Guyana chronicle e paper 05 23 2018

WEDNESDAY 23rd May, 2018

No.105283

‘Time to act now’ … AFC ups pressure to decriminalise small amounts of ganja

… PM says too many young people are in jail

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Embrace coalition

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… Pres Granger tells PNCR no fear in working together

Venezuelan freed of 09 $100M cocaine charge PAGE

Consultation opens today for City 09 Hall’s restoration PAGE

Students from several secondary schools, and the Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Centre (MTVTC) in Region Five, were on Tuesday exposed to a number of possible career paths at a Career and Training fair. The fair, hosted at the MTVTC, forms part of the National Youth Week 2018 activities and was described as very insightful by the students. In this DPI photo students interact at the booth of one of the exhibitors

Goldfields manager … suspect arrested found dead in Canje home

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Goldfields manager found dead ‌ suspect arrested in Canje home

THE lifeless body of a supply chain manager attached to the Guyana Goldfields Inc.

Dead: Neil Whyte was found on Monday night in an apartment at Thomas Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown.

Dead is 42-year-old Neil Whyte of Suite 1608-141 Adelaide Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

According to the police, the victim was staying at the upper flat of an apartment of a three-storey concrete building located on

The apartment complex at Thomas Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown (Samuel Maughn photo) Thomas Street after returning from the hinterland on Monday.

Residents said that earlier in the night, the man came downstairs

and told a friend that he will be meeting someone at the corner of Thomas and Middle Streets.

He subsequently returned to the building with an ex-employee, who later left.

The guard at the premises, knowing that it is the protocol of the complex that a visitor of a guest must be checked out of the building by the guest, later went up to the Whyte’s room and saw him lying in a pool of blood on the bed and appeared to be dead. He was naked and bound.

The guard informed his superiors who later informed the police. The murder is reported to have occurred between 22:22hrs and 23:45hrs on Monday night.

The 25-year-old ex-employee was later arrested in the wee hours of Tuesday morning at his Vryheid Village, West Canje, Berbice home about 06:30hrs.

The naked body bore several visible stab wounds to the neck.

The body was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

‘Time to act now’ 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

… AFC ups pressure to decriminalise small amounts of ganja

…PM says too many young people are in jail THE recent jailing of a father of three for the possession of eight grams of marijuana is stirring public debate with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and the Alliance for Change calling for the removal of custodial sentences for small amounts of the herb.

Twenty-seven-year-old Carl Mangal broke down in the Magistrate’s Court Monday after he was given a threeyear jail sentence and $30,000 fine. He pleaded guilty to having the substance which, according to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, carries a fine and jail time of no less than three years and no more than five years.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo said that he believes marijuana penalty laws must be reviewed to address the number of young people being locked up. “I share the view that Guyana should review sentencing guidelines, and liberalise laws that make custodial sentencing mandatory for small quantities of marijuana. Too many of our young people are in jail as the law, as is, provides for imprisonment for quantities above 5 grams and does not give magistrates a discretion.”

Nagamootoo was at the time responding to a post by social media activist Norman Brown who said that he had engaged both Prime Minister Nagamootoo and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, about the “unjust sentencing meted out to Mr Mangal by Magistrate (Judy) Latchman.”

Meanwhile, the AFC also expressed its outrage and deep concern following the sentencing, to three years’ incarceration, of the 27-year-old.

“The AFC wishes to make it clear that it is not questioning the decision of the magistrate in any way. The AFC recognises that the magistrate, as is the case with all her colleagues, is constrained by the law with regard to the

issue of custodial sentencing for possession of small quantities of marijuana.”

The party, however, renews its call to all legislators to move with alacrity in upgrading the laws of Guyana to ensure that custodial sentences for small quantities of marijuana are removed from the books in their entirety.

“Custodial sentences serve, in large measure, to criminalise young people, particularly young men who have been caught with small quantities of marijuana – an offence which is a mere error in judgment and not representative of criminal behaviour,” the AFC said.

AFC Member of Parliament, Michael Carrington, since 2015 had tabled a bill in the National Assembly for debate but it has since been languishing on the order paper, being deferred time and time again. “The time to act is now. We must no longer sit idly by and allow our young men and women to be sentenced to several years of jail time alongside hardened criminals, murderers and rapists.

“We will not be found complicit in destroying the lives of our young people and wounding our society rather than acting to heal it,” the AFC said.

The party also announced that it will commence plans to host, in the near future, a national symposium on the issue at which all stakeholders and sectors of society will be invited to deliberate and exchange views.

Brown said that the PM highlighted his disapproval with the sentencing and both government officials promised to continue the discourse on the matter.

Public reactions have been strong especially on social media where persons have lamented the continued incarceration of particularly young males for the possession of small quantities of marijuana.

Many persons commented that the government should intervene and address the laws that continue to

place persons in the lockups for small amounts of marijuana.

It was only recently that the legal affairs minister said that the discussion to review marijuana-related laws should be one in the public domain with their full involvement. Some commentators noted therefore that it is time those persons in jail for small portions of marijuana be pardoned and no longer be “incarcerated for grams of grass.”

In Guyana more than five grams of cannabis can land a person in jail for three years, while in some international countries and the Caribbean the amount of cannabis legally allowed to a person may vary to much larger quantities.

In Jamaica the possession of as much as two ounces or 56 grams of marijuana was amended to a petty offence in 2015. Other Caribbean islands have also moved to decriminalise small quantities of the plant.

The local Rastafarian Council is a huge advocate for reforming marijuana-related laws as members of that group use the herb for religious and meditative purposes. In March the group walked 11 miles calling on government to “free up the weed” while threatening to withhold their votes if their concerns were not addressed by the sitting administration.

They had also claimed that the incarceration of young men for marijuana was one way the prisons were being filled. Following the destruction of the Camp Street jail by fire, magistrates were openly told to relax the forwarding of defendants to the lockups for small quantities of marijuana as a measure of keeping inmate numbers down.

The public questioned the fate of Mangal’s chil-

Vendor robbed of motorcycle, valuables A 23-YEAR-OLD vendor of Bagotville, West Bank Demerara (WBD) was in the wee hours of Monday morning robbed of his black XR motorcycle by two bandits.

Reports indicate that at Middle Road, East La Penitence, in the vicinity of St. Pius ground, the vendor who was visiting his girlfriend was confronted by the

two bandits who were dressed in black clothing as he was about to enter her house.

One of the armed robbers pointed a gun at the vendor and relieved him of his valuables and motorcycle, before fleeing the scene on the said motorcycle.

The robbery was reported to the district station and investigations are ongoing.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo dren before proclaiming the negative impact such a harsh sentence will have on him and his family.

PM Nagamootoo said it is not a case where the magistrate is to be blamed given what is stated in the law.

He said, however, “I am committed to modifying the applicable laws.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Trump says summit with Kim may be delayed US President Donald Trump has said there is a “very substantial chance” a historic summit with North Korea’s Kim Jong-un next month may not happen.

He said the North must meet conditions for the summit to go ahead though if it did not, it might happen “later”. He was speaking as he received South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in at the White House.

The North has said it may cancel the summit if the US insists on it giving up nuclear weapons unilaterally.

Mr Trump did not say what conditions the US had set for the summit but, asked by

a reporter about the North’s arsenal, he said “denuclearisation must take place”.

The 12 June summit is due to take place in Singapore. It follows a summit between the two Korean leaders in April.

North Korea is expected to dismantle a nuclear test site this week as a goodwill gesture but the demolition may be delayed by bad weather.

“We’ll see what happens,” he told reporters.

“There are certain conditions that we want and I think we’ll get those conditions and if we don’t we don’t have the meeting.”

The property tycoon-turned-politician add-

ed: “You never know about deals. You go into deals that are 100% certain - it doesn’t happen. You go into deals that have no chance and it happens and, sometimes, happens easily.”

