Guyana chronicle e paper 04 09 2018

MONDAY 9th April, 2018

Speak up No.105239

– Min. Ramjattan urges youths to expose criminal activities in their communities – says several social programmes on stream to tackle scourge 08 PAGE

Rewa rakes in $77M from tourism

PAGE

13

LMTC says firmly against sexual misconduct 09 PAGE

Teen recaptured after escaping from police custody 10 PAGE

‘Farming is deep in my blood’

Lodges at the beautiful indigenous village Rewa in North Rupununi, Region Nine (Alva Solomon photo)

‘I feel vindicated’ ...ex-police officer says after court overturns dismissal

PAGE

03

– even at 95, Lewis has no intention of giving up farming

PAGE

02

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

‘Farming is deep in my blood’ – even at 95, Lewis has no intention of giving up farming

By Ariana Gordon AT 95 years old, Wilfred Percival Lewis spends his spare time planting bora and spending quality time with his wife of 59 years, Sherah. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Friday at his Three and a Half Miles Bartica home, Lewis said the secret to a long life is happiness, love and good health.

Though he is currently not of his best, health wise, Lewis noted that he despises laziness.

“I am 95 years old, I was born in 1922 and I love to plant. I plant bora,” he told this publication, as he sat at the front of his home, looking through his front door.

“As soon as I am better, I will continue planting my bora,” he said. When asked why he plants only bora, Lewis said, “I just like to move around bora.” He also weeds and maintains his yard. His relatives told the Guyana Chronicle that despite their efforts to have him slow down, Lewis does not take heed.

Looking at the 95-yearold, one would assume he is about 75. The father of seven, five boys and two girls, said he was born and raised in the Pomeroon, Region Two, but migrated to Bartica in 1959, one year after he married Sherah, in search of betterment.

He explained that the sawmill business was ‘a big

deal’ back in the 1950s and he capitalised on the opportunity.

“I met my wife in the Pomeroon and then through timber; we came to Bartica in 1959,” said Lewis, as he recapped his life in Bartica.

“Life in Bartica is quite… well, during my time, was sheer timber. The golden beach… all around was timber and sawmills. I worked with Winiperu, from 1960 to 1978,” Lewis recounted. The 95-year-old man also enjoys looking at football and cricket and has a love for boxing.

Lewis said though his favourite cricketers, Desmond Haynes, a former West Indian cricketer and Jack Hobbs, an English professional cricketer, are out of the limelight,

he hopes that young cricketers can aspire to greatness as his favourite cricketers.

Meanwhile, when asked what his advice to youngsters would be, Lewis said, “The most things I see now is that they are lazy and greedy and that needs to stop.”

He acknowledged that it would be difficult to change those attributes easily, but believes efforts must be made to do so. “It is a serious thing to change,” he remarked, while chuckling and gazing lovingly at his 81-year-old wife.

The father of seven, who is one of the oldest residents of Bartica, said he enjoys a meal of provision with either salted fish or fried fish.

Asked the secret to such a long and happy marriage,

Wilfred Lewis and his wife of 59 years, Sherah (Delano Williams photo)

Lewis’ wife said, “It is God who is keeping us.

“I go to church; without God you can’t survive,”

Sherah said, while adding, “peace and love in your heart” are critical to a successful marriage.

Roads to push agricultural development at Ebini

By Vanessa Braithwaite NEW roads are slated for construction in the farming community of Ebini, located in the Upper Berbice River, in an effort to push agricultural production in Region 10.

Region 10 Regional Executive Officer (REO) Orrin Gordon, said he has received correspondence from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) requesting use of the region’s excavators, bulldozer and roller to develop roads in Ebini, which has become a farming hub for Region 10.

Earlier this year, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder had revealed government’s plans to push Ebini and surrounding intermediate savannahs as the new agricultural frontier for Guyana. This includes the commencement of large-scale agricultural production in these areas.

Massive agricultural stations were established at Ebini, including orchards, nurseries and seed-production facilities, as well as cattle-rearing establishments Several studies were carried out in an effort to garner success, which include land-allocation plans, land, air and river transport-plans, water-supply and distribution plans, institutional and organisational frameworks, social services plans, a physical infrastructural plan, agricultural services plan, and a study of the eco-tourism potential of the area, among others.

Ebini’s agricultural production will be financed by the Inter-American Development Bank at a cost $105.7 M for the period of 2017 to 2022.

Some of the crops that will be sowed are soya beans, corn and orchard crops, in addition to cattle-rearing. Up to 270, 000 square kilometres is being exploited and

New roads are slated for construction in the farming community of Ebini

these include areas such as Kimbia, Ebini, Ituni/Tacama, Kibilibiri, Eberoabo and Wiruni. These savannahs have a history of cattle-rearing, legumes and orchard production, with the brown soil that has been deemed fertile.

LIMITATIONS One of the limitations however was infrastructural

development in the area and the government through the NDIA is now looking to correct this with road development, thus making the work of farmers easier as it relates to marketing their produce. Farmers voiced their concern in this regard to a visiting team led by former Regional Chairman Mortimer Mingo. About 34 farmers expressed the need for these

roads, since only 65-70 acres of land were accessible to them. This became a plight given the lack of cheap and reliable river transportation and farmers lost much on their produce.

FARM-TO-MARKET ROADS At Thursday’s statutory meeting, Gordon pointed out

the need for the development of farm-to-market roads as well and not only the development of roads within the community.

“We will ask them [NDIA] to consider us in terms of the farm-to-market road, so as you are producing the food in Ebini, it has to be shipped out and so the farm-to-market road becomes critical as an important link in agriculture production,” Gordon pointed out.

The road, which is about 40 miles long, will increase mobility from Ebini to Linden, which is the capital of Region 10.

With most of Linden’s food coming from other regions, the administration is optimistic that with much agriculture in Ebini, Region 10 will be able to produce its own food.

‘I feel vindicated’

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

– ex-police officer says after court overturns dismissal -- dismissal of officer who studied abroad unlawful, court rules

By Ariana Gordon BY a unanimous decision, Guyana’s Court of Appeal on Friday ruled that the dismissal of former Superintendent of Police Simon Mc Bean in September 2009 was unlawful and remitted the case to the High Court for assessment of damages and superannuation benefits.

Mc Bean through his attorneys Patrice Henry and Roopnarine Satram, had argued that he was unlawfully dismissed by the Police Service Commission (PSC) in 2009.

“I feel vindicated,” said Mc Bean, as he reacted to the ruling of the Court of Appeal.

He told the Guyana Chronicle that the way his career ended bothered him for years and he is thankful that the court has ruled in his favour.

The former superintendent of police was the benefi-

ciary of a British Scholarship to pursue a Master’s Degree in Global Policing at the University of Leicester, in the United Kingdom in 2007.

He had applied for study leave as well as no-pay leave, but received no response from the then Police Commissioner Henry Greene.

He subsequently applied for annual leave, amounting to 112 days; this was approved and granted by the then police commissioner.

Mc Bean travelled to the United Kingdom to enrol for his Master’s programme while on annual leave.

While in the UK, he became ill and was unable to return to Guyana, but had complied with the procedure for submission of medical certificates through the Guyana High Commission in the UK. The former police superintendent’s annualised leave ended on December 24, 2007.

Mc Bean returned to Guy-

Former Superintendent of Police, Simon Mc Bean

ana in September 2008 and resumed duty. He worked for an entire year with pay before receiving a dismissal letter from the PSC. That dismissal letter was signed by the Secretary to the PSC and at the time was backdated to December 2007. Mc Bean, who was at the time serving as the second in command

in ‘B’ Division, was never charged or heard by the said commission before he received his dismissal letter.

In September 2009, the former superintendent of police challenged his dismissal and had called several senior officers as witnesses to support his case in the High Court. The matter was heard before former Chief Justice (ag), Ian Chang, who had dismissed Mc Bean’s application.

The applicant had called for the decision of the PSC to be quashed, for him to be reinstated as well as superannuation benefits to be awarded and a declaration and/or order that the dismissal was a nullity, along with costs.

However, after the hearing in the High Court, Mc Bean and his team abandoned the relief of reinstatement as they felt too much time had passed and after having regard to all of the circumstanc-

es, it was felt it was not in his best interest to resume duty.

It was pursuant to the dismissal of his application, that his attorneys appealed the matter. Before Justices of Appeal, Rishi Persaud, Arif Bulkan and Rafiq Khan, SC., attorneys Henry and Satram argued that Mc Bean’s dismissal was unlawful on the grounds that the applicant’s dismissal was done in breach of the rule of natural justice; in that he was not given an opportunity to be heard. The lawyers also argued that, Mc Bean was on active duty when he received his retrospective dismissal letter.

“Rights that already accrued to a person cannot be taken away,” Henry told the Guyana Chronicle, while noting that the Police Disciplinary Act provides a statutory procedure to discipline members of the force, including officers. That procedure was never involved or im-

plied in Mc Bean’s case.

However, Judy Stuart-Adonis, attorney representing the PSC and the Attorney General’s Chambers, argued that Mc Bean terminated his own service by studying overseas.

In assessing the arguments before the court, the three judges said Mc Bean’s resumption of duty in 2008 negated the arguments advanced by Stuart-Adonis. Additionally, the court found that the former police superintendent’s resumption was inconsistent with an intention by him to terminate his service.

As such, Mc Bean’s appeal was allowed and the case remitted to the High Court for damages and superannuation benefits to be assessed on a date to be announced by the Registrar of the High Court.

Harmon hails Mellon, Citizens Bank partnership – says climate ripe for investment in Guyana THE recent move by the Mellon National Bank in the US to partner with the indigenous Citizens Bank has been described by State Minister Joseph Harmon as a sure sign of the confidence reposed in Guyana’s investment climate.

Minister Harmon, who was at the time speaking at the official opening of the Banks DIH new vehicle workshop, noted that the partnership has occurred at a time when the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) are taking steps aimed at curbing and reducing relations between international banks and those in the Region.

He noted further that, “When out of all of that, we can actually step out of the blacklist, the grey list, the white list and whatever other list that exists, I believe Guyana is on the right path of development.”

The State Minister deemed this step as “a vote of confidence,” since Mellon Bank is one of the largest

banks operating in the US and the fact that relations have been established with Guyana demonstrates that the country is moving in the right direction.

It is this same confidence, Minister Harmon said, which has motivated American Airlines to announce the commencement of flights from the US to Guyana from December2018.

“Guyana is the right place to invest and I am proud that the private sector is beginning to embrace that reality. I am proud that

Banks DIH as a leading member of the private sector continues to invest in Guyana,” the minister pointed out.

He said the investment

by Banks DIH in the establishment of a waste water treatment plant and a waste plastic treatment facility at the new vehicle workshop, is another sign of its confidence in the investment climate of Guyana.

“While some sections of our population complain about this and complain about that, I am happy to

Citizens Bank Headquarters, Camp Street, Georgetown

The waste water plant commissioned by Banks DIH Limited

know that the majority of our private sector is out there doing things and taking advantage of these glorious opportunities which now present themselves,” the minister said.

He expressed confidence that the collaboration between the private sector and the government will take the country further along its development trajectory.

“Investment by the private sector now is also an investment for future generations in Guyana,” the State Minister highlighted.

A call was made to the wider private sector, particularly those companies

involved in commerce and manufacturing to “take a page out of Banks DIH’s book”, noting that investments similar to the one made by Banks DIH are worthy of emulation.

