-spinner Shane Shillingford finished with three for 54 while pacer Obed McCoy picked up two for 28.

A revitalised Volcanoes then produced a strong display with impressive all-rounder Kyle Mayers top-scoring with 53 from 48 balls while aggressive opener Johnson Charles weighed in with 48.

Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson

Guyana Defence Force (GDF) will come up against current point-leaders Den Amstel FC at 19:00hrs and Western Tigers FC will face a new-look Fruta Conquerors at 21:00hrs.

Also, following the delayed start, Sunday’s fixture will now bring together Cougars FC and Ann’s Grove from 14:00hrs and in game two, Victoria Kings will clash with the home side Buxton United from 16:00hrs at the Buxton Community ground.

The third double-header –

57 deliveries.

But the peerless Narine accounted for both en route to figures of four for 42, triggering a collapse that saw five wickets fall for 66 deliveries.

In turmoil, at 124 for five in the 22nd over, Volcanoes were rescued

by Mayers and Hodge who staged an enterprising 97-run, sixth-wicket

SCOREBOARD RED FORCE innings A. Jangoo c Charles b McCoy T. Webster run-out I. Rajah stp. Fletcher b Edward N. Pooran b Shillingford D. Ramdin b McCoy E. Nicholson c Smith b Shillingford S. Narine c Smith b Shillingford R. Primus run-out K. Pierre not out Imran Khan not out Extras: (b-1, lb-6, w-7) Total: (8 wkts, 50 overs)

10 58 34 34 40 2 15 11 14 12 14 254

Fall of wickets: 1-34, 2-108, 3-108, 4-152, 5-154, 6-184, 7-225, 8-225.

Bowling: Johnson 4-0-16-0, Hodge 10-030-0, McCoy 8-0-28-2, Mayers 10-0-70-0, Edward 8-1-49-1, Shillingford 10-2-54-3.

Western Tigers vs Fruta Conquerors to headline resumption of GFF’s Elite League tonight FOLLOWING a lengthy break over the Christmas season and the early part of 2018, fans who have been eagerly anticipating the resumption of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Elite League Season III will be out in their numbers tonight to witness the feature match - Western Tigers FC versus Fruta Conquerors at the GFC (Georgetown Football Club) ground.

Both sides have made use of the recent transfer window with Tucville-based side Fruta Conquerors acquiring the services of prolific striker Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson while former Alpha United talisman Daniel Wilson will now don Western Tigers’ kit. This clash has been highly touted as the ‘Richardson vs Wilson’ battle.

The restart of the League was rescheduled after inclement weather over the weekend had caused the postponement on Sunday.

Defending champions

Veteran opener Devon Smith got 37 and Kavem Hodge, an important 32, as Volcanoes reached their target with 21 balls remaining.

Their start proved key with the experienced Smith and Johnson posting 58 off 43 balls for the first wicket before being separated.

Smith faced 28 balls and belted a couple of fours and sixes while Charles cracked two fours and four sixes off

Daniel Wilson

NA United FC vs Ann’s Grove FC and GDF FC vs Milerock FC – will be played on February 21 at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) from 19:00hrs and 21:00hrs respectively.

After Guyana’s Republic Day celebrations, the tournament will resume on February 24 at the #5 ground in Berbice, where Linden’s Milerock FC will face Cougars from 18:00hrs and New Amsterdam United will play Den Amstel at 20:00 hrs.

Admission to all matches is $500.

VOLCANOES innings D. Smith wkp. Ramdin b Narine J. Charles b Narine T. Theophile b Narine K. Edwards c Pooran b Imran Khan A. Fletcher c Pooran b Imran Khan K. Hodge stp. Ramdin b Narine K. Mayers c Jangoo b Iman Khan D. Johnson not out S. Shillingford not out Extras: (lb-12, w-20, nb-1) Total: (7 wkts, 46.3 overs)

37 48 1 17 6 32 53 21 7 33 255

Fall of wickets: 1-58, 2-64, 3-84, 4-104, 5-124, 6-221, 7-221.

Bowling: Gabriel 10-1-37-0, Primus 2-028-0, Narine 10-2-42-4, Pierre 10-1-51-0, Imran Khan 10-1-51-3, Webster 2-0-26-0, Rajah 2.3-0-8-0.