How did the mood sour last week?

North Korea cancelled high-level talks with South Korea, saying the South’s joint military exercises with the US were a “provocation” and rehearsal for invasion.

Pyongyang then accused US national security adviser John Bolton of making “reckless statements” after he suggested the North could follow a “Libya model” of denucle-

arisation.

That was a reference to Libya’s former leader, Muammar Gaddafi, who agreed to give up nuclear weapons in 2003 and was later killed

by Western-backed rebels.

Mr Trump, however, later denied the US would follow the “Libyan model” if an agreement was reached with North Korea.

“The model, if you look at that model with Gaddafi, that was a total decimation,” he said. “We went in there to beat him. Now, that model would take place if we don’t make a deal, most likely. But if we make a deal, I think Kim Jong-un is going to be very,

very happy.”

Mr Trump accepted North Korea’s invitation for direct talks after more than a year of heated rhetoric between Washington and Pyongyang, amid global concern hostility might escalate into military confrontation. The New York Times reported on Sunday that Mr Trump was asking aides and advisers whether he should proceed with the Kim summit. North Korea conducted several nuclear tests over the past few years and developed long-distance missiles which, it says, can carry nuclear bombs as far as the US mainland. If the summit happens, it would

be historic as no sitting US president has ever met a North Korean leader.

Even then, is a deal likely?

Many observers believe the two leaders now have too much at stake for the summit not to go ahead. However, Pyongyang’s professed commitment to “denuclearisation” is likely to differ from Washington’s demand for “comprehensive, verifiable and irreversible” nuclear disarmament.

North Korea has said it will start dismantling its nuclear test site this week, in a ceremony to be attended by foreign journalists. (BBC)

Zimbabwe applies to rejoin Commonwealth

ZIMBABWE has applied to rejoin the Commonwealth, 15 years after they left the group.

Commonwealth Secre-

tary-General Patricia Scotland said she was delighted to receive a letter from Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, dated 15

May. However, she added they would only return “when the conditions are right”.

President Mnangag-

wa, who came to power in November after long-time leader Robert Mugabe was ousted, has said repeatedly he wants to rebuild interna-

Wednesday, May 23, 2018 - 12:00hrs.

tional ties.

In a statement released on the Commonwealth’s website, Baroness Scotland said: “I whole-heartedly echo the sentiments of heads of government who have said twice, in 2009 and subsequently in 2011, that they very much look forward to Zimbabwe’s return when the conditions are right.

Zimbabwe’s eventual return to the Commonwealth, following a successful membership application, would be a momentous occasion, given our shared rich history.”

Zimbabwe withdrew from the 53-member Commonwealth in 2003, having initially joined in 1980, after its membership was suspended amid reports of election rigging.

President Mugabe re-

jected previous attempts to bring the country back into the group.

The Commonwealth statement said the country would have to comply with “the fundamental values set out in the Commonwealth Charter, including democracy and rule of law plus protection of human rights such as freedom of expression” before being allowed to rejoin.

Commonwealth observers have been invited to attend this year’s elections in Zimbabwe - a process which will now form part of the informal assessment which will be carried out as part of the application.

The other member countries will also be consulted, the statement added. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Bartica council, GGMC at odds over sand pit …mayor urges different approach to resolving issues THE Bartica Town Council and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) are at odds over conditions at a sand pit located at Five Miles, Potaro.

And, even though Mayor Gifford Marshall on Monday confirmed that cease work orders were issued to the council since February, he said the GGMC had not been responsive to calls for discussions, even as he urged a more reasoned approach in resolving the issue.

On Saturday, during an impromptu visit by a team of workers of the GGMC and Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes, workers were seen mining in the wall of a sandpit at Five Miles.

BK International Quarry, Baracara Quarries Incorporated, Durban Quarries, Toolsie Persaud Limited St Mary’s Quarry in the Essequibo River and the Five Mile, Potaro Road sand-pit were all visited by the minister and her team. Upon an order by Mines Manager (ag) Khrishna Ramdass, the workers left the location but shortly after the minister and her team of workers departed, the truck returned to the site to continue extracting the sand.

Speaking with Guyana Chronicle, Marshall said the GGMC issued the cease work order sometime in February and had outlined a number of activities that must be done to ensure compliance with the entity’s rules and regulations. He explained that the GGMC had also issued a pictorial report to the municipality which demonstrated unsafe mining practices at the mining site. “The municipality received the last report in February of this year- it was a picture report—before that there was a cease work order and GGMC outlined a number of things that we have to put in place. Immediately after, the municipality did some work in a new section

of the pit,” the Mayor told the Guyana Chronicle. According to Marshall, in order to gain access to the new section of the mining pit, miners must traverse the old pit.

Broomes told reporters on Saturday that based on information provided to her by the GGMC, in 2015, 2016 and in 2017 cease work orders were issued to the council because the mining site is very unsafe.

However, Marshall only referenced to a cease work order for February of this year. He denied that the town council has been playing hide and seek with the GGMC. In fact, the mayor told the Guyana Chronicle that “our records reflect that GGMC called our office on the 16th April, 2018 and scheduled a meeting for the 19th April, 2018 at 1pm, with Mines Manager Mr. Krishna Ramdass and the council immediately arranged for same. It was quite unfortunate that no representative from the GGMC turned up as planned.”

The mayor’s account of what transpired on that occasion, however, conflicts with the statement made by Ramdass. Ramdass told the media that the Bartica Town Council has been more or less dodging the GGMC. But for his part, Marshall said after preparing the new sand pit, the town council was waiting on the GGMC engineers to inspect same. This never happened.

“We are still awaiting GGMC to come in and approve the area we would have done work,” he said, noting that the issue is one for concern. “I will not sweep it [the issue] under the carpet- we do not have the human resources to do all the monitoring as we would want to, and truckers would exploit the situation,” Marshall explained. He said the land is owned by the state and controlled by the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC). The Bartica Town Council acts as a facilitator, the Mayor not-

Bartica Mayor Gifford Marshall

ed. “We should not be seen as the owner of the sand pit but the facilitator. “I know a cease work order was in place and we closed it off, but to our regret we had a lot of illegal mining where sand is concerned.”

“We try to do monitoring to the best of our ability--- we don’t have a loader,” he said in response to why illegal activity continues to occur at the sand pit if has been closed temporarily. Asked why truckers are paying the council to load sand despite the cease work order, Mayor Marshall said, “I can’t speak for the administration” but committed to investigate the matter.

He Guyana Chronicle was told on Saturday by a worker who was present at the Five Mile sand pit that “the boss” paid some $3500 to the town council and received a chit,

which serves as permission to extract sand from the area.

A meeting with truck owners is slated for today to discuss the unsafe mining practices which occur at the sand and loam pits in Region Seven.

NO PAYMENT OF ROYALTY Meanwhile, when asked about the non-payment of royalty to the GGMC, Marshall said, he was not in a position to confirm that royalties were unpaid for 2017.

“What I know for sure is that royalties ought to be paid.”

He said however, an injunction has been filed against the town council and as such, it cannot access its Citizen’s Bank account.

“There is an injunction on the account…which is stifling the work of the council,” he said, noting that if royalties are unpaid, that may be the reason. Marshall could not recall clearly when the injunction against the council was filed.

“We cannot spend as we want because we cannot use the Citizens Bank account— there is an injunction on the account.”

The Guyana Chronicle reported on Saturday that for 2017, sand-pit operators extracted approximately 1, 733, 035 tonnes of sand. As a result, some $25, 995, 525 of royalty were generated but only $19, 563, 528 was collected by the Commission.

The mayor made it clear that the town council is not against the GGMC doing its work but believes there ought to be a different approach to the situation. “We always complied when they requested of us for some reason or the other.”