Co-Managing Director, Banks DIH, George McDonald noted that establishment of the waste water treatment plant is a requirement of the Coca Cola company, which stipulates that all waste water of manufacturers be treated before being released into the waterways, so that there is no damage to the natural flora and fauna.

In proximity is a public waste plastic treatment

facility, the collection and treatment point for the company’s waste plastic generated from PET containers and decommissioned beverage cases.

The plastics are chipped, crushed and shipped to recycling plants overseas and according to McDonald, it is an effort to prevent the negative impacts of these products on the environment.

This is coming at a time when the government continues to push for safer environmental practices, which is one of the main focus areas of the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS). (DPI)

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

International Criminal Court prosecutor calls for end to violence in Gaza AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court on Sunday called for an end to violence in the Gaza Strip, adding that the Palestinian territories were subject to a preliminary examination by her office and she was monitoring events there closely.

Following the deaths of 29 Palestinians in protest clashes with Israeli forces in the past two weeks, Fatou Bensouda said in a statement “any new alleged crime committed in the context of the situation in Palestine may be subjected to my office’s scrutiny”.

The ICC prosecutor opened a preliminary investigation into alleged crimes committed in occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, in January 2015, after Palestine was officially admitted as a member

International Criminal Court prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda (REUTERS) of the court.

Israel is not a member of the court but if Israeli citizens commit war crimes or crimes against humanity on the territory of a member state, they could fall under the ICC’s jurisdiction.

“Violence against civilians - in a situation such as the one prevailing in Gaza – could constitute crimes ... as could the use of civilian presence for the purpose of shielding military activities,” Bensouda said.

Bensouda said she would record “any instance of incitement or resort to unlawful force” by either side in the conflict.

A preliminary examination is the earliest phase of a case at the ICC. In it, the prosecutor gathers information and studies whether crimes may have been committed that reach the level of gravity required to open a formal investigation, and whether the court would have jurisdiction.

The ICC only has jurisdiction in cases where a country’s government is itself unable or unwilling to prosecute war crimes or crimes against humanity.

Monday April 09th, - 11:30hrs Tuesday April 10th, 12:30 - 01:00hrs Wednesday April 11th, 13:00 - 02:00hrs

North Korea tells U.S. it is prepared to discuss denuclearisation: source WASHINGTON (Reuters) - North Korea has told the United States for the first time, that it is prepared to discuss the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meets President Donald Trump, a U.S. official said on Sunday.

U.S. and North Korean officials have held secret contacts recently in which Pyongyang directly confirmed its willingness to hold the unprecedented summit, the official told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The communications, still at a preliminary stage, have involved State Department officials talking to North Korea apparently through its United Nations mission, and intelligence officers from both sides using a separate backchannel, the official said.

Until now, Washington had relied mostly on ally South Korea’s assurance of Kim’s intentions.

South Korean envoys visited Washington last month to convey Kim’s invitation to meet. Trump, who has exchanged bellicose threats with Kim in the past year, surprised the world by quickly agreeing to meet Kim to discuss the crisis over Pyongyang’s development of nuclear weapons capable of hitting the United States.

But Pyongyang has not broken its public silence on the summit, which U.S. officials say is being planned for May. There was no immediate word on the possible venue for the talks, which would be the first ever between a sitting U.S. president and North Korean leader.

The U.S. official declined to say exactly when the U.S.-North Korea communications had taken place but said the two sides had held multiple direct contacts.

On Monday (today), former U.N. ambassador John Bolton is due to begin his new role as Trump’s national security adviser, while on Thursday Senate confirmation hearings begin for Mike Pompeo, Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State. Both have taken hawkish stances on North Korea.

Questions remain about how North Korea would define denuclearisation, which Washington sees as Pyongyang abandoning its nuclear weapons programme.

North Korea has said over the years that it could consider giving up its nuclear arsenal if the United States removed its troops from South Korea, and withdrew its so-called nuclear umbrella of deterrence from South Korea and Japan.

DATE: DATE: 26/11/2016 07/04/2018 26/11/2016 07/04/2018

14 14 11 12 15 23 18 19 25 28 26 18 02 N A 12

06 02 13 06

14 07

21 09

24 13

26/11/2016 07/04/2018

04 9

07 5

03 4

26/11/2016 07/04/2018

05 3

04 6

01 9

26/11/2016 07/04/2018 02 01

09 06 07 10 12 11 15 13 20 14

21 18

5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Lula spends first night in jail amid fight for freedom

SAO PAULO, Brazil (Reuters) - Brazil’s former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva spent his first night in jail on a corruption conviction on Sunday, as his allies hoped future protests and court decisions would free him.

The imprisonment of Lula, Brazil’s first working-class president, throws the October presidential election wide open as he leads the race in opinion polls. His conviction likely bars him from running.

But this week the Supreme Court may re-examine its own 2016 ruling that said the condemned could begin serving prison sentences if their conviction was upheld on a first appeal, the decision that made it possible for a Brazilian judge to order Lula jailed. If that ruling were reversed, Lula would be freed.

Several justices on the top court have publicly clamoured in recent weeks to revisit that ruling and overturn it, a move critics say would be a massive blow against Brazil’s unprecedented anti-corruption efforts of the last four years.

The appeals process can take years or even decades in Brazil’s complex and backlogged legal system, essentially guaranteeing impunity for those rich enough to afford lawyers who could launch countless technical appeals.

Lula, who still faces six more trials on corruption charges, turned himself in to police Saturday evening, ending a daylong standoff.

He spent the first night of his 12-year sentence in a special 15-square-metre cell in Curitiba’s federal police headquarters,

where most high-profile politicians and businessmen convicted in the “Car Wash” corruption probe have served their sentences.

Lula will not be allowed to interact with others being held in the building, including his former finance minister Antonio Palocci.

“His spirit is strong enough to hang on and he is certain that the Brazilian people will continue to mobilise for his freedom,” said Paulo Teixeira, a Workers Party congressman representing Sao Paulo.

He said the Supreme Court’s rejection of Lula’s plea to remain free until he exhausted his appeals was “shameful” and that he thought protests would mount in support of the leader.

But by Sunday afternoon – and throughout the long period Lula has been under investigation – there have been no mass popular demonstrations in Brazil, with only sporadic and isolated protests by diehard supporters. A handful of people suffered minor injuries in a protest outside the federal police building upon his arrival.

Brazilians, whether they agree that Lula should be jailed or not, widely believe that those in power are corrupt.

A survey last month from the Datafolha polling firm found that over 80 per cent of those asked said they believed Lula knew about corruption in his government, though just over 50 per cent said they wanted to see him jailed.

J’can given lengthy US jail term NEW YORK, United States (CMC) — A Jamaican national, who was twice deported from the United States, has been jailed for more than 12 years after he was found guilty of breaching immigration laws.

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency said that Ronald Greenland’s federal sentence includes 100 months that will run consecutively with his 40-year-to-life sentence, on New York State charges for the attempted murder of a police officer.

ICE said Greenland’s sentencing follows an investigation by its Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).

“Sentences like this one are a powerful reminder about the potential consequences that await those who blatantly skirt the nation’s immigration laws,” said ERO New York Field Office Director Thomas Decker. “Illegal aliens who

knowingly break the law by re-entering the United States must be held accountable for their actions.”

ICE said Greenland, 55, initially entered the United States lawfully in 1972, but lost that status due to multiple criminal convictions in Connecticut, Florida and New York.

On February 23, 2007, ICE said an immigration judge ordered Greenland deported to Jamaica.

Two year later, ICE said it deported Greenland to Jamaica, but Greenland “unlawfully re-entered the US at an unknown place, on an unknown date, following his deportation.”

On April 21, 2011, Greenland was convicted in US District Court, Southern District of New York (SDNY), and sentenced to 60 months incarceration, and three years of supervised release.

On April 30, 2015, ICE said it deport-

ed Greenland to his native country, for the second time.

But ICE said Greenland again “unlawfully re-entered the US at an unknown place, on an unknown date, following his removal.”

On December 9, 2016, Greenland was charged with illegal re-entry and he was convicted in October last year of attempted murder, attempted assault, attempted aggravated assault upon a police officer, as well as criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of

stolen property.

Last November he pleaded guilty to illegally re-entering the country.

“ICE is focused on removing public safety threats, such as convicted criminal aliens and gang members, as well as individuals who have violated our nation’s immigration laws, including those who illegally re-entered the country after being removed and immigration fugitives ordered removed by federal immigration judges,” ICE said in a statement.

6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Remembering Martin Luther King jr LAST week April 4 marked 50 years since Martin Luther King was assassinated. The occasion was marked in the US with marches, speeches and quiet reflection.

The commemorations, according to media reports, stretched from his hometown of Atlanta to Memphis, where he died, and points beyond, including the nation’s capital.

Hundreds of people bundled in hats and coats gathered early in Memphis for a march led by the same Sanitation Workers’ Union whose low pay King had come to protest when he was shot.

The very mention of the name Martin Luther in any part of the world evokes reverence and respect for a man who lived for a mere 39 years; but during that time, his impact on America and the world at large was unmatched by any public figure of his generation.

In contemporary society, where icons of past generations are hardly known by the present one, Dr King is the exception. Dr King was the best-known figure in the final stage of the American civil rights movement—one of the great 20th century socio-political movements. He rose to prominence in 1955-56, when another civil rights icon, Rosa Parks, ignited a year-long bus boycott by African-Americans in

Montgomery, Alabama, by refusing to give up her seat on a bus to a white man. This was during the period of segregation in the American South, when blacks and whites were prohibited by law from sharing the same public accommodation.

Dr King, then a young 26-year-old minister, at the time was chosen by the people to lead a boycott of the buses, which eventually lasted for a year and ended with the desegregation of public transportation. That outcome in Montgomery had a domino effect, as public transportation in several other southern cities was desegregated. Dr King would for the next 12 years lead a national movement that saw the legal end to segregation and the formal integration of African-Americans into American society as equal citizens.

As the face of the movement, Dr King was revered by his followers and hated by his detractors. He and his followers endured ridicule, physical violence from both private individuals and groups and from the state. Yet he persevered with the praxis of non-violence and civil disobedience in the face of such intense violence that claimed the lives of several civil rights workers. After many unsuccessful attempts on his life, Dr King was eventually

assassinated in April 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee.

He has left a tremendous legacy which has remained an example to other fighters for social justice. As an orator, he was second to none; his speeches are cited widely, both for their content and delivery. Dr King was not just a leader and an activist, he was a deep thinker whose thoughts are today the subject of study in universities across the world.

As we remember this giant of a man, we should reflect on the value of selfless public service. Dr King gave his entire adult life to the service of mankind. He spent little time with his young family. When he was brutally murdered, he left little earthly belongings; in short, he died a poor man. But his was a life rich with commitment to lift his fellow human beings to the mountain top. It is a lesson which contemporary political people should heed. So many political activists and politicians are today more concerned with personal enrichment rather than selfless service.

Another value of Dr King that is worth emulating is his commitment to principle over expediency. He believed in non-violence as tactic, strategy and overriding principle. Even in the

face of extreme violence and opposition from within his own ranks, he remained steadfast. For him, physical force would ultimately flounder in the face of soul force. He believed deeply that violence was not the answer to racism and racist violence. Perhaps, in the end he was vindicated.

Many have asked what would have been the destiny of Black America had Dr King not been cut down so early in his life. We would never know the answer to that question, but one thing is certain: his example, ideas and activism have shaped new generations across the globe. That America honours him with a holiday and remembers him in many other ways is a living testimony of the wide reach of his praxis. Today he is not just a hero to Black people, but to all other races. He is not just a darling of political moderates, but even hard-nosed radicals embrace him as a fellow traveller.