Tion Webster gathers runs through the on-side during his half-century for Red Force yesterday. (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

stand which took them to the brink of victory.

The left-handed Mayers struck two fours and four sixes while Hodge was more sedate with two fours in a 66-ball innings.

Disappointingly, both perished in successive overs with the score on 221 in the 39th over but by then the momentum was with Volcanoes.

Buxton steamroll Charlestown as Milo U-18 football continues ON a cold Wednesday afternoon in Georgetown, the Buxton Youth Developers were on fire as the Milo Schools Football competition continued.

The East Coast side trumped their Charlestown Secondary opponents 5-0 in a one-sided battle that featured it all - classy finishes, pacey turnovers and clinical strikes.

It started with Shamar Kingston who scored the opening goal in the 7th minute followed by Shamesh London in the 15th as the half ended 2-0.

On the return, Kingston netted once more to complete his double with London following suit before Teshawn Gordon’s 58th minute strike completed the win.

Game two saw St Rose’s downed by Uitvlugt Sec-

One of the five goals scored by Buxton Youth Developers against Charlestown in Wednesday’s Milo Schools Football tournament. (Adrian Narine photo)

ondary 2-1. The West Demerara-based side had Anthony Benn 42nd and Mickel McKend 70th on target while only Victor Chin registered a goal for the Georgetown side.

Lodge Secondary were also victors on the day with a 3-1 win against Queenstown Secondary.

A strike each for Shemroy Meyers (26th), Ricky Stewart (45th) and Adrian Berkshire (70th) was enough to ensure the side got their three points.

Carl Chisholm’s 66th minute goal was a consolation on the part of the losers.

Matches continue tomorrow and Sunday at the same venue.

Red Force miss 31 chance to confirm Super50 semi-final spot PAGE

PAGE

Patrick Ford Memorial Open

Colin `Superman’ Lewis

Ferrari speeds into Guyana Mash Day for ring date with ‘Superman’ Lewis

Paul earns maiden West Indies-A call-up

27 Nathan `Flash’ Ferrari

‘Jackie Chan’ stars as Sparta Boss go through to semi-finals

… Bent Street, Silver Bullets and Leopold Street also advance

Keemo Paul (photo courtesy of Cricket West Indies)

… Wintz drafted in Jaguars squad

Paul Wintz (photo by Randy Brooks of Brooks Latouche Photography)

FAST rising all-rounder, Keemo Paul earned a maiden call-up to the West Indies-A squad for the remainder of the unofficial Test series against the touring England Lions.

A reliable source close to the A-team confirmed to Chronicle Sport yesterday that Paul, who replaced the injured Turn to page 27 ►►

Andrew Murray (first from left) wraps up his double against Showstoppers in Wednesday evening’s quarter-final of the Legacy ‘Magnum Mash Cup’ Futsal tournament at the National Gymnasium (Adrian Narine photo)

SPARTA Boss, Bent Street, Silver Bullets and Leopold Street booked their places in tomorrow’s semi-finals of the inaugural Legacy ‘Magnum Mash Cup’ Futsal tournament, following their respective wins in Wednesday’s quarter-finals at the National Gymnasium.

The results meant that fans will see Bent Street take on Linden’s Silver Bullets, while Sparta Boss will lock horns with Leopold Street, and the two winners will advance to Sunday’s final, where they will do battle for

the tournament’s $400 000 first-place prize.

In the opening game of the quarter-finals, it was an all-Linden clash, but in the end, thanks to Damion Williams’ hat-trick, Silver Bullets cruised past Swag Entertainment 4-2.

Williams scored in the 20th, 33rd and 36th minutes, while Jermaine Samuels netted in the 34th minute for Silver Bullets. Shane Luckie, a usual marksman for Swag Entertainment, and Clive Nobrega were the goalscorers for the losing side.

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In the night’s second clash, Bent Street rallied to a 5-3 win over Showstoppers, with Andrew Murray (16th and 19th), Sheldon Profitt (3rd and 27th) and King Solomon Austin recording the team’s other strike.

Delroy Ferdinand (13th and 22nd) and Ricky Reddy (17th) found the back of the net for Showstoppers.

Meanwhile, after being locked on a goal each at the end of the regulation and extra time, Leopold Street needled (1-0) Gold is Money with kicks from Turn to page 27 ►►

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2018