In a statement issued to this newspaper, the Mayor congratulated the GGMC for its continued commitment and dedication to the health and safety of workers in the mining industry. “The Municipality of Bartica would be the first to agree that there are major challenges in the mining industry in terms of compliance to the rule of law.

However, in the same vein we have with grave concern observed the “New Approach”

by GGMC in dealing with matters of “bread and butter”.

“We do hope that very soon good sense will prevail and we will return to the days of mutual respect, open dialogue and citizenry participation in dealing with matters that affect residents,” the statement said.

Marshall told the Guyana Chronicle that neither he nor his council is condoning what has been termed the “lawlessness” in the industry, but stressed that it touches and concerns the livelihood of many. “What I do know for sure is if we do not supply sand to the operators- lots of

infrastructural works would be affected and lots of illegal mining in areas you don’t have illegal mining will occur.”

Calls to Mines Manager Ramdass on Monday were unanswered. However, Minister Broomes made it clear that neither her ministry nor the GGMC is attempting to “pick a fight” with operators. “This is about life and death not bread and butter…we cannot allow miners to die. We don’t want any more pit cave-ins. What I saw on Saturday was unsafe mining practices…those workers could have died there,” Broomes told the Guyana Chronicle on Monday. She reminded that all minerals form part of the country’s national patrimony and must be handled in a transparent and safe manner.

“We are conducting a full review of the mining sector and the GGMC has pointed out to me a number of challenges and so the outreach is aimed at putting the houses in order. All stakeholders will be written to and asked to come in to talk with us…this is not about bread and butter, but one of life and death.

I cannot compromise as a minister. It is not a fight we are in this together,” she declared.

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A call to action

THE Founding Fathers, Mothers and Children of the pre-independence society delivered to us, on 26th May 1966, a nation called Guyana.

By their actions, including the institutions that established the nation-state, they have laid the foundation, put up the pillars, enclosed the walls, and put within that space the essentials that would ensure survival and security. We of the present generation, as heirs of their pains, struggles and sacrifices must find it incumbent upon us to build on what they have laid. As society becomes more complex, domestic and foreign, it becomes necessary to build in recognition of the prevailing dynamics, and also to anticipate and plan for future development and protection.

Where this nation continues to debate its history and be preoccupied with who is/are to be blamed for the state of affairs today, if truth be told, those who came before did what they thought was best at the time. It is now our time to build on what we think is best for this nation at this period of our existence, given the resources at our disposal.

It is appropriate to say that, outside of the era of the Guyana National Service, this nation has not had the needed injection of self-sufficiency to drive its people, more particularly the young, to think and dream big, and act in accordance with those dreams. This is not to say that Guyanese lack the capacity and capability to distinguish themselves, or to engage in the necessary strug-

gles and sacrifices to achieve those dreams. No; ever so often, there is news of a student distinguishing him/herself at CXC and CAPE, or besting their Caribbean counterparts in some endeavour. An overseas-based Guyanese, whose educational foundation was laid here, has been accepted by 21 universities in the United States, inclusive of all its ivy leagues. Four children of Guyanese parentage have won global awards and recognition for a technological security application. Our youth here have created an E-Directory. Others are distinguishing themselves in sports, culture, music and so forth.

There is no shortage of talent within the Guyanese genes pool; yet, within recent years, the concept of development

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

has taken on a different meaning. The society was made to feel that development meant opportunities created for few to cash in at the expense of the people; the disregard for their rights, resources and institutions established to protect them. This is a call to action: Guyanese have to go back to the drawing board and pick up from where their forebears left off. It is not, and never was, an admirable place to find ourselves -- blaming others for what is in the past, when the opportunity is present to learn from mistakes, right the wrongs, and build on the achievements.

The challenges this nation faces at the social and political levels will not be fixed overnight. No one is delusional. However, what is expected is that Guyanese stop and take stock of the manner in which we treat each other and start now to address the decline in social

grace, etiquette, protocol and civility. A heterogeneous society by its very nature brings with it conflicts, given competing interests, scarce resources, diverse cultural outlook and preferences.

Conflict, while it creates the space for animosity and intolerance, also allows for opportunities for bringing together diverse forces to find, arrive at, and work through consensus. This

continues to present a challenge to Guyana and it is not that Guyanese lack the ability to do so. What is evident is the absence of will to make consensus the guiding principle for engagement which is important for forging nationhood. There is no need for spectators to the things considered wrong, equally as it is important to disabuse ourselves of the notion that things will change without our input.

The development of Pradoville 1 and 2 was never presented to Parliament Dear Editor MARK Benschop was right to point out in his article of the 15th May, 2018, in the Stabroek News that a letter written by Winston Brassington was intended to influence public opinion.

By far, the most disgusting episode of publicity to influence public opinion

took place on Wednesday 9th May, 2018 on a programme, ‘Plain Talk’, moderated by Chris Ram, whose guest launched a bitter and unwarranted attack on the government and the police for instituting charges against former Minister of Finance Ashni Singh and Winston Brassington, the former CEO of NICIL, who are charged

with misbehaviour in public office for underselling state assets.

Ashni Singh was the Minister of Finance and the Chairman of NICIL, Winston Brassington was the CEO. It was Ashni Singh who directed that trillions of dollars of state funds collected on behalf of the government by the government corporations

and agencies should be transferred from the government corporations and agencies to NICIL, instead of depositing them into the Consolidated Fund as is required by the constitution. This was done to avoid parliamentary oversight of the project and the utilisation of funds.

Some of the most blatant abuses of state funds were

used to finance, firstly, the construction of the Marriott Hotel without the approval of Parliament; secondly, the development of Pradoville 1 and 2 on government lands which were shared out to Jagdeo and PPP members and friends. The contract for construction of the Marriott Hotel costing billions of dollars was never seen by

the opposition party or was ever presented to Parliament, despite calls from the opposition for disclosure of same.

Similarly, the development of Pradoville 1 and 2 was never presented to Parliament.

Regards G. Jones

Something urgently needs to be done to this road Dear Editor, I WROTE several letters about the deplorable state of the Agriculture Road last year but it seemed to be going on deaf ears and this road continues to deteriorate daily.

Last year, Project Engineer Anthony A. Haynes started some road works from the beginning of Agriculture Road. He graded the road from the beginning to the end of NAREI but he claimed to repair this Road up to Block CC, Mon Repos. According to his letter published in reply to my letter dated August 4th, 2017 he said the following. ‘’For the benefit of the Reverend and the general public, please be informed that the rehabilitation of Agriculture Road, Mon Re-

pos/Triumph, is being undertaken by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure under its Miscellaneous Roads Programme, 2017. The contractor is K.P. Thomas and Sons Incorporated, the Project Engineer is Anthony A. Haynes, the contract sum is $59,031,149 and the site extends a distance of approximately 1230metres.

Carriageway works include the upgrading of the road structure with mixed loam and/or crusher run and sealing using asphaltic concrete. The contract is scheduled to end in September of 2017.’’

As I mentioned before, the work that was executed for about 800 meters and which the engineer claimed was 1230 metres cannot cost $59,031,149, or even if his 1230m was correct to just dig

out bad broken concrete and fill it with’ crusher- run’ and roll it over with asphalt, it cannot cost that sum. I believe and [so do] many others, that it cannot even cost $10 million.

My concern was this engineer graded from the beginning of Agriculture Road to NAREI that’s approximately two miles or 3000 metres but only completed 1230M from his own words: why did he refuse to complete the remaining 1770 metres of deplorable road [that is] full of pot holes [that] he was paid to complete? He even went away with his machinery after he dug up the road and left it, it was when I wrote a second letter he returned to complete the work of 1230m he claimed that is still incomplete. I am calling on the auditor’s general office to carry out

an audit of $59,031,149 that was spent of one third of the job on Agriculture Road that is still incomplete.