We in Guyana can draw strength from Dr King’s memory.

As we grapple with our own challenges, the example of the drum-major of peace can be a source of assurance that all is not lost.

King baffled by claims broke City Hall squandering money

Dear Sir,

AFTER reading a letter which appeared in the Stabroek News issue of Thursday, April 5, 2018: “To attempt to forcibly impose a contract the people have rejected is to take the road of high-handedness,” signed by Councillor Khame Sharma, I have grudgingly come to the conclusion that much more work needs to be done in the areas of civic awareness, training and education in local government and governance, and the City Council.

In communities, because the new approach to constituency politics facilitates representatives from local neighbourhoods becoming councillors and therefore there is need for awareness and education at that level, and at the Council because if local representatives are elected to serve on the council unaware of their roles and responsibilities,

then it becomes extremely difficult to practice good and effective governance at the local level. If this is not done, then councillors will undermine the very Council of which they are a part as is the case at the City Council with a few councillors.

That said, it is very clear that the Hon Councillor did not pay attention to his own advice in the penultimate paragraph of his letter- “The time has come to put aside narrow partisan interests …” because his entire letter demonstrates very narrow partisan interest.

In fact, in that very paragraph he attempts to admonish the council on its method of voting. He suggests that the council should vote by secret ballot, which he claims will ensure transparency and accountability. He also equates secret ballot with doing the right thing. Apparently, it has not dawned on him that democracy, which appears to be a key theme in his letter, means the will of

the majority must be implemented; the rights of the minority must be respected. It must have escaped his attention that the method of voting in the Council is voted upon by all Councillors and that by itself is a function of democracy. That there are multiple ways of voting in an organization, no single method could be deemed to be more transparent than the other. And what would make Councillor Sharma think that a vote by secret ballot is free and fair and a vote by another method isn’t?

Again, the Municipal District and Councils Act, Chapter 28:01, is very clear on this matter. It states that “When a division is challenged, the Town Clerk shall write down the names of those members voting for or against the motion, and of those abstaining, and he shall duly record those names in the minutes. After the division has been taken, the town clerk shall state the number of votes

for and against to the mayor or presiding member who shall declare the result.” Section 23 of Standard Order Rules. At the Mayor and City Council there are established rules for every aspect of its function, action and responsibility.

I shall now examine a few of the numerous errors in this letter: at paragraph 3, he complains about narrow, congested roadways coupled with numerous potholes “… which seem to grow larger every day…”

Again, in paragraph 4, he riles about the fact that the Council “… has not built even one road in the city and its maintenance of roads is at a standstill.”

However, the provision of such vital municipal services and facilities requires financial and other resources which the council does not have at this point in time.

See page 7

7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

King baffled by claims broke City Hall ...

From page 6

In 1996, the then city engineer give an estimate of about 14 million dollars to construct one mile of asphalt road.

It is this lack of resources that forces the council to be innovative and to come up with new ideas and ways to generate funds to get on with its work and to manage its responsibility. The parking meter project is one such innovation by the Council to raise much-needed revenue for Georgetown. But what Councillor Sharma failed to mention in his letter is the pollution to the environment caused by emissions from vehicles used by motorists searching for parking space, the disorder and near chaos on our roads due to indiscipline and lawlessness and the insecurity of our children and senior citizens, who must navigate their way in and between vehicles improperly parked, and of course the criminal activities facilitated by this confusion. Therefore, parking meters are not predatory as the Honourable Councillor supposed. Metered parking is part of a wider plan to bring order to city streets, reduce pollution to the environment, reduce the vulnerability of our citizens and enhance their safety on our roadways and to raise revenue for the city of Georgetown.

The Councillor then turns his attention to the city’s finances. He states: “There can be no excuse for squandering much of the revenue collected from rates and taxes, market fees and fines and the massive injection of funds by central government, previous and present. Wasteful spending, mismanagement, incompetence, and sheer extravagance continue, with trips abroad, large entourages, and huge sums allocated this year for city celebrations”, paragraph 4.

I agree with Councillor Sharma, that is why the Council does not indulge in such activities. Even if we wanted to squander money there is none. In fact, it is public knowledge that the Council is in a precarious financial situation. Our expenditure continues to outstrip our revenue. This is so because we provide a plethora of crucial municipal services. The goods and other things needed to provide these services continue to increase while the property rates for Georgetown remain constant. The city has not had valuation of properties since 1996. Rentals at our municipal markets and many of the fees we charge for administrative services are very low, but we are trying to cope with great optimism that better days are coming, not only for the city, but for all of Guyana. We remain confident in the leadership and vision of the government and we know that Guyana is on the threshold of greatness and prosperity.

Nevertheless, I wish to make a comment on the councillor’s remarks about two activities -- trips abroad and huge sums of money allocated this year for city celebrations.

Whenever the mayor and/or councillors travel abroad on behalf of the Council, they usually attempt to achieve certain clear objectives: to build new relations and strengthen existing ones with our sister cities, and to seek and mobilise resources to enhance the capacity of the municipality. The Council does not view the mayor and councillors’ travel overseas as trips, but as important and necessary socio-cultural, political and economic interactions, particularly in circumstances where Guyana and by extension Georgetown are part of the global village. In most cases, expenses are paid for by the host cities, organisations or agencies.

On the other matter of huge sums allocated for celebrations, I have to say that this statement is fallacious. Councillor Sharma is fully aware that no money has been allocated for celebrations, at the Council. The minutes of the Council would show that the matter of

having special activities to mark the elevation of Georgetown from a town to a city was discussed at the Social Development Committee. An unofficial sum was floated by a few members. It was agreed that a sub-committee would look at a schedule of activities and report to the appropriate standing committee. No money was approved or allocated from the council’s budget for celebrations.

And the councillor knows that because the matter was raised about one month ago at a full statutory meeting and the Chairman of the Finance Committee informed the Council that no money had been allocated for any such celebrations.

Similarly, it is simply not true that: “…a senior councillor and former general secretary of the ruling party when he allegedly proclaimed, there was no need for a vote on whether to re-install meters on the city streets, since we could do it anyway without even putting it to a vote. It is significant that this councillor is one of the four signatories on the parking meter contract. So why this show of being democratic when the road chosen is clearly autocratic and authoritarian…” The word allegedly was deliberately used by the councillor to cover a falsehood.

Again, he states “Duly elected Councillors are the last to be consulted while the appointed town clerk who heads the administration continues to make decisions unilaterally.

The same can be said of the minutes of statutory meetings where the agenda is unilaterally set and matters arising are not permitted to be discussed, unless they appear in the Statutory Report presented. These minutes are then adopted and seconded without any meaningful discussion on issues of concern.” The falsity of this assertion is very troubling; it does not reflect the system at Council. I believe that the councillor does not fully understand the functions and responsibilities of my office.

The town clerk is a creature of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01. As a statutory creature, the town clerk exercises powers and rights, under four (4) broad classifications: expressed/actual; implied; ostensible; and delegated: (i) Expressed, self evidently, is what is written in the literal wording of the M&DCA itself. (ii) Implied and ostensible, can only arise and exist as incidental to, or connected with what is expressed in the written wording.

The underlying principle or rationale is that although not in written form , they are nonetheless necessarily there in unwritten form, by sheer common sense and logic to complete (so to speak) the scope and ambit of the written rights. (iii) Delegated (simply put) would be those vires of the City Council that are usually by resolution, transferred or given by the Council to the town clerk. But in law, delegation, I am advised, can also take place where the Council by its conduct (e.g. by not formally objecting to, or acquiescing in, what the town clerk has done) ratifies or adopts what the town clerk has done (but should have been done by the Council).

Also, the town clerk is the human instrumentality by whom, generally, the administration of the City Council is executed.

Even so, the town clerk does not unilaterally set the agendas for committees or the Statutory Meetings of the Council. Matters are placed on the agenda of a committee by referrals from statutory meetings, requests from the chairmen of committees, matters and issues from local communities that require a resolution or a decision of the Council. Agen-

das are discussed with Chairmen of Committees. In the case of matters arising from the minutes, some time ago, under the Mayoralty of Mayor Hamilton Green, the Council took a decision to remove that item (matters arising from the Minutes) from the Statutory Agenda for four reasons: (i) it facilitated unnecessary arguments and delays of the meetings and (ii) it makes meetings less efficient (iii) almost all of the matters arising can be discussed under committee reports and (iv) there is no provision in the Act, under the Standing Orders for such an item.

Again, at paragraph 5, the Councillor states: “The problem is, the council finds itself bankrupt both financially and in terms of viable and innovative ideas, on the way forward.” Assuming this is the case, the question should then be exactly what idea, innovation, policy or any other contribution the councillor has submitted to help the Council out of this position?

I wish to make one final point on the rights of citizens. The councillor assumes to himself the right to speak for the rights of citizens when he said: “In a democratic society, citizens have the right to criticize their governments if they believe that its actions are wrong. To attempt to forcibly implement a contract that has already been rejected by the masses is to take the road of high-handedness and a most callous and uncaring approach by any standard. ” First, we are not sure for whom he

speaks when he talks about the masses.

Second, what about the rights of the citizens who want the project, on whose behalf the Council acted in good faith to introduce this new innovation? We have said that we aware that there are some citizens, who have difficulty with different aspects of the project. However, there are those, who see great benefits in this innovation and know that it will make the city safer and more livable. What about their rights?

Generally, this letter is really part of a wider campaign, by some, to sully the image of the Council and make its officials look uncaring and unsuited to manage the city.

Why else would a councillor knowingly write a letter to the editor riddled with errors, misinformation, and fabrications?

However, as the Clerk of the Council I will not falter in my responsibility to the municipality. I am called to deliver an outcome of a “green”, safe and livable city, in circumstances of unprecedented environmental conditions and events and with perspectives on the production of oil and gas. Therefore, at the Council, we need to eliminate negative and frictional forces and harness our collective energies to achieve this outcome.

Yours faithfully, Royston King Town Clerk City of Georgetown

Speak up 8

THE Ministry of Public Security has realised that the traditional policing system would no longer be able to contain the level of crime in society, and through the Community Police Groups (CPGs) it intends to employ social programmes to combat crime.

“Over the years we have realised that community policing must not only be a supplement for law enforcement

but [we] must use social programmes within the community to lessen the crime rate,” said Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, during his address to children and their parents at a youth conference at the Mahaicony Community Centre on Sunday.

The forum is one of many activities that are scheduled to be held throughout the year to commemorate the 42nd anniversary of CPGs in Guyana.

Community policing has been an integral part of crime fighting but, the minister said, their missions could not be successful without the support of the residents of the community.

He believes the relationship between the residents and the CPGs must continue, especially since the residents would be able to guide and enlighten the groups about the subjects to include in the

Children performing a skit to raise awareness about teenage pregnancy (Adrian Narine photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

– Min. Ramjattan urges youths to expose criminal activities in their communities

– says several social programmes on stream to tackle scourge social programmes. The residents would also be able to mobilise youth who would be the main beneficiaries of the programmes.

“One of the first people to be targeted are young people and their parents because we need to get the youths out of bad habits,” said Minister Ramjattan, adding that many studies showed that youths who participate in positive social activities turn out to be better adults.

On the negative aspect, he referred to recent studies that revealed that children from the age of 11 years use illicit drugs in school.