Not long ago, I was sitting by a friend who lives near the roadway in Agriculture Road when I heard a sudden sound like a bomb and my friend and I rushed to the scene. A young lady was driving her RAVA vehicle, her tire got a puncture in a very deep pothole, her vehicle skidded around and hit a parked truck and it was severely damaged. The young lady fainted as we dragged her out her vehicle, the damage to her vehicle cost over one million dollars to repair, all because of a pothole that nearly cost her to lose her life.

Potholes are all over this road, just after Block CC going to NAREI and if you

are not familiar with these potholes while driving you can easily crash into another vehicle or land yourself into the nearby trench. I saw two such incidents already. This is a road that has the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) and NAREI but it’s an eyesore to this area and nation as a whole. It’s only when the minister of agriculture or the President are going to the school that the administrators will get the students to patch the holes with sand. I believe they all should be fired because they can’t even use their machinery to throw in some brick to patch these holes that can drown a child when it rains.

Here are a few pictures of this road. I am calling on the Hon. Minister of Agriculture

Noel Holder and The Hon. Minister David Patterson of Public Works to come into Agriculture Road to see the deplorable state of this road. This road needs urgent repairs and many of these business structures that occupy the roadway to do business on the government reserves should be removed. The trench on the right hand side needs urgent digging but many of these illegal businesses on the government reserves, hinder the hymacs from executing these works. Something ought to be done urgently on this road, it’s a destination for accidents.

Regards Rev. Gideon Cecil

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

PPP 23 years and APNU+AFC 3 Dear Editor, PLEASE allow me a space in your letters column to partly look at the above subject as the coalition government enters its third year in office. These three years make the PPP 23 years look really bad.

It shows in three years what the PPP could not have done in their 23 long years.

Today, the PPP wants us as Guyanese to believe and feel as if they had Guyana at heart and as if they cared for Guyanese and the working class. The three years in government exposes the 23 years of the PPP’s failure to develop Guyana’s infrastructures, its working class, its health, security, agricultural and education sectors. The three years also exposes that party’s unfairness to all those seeking jobs, equality, transparency and accountability and its racism and vindictiveness towards those who do not agree with the dictatorship of the party’s leadership.

In three years we saw and heard what citizens could not have done in the 23 years of the PPP and that is FREEDOM OF SPEECH. Today I can proudly say that every Guyanese has found their voice, be it government supporters that are speaking up to the government publicly or those that support the opposition.

Some of our well-educated and highly qualified Guyanese could not have found

their voice in 23 years to tell the PPP Government anything. Today they truly want to be patriots of this land by cussing out this APNU+AFC in three years.

In three years this APNU+AFC government ministers have never threatened any media owner or their employees to go after them, but the PPP did it within their 23 years in office. Brothers and sisters, this is the three years government that brought back local democracy in this land and we are having local government elections.

This type of elections allow anyone to run for their area, it’s not a dictatorship election anymore whereby some were barred from running because they are not politically affiliated, especially to the PPP. This was achieved in three years for the grassroots people.

In three years we saw drug lords being pulled from doing their business as if it was a legal one.

We read and heard of the amount of drugs that are being found today, and the many being prosecuted under this three-year government. This was never done under the PPP’s 23 years.

TOTAL SECURITY REFORM UNDER THIS GOVERNMENT We saw the CPGs (Community Policing Group) being made as a political arm of the PPP, they were used to do political work for the PPP throughout Guyana during

the elections. They were handed political gifts as handouts. Today many of the said CPGs are failing the purpose of that arm because they cannot be used by the PPP and have those handouts. CPGs today, under this three-year government are more open and transparent than those years under the PPP. It took the APNU+AFC government three years to do what the PPP could not have done in 23 years for the sugar industry. That is to make it viable and profitable again by downsizing the industry to ensure its sustainability. The PPP did not have the nerves to do that because they were using the sugar workers and their families to get support and votes. This three-year old government did it because they want the industry to survive. The PPP in 23 years could not even better one estate to show that they care for the workers but rather invested billions at Skeldon- the cause of the workers’ plight today. The PPP took the sugar from Blairmont Estate to package it at the new packaging plant in Enmore and called it Demerara Gold. They never looked at the cost of transportation, etc. They did that to show workers and their families that they cared, but we all know it was a game.

The PPP in the 23 years failed the sugar workers and was using them to gain votes and benefits for them-

selves and cronies. Sugar workers need to understand that GAWU failed to represent them in 23 years.

Today GAWU is fighting as if they and their collaborator, the PPP, care for the workers. It’s A Political Game by both GAWU and the PPP. Under the rice sector, the farmers were made a scapegoat and used by the PPP for support. The PPP did not have the guts to implement the correct rates and taxes that had to be put in place at MMA\ADA in accordance with the Act, all because the majority of the farmers are said to be PPP supporters. The PPP used to divert monies from elsewhere in ensuring that the entity survives because they would have lost votes.

This government ensured that the ACT is implemented and today, the same PPP that was and is presently using the farmers, want to challenge an ACT that they had passed when in government. In three years this government ensured that there are proper infrastructural works being done in this land of ours. In

three years we have had to fix bridges, roads, streets, pavements and buildings etc., after months of [the villagers] complaining, within various villages and regions under the PPP administration.

I am calling on all my Guyanese brothers and sisters to open your eyes and see the vast difference under this government that is making the PPP go crazy. Let’s look at what the PPP achieved in their 23 years and compare it with three years under this APNU+AFC government, and you will see the reason for the PPP to be afraid of 2020. Many of our own supporters are being led astray by the PPP today.

Why? Because the PPP is spreading lies and trying to tell the nation that nothing good is being done under this government. It is this government that lowered the Berbice Bridge toll that many of the PPP members are using. It is this government that raised the benefits of Old Age Pensioners and PPP members are benefitting. It is this government

that is ensuring that there are better streets in villages that Bharrat [Jagdeo] and the PPP are using to access their supporters. Let us not be blinded by the blindness of the PPP. Let’s open our minds and see the reality and truth about Guyana.

No one has anything to lie to you about in this government, but we lived under lies and deception for 23 long years under the PPP. Let’s ask ourselves as to, why did the PPP not want Cdes Moses Nagamootoo, Khemraj Ramjattan and Ralph Ramkarran in their party after the death of Cheddi [Dr Cheddi Jagan]?

They took a while to tell those gentlemen that we don’t care about your struggles but we care about our Pradoville’s.

Guyana is on the rise under this APNU+AFC and let’s all cooperate as we work with the government in having that “Better Life for All”.

Regards Abel Seetaram Regional Councillor Region 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Burial ground pig farmer Reputed husband arrested over wife’s death files injunction against M&CC A RESIDENT of Lot 76 Princes Street, Georgetown, who has been illegally rearing pigs for sale in a section of the Le Repentir Cemetery, has filed an injunction against the Mayor and City Council (M&CC), preventing its officers from entering that section of the burial ground and removing her pigs.

Georgetown Mayor Patricia Chase-Green told City councillors that the M&CC sought to show the resident, Jean Bacchus, a humane face in not seizing her pigs but allowing her time to remove from the area. “Councillors were giving support to her and asking to give her more time – more time to file an injunction,” the mayor said.

The City Council, she noted, is now in expense to find money to pay a lawyer when the case comes up in court.

At a statutory meeting last March, councillors heard how the woman had been rearing pigs in the cemetery for the past 15 years and has also begun slaughtering them there for sale, allegedly at the Bourda Market.

Town Clerk Royston King had painted a rather graphic picture of what was happening in Le Repentir Cemetery currently, calling to mind the many reports that circulated about broken tombs.

“Can you imagine a pig pulling at a human bone?” he asked, as he called for immediate attention to be paid to this issue. Chase-Green said the owner of the pigs, after being told some two months ago that she has to desist from rearing pigs there, visited her office and requested some time to move.

However, she noted that it was only recently that she

heard of reports of slaughtering being done in the cemetery. “There is no way this Council can agree that we can rear pigs in the cemetery,” Chase-Green maintained.

Councillor Heston Bostwick suggested that the farmer be removed immediately, as opposed to Councillor Oscar Clarke’s plea for leniency to be extended. Clarke argued that it is the farmer’s livelihood and that she should first be spoken to; but the mayor reminded him that she was already asked to remove. Clarke said it would be heartless to simply throw the farmer out and referred to the fact that she had been allowed for a long time without anyone objecting. He also suggested that the City Council help the farmer find an alternative location.

The mayor had directed the town clerk to send a written notice to the farmer to remove after no more than 14 days, after which the administration said it was going to take any action permitted by the law.

Within that ‘leniency’ period was when the injunction was filed.

THE police have arrested the common-law husband of a 32-year-old Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD) woman who was killed on Monday night.

Dead is Lowtie Atwaroo called “Mona” of Lot 221 Plantation Walk, Herstelling New Housing Scheme, EBD. Reports are that the couple lived together for a number of years at Herstelling but separated for about two months because of the man’s abusive behaviour.

The woman later moved in with relatives at her father’s apartment.

Atwaroo reportedly left her father’s home on Mon-

day night and went to visit her 38-year-old partner.

Later, persons in the area heard her crying out for help and when they rushed to the scene, they saw the man holding her down in a trench.

At the scene, a black cap, a one side slipper, a jersey and a black bag was found next to the woman’s body with the head facing north. An examination of the exposed parts of the body which was clad in a blue, long jeans and black jersey, showed no marks of violence.

Atwaroo’s reputed husband who had fled the scene was later apprehended.

The woman’s body was taken to the Lyken’s Funeral Parlour and is awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Meanwhile, investigators have taken statements from several persons who it is reported witnessed the crime..

Last month, seven women died at the hands of their partners while several others were brutalised.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan had said the issue of domestic violence cannot be tackled only from a law enforcement perspective but requires an inter-agency collaboration, involving religious leaders and educational institutions.

No one was dismissed at GuyOil for missing money Dear Editor, THE Guyana Oil Company Limited would like to explicitly state that no employee of the company was dismissed as a result of

missing monies.

The company recently transferred funds to a supplier who claimed that they had not received the funds.

As such, an investigation has been launched and is

ongoing.

Regards Management of the Guyana Oil Company Limited

This is irresponsible and sensational journalism Dear Editor, THE sensational headline “Concessions Galore” in the Kaieteur News newspaper of May 17th, 2018 surprised me greatly, more so since my NGO had benefitted tremendously from assistance from this company. I found the article written by Ms. Kiana Wilburg had no balance and in reality was very deceptive.

For example, the title of the article says “Guyana gives away $42 billion in tax breaks to gold company and gets $5 billion in Royalties”.

The reporter failed to state the time frame of which she was referring. A quick glance through the list she gave on centre page showed that all of the items were specifically for mine and mill use, unlike the thousands of gallons of paint that were exposed in the Bai Shi Lin’s reports.

My understanding by attending the public information sessions given by the Company and reading about

the company, showed that this mine has an operating life of over 18 years and is expected to yield 3,600,000 ounces and pay a royalty of eight percent on that amount over 18 years. That royalty is a substantial state asset. The reporter is aware of these facts since she had attended the press breakfast hosted by this company just a few months ago.

First, the concessions were given to build the mine and are part of an agreement with the government, as no gold was being produced and could not have been produced without the mine being built at an investment of over 60 billion dollars. Not counting the billions spent in exploration before gold was found.

Second, the mine has been in production for only two years and therefore it is deceptive to compare two years of royalties when the life of the mine is 18 years minimum. The first year had limited production as

the mine began producing in September of 2016. If the reporter was honest and not seeking sensationalism, then she would have stated that over the life of the mine, the Government of Guyana would receive over $100 billion in royalties plus billions in corporate taxes, employment taxes and billions in procurement would have been placed into the economy. Also, 800 plus high-paying jobs would have been maintained during that 18-year period, with high technical skills being developed in Guyana through training and exposure to state of the art technology.

Guyana is lucky to have Guyana Goldfields. Ask its employees, its vendors and the many organisations that benefit from the company. This is irresponsible and sensational journalism.

Well in my judgement it is not even journalism.

Regards Joel Braithwaite

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Major workshop opens today for City’s Hall restoration

A COMPREHENSIVE and sustainable conservation management plan that will see the restoration of City Hall to its former ‘glory days’ is being launched today.

The European Union (EU) is teaming up with National Trust of Guyana this morning, at Duke Lodge, to launch the two-day stakeholder workshop for the restoration plan.

For several years now, the restoration of City Hall has only been talked about, with officials often citing the fact that the current situation amounts to a threat to ‘life and limb.’ In fact, just recently Councillor Andrea Marks questioned just how safe it was for councillors to even sit in the building for statutory meetings.

Architectural and structural assessments of the building are expected to come up at the workshop, along with damage assessment to concrete, steel, structural timber, cast iron and decorative metalwork, joinery, windows, doors, external features, internal features, roof coverings, slates and associated weathering, corrugated iron, floors, glass, decorative finishes, paint and tile.

While some describe City Hall as the ‘’Victorian Exuberance in time,’’ and others as “the most handsome building in Georgetown,” City

Hall’s structure is literally falling apart and thus in need of major repairs.

In an effort to restore the building to its pristine state, the city council had wanted to establish a ‘Restoration Fund’ by November 2017 that could have included a special civic committee with corporate leaders, investors and other stakeholders. It is not clear what became of that idea.

City Hall was designed

by Ignatius Scoles, a trained architect and the foundation stone was laid by Governor Henry Turner Irving on December 23, 1887. The building was opened in July 1889

by Lord Gormanston.

In a statement, Public Relations Officer Debra Lewis gave a description of the structure as : “The building is an interpretation in wood, of the masonry construction ‘fancy dress’ style Gothic Revival Architecture, very prevalent during the Victorian era in Great Britain.

The erection of a Town Hall was proposed on several occasions in the 19th Century but the Council lacked the financial resources.

“In 1871, it was proposed that the hall be built in front of the market (the previous Stabroek Market building) but another site was being sought at Church and Main Streets, where the National Library now strands.

“The site finally cho-

sen was acquired from Mr. George Anderson Forshaw, who was Mayor of Georgetown on a number of occasions. On the site then was a ‘tumble down coffee logie’ used for dances. The periodic finds of old beer bottles from that era lend credence to this legend.

“The tower is one of the main attractions of the building. Rising to a fourth floor there are conical pinnacles at the upper corners.

This is decorated by four imaginary corned suspend supports. It is capped by square pyramidal flattopped spire. This tower was probably intended as a lookout. A climb to the top, via steep ladders, is an adventure in itself. Evidence of such climbs is abundant in the many initials and dates carved into the timber at different heights.

“The hammer bean roof construction employed is typical of the medieval Gothic buildings in Britain (e.g.

Westminster Hall 13941406) in London. It gives City Hall, in this case, a ceiling with three arches. The resultant complex of curves in different planes, break up the sound paths and allow for better acoustics in the hall.

“The high mahogany-covered ceilings, long Demerara windows and shutter, combine to exude an air of freedom and yet of an intensely formal old-

Venezuelan freed of $100M cocaine charge A 33-YEAR-OLD Venezuelan woman, who was on trial for aiding to traffic over $100M worth in cocaine to the Pomeroon, was on Tuesday freed of the charge due to the lack of evidence.

Angelica Malave was on trial before Magistrate Judy Latchman with evidence being led by Customs Anti-narcotics Unit (CANU) prosecutor Kunyo Sandiford.