“The findings of those studies were startling because these were children from top schools but, we want to use these findings to target our young people of today and make them better,” said Minister Ramjattan.

The minister pointed out that there are a lot of other illicit activities going on in the communities and even the households but that persons are not speaking up.

Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan speaking to children at a youth conference on Sunday

SPEAK UP “Very many of us would prefer to keep quiet and not speak out…when we keep it in and we don’t talk, we gonna suffer more violence because silence is violence,” said Minister Ramjattan.

He encouraged the children to speak out if they are aware of persons being involved in criminal activities.

Instead of being involved in illicit activities, he urged the children to read more, stay in school and become professionals in whatever field they prefer.

Some of the children who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle, said they were excited to be a part of the youth conference because they intend to teach their colleagues what they learnt.

Young designer brings ‘Swag’ to fashion WHEN is a print designer not a print designer? That is when they are, in fact, a fashion designer. When you think of print, there are a handful of designers that instantly spring to mind in Guyana; one of them is from the mining town of Linden.

Parrish Shannon Cadogan

Parrish Shannon Cadogan

Swag Styles Company designer bow ties

is a 24-year-old up-andcoming fashion designer who is already taking Linden by storm and making his mark on social media.

Recently, Cadogan held a successful ‘popup’ shop at Buxton Line-Top, East Coast Demerara, where sever-

Sneakers hand-designed by Cadogan

al persons came out to get their graphic t-shirt designs for the village’s annual J’ouvert and Mash celebration, which saw his clothing line and graphic designs taking off.

Cadogan, who is a former McKenzie High School student, a basketball player and a national athlete in Guyana, is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to setting the trend and being different.

In 2015, he started his own print-design business under the name of Swag Styles Company.

According to the entrepreneur, Swag Styles Company is all about looking different in the new generation of fashion, while allowing the person to ‘create their own swag.”

Swag Styles Company uses the heat-transfer method for their print designs and also does painting on sneakers and other items. The company can design

from hats, shirts, bedsheets and just about anything to meet their customers’ needs.

“When I was growing up, I saw my father doing design work and I always had the ability to draw in school, but I never thought that this would have been the outcome,” the designer explained.

He added that since at school he always had the knack for creating his own style and fashion, as he used to spraypaint his haversack and sneakers.

“I never thought that this would’ve been a business for me…I went to school and furthered my studies, then training at Macorp, but nothing ever really worked out for me,” he said.

“My dream was to have my own clothing line, I want to be among one of the famous brand names in clothing” he stressed.

Bleached, Soca-designed t-shirts

Cadogan however explained that when he first started out his business at his Amelia’s Ward, Linden home, it was slow, but as customers started coming in things took a turn for the better.

“People didn’t know about me, but due to the quality of my work and my style designing, customers kept recommending me,” he added.

He explained that he learnt to perfect his trade through trial and error, but managed to become more creative and it was all due to his determination and long nights staying up perfecting his art.

In the future, the designer plans on opening several outlets across Guyana to better reach his growing customers’ needs.

“I don’t want to do this business just for the money! It’s something that I love and I want to be the best at it,” he stressed.

Cadogan added that the most satisfying thing is when his customers are amazed about his unique designs and keep coming again, while getting their money’s worth.

His advice to upcoming entrepreneurs is for them to follow their dreams and do what they love.

“This is my own talent and this is what God blessed me with… don’t follow [anybody] else’s dreams! Not because you see somebody else doing something that means it’s for you too. Find what’s for you and pursue it,” he encouraged.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Banks DIH a model of innovation, adaptability – Harmon says at opening of $110M vehicle workshop BANKS DIH Limited was on Sunday lauded by Minister of State Joseph Harmon, as a model of innovation, enterprise and adaptability in line with the government’s Green State trajectory, and setting the pace for the rest of the private sector.

The minister was speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the company’s $110M vehicle workshop, located at the Demerara River Front Property, obliquely opposite Thirst Park, Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

The government, Minister Harmon underscored, has undertaken a new economic model that is guided by the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS), which has as its core principles the reorienting and diversification of the economy and the reduction of reliance on traditional sectors.

The GSDS strives “to open up new and sustainable income and investment opportunities through value-added endeavours and a high growth sector,” he noted.

The strategy, the State Minister said, will set the foundation for green, inclusive, economic and social growth and create the framework for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and related targets.

The GSDS will also provide the basis for a prosperous and secure future for all

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

Guyanese, he assured.

Banks DIH has shown its ability to adapt to the changing business environment over the years, making reference to the company’s recent announcement that for the new financial year there will be further investment in solar energy, based on a tested innovation introduced in 2017 at the Qik Serv Restaurant, Main Street, Georgetown, Minister Harmon said.

Banks DIH had made the disclosure at its 62nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) which hosted at Thirst Park on January 27, 2018.

According to the minister, “this move is yet another trailblazing initiative of Banks, because of its size

and scope within the private sector”.

The property, which now houses the vehicle workshop, was acquired by Banks DIH in 2001. It was originally the Plant Maintenance Division of the then Ministry of Public Works and was used to repair and maintain heavy equipment, as well as service vehicles of all government ministries. Minister Harmon expressed confidence that the value of such a facility to the government will not be lost under the company’s management.

He applauded the fact that approximately 100 persons are employed at the site and are provided with training in the field of engi-

neering at the University of Guyana (UG) and the Government Technical Institute (GTI), compliments of the company.

Co-Managing Director of Banks DIH, George McDonald in his address said that the company in recognition that clean and reliable power generation was a critical input to its production facilities, and in its efforts to produce the best quality products, had in 2004 embarked on the installation of specialised generation facilities.

Banks DIH, a partner of the Coca-Cola company was also required to meet the ISO 9001 Standards or First World Production standards, McDonald related.

The vehicle workshop is presently equipped with 10 Megawatts Diesel and Bunker Sea generating plants, which means the facility is operating independently of

information that we would have gathered for verification.

As such, no staff was permitted to divulge unverified information, especially since, in our opinion, on a matter of this nature, it was likely to become sub-judice and their comments can interfere with the investigation. From the independent investigation, the mayor has seen irrefutable evidence that an incident occurred on March 3rd, 2018 and the said matter was settled between the parties involved on March 6, 2018,” the LMTC said.

It noted that on March 16, the matter was brought to the attention of Mayor Waneka Arrindell by Councillor Devin Sears, but the mayor was informed that the matter was with the police.

Subsequently, on Sunday, April 1, the matter was again brought to the mayor’s attention with the information that it was not settled as claimed.

The council, the LMTC

said, immediately called for an investigation and visited the coordinator Crystal Lam, who provided some information and a meeting was then scheduled to meet with the victim. However, the LMTC said the mayor was later informed by Lam that the young woman does not wish to further the matter.

“On this premise, the council would have subsequently met with the victim on April 5, 2018, and the minutes of that meeting were taken. Further, the council met with trainer Ms. Shequita Talbot who indicated that she had no comment to make on the issue since there was a signed document, prohibiting any further discussion on the matter. Contrary to stated opinion, the mayor did not in any way attempt to trivalise the issue or to sweep anything under the carpet,” the LMTC said.

It noted that in light of Ms Talbot’s previous statement with respect to the signed

the National Grid.

“We are also actively pursuing the development of alternative energy to reduce the dependency on the use of fossil fuels in the long-term, as we work to reduce the carbon footprint of our operations,” McDonald pointed out.

The company was commended by the State Minister for this undertaking

A section of the Banks DIH new vehicle workshop

LMTC says firmly against sexual misconduct THE Linden Mayor and Town Council (LMTC) said it is concerned about claims on social media which are directed at tarnishing the image and integrity of the Linden Town Week Pageant and the municipality.

According to the claims, a businessman made sexual advances to a young candidate in the upcoming Linden Town Week Pageant, who was allegedly taken to gain his sponsorship for the pageant.

The LMTC in a statement said aiding or abetting any activity or set of activities and behaviours that are demeaning to women or any other individual or group of individuals is incompatible with the council’s ideals.

“You would appreciate, that it is strictly a matter of procedure, especially in sensitive cases like this one, that the council conducts its independent investigation of the issue, so that when a report is published, it is with

Co-Managing Director of Banks DIH, George McDonald

document and her refusal to comment, there was no need for the mayor to caution her to be silent.

“Hence, this allegation is a malicious, fallacious attempt to deliberately smudge the Office of the Mayor. The Mayor of Linden is advising Ms Talbot that since they had no prior telephone conversation that she makes a public statement to correct this fabricated information.

The council stands resolute in its position against any sexual misconduct, sexual abuse or harassment and will advocate for justice if the individuals involved are found culpable. The mayor, (who took office on April 1st, 2018) would like to assure the people of Linden of her commitment to the advancement of the interest of specifically women and girls and the community of Linden in general,” the release concluded.

which is in line with the government’s green pathway.

The vehicle workshop measures 36,000 sq. ft and, according to the co-manager, made logistical sense for the company to invest in since Thirst Park, the main location no longer has space.

The facility was declared officially open with the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon by Minister Harmon, in the presence of Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson; Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL), Albert Gordon; Chairman of Banks DIH Clifford Reis; along with members of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and the Diplomatic Community. (DPI)

Robber chokes housewife A BETTER Hope, Essequibo Coast housewife is counting her lucky stars she is still alive, after she was awakened by a choke and a knife to her neck on Saturday.

Chaitwattie Sooknanan called “Malinee”, 30, told the Guyana Chronicle that the incident occurred around 03:30hrs and during the ordeal, the lone robber escaped with two gold chains valued $120,000, three gold stud earrings valued $45,000 and G$30,000.

He reportedly bolted from the scene after his mask fell off.

The housewife related that she secured her home

around 19:00hrs Friday and retired to bed, but was awakened from her sleep by a choke from a masked man, who quickly placed a knife at her neck.

The intruder then tried to rape her but she screamed and pulled off his mask and was able to identify him. The woman shouted out his name and the robber panicked and ran through a back door.

The screams of the woman alerted neighbours who came to her rescue. The police were informed and visited the scene. They are hunting for the suspect, who is reportedly from Dartmouth Village, Essequibo Coast.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Can you be a social worker for a day?

CASE NO 1 I MET a very sad 13-year-old girl. Her mother had abandoned her when she was a baby and she had been living with an elderly neighbour since she was two. Her biological aunt, with whom she has always been in touch, recently insisted that she spend every weekend and holiday with her, because she is getting big. The neighbour and the girl complied and these visits had become the

main source of her sadness.

Every time the aunt phones to make arrangements for the girl to visit, she feels unhappy and sinks into a sullen mood. She doesn’t want to go or stay with the aunt, because her aunt shows no love and very little interest in her when she is there. During the last two visits, the aunt left the girl with ‘a friend’ of hers for the entire time. She did not take the girl to her home;

she scarcely spoke to her at all and sent her home alone in a taxi late one night. The aunt was unaware that this (unhappy) ordeal has far-reaching consequences for the child. For instance, the young girl now speaks about running away, she tends to share stories of her unhappy circumstances with most people she meets, as it is always on her mind and it is apparent from her demeanour that she is

discontented, though she strives to be happy. On the one occasion when she told her aunt she did not want to visit, the aunt became aggressive and threatened the child with physical abuse.

What would you do in this case?

CASE NO 2 I met a distraught 11-year-old girl who was in the midst of a psychological dilemma. She had spoken to her mother on more than one occasion about her father, who was in the habit of touching her inappropriately. The child had become confused, firstly by the father whom she has known, loved and trusted since birth and his now ‘fiendish’ behaviour.