Malave was charged for aiding two men to traffic 11.410 kilogrammes of cocaine between September 2017 and January 2, 2018.

Her attorney Bernard Da Silva, during trial had noted that on several occasions the prosecution did not have any evidence against his client to sustain the charge before the court.

On Tuesday, the magistrate ruled that the case against the foreigner was dismissed due to the lack of evidence.

In January, eight persons including four Colombians and Malave, were charged in relation to the $100M co-

Angelica Malave caine bust in the Pomeroon River.

Guyanese farmer, Gavin Adams, who was the alleged mastermind behind the act, is charged with trafficking 11.410 kilogrammes of cocaine between September 1, 2017 and January 2, 2018, at Grant Woodland, Pomeroon.

He denied the charge.

Meanwhile, Yeison Sanchez, 27; Jesus Ameya, 52; Regional Jamillo, 36 and William Regas, 36, all Colombians, along with Guyanese Ian Matthias, 38, and Troy Piper, 23, both of Moruca, were jointly

charged with aiding Adams to traffic narcotics. The matter is currently before the Charity Magistrate’s Court.

Malave, the reputed wife of Sanchez, was charged with aiding him and Adams to traffic the cocaine.

According to reports, on January 2, 2018 the police raided the home of Gavin Adams at Grant Woodland, Pomeroon. Adams took the ranks into a bedroom where the cocaine was being stored and gave a detailed report on how the drug got into the building and confessed. The Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) participated in the operation Based upon information, the police then went to Lot 288 Barrow’s Avenue, Republic Park, East Bank Demerara and apprehended Malave and seized US$87,134, Bs.F$1,081,605, COL$201,000, REAL$7,362 and GUY$82,820.

City Hall is in need of urgent repairs world elegance. It seduces debase its ambiance or if view of the beautiful mahogand subtly draws and trans- you are properly dressed for any ceiling. forms you, as part of its this place.

Ascending further hushed classical ambiance, “Even the entrance to this brings into view completeso that suddenly you begin third floor offers a drama of ly, the Demerara windows to wonder if the sounds you its own, by way of the stair- and shutters and eventually make are too loud, or what way on the way up, offers a the fully classical elegance you might have done would first glimpse and then a fuller of the Concert Hall.”

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‘National Elections May 11th 2015’: The Violet Finger Revolution’

I find myself in the midst of numerous conversations on the watershed moment that occurred three years ago, the May 11th 2015 National elections.

I have consistently argued one thing, we needed to breathe and this was achieved when H.E David

Arthur Granger lifted his hands to take the oath of office on May 16th 2015 at Parliament Buildings.

I have no hesitation when referring to this development as a revolution, in spite of the fact that it might not meet the textbook definition of a revolution. However, it

was so improbable and consequential, I say revolution.

In the context of 28 years of catastrophic monolithic rule, the May 11th 2015 national elections represented the beginning of the end of the bleeding, the rape and the pillage. Something had to be done and it had to be done

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

quickly. It is in that context, improbable alliances had to be forged and implausible political deal making had to be executed.

Every five years, democracy allows citizens to go to polling stations and vote.

When that process is completed, you are required to dip your right index finger in electoral ink or indelible ink which firstly creates a violet color and eventually a brown permanent stain. This process is designed to prevent electoral fraud. On May 11th 2015, violet fingers were everywhere in Guyana. In every region, something was happening that was clearly huge and suggested that these elections would produce earth shattering results. The names of colors have always guided the titles given to many revolutions: The Carnation Revolution (Portugal: 1974), Yellow Revolution (Phillipines:1986), The Velvet Revolution (Czech Republic: 1989), The Rose Revolution (2003), Orange Revolution (Ukraine:2004), The Purple Revolution (2005), The Tulip Revolution (Krygyzstan: 2005), The Cedar Revolution (Lebanon:2005), The Blue Revolution (2005), The Saffron Revolution (Myanmar: 2007) and the Green Revolution (Iran, 2009). A cursory glance at Guyana during the month of May 2015 would certainly spur the enquiring mind to ask why the writer has not coined the phrase, ‘The Green and Yellow Rev-

olution’. The usage of ‘The Violet Finger Revolution’ seems more fitting in my estimation. Reason being, prior to May 11th 2015, the idea or thought of the fall of the People’s Progressive (PPP) was unthinkable, most walked to the ballot boxes with heavy feet, in compete disbelief that they could defeat the politics of ‘we have the numbers’ in a heavily polarized society. On the day of May 11th 2015, when violet fingers were seen everywhere at every turn, belief crept in and it became apparent that indeed a revolution was imminent, hence the preferred title.

It is too early to assess the political, social and economic impact of May 11th 2015 Guyana elections. It is safe to make the mundane and ordinary assessments. One assessment that ought to be inescapable was that people just simply needed to breathe and take a break from intense destructive leadership. What was immediately known and can be assessed is the fact that the carnage came to a screeching halt once a new government was legally in place. This was a result of the massive turnout of 71.5% of the electorate. Villagers who could not get access to equipment that was expected to serve the entire community but was in the hands of the ruling party’s supporters, came out to produce their violet fingers. Businessmen who did not contribute to the ruling party’s coffers

and were pressured by the tax agency, emerged from the polling booths with violet fingers. Villagers who were denied their land titles because the ruling party had earmarked their community to be transformed into a gated community to be handed over to their business friends, proudly displayed their violet fingers on May 11th 2015. Mothers who lost their children due to wanton extrajudicial killings, could not waste this opportunity to have their fingers covered in electoral ink. Public servants who have been in the Public Service for ages but could have experienced mobility in the system because they did conform to the whims and fancies of the ruling party, woke up early on that historical day to vote and proudly displayed their violet fingers. Law abiding citizens who could not get justice from the corrupt court system, were adamant to get their fingers stained.

Change became a matter of necessity.

May 11th 2015 will be forever etched on the minds of Guyanese as the day when national interest took priority over blind loyalty and produced the Vivlet Finger Revolution.

The only caveat that must not be ignored three years on is that people who the revolution swept from power are still hanging around. Our work might not be done.

Beaten man in critical condition

A 27-YEAR-OLD water vendor was on Tuesday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for attempted murder.

Malcolm Cully was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on May 18 at Cooper Street,

Albouystown, he wounded Ronald Khan with intent to commit murder.

Cully’s attorney George Thomas, told the court that his client resided at Cooper Street and was the sole breadwinner for his child and pregnant reputed wife.

Police Prosecutor, Inspector Gordon Mansfield told

the court that Khan suffered a punctured lung, three broken ribs, had several lacerations about his body and was still hospitalised. Mansfield further stressed that the victim had to undergo surgery and his condition was still listed as critical.

The magistrate remanded Cully to prison until June 11.

‘Cannabis’ accused put on $200,000 bail CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Tuesday released a 19-year-old Linden resident on $200,000 bail for allegedly trafficking in almost two pounds of cannabis.

It is alleged that Junior Wilson of Central Amelia's Ward, on May 18 at Omai Landing, Essequibo, had 749 grammes of cannabis in his

possession for the purpose of trafficking.

The court heard that on the day in question, Wilson and others were in a motor vehicle which was searched by the police and the cannabis was found in a cooler.

Police Prosecutor Inspector Gordon Mansfield told the court that Wilson gave an oral statement to the police

admitting knowledge of the drugs.

Wilson’s attorney Dexter Todd, during his application for bail told the court that his client had no knowledge or possession of the drugs.

The chief magistrate released Wilson on $200,000 bail and transferred the matter to the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court for July 17.

Embrace coalition

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

… Pres Granger tells PNCR no fear in working together

By Ariana Gordon LEADER of the People’s National Congress (PNC), President David Granger has assured his party’s membership that there is no fear in working together with coalition partners and reminded them that both times the party entered government it was through partnerships.