Secondly, by her mother, the person who is meant to love and protect her unconditionally, but who appears to be in total denial and accuses the girl of lying. The 11-year-old contacted a social worker and told her the story; she needed someone to talk to and for someone to believe what she was saying. When the mother and father attended the counselling session that was set up for their family, the father vehemently denied the accusa-

tion, ‘Me? You mussy mad...

Look at me’ he said, ‘…You think I could do something like that?’ The mother just kept shaking her head from side to side, ‘No, it’s lie, pure lie’ she said, ‘Lie, lie, lie’, she looked across the room at her daughter, ‘He never put a hand on you, look pon you nah? And so the girl was broken; the two people who were meant to be there for her were now the two who were denying her, accusing her of making up lies about her own father and branding her an outcast in their eyes. What would you do in this case?

Case No 1. The aunt may feel that she is making a statement. The child is her niece and she has the right to ‘have’ her if she chooses.

But she is definitely oblivious to the fact that she is affecting the emotional and psychological development of the child. Unfortunately, she may not understand the consequences of her actions.

At 13, the girl has enough sense (and a right) to say where he/she should stay, but because the aunt is aggressive, intervention should be made on behalf of the child

through the Childcare and Protection Agency. The child is definitely in a vulnerable position; without intervention, the child may suffer or take ill-chosen action.

Case No.2 Parents cannot see the mental and emotional trauma that a child has to endure when they accuse someone they love of molestation. This pain is doubled when the child is disbelieved and mistreated as a result of speaking out.

Children must be believed.

Professionals can tell when a child has been abused: the signs are unmistakable and children seldom lie about abuse and molestation. Children in situations like this need to be placed with a responsible relative or taken into formal care while further investigations are carried out.

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, ring the Childcare and Protection Agency Hotline on 227 0709 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A message from the Childcare and Protection Agency, Ministry of Social Protection

Teen recaptured after escaping from police custody A 16-year-old, who escaped police custody at the Cove and John Police station early Sunday morning, was re-arrested hours later at his ‘B’ Field Sophia home, after ranks received a tipoff from his mother.

The teen had been in police custody since Friday for being involved in an alleged robbery committed last Thursday on a resident in Sophia.

The teen was arrested along with two others from Sophia, as the police seized a .40 Taurus pistol with six live rounds, two .32 Special revolvers with four live rounds and 79 grams of cannabis

sativa.

According to a police source, on Sunday morning the 16-year-old while in custody at the Cove and John Police Station requested to use the washroom. The source added that the teen managed to escape through a hole in the wall of the police lockups.

A few hours later, his mother called the police and informed them that her son was at home hiding. The police then went to the teen’s home and re-arrested him. He is currently in police custody and is expected to be charged for escaping police custody.

According to residents in

the area, the teen is a known troublemaker in the community and associates with ‘bad company.’

“That was a good boy.

Is the friends he associates with because his mother is try with him, but the boy don’t listen,” a resident said.

The resident added that the teen would associate with known characters in the area and it was rumoured that he was involved in illegal activities.

“This lil boy unemployed, but always with the latest brand name clothing and going out, I know something was suspicious,” the resident said.

Girl, 10, allegedly raped THE Child Care and Protection Agency and the police in ‘G’ Division, Essequibo Coast, are investigating reports of the rape of a 10-year-old girl at Hampton Court.

The child was hospitalised, but has since been released and is in the care of her aunts. Her father was held, but was later released on bail.

Reports indicate that the mother and father of the child separated several years ago.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

UG students rehabilitate Shirley Field-Ridley ground

By Ariana Gordon PUBLIC Management Diploma students of the University of Guyana (UG), as part of their Local, Regional and Municipal Government course, on Sunday afternoon handed over to the residents of Shirley Field- Ridley Square a rehabilitated recreational playfield.

The handing-over ceremony was done in the presence of Vice-Chancellor of the UG, Professor Ivelaw Griffith and Director of Sport, Christopher Jones. Rawle Jerrick, a student, in welcoming the gathering of residents and officials said he and his colleagues were tasked with forming themselves in groups of 10 to 12 students, identify communities with which they are familiar and undertake a project which will enhance the environment of the said communities.

Another aim of the project, he said, was to bring awareness to the importance of local government to the residents. Jerrick explained that over the past few weeks the objectives were achieved. Three project options were floated: the construction of a bus shed at Ann’s Grove, one at Strathspey, East Coast Demerara and the rehabilitation of the play field in Shirley Field-Ridley Square.

“As a group, we surmised that this project here in Shirley Field will be more impactful and from

nity can do for themselves without waiting solely on the government.

We have grown so accustomed to having the government do this and that--- what this project has really thought us is that we can actually do things for ourselves without waiting on the government to do things,” the lecturer said.

She reflected on her childhood, when residents of communities played a greater role in cleaning their surroundings. This, she said, has

But while the lecturer was pleased with the work of her students, she chided local constituency representatives who were informed via the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of the projects for not showing any interest.

Head of Department for Government and International Affairs and lecturer, Donna McKinnon

the many persons, businesses and organisations that assisted the group.

“This is a lesson for all of us.

We may not have the capacity to get something done, but it does not discount that we can get it done. I think this is what we were able to prove, once there is a will, there is always a way,” he stated.

He charged the residents of Shirley Field-Ridley Square to maintain the facility so that generations to come can benefit.

UG’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith Student of the Local Municipal and Regional Government course, Rawle Jerrick

somewhat died over the years.

“We are breathing fresh air because of what we have accomplished; I was told that this playfield was abandoned for many years. In fact, when the students came in, the ground was beginning to be a dump yard and I am happy they were hap-

DISAPPOINTED “None of the councillors showed up to give the students their support; none of them came to assist and so I feel a little disappointed, and the students feel disappointed. Yet in the end, one of the councillors came to take pictures to use for political campaign. I feel very disappointed by that,” she remarked.

She told her students that the project is more than just for grades and noted that community work and

A student of the Local Municipal and Regional Government course, lecturer Donna McKinnon and Vice-Chancellor UG, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, assist two-year-old Talany Gomes in cutting the ribbon on Sunday as residents look on (Adrian Narine photo)

the benefit principle, we realised that more stand to benefit from its completion and that is why we chose Shirley Field to do our project,” the student said.

It was not all smooth sailing however, but with perseverance, the students were able to be successful.

Jerrick said several lessons were learned and noted that there are many stakeholders who are willing to be part of similar activities aimed at improving the lives of children and communities.

While it was a challenge working together, given the multiplicity of tasks and their own demanding jobs, the students believed in the project and worked tirelessly to have it completed on schedule. The facility, which is fitted with a seasaw, swing set, as well as a slide will soon be furnished with signs and a trampoline.

“Even though we pooled our resources to make this a reality, we failed to meet the financial requirements for this project by a huge margin,” said Jerrick, who thanked

Similarly, Donna McKinnon, Head of Department for Government and International Affairs and the lecturer for the Local Municipal and Regional Government course, said while the project was simply an idea, she was happy that her students were able to execute.

“Sometimes when we voice our ideas they start to get life so, because of the idea that I had the course I am teaching, local, municipal and regional governance, should be a more than theoretical course and I believe a lot of what we share with our students in the classroom is seldom transformed into the community.

“So this particular course, I wanted my students to do something more than just receive from the class,” McKinnon stated, while noting that after weeks of hard work and giving up personal time, the project is a reality and success.

VITAL LESSON “This particular project has been a tremendous success; this is an example of what people in the commu-

Residents gathered Sunday for the simple handing-over ceremony of the playfield (Adrian Narine photo)

py to restore the playfield to something everyone in the community can enjoy. Restore it to something your children and grandchildren and generations to come can enjoy,” McKinnon added.

togetherness will benefit all.

“I urge you community members to use the field and above all to maintain the work the students have started; don’t take the liberty to drive on the field or to destroy it, I urge you

to maintain it. A lot of hard work and sacrifice have gone into this field,” McKinnon stated, while concluding that the project represents a paradigm shift from dependency to self-help.

Meanwhile, Professor Griffith in brief remarks congratulated the students and their lecturer for completing the project. He applauded McKinnon for having “the foresight to enable the connectivity between theory and practice to be manifested.”

“It is not just about the grade, but the impact and contributions that would have been made,” the vice-chancellor stated, as he thanked those who contributed to the success of the project. It was noted that only one student in the group of 11 lives in Shirley Field-Ridley Square and as such, the group’s work should be valued.

“If most of these students are not from this community and have taken the time and trouble to select this community and to do for it what maybe many others are not doing for their own communities, you have a responsibility not to let them down and not to let yourselves down. You have a responsibility to be sure that this is Alpha, the beginning but not Omega, the end,” said Professor Griffith.

The vice-chancellor also charged the residents to maintain the playfield and called on both the students and lecturers to revisit the community next year to conduct an assessment.

“It is a judgment of how this community thinks of itself, whether or not they would have kept this project alive rather than let it languish and die,” he said, while positing that there is need for more collective responsibility for the community.

“We are often looking for a handout by the government, by the company but not embracing ownership on our part. This is a tangible opportunity to embrace and own by the people of this community,” remarked Professor Griffith.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Ministry of the Presidency, Mayor and City Council, Director of Sports, the Guyana Police Force, Trophy Stall, Star Party Rentals, Andrews Enterprise, Impressions and many other agencies, businesses and organisations played an important role in completion of the project.

Meanwhile, Sandra Barker, a resident of Shirley Field-Ridley Square, who delivered the vote of thanks, said she is pleased that the students chose her community.

UG’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith stands with students reading for a Diploma in Public Management after unveiling of the plaque at the rehabilitated Shirley Field-Ridley Square playfield Sunday (Adrian Narine photo)

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Berbice rice farmers urged to expand cultivation AGRICULTURE Minister Noel Holder and junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma have assured farmers of the 52-74 Youth Farmers Co-op Society of government’s support as they seek to expand cultivation.

Holder, who visited the area at the request of the Office of the Prime Minister’s Region Six office, said he was impressed that 30 farmers in the area invested some $250 million to develop 3, 000 acres of land for rice

cultivation.

The farmers are seeking government’s assistance, since they can plant only one crop per year, because of poor drainage and irrigation.

Ahmad Rajab, one of the farmers within the co-op, explained that they started cultivation in 2011 but due to unpredictable climate, they can do only one crop per year.

“We are only getting one crop per year, so we are asking for some help to dig out a canal. It is a lot of money we

invested and when we lose a crop, it is very hard, so we are asking them to help and dig a canal, so that we can get better drainage. We only get the spring crop; they call that the big crop. The May/ June crop we always miss it because of too much rainfall.

Our co-op is fully functional and every piece of land is noticeably under cultivation.

Lack of proper drainage is the main element stopping us from achieving two crops per year,” Rajab said.

The farmers say with Agriculture Minister Noel Holder (third right), Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma (right), the prime minister’s representative for Region Six Gobin Harbajan (second right), Mohindra Persaud of Nand Persaud and Company Limited (fourth right) and others make a stop to overlook a canal on the access road that leads to rice lands in the 52/74 scheme

proper drainage, they can expand cultivation to some 10,000 more acres, a vision that impressed Minister Holder who believes that East Berbice can double its rice production.

East Berbice currently produces 25 per cent of the 600,000 tonnes of rice Guyana produces annually. Aside from increasing rice production, the minister also wants the farmers to go into dairy production, assuring them of government’s help.