“We are not afraid of coalition…we are all grownups and we are all concerned about how Guyana is governed and we have made sacrifices to ensure Guyana is well governed,” said Granger.

In his address to the second General Council at the PNC headquarters, Congress Place, Sophia, last weekend, President Granger outlined his party’s contribution to coalition politics since the 1960s. He reminded party supporters that the General Council is made up of members who represent all 10 administrative regions of the country. It is those members who determine how the party will be administered. There have been grumblings in some quarters that the PNCR should contest the Local Government Elections (LGE) alone, while fringe members of both the Working People’s Alliance and the Alliance For Change, have also in the past, called for those parties to leave the coalition due to differences. “When we think of policy…where do these ideas come from?

They come from you,” he declared, while noting that the PNC went into government in 1964 only because it was part of a coalition.

Similarly, the President noted that the same was the case in 2015.

“When our party went into government as a coalition in 1964 we transformed this whole country,” President Granger told supporters, while making it clear that Guyana was on a trajectory to massive development. The party leader pointed to highways, roads, bridges, schools, the first hinterland school, social

cohesion, strong international relations and defence of territorial sovereignty, to name a few as accomplishments of the PNC while in government.

“We are proud of what we achieved as a coalition,” declared the head-of-state who said, “We must not be afraid of working togetherwe have been called again to lead in 2015, again as a coalition, and we have to resume the great work interrupted by the PPP [People’s Progressive Party].”

Additionally, the President noted that since taking office as a coalition government in May 2015, the APNU + AFC has restored much decency to Guyana.

He highlighted salary increases, the creation of new towns, the holding of Local Government Elections (LGE) after an 18-year hiatus to name a few. “We did not do it alone in 1964 and we are not doing it alone in 2015. Comrades we must never forget how you entered government and why.

We entered government together in order to give you a good life. You can picket and protest all you want but unless you hold power you cannot change this country,” said Granger to much agreement from his supporters.

The PNC leader said it is against the backdrop of creating a good life for all Guyanese, his party entered into a partnership in 2011, thereby establishing APNU-A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

He noted that daily, the partnership is tested via the media. He said many articles call into question, and try to undermine the partnership’s confidence and faith. “We have to be strong,” the President urged, while noting that the partnership was strengthened through the formation of a coalition with the Alliance for Change (AFC). “Comrades we are in government only because of our partnership and coalition. We are bringing about changes in your life only because of the partnership and coalition.

The PNC is the only party

which in and out of season, year after year, permanently has committed itself to coalition politics. The PPP has never done so.

We have said outright this is what we needed; we are not afraid of coalition…we are all grownups and we are all concerned about how Guyana is governed and we have made sacrifices to ensure Guyana is well governed,” the party leader noted.

WE’RE COOL Granger described his party as “cool” noting that “we don’t accuse, rant and rave…we know what we are doing and we are going to get there.”

“Comrades, let us keep our eye on the prize. The prize is the good life for all,” he stated, while noting that sacrifices are being made for all Guyanese to live better lives. “That is why we make these sacrifices…we don’t jump up and down and shout. We know what we are doing for you. Our party is Guyana’s most precious political asset--- without the PNC this country would collapse due to dictatorial rule by the PPP,” Granger added.

Moreover, the head-ofstate reminded those gathered at the General Council that the party’s Constitution, Congress, General Council and Central Executive Committee are very important pillars of democracy. “You may not recognise it but the entire country depends on us. That is not an empty boast…without the PNC as a guiding hand…this party will not be able to prevent the descent into chaos by the PPP,” said the PNC leader, who called on supporters to remember the party’s core principles as they head out to vote at the LGE later this year.

“They must be injected into our conversation,” declared President Granger.

Meanwhile, chairman of the party, Basil Williams SC called on his party’s membership to “rebut the lies and fabrications of the opposition. He said the party’s members must be prepared

to put up with the resistance and seek information that will equip them to rebut the lies and fabrications of the opposition.

The Chairman said that the task of the party’s members is to stand up and defend the party, the Government and the

Coalition thereafter listing the achievements of the coalition government over the last three years. In her report to the General Council, Party General Secretary (GS) Amna Ally, informed of the state of the party and the work of the party’s secretariat over the last quarter.

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Leader of the PNC President David Granger The focus of her report was mainly on membership, achievements, local government elections, projections and other related party affairs. The General Council is the second highest decision-making forum of the PNCR and it meets once every quarter.

12

Licence renewals, boat inspections and crooks

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

‒ Senior gov’t officials hear problems of Region Two fishers

REGION Two fishermen are calling on the Ministry of Agriculture and the Maritime Administration to enable the issuing of captain licences and inspections of their boats to be done on the Essequibo Coast.

At a meeting held by the Region Two Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and the Department of Fisheries in Anna Regina on Tuesday, the fisherfolk related their plight

in the industry.

According to Region Two Chairman, Devanand Ramdatt, there seems to be a “conflict brewing” among Region Two fisherfolk and called on them to form themselves into an association for better representation.

The meeting was attended

by Chief Fisheries Officer, Denzil Roberts, who encouraged the fishermen to establish an understanding among

themselves.

During his interaction with the fishermen, he shed some light on the U.S. catfish ban. He noted that the Department of Fisheries is currently in the process of addressing the matter by ensuring the fish processing complex meets the necessary requirements.

He told the fishermen to be positive but informed them that while the U.S. takes

a lot of catfish from Guyana, other markets are available.

Boat owner and fisherman Haresh Singh airing his concerns

Boat owner Dindyal Latchmi raising his concerns at the fisherfolk meeting in the Region Two RDC boardroom on Tuesday

Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt and Department of Fisheries CEO Denzil Roberts

CAPTAIN LICENCES AND INSPECTIONS Boat owner Dindyal Latchmi during the meeting raised the issue where fishermen are facing hardships in acquiring their captain licences. Latchmi related that although there is a maritime office at Charity, it is “inactive”.

He explained that he came to this conclusion because “it’s a long, long process, you have to go to Georgetown to get done. While I can afford this, I don’t think others can, it’s expensive to travel and it takes close to three months to do this,” Dindyal said.

This situation, he said, often results in fishermen being left out of work.

The boat owner also said inspection of boats is problematic and often the boat has to go to Demerara to be inspected which he opined is time-consuming and also an expensive process.

Other fisherfolk echoed similar sentiments and called for all necessary documentations in relation to licence

renewal and inspections to be done in the region FALSE RECEIPTS Haresh Singh, another boat owner from Hampton Court, complained about scamps in the fishing industry. He alleged that persons are seeing fishermen are “dunces” and as such often many of them are fooled.

With that, he made reference to a few fishermen who were in the past issued faked receipts in their quest for renewed captain licence.

Singh said persons would come pretending to represent the Fisheries Department and would usually take payment from the fishermen and issue false receipts.

These matters, he said were reported in the past to the Fisheries Department and to date nothing has been done.

In responding to the call for captain licences as well as renewing of captain licences and inspections to be done in Region Two, Roberts said he will investigate the matter but to his knowledge he knew the

licences are renewed at the Charity branch office.

Ramdatt said the meeting was a step closer in addressing issues faced by fisherfolk and he will be making further recommendations from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) to the Ministry of Agriculture in relation to the unresolved matters.

A few fishermen were selected at the meeting from various communities to serve on a committee to represent Region Two fisherfolk. Ramdatt said coming out of the meeting he has recognised that fishermen need to create a working relationship with one another. A follow-up meeting on progress made will be held next month.

Also in attendance at the meeting were Divisional Commander Khalid Pareshram, Maritime representative Anuradha Balbad and Charity Coast Guard Lieutenant Shane Ramphal.