He told the farmers that the prospects of expanding rice cultivation is great, pointing out that markets are available due to efforts of government and the private sector.

PRETTY GOOD “Where we are right now with the export market is pretty good, I mean some markets have expanded way beyond our wildest dreams; we did not expect at this stage to be exporting 180,000 tonnes to Mexico; [the] Panama market has been expanding as well; we have Cuba as a new market thanks to Rajindra and Nand Persaud and of course we have our European market.

So the markets are good, we need to expand cultivation rapidly. So gone are the days when Guyana had a glut of rice with limited markets. Today, we have an abundance of markets which we have been successfully supplying; however, if additional lands are not developed or farmers do not return to their abandoned lands, there is a possibility that Guyana will not be able to supply the much-needed

markets,” he said.

Holder noted that due to climate change, lots of monies were and are still being invested to enhance the drainage capacity of pump stations across the country.

The investments, he said, seek to put systems in place to maintain and increase production, and on that note, urged farmers to utilise every bit of land to make their investments profitable.

National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Fredrick Flatts, said the farmers can expect work on the canal to improve drainage to commence by June of this year.

“A proposal was submitted and I am happy to say that we are now in the procurement stages. Once things remain on schedule, works are expected to commence within the next two months,” Flatts said.

Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma commended the farmers for their initiative and investment and said he hopes with the installation of the canal to improve drainage and irrigation, they would be able to reap more benefits.

He also praised their cooperation and urged that it be replicated in all farming communities.

Guyana produces some 600,000 tonnes of rice annually of which only 50,000 tonnes is consumed locally.

The remainder is exported.

The government has been able to tap into more markets and the demand for rice recently has increased, which augurs well for farmers.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Rewa rakes in $77M from tourism

By Alva Solomon

IN the past, tour operators from the coastland would transport the curious to the village of Rewa in the North Rupununi to enjoy the breathtaking views and the rich flora and fauna there.

Today, the predominantly Macushi village of 309 residents has established its own tourism model, one which has seen not only foreigners, but locals booking for stays at the village annually.

“Right now we are overbooked,” Toshao Garnar Edwards, told the Guyana Chronicle during a recent interview in the North Rupununi.

In 2005, in an effort to protect its land for future generations, Rewa village founded its own eco-lodge with a community grant provided by Conservation International. This was the first step in making use of its rich tourism potential.

The small village, which is positioned at the confluence of the Rewa and Ru-

pununi Rivers, is one of several which have capitalised on its biodiversity to raise funds for immediate and future projects.

And while government has funded several initiatives geared at developing the commune, the residents have taken on the responsibility to ensure the village is independent and thriving.

“For each year since our project started, sometimes we have expenses, so we would make and sometimes we lose,” Edwards said. However, he noted that it is a profitable business.

“For the year 2017 we made $77M through tourism and we plan to use it to do projects,” he said. The village council markets its tourism products via the World Wide Web at https://www. rewaecolodge.com/#welcome-to-rewa.

As captain of the village which also has Patamona and Wapishana residents, Rewa’s young leader said the council has undertaken a number of projects under his watch.

These include the construc-

tion of several lodges to cater for additional tourists.

He said the $5M project for which it received government funding, saw the village constructing three lodges and, according to him, the quarters were already booked at the time of interview.

“We saw that the business was losing but now we have boosted the accommodation,” Edwards said. He noted that in the past, there were only three cabins at Rewa and these could have only accommodated 15 persons while the requests from tourists were high.

Edwards said at this time of year, the dry season, the village would receive bookings from nature lovers, while during the wet weather there is a drop in bookings.

“We have birders, persons who do sport-fishing and such activities and they come to us during the dry weather,” he said.

Rewa is accessible via the Kwatamang Landing near Annai, as well as from Apoteri where clients travel by air from the coastland, then

Visitors prepare to camp out during a recent expedition

Tent in the sand at Rewa

University student Hadi Asgar, during a recent painting exercise at Rewa. Asgar was one of several persons who visited the village recently as part of an expedition

by boat to the village.

Edwards said one of the major challenges the business faces is the lack of an air service to nearby Annai which in the past complimented Rewa’s tourism drive.

He said in the past, clients would visit the village via air travel to the Annai

airstrip. After the local airlines cut their services to the area, tourists are now forced to make the trip from the town of Lethem, a trip which lasts more than three hours from the village, and which is more costly.

The current arrangement would see drivers hired by

A day in the open at Rewa

Rewa, travel to Lethem for passengers and then head to the Kwatamang Landing.

The trip can cost as much as US$100 per hire.

At the moment, the village council is utilising its funds to bolster the infrastructure, as well as essential services in the area. The villagers also gain through produce such as cassava and ground provisions which they cultivate and sell to the council. The village council also channels monies towards the education system whereby the funds are provided to the nursery and primary school.

“Tourism helps the community a lot, it finances the education system when we are short of funds, so I can say that it is utilised to help the community,” Edwards said.

The village leader expressed appreciation to Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, who prior to taking up his current portfolio, assisted Rewa in crafting its own tourism model.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Make full use of ICT hubs – NDMA chief urges Lindeners LINDENERS have been urged to make full use of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hubs that are available in several communities, since it is believed that the hubs are underutilised.

According to Phillip Walcott, Director of the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), if the hubs continue to be underutilised, a decision will be made to remove them from the communities.

He made this comment at the commissioning of an ICT hub in Block 22 last Thursday.

“Linden, Linden, I have listened to the whispers of the non-use of the hubs, but Linden can’t keep crying for resources and when the resources are given you are not using them. The Government of Guyana does not have an inexhaustible supply of resources that we can squander it and have it locked up for a year and something without use,” Walcott told the gathering.

Alluding to several communities such as Sisters Village and Albouystown where the hubs are crowded with youths, Walcott said the situation is the exact opposite in Linden and the hubs will simply be removed if they are underutilised.

“I am issuing a mandate as the national coordinator of the programme. My mandate is simple; again, if you continue not to use the hubs we will simply move them, because we cannot afford to have government resources being wasted.”

Some of the services offered at the ICT hubs are free Internet access, free computer systems and free computer training. They are equipped with a management committee responsible for proper usage by residents of the community.

Block 22 is the latest of several Linden communities that have benefited from an ICT hub. Last Thursday, the spanking new hub was commissioned with eight new

computers and free WIFI service.

“An ICT hub is created so you can have access to a device and then for others the challenge of connectivity and ICT hubs provide free Wi-Fi, so that that challenge is removed. You run out of data that you can use in the comfort of your home, you can come to the hub during the hours the hub is available and you can use that,” the NDIA director said.

He also revealed that soon two other communities, including Cinderilla City in Amelia’s Ward, will receive ICT hubs. Some other Linden communities that were furnished with hubs include Victory Valley, Wisroc, Coomacka and Bamia.

ICT hubs have been commissioned in scores of communities countrywide.

The aim of the project is for citizens to have equal access to information technology, so that everyone has a chance of becoming computer literate.

A US$31 million project will be launched later this year in an effort to have all hubs furnished with WIFI.

15

Aries It’s as if you have been released from the necessity of reaching a goal that you recently set. However, you are not holding a Get Out of Jail Free card that excuses you from promises made. Nevertheless, you’re more interested in exchanging ideas with friends today than attacking the list of tasks on your current to-do list. Although you might be able to squeak by while working less now, it’s not wise to relax your efforts on those important objectives. If you want to be taken seriously, be consistent and persistent.

Taurus You’re in a hurry to get back to work today because your mind is brimming with innovative ideas that could draw positive recognition from others. Ironically, giving yourself permission to daydream activates your imagination and might lead to a discovery of an unconventional method for performing a particular job.

If you serendipitously stumble onto a way to increase productivity, don’t keep your epiphany from others. Openly sharing your breakthrough with your peers encourages a spirit of collaboration and strengthens your position in the group.

Gemini A heavy cloud seems to be lifting, allowing you to dream about the future without being so burdened by the past. Naturally, old successes and failures continue to influence how you view opportunities in the present. Although the optimum moment to swing into action isn’t here yet, you could be ready for prime time as early as next week. Put as much energy and effort as you can into developing your strategy today. Practice makes perfect.

Cancer The cosmos blesses you with a rare opportunity to explore the deep feelings shared by you and someone special. What makes this moment so unique is that you can confidently move into emotionally vulnerable spaces without worrying about the outcome. Thankfully, your current ability to remain detached enables you to reveal parts of your own psyche you might otherwise keep private. Just remember that taking a relationship to the next level is not limited to romantic interactions. All interpersonal activity holds great promise if you’re willing to open your heart.

Leo A partnership may hit a rough patch today, especially if there is a lack of communication. However, the apparent silence might not have anything to do with you. Avoiding awkwardness could be as simple as noticing how busy the other person is now. Rather than taking everything personally, assume the best and give people the gift of elbow room. Your relationships can’t help but improve if you generously offer unconditional freedom to those you love the most.

Virgo Although your mind is on work, your ability to concentrate might not be up to par today. Ironically, you’re motivated to set easy-to-reach goals where each accomplishment builds your confidence and then aims you at the next milestone on your path to long-term success. Thankfully, your lack of focus can be turned from a liability into an asset if you simply let your imagination meander and take you wherever it goes. Your unconstrained thoughts possess a great deal of power and will lead you in the direction that’s most helpful in achieving your dreams.

Increased training for Region Four medical personnel

Libra It’s extremely rewarding when your artistic skills can positively impact your productivity in the real world. At times your creativity comes and goes as if it has a mind of its own, but it appears to be sticking around for a while. Nevertheless, you could end up wasting the current cosmic gift unless you consciously envision your future exactly as you wish it to manifest. Self-reflection is a useful practice because todays thoughts and actions set the tone for the days ahead.

Energy flows where attention goes.

– as part of plan to boost productivity

Scorpio Your astute perceptions won’t be easily misled today because you can see to the bottom of a complex emotional drama without even asking a question. You may be unsure of how you know the truth, but your current evolution requires you to stop looking for answers in the realm of logic. Rely on your intuition, no matter how crazy your conclusions might be now. Remember, you are a piece in a larger puzzle and trusting the cosmic feedback loop is part of your contribution to the cause. Aristotle wrote, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”

AS THE Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) forges ahead with an aggressive plan for 2018, the Regional Health Officer, Dr. Quincy Jones said there will be an increase in training opportunities for medical professionals in the region.

According to a press statement from the regional administration, Dr. Jones said the increase in training forms part of the RDC’s vision of further strengthening and improving the effectiveness of medical personnel working at the various health centres throughout Region Four, and ensuring that patients can be attended to effectively.

“Since assuming the office of Regional Health Officer (RHO), it has been part of my overall vision and mandate to increase training, as with improved and increased training there will certainly be an overall improvement in the healthcare that is given to the general public,” he said.

It was noted that a number of persons travel from across the region to seek medical attention at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and the Diamond Hospital but, Dr Jones believes that in many of the circumstances the services that are being sought could be offered by the health centres in the respective ir communities.

“You have situations whereby persons go to either GPHC or Diamond Hospital for services that they could have received at their health centres, and as such, they are forced to wait for long hours because of the immense pressures on the medical personnel at these two hospitals.

“However, we are seeking to bring our medical personnel at the various health centres up to par and to ensure that they are trained effectively in a number of areas and ways, thus ensuring that they can render some of the services that [persons] are seeking elsewhere,” he said.

Regional Executive Officer of Region Four, Pauline Lucas, is also of the view that once persons are trained there will be an increase in the productivity at all health centres.

Both the REO and RHO have given the assurance that persons seeking services at various health centres in the region will receive improved services. Dr. Jones said he will continue to meet with medical personnel at all level to ensure that they stay in line.

“It’s no secret that the general public has concerns over the health care services that they receive from the government-run institutions, thus resulting in some seeking private services, but I want to assure all that, we, within the region,with the RDC’s support, are working towards a holistic development,” he said.

Dr. Jones said while they have already completed several training programmes for the year, there are quite a number of additional training programmes that will be implemented.

Sagittarius Your closest friends and coworkers might be worried about you today because you haven’t been acting like yourself. Although you are infused with the light of spontaneity, you are so serious these days that others may believe you're withholding bad news. Nevertheless, you could be quite optimistic now, while simultaneously calculating the odds of your success for each possible scenario that carries you forward. Rocket ship genius Wernher von Braun wrote, “I have learned to use the word impossible with the greatest caution.”

Capricorn You may be suddenly struck with an unconventional moneymaking scheme today that is so simple you can’t figure out why you never thought of it before.

Although pursuing this venture might not require significant bank loans or other formal fiscal structures, you will still need to think about financing your plan.

If you decide to pursue the project, consider sharing the profits with someone who is willing to put up some investment capital. Humourist Will Rogers said, “The goal isn’t more money. The goal is living life on your terms.”

Aquarius Sometimes others see you as the King or Queen of the Land of Weird. You often enjoy that title because it gives you permission to do whatever you want without a lot of explanation. But occasionally, you want to hold a centrist position, rather than precariously living on the edge. Either way, avoid the temptation to prove your strategy is the only one that makes any sense. Be cautious; the more you defend your position, the less tenable it seems to everyone else.

Pisces Your best ideas today are likely the ones that no one will ever know were yours.

You are not seeking the limelight, currently preferring to work backstage on someone else’s show. But your avoidance of attention is powerfully different than your need to be acknowledged by your peers. You don’t care if you're seen by the audience, as long as your coworkers appreciate your contribution.

Pastor Steven Furtick wrote, “The reason we struggle with insecurity is because we compare our behind-the-scenes with everyone else’s highlight reel.”

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

17

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Rossi lashes out after marquez incident (Motorsport.com) - Valentino Rossi has lashed out at his MotoGP rival Marc Marquez in the aftermath of their Argentina clash, saying the reigning champion has “destroyed our sport”.

Rossi and Marquez, who have 11 premier-class titles between them, have enjoyed a famously fractious relationship as a result of a series of on-track controversies – and came to blows again in Sunday's Termas de Rio Hondo race.

Rossi (46) has lashed out at his MotoGP rival Marquez (93) in the aftermath of their Argentina clash.

A late lunge from Marquez at the Turn 13 right-hander in the closing stages caused Rossi to crash on to the grass, and resulted in a 30-second penalty for the reigning champion.

In the aftermath, the Italian did not mince words when discussing Marquez, as he said the Spaniard's actions were detrimental to MotoGP. “This is a very bad situation, because he de-

stroyed our sport, because he don't have any respect for his rivals, never,” Rossi said.

“When you go 300 kilometres per hour on the track, you have to have a respect for your rival, you have to be strong, you have to make the maximum, but like this [it] is over.”

Rossi said Marquez – who prior to their collision was forced by race direction to cede position after a clash with Aprilia's Aleix Espargaro - had been riding aggressively all throughout the Argentina weekend.

He went on to accuse the Honda rider of deliberately trying to get his rivals to crash.

Vettel wins last lap thriller in Bahrain (REUTERS) - FERRARI’S Sebastian Vettel held on by the skin of his teeth to win a tense Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix in his 200th race start on Sunday.

His tyres fading, the championship leader took the chequered flag only 0.6 seconds clear of Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas who piled the pressure on in the final 10 laps.

Bottas’s teammate and reigning world champion, Lewis Hamilton, who had started ninth after a five place grid penalty for an unscheduled gearbox change, finished third.

Vettel now leads Hamilton by 17 points after two of the 21 races.

The win under the floodlights was the 49th of Vettel’s grand prix career and an unprecedented fourth at the Sakhir desert circuit.

It also made the 30-year-old, who won in Melbourne two weeks ago, the first Ferrari driver since compatriot Michael Schumacher in 2004 to win the first two races of a

Sebastian Vettel makes it two wins from two races this season season. the green light to exit be“These tyres were done, fore his left rear tyre had done, in the last 10 laps,” a been changed, with the jubilant Vettel told his team Finn’s car then hitting a over the radio after crossing mechanic who was taken the line. to hospital with a suspected There was drama in the broken leg while the driver pits when teammate Kimi retired.

Raikkonen was brought in Hamilton could take to test the strategy; Ferrari some consolation in equaldecided in favour of keep- ing Raikkonen’s all-time ing Vettel out. record of 27 successive Raikkonen was given points finishes.

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

66 Days to go…

What really happened to Ronaldo before the 1998 World Cup Final?

T

HE stage was set in Paris: tournament hosts France up against Mario Zagallo's brilliant Brazil in the 1998 World Cup Final, the Seleção with their mercurial 21-year-old striker in tow.

Ronaldo went into France '98 off the back of a stunning 34-goal debut season with Inter Milan, and had netted four times up to the final – including the opening goal of Brazil's semi-final draw with Holland which went to penalties. Ronaldo had taken (and scored) the first spot-kick of the shootout, setting his nation on their way to victory.

But there was to be no glorious crowning five days later in Saint-Denis. Debate has raged about what really went on in the lead-up to that summer's showpiece showdown – and how it subsequently affected Brazil.

"I decided to get some rest after lunch and the last thing I remember was going to bed," he recalls.

"After that, I had a convulsion. I was surrounded by players and the late Dr Lidio Toledo was there. They didn't want to tell me what was going on. But all the essential medical exams didn't show anything was abnormal – it was like nothing had happened,” Ronaldo said.

After that we went to the stadium with a message from Zagallo saying that I wouldn't play. I had test results in my hand--with Dr Toledo giving the green light. I approached [Mario] Zagallo at the stadium and said: ‘I’m fine. I'm not feeling anything. Here are the test results, they’re fine. I want to play.’ I didn't give him an alternative. He had no choice and accepted my decision. Then I played and

maybe I affected the whole team because that convulsion was certainly something very scary. It's not something you see every day.

"In any case, I had a duty to my country and I didn't want to miss it. I had my honour and felt that I could play. Obviously, it wasn't one of the best matches in my career, but I was there to fulfil my role."

EDMUNDO'S SPONSOR ALLEGATIONS Edmundo, who was on the team sheet before Ronaldo's return to the line-up, claimed to have witnessed his fellow striker's "fit" after a cry for help from Roberto Carlos.

After this, he claims, Ronaldo took a nap before being whisked off to hospital for tests.

Benched, 'The Animal' later suggested that Nike influenced Ronaldo's return to the team. "Nike's people were there 24 hours a day, as if they were members of the technical staff. It's a huge power. That's all I can say."

THE MYSTERY MEDIC Some players claim that team doctor Lidio Toledo started weeping when he arrived at Ronaldo's room. Toledo denies this, claiming Ronaldo was conscious when he reached him, but breathing heavily and with saliva around this mouth.

The player was then sent to hospital for neurological tests, which everyone thought would rule him out of playing. The tests came back normal and Toledo, another medic, coach Mario Zagallo and a determined Ronaldo decided between them that he was fit enough to play.

Brazil’s Ronaldo showing his frustration at the 1998 World Cup THE NERVOUS BREAKDOWN THEORY One of Brazil's main newspapers claimed that Ronaldo had a nervous breakdown during the cup. Folha de S Paulo wrote that Ronaldo was displaying signs of depression a week before the final, smashing a bike against a wall. On the eve of the game, Ronnie had a "nervous crisis".

Toledo entered the room and left crying, but Ronaldo wasn't medicated because of the risk of doping.

They claim that technical co-ordinator, Zico opposed fielding Ronaldo, and that the

silent departure of the team from the hotel (as opposed to the usual samba party), and absence of a warm-up, indicated a player feud.

One group, allegedly led by Dunga, backed Ronaldo's presence, while another, said to be led by Leonardo, opposed it.

THE FIFA CONSPIRACY Now for the really barmy theories: an e-mail allegedly written by a source at TV Globo states that Brazil "sold" the World Cup to FIFA for a cash fee of $23 million.

The idea was to let France win to please new FIFA president Sepp Blatter, and help the French people forget their social problems. FIFA then promised Brazil that the Seleção would have its path "softened" to win the 2002 World Cup, and that Brazil would host a World Cup in the next decade. Hang on a minute...

THE FATEFUL INJECTION A few years after the fiasco, motor-mouthed pundit Jorge Kajuru put forward another theory: Ronaldo had freaked out after having an allergic reaction to an injection to his knee from Doctor Toledo. People who believed Kajuru at the time wouldn't admit it: after all, the crackpot pundit regularly rants on TV about people "taking it up the arse".

THE SEX SCANDAL According to rock-solid sources (street corner whispers, pub hearsay, etc) Ronaldo's breakdown was prompted by an affair between his then-girlfriend at the time, Susana Werner – now the wife of Seleção keeper Julio Cesar – and a Brazilian TV journalist.

Right.

Brazil’s 1998 World Cup team

THE NIKE ULTIMATUM In 2000, a Parliamentary Inquiry Commission was set up to investigate the contract between the Brazilian FA and Nike. One of the initial areas of investigation was the influence of the sporting giant on Ronaldo's final appearance. But the whole matter was fudged.

21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF)

Extra Time

Concacaf Women’s Qualifiers – CONCACAF CONDUCTS VENUE VISIT

THE Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf) conducted an inspection of proposed venues for the Concacaf Nations League, scheduled for September 2018 to March 2019.

On Thursday, April 5, Christopher Craig, Concacaf’s Event Manager and Chris Cooke, who is in charge of TV production for the matches, visited the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora and the Guyana National Stadium, Provi-

dence respectively.

Guyana will play host to Barbados and Belize in September 2018 and March 2019 respectively in the first and final qualifier while Turks and Caicos Islands and French Guiana will host Guyana in October and November 2018.

The matches will be played in the official FIFA window in September, October

and November of 2018-2019 with the championship final scheduled for March 2020. It will feature promotion and relegation among the 34 participating teams and serve as a qualifier for the expanded Concacaf Gold Cup, scheduled for 2019.

The team was accompanied by Ian Alves, Competitions Director and Lakeisha Pearson, Competitions Clerk

GFF HOSTS FIRST 'KOOL KIDZ' GRASSROOTS OUTREACH PROGRAMME

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) began the first in a series of “Kool Kidz” Grassroots Outreach Programmes yesterday at Parade Ground, Georgetown.

The programme, launched on February 24 in partnership with the Guyana Beverages Inc., will see the GFF hosting bi-weekly sessions and targeting children of vulnerable communities.

The day saw approximately 25 children from the Tiger

Bay and neighbouring wards being guided through fun activities to introduce them to the sport of football. This was conducted by the Technical staff including Technical Development Officers and Youth Development Officers.

Members of the GFF Executive Committee, including President Forde, were also on hand to interact with and serve the children snacks following the activity.

While children of Tiger Bay and surrounding areas

were targeted yesterday, the schedule for additional sessions is as follows: • April 22, Roxanne Burnham Gardens – East Ruimveldt • May 6, St. Phillips – Leopold Street • May 20, Tarmac, Punt Trench – Albouystown

PRODUCED BY THE GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF) AND DESIGNED BY THE GUYANA CHRONICLE

For further Information or should you have questions/comments , please contact: General Secretary Guyana Football Federation (GFF) 17 Dadanawa Street, Section “K” Campbelville, Georgetown TEL: +1 592 227 8758 ext. 102 FAX: +1 592 225 2096

e-mail: gff@networksgy.com WEBSITE: www.gffonline.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/GuyanaFootballFederationInc INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/guyana_football_federation_inc/ SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/guyana-football-federation-inc LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guyana-football-federation-inc TWITTER: @GFF_Inc_

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

East Coast Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition…

Uprising break jinx, first qualifier to win title

IT was a night to remember for all the positive reasons as the curtain came down in the East Coast Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition on Saturday night, at the Haslington Tarmac.

In the end, the youthful Uprising team from the Golden Grove community became the first team in the tournament’s history to enter as a qualifier in the main draw and win the tournament outright, while they also hold the distinction of becoming the first team from east of the venue to win the title.

Played before what was undoubtedly the largest crowd to witness the East Coast Zone, the newly-crowned champions first squeezed past defending champion Melanie B 1-0, courtesy of a wonderful goal off the boots of Phillip Williams, but left the performance of the night for the final against Paradise A. Paradise A had earlier defeated a stubborn Buxton Diamond 1-0, thanks to a screaming right-footer from their talisman, Quincy Adams, whose silky skills was a joy to watch.

In the highly-anticipated final showdown which was watched by Guinness Brand Manager, Lee Baptiste and officiated by referees Wayne Griffith and John Callender, Uprising were quickly on the offensive and took the lead after just six minutes through Quincy Semple who fired past the last stop to send the partisan supporters into a frenzy.

Paradise ‘A’ Adams then hit the upright with a stinging left-footer and should have equalized shortly after when a shot from long- range landed just outside the right upright.

The half came with Uprising clinging to

a slim 1-0 advantage and all to play for in the final period.

Both teams treated the thousands of fans to some exciting football as they came close to troubling the scoresheet on many occasions.

One could have sensed that it would not be Paradise A’s night as they narrowly missed a few chances to gain the equaliser.

Playing with speed and confidence, Uprising’s youthfulness begun to take charge as the opposition wilted under the constant pressing pressure as they uncharacteristically lost possession easily.

The writing became even clearer when Les Charles Critchlow netted in the 18th minute to make it virtually impossible for Paradise A to make a comeback in the final two minutes which they failed to do, handing Uprising a deserved victory, $400,000 and an automatic berth in the national playoffs.

Paradise A for their efforts took home $150,000 and a trophy.

In the third place playoff, Melanie B needled Buxton Diamond through an Odell Gulliver strike in the seventh minute to claim the $100,000 prize, while the latter carted off $75,000.

In the Plate final, Belfield Warriors hammered Mahaica Guinness Bar 3-0 through a Guinness goal from Akeem Holder, netting in the 20th minute, while Keyron Johnson opened the scoring in the 5th.

They won $50,000 and a trophy.

Meanwhile, Baptiste said the support from

–– Belfield Warriors win Plate final

Uprising were the winners last evening as the East Coast Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition concluded Saturday evening the East Coast community has allowed them to make a strong case to host one night of the National Playoffs which is played over three days, at various venues.

He showered praises on the Guyana Po-

Hussain wins LGC Club Tournament

MAKING good his challenge to all golfers, Club President Aleem Hussain delivered a great game to emerge winner of the 4th Club Tournament held on Saturday, April 7, 2018 at the Lusignan Golf Club.

Those who participated did offer some determined fight, as current Guyana Open female champion, Joaan Deo and veteran golfer (and former captain) Patrick Prashad who were close on his heels.

Winners at the end of the tournament were: Best Gross – Aleem Hussain; Nearest The Pin – Joaan Deo; 3rd place Best net – Patrick Prashad 70/8; 2nd place Best Net – Joaan Deo 66/19; and Best Net – Aleem Hussain 65/12.

Other scores that were noted were: 4th place – Parmanand ‘Max’ Persaud 74/12; 5th place - Mike Mangal 75/8; and 6th place - Rabindranath ‘Pandit Ravi’ Persaud 75/18.

Winners pose outside the Clubhouse with the Captain. From left; - Captain Chen Deo, Joaan Deo, Patrick Prashad and Club President Aleem Hussain.

lice Force and the entire East Coast corridor for the support and love offered throughout the tournament.

The next stop on the Guinness train is the Mining Town of Linden.

Controversial result for Lewis in boxing

GEORGE through to 400M semi-finals, Archibald fails to reach 100m finals Colin ‘Superman’ Lewis’ hope of landing a medal at the Commonwealth Games came to a controversial end, when he lost his Light Welterweight fight against South African Sinethemba Blom.

After edging St Lucia’s Nathan Ferrari in his campaign at the Games in Australia’s Gold Coast, Lewis would next then ‘laced’ his gloves to meet Blom, one of South Africa’s premier Light Welterweight.

Lewis was the victim of several hits below the belt from Blom, which also resulted in the South African having points deducted.

However, at the end of the three rounds, only one of the five judges scored the fight in favour of the Guyanese, while Blom, despite having points removed, edged his South American counterpart on points.

Dubious, to say the least with regards to Blom’s win, the South African will now advance to the Quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, Emanuel Archibald and Winston George took to the track in an attempt to add to the legacy left

by Commonwealth Games 400 metres gold and silver medallist, Aliann Pompey, but the pair fell short.

Archibald did well enough to reach the semi-final but his time of 10.47 seconds was not good enough to see him through to the finals. The athlete, who is attached to the University of the West Indies (Jamaica), will shift his attention to the Long Jump.

Winston George, competing at his second Commonwealth Games, in the 400 metres, clocked 46.92 seconds in his heat to secure a spot in the semi-finals.

George will also run the 200 metres.

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, April 9, 2018

Rahul IPL record helps KXIP trash Dehli (ESPNCRICINFO) - KL RAHUL blasted the IPL's fastest half-century to give Kings XI Punjab a rousing start to their 2018 IPL campaign. Rahul razed the Daredevils attack in a brutal performance, getting to the landmark inside three overs and off just 14 balls.

Incongruously, though, Kings XI ended up huffing and puffing to their target of 167. After Rahul's dismissal, Kings XI only managed 103 runs in 84 balls. But such had been the damage inflicted by Rahul that they still ended up winning with seven balls to spare.

All that after Gautam Gambhir, the Daredevils captain, celebrated his return to his hometown franchise with a fighting half-century.

But Kings XI's spin duo of R Ashwin and the 17-year old debutant Mujeeb Ur Rahman led a strong bowling performance to restrict Daredevils to a total that was just about par.

Mujeeb's instant reward At 17 years and 11 days, Mujeeb became the IPL's youngest-ever player. Mujeeb has all the qualities that underline an effective limited-overs spinner: his variations keep the batsmen guessing, he can be deceptive with his trajectory, and his unusual action makes it difficult to pick him out of the hand.

Colin Munro tends to struggle against spin in the Powerplay-- he has fallen to them four times in 17 innings during this phase in T20s. After opening with himself, Ashwin introduced Mujeeb in the third over.

Munro took zero time to try and suss out the newcomer, getting down for a switch hit to the first ball he faced from him. Mujeeb's drift from around the stumps got Munro into a tangle, and trapped him plumb in front.

Daredevils were 12 for 1 in the third over.

KL Rahul makes room to go over the off side© BCCI

Narine blitz gives KKR win over RCB (ESPNCRICINFO) The visitors made SUNIL Narine's 17their intentions clear ball half-century and off the game's first ball Nitish Rana's all-round when Brendon McCuldisplay helped Kolkata lum clipped Vinay KuKnight Riders win their mar off his pads for four. season-opener against In all, RCB extracted 52 Royal Challengers Banoff the Powerplay for the galore by four wickets. loss of Quinton de Kock, Asked to bat under and McCullum looked cloudy skies, Royal for the boundary at every Challengers posted 176, opportunity before his a middling total on a dismissal for 43 in the good batting pitch, and ninth over. just as he did last seaDe Villiers replaced son against the same opMcCullum and carried on ponents, Narine blasted in similar vein, launching away a significant chunk Kuldeep Yadav inside-out of the target in very little and down the ground for time. The middle-order successive sixes, and folbuilt on his efforts to lowing up with one more steer Knight Riders home six each off Narine and with seven balls to spare.

Mitchell Johnson in the RCB could have made next two overs. His brilmuch more than their liance made up for an uneventual total of 176 for 7, usually off-colour Kohli especially after being po- Andre Russell cuts a priceless figure as he com- at the other end, and the sitioned at 127 for 2 after pletes a catch, Kolkata Knight Riders v Royal two put on 64 off 36 balls 14.1 overs, but a one-over Challengers Bangalore, IPL 2018, Eden Gardens, despite the RCB captain April 8, 2018 special from part-time going at less than a run ly as Umesh Yadav - a former offspinner Rana, who took a ball. out AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli Knight Rider himself - took two With their two best batsmen with consecutive balls, swung the wickets in two overs, but Dinesh in the middle, RCB seemed set Karthik (35*), Rana (34) and Andre for a massive total when they momentum Knight Riders' way.

After Narine fell for 50 in the Russell (15) took them to victory were undone by the unlikeliest of sixth over, the hosts wobbled slight- without too many undue alarms. destroyers.

AMERICAN RACING TIPS Philadelphia Park Race 1 He’s Cotton Race 2 Every Step Race 3 S.S. Minnow Race 4 Capt. Grider Race 5 Brazilian Symphony Race 6 Sally O ‘Prado Race 7 Forman The Forman Race 8 Larco Mar Race 9 Here’s a Jetpack SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Flamingo Park 08:20 hrs Sea Bean 08:50 hrs Robyn Jack-Twigg 09:25 hrs Frikkie 09:55 hrs Yesan Star 10:30 hrs Satin Rock 11:30 hrs Edge Of Glory ENGLISH RACING TIPS Kempton 09:00 hrs Highway One O One

09:30 hrs Destrier 10:05 hrs Bach De Clermont 10:35 hrs As I See It 11:10 hrs Conna Cross 11:45 hrs Versifier 12:20 hrs Ramore Will 12:50 hrs Uncle Percy WINCANTON 09:10 hrs The Dellercheckout 10:15 hrs Daytime Ahead 10:45 hrs Choix Des Armes 11:55 hrs Black Narcissus 12:25 hrs Getaway Trump LUDLOW 09:20 hrs Weebill 09:50 hrs Goohar 10:25 hrs Don Bersy 10:55 hrs Collin’s Brother 11:30 hrs Molly Carew 12:05 hrs Argot 12:35 hrs Queen Of The Wind

East Coast Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition…

Uprising break jinx, first qualifier to win title

PAGE

22

–– Belfield Warriors win Plate final

Controversial result for Lewis in boxing

Narine blitz gives KKR win over RCB PAGE

23

Sunil Narine pillaged a 17-ball half-century--Kolkata Knight Riders v Royal Challengers Bangalore, IPL 2018, Eden Gardens, April 8, 2018

PAGE

22

Hussain wins LGC Club Tournament 22 PAGE

Winners pose outside the Clubhouse with the Captain. From left; - Captain Chen Deo, Joaan Deo, Patrick Prashad and Club President Aleem Hussain.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

MONDAY, APRIL 9, 2018