A captain licence costs some $21,200 and could take a period of three months for renewal, this publication was told.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

National Archives opens Independence school tours

AS part of Guyana’s 52nd Independence Anniversary celebrations, secondary school students across the country are being given a special tour of the National Archives to learn more about the country’s history.

Under the theme: ‘New Frontier of Nationhood’, the students are being exposed to photographs, sculptures, artifacts, paintings, music and other material which depict Guyana’s rich past, diversity and growth over time.

Much of the information focused on the country’s past presidents; past independence celebrations and pre-independence events.

Schools visiting the archives on Tuesday included the West Demerara Secondary, Annandale Secondary, Berbice High School and others from Linden while four other schools visited on Monday.

Archivist, Nadia Gamel-Carter, explained that one of the organisation’s aim this year is to invite schools from far-out communities which may not be readily able to have the experience.

She said that in light of the upcoming independence celebrations, many of the items on display are geared towards providing information on events leading up to and following the country’s liberation from British rule.

“We’re highlighting key personalities and it’s old to us but it is always new to them

(youths). So this is the season, and while we’ll have the flag-raising and the fireworks, we try to get (to students) this historic information.

“We do it in an exhibition format because we can distil it and it’s more palatable to them. We’ve printed a lot of brochures and other information that they can take back to the schools,” Gamel-Carter said.

Other items on display include old maps of Guyana’s borders which stimulated discussions on the county’s current border conflict with neighbouring Venezuela.

To assist the process, the Department of Public Information (DPI) provided interactive presentations through pamphlets, books, photographs and video clips.

Speaking with a student of the Berbice High School, Raquel Meenkum, she said: “We learnt to appreciate history for what it is and know that we’ll fight for it and know that we’re strong Guyanese people of six races and we can do anything.”

Meanwhile, student of West Demerara Secondary, Leanna Singh, said: “What really stood out to me were the newspapers. It was very old and it was from the 1870s to the 1940s and it was quite interesting. Apart from that, the history itself, it was fascinating.”

The exhibitions will conclude on June 8 and are being hosted from 09:00hrs to 15:00hrs at the National Archives on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

Old newspapers were put up for scrutiny by the National Archives (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

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Students from the Annandale Secondary get to know Guyana’s national bird, the Hoatzin

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Administrator (ag) of the Unit of Allied Arts, Lorraine Barker-King makes a presentation on Tuesday on the benefits of employing specialist teachers at the primary level (MoE photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

MoE mull appointment of specialist teachers in primary schools

THE Ministry of Education (MoE) is considering the possibility of employing specialist Music and Physical Education teachers at the primary school level.

During this week’s Education Sector Committee (ESC) meeting held on Tuesday, Administrator (ag) of the Unit of Allied Arts, Lorraine Barker-King presented a proposition paper on the issue.

According to Barker-King, the implementation of an expressive Arts

programme in schools will contribute to the integration of the curriculum and a balanced education for schools across the country. Added to that, such an approach, she said, will provide the opportunity for students to develop respect for authority, colleagues and skills in critical thinking, decision making and conflict resolution.

Further, the Allied Arts administrator said it is hoped that such an approach would reduce the ratio of male to female teachers

in primary schools which currently stands at 1 to 7.

Barker- King said too that specialised teaching has become necessary due to large amounts of general content that primary school teachers are currently delivering in the classrooms.

She is also of the view that the expressive Arts are essential to the rounded development of pupils and it is imperative for these (Music and Physical Education) to be taught at a high level throughout the primary schools.

Participants at Tuesday’s Education Sector Committee (ESC) meeting (MoE photo)

‘C’ Division ranks benefit from capacity-building programme COVE and John Magistrate Peter Hugh, in collaboration with the ‘C’ Division commander and court superintendent recently held a training programme for ranks within the division.

The ranks were drawn from different sections within the division and topics discussed surrounded the deportment of ranks in court, rules of evidence, evidence and procedures, ethics and preserving evidence for court presentation, among others.

Commander of ‘C’ Division, Senior Superintendent Edmond Cooper said the aim of the training was to bring ranks up to speed with recent legislations and how to give evidence in court, so that the justice system could be improved by the different arms working together.

The senior superintendent said the ranks were very receptive and the training would help to build capacity.

The commander said capacity-building can take place at individual, group or organisational level, but should proceed on the basis of a strategic plan developed with stakeholders.

He explained that more generally,

‘C’ Division Commander, Senior Superintendent Edmond Cooper personnel with different skillsets will likely be needed at different levels and different points in the process of police capacity building, and as such guidelines are useful and practicable for those in the field.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Gov’t dismisses SN ‘nervy’ report … says Guyana does not want corrupt investors

By Zena Henry

GUYANA is not open to any investor who is interested in getting by on bribes.

It is not looking to build investor confidence on lies and pretense, while turning a blind eye to possible cases of fraud and corruption reportedly committed by the previous administration.

This was the firm position of junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma, when he addressed claims of damage to investor confidence as a result of charges brought against former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) officials.

A recent report by one of the local dailies said that investors were becoming “nervy” because of challenges brought against members of the former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government for questionable agreements made during their time in office. Apparently concerned about the same issue, the

Private Sector Commission (PSC) has also requested a meeting with all sides of the political spectrum to address what is being described as a “hostile political climate.”

It is currently being said that business persons and entities are scared that the sanctity of agreements made with the last government is being disturbed. They are reportedly questioning the implications for future deals in the event of a change in government, while some persons are claiming that charges against former officials for business deals previously made, is making Guyana a risky investment location.

Sharma noted, however, that “Guyana needs to portray a good image to boost investor confidence by creating a healthy economy.” He argued that it is much better to address the issue of corruption than to put on a show for investors. The minister noted that in reality, Guyana is seen

as a corrupt country given its recent history. He said this is proven in the corruption perception index which is one source of information for investors. Sharma said that index is what needs to be reduced to place Guyana in a better position for investments.

The use of damage to investor confidence as a means of defending the charges against the alleged corrupt officials is one with no weight, Sharma indicated. He said this argument is only useful if Guyana is seeking investors who offer bribes. “We cannot lie to the investors and the people of this country and pretend like everything is okay. We cannot turn a blind eye because we do not want bribes by investors, and if that is the case, then we do not want them.”

As a person who played a role in conducting forensic audits of some agencies, Sharma said he knows what

Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma the documents entail. He said reports with numerous questionable transactions were handed over to the police who in turn did their own investigations. The force’s Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) is leading the charge regarding the particular matters. Sharma said that files have been going back and forth between the police, their legal advisor, and the

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) who have been giving investigators advice on the way forward. SOCU, he said, sought the services of international experts who are capable in relation to these white collar crimes.

These experts would have also trained ranks and assisted in investigations that would have led to the charges against the officials.

Sharma added that while some sections of the media would like to say the charges against the former officials are politically motivated, he assured that they are not.

He told this newspaper that numerous discrepancies were unearthed involving transactions by the last government and it is expected that many more charges would follow.

He said despite the timing, the government is not the one responsible for the cases; when and how charges are laid.

Sharma said that the PPP and the PSC seem to want to promote lies to attract investor confidence, while keeping the

grave issue of corruption and other economic ailments a secret. The numerous concessions and unusual transactions done by the last government are a peep at what was going on in that government. As SOCU increases action against those suspected of breaching their public offices, the PSC which prides itself as the nation’s leading private sector body, said it is “conscious of the dangerously deleterious and harmful impact of the increasingly hostile and confrontational political climate between our parliamentary parties.”

They have called for an audience with all political parties. It was only recently however, fingers started pointing at some of the body’s figures. A senior member within the body was recently identified as receiving state property below market value from the then PPP government. It is those types of transactions where state assets were sold below the market price that have landed the PPP officials before the courts.

Centre for abused children opens in Linden CHILDREN in Linden, no longer have to endure the turmoil of reliving the gruesome experience of being raped or sexually abused, with the establishment of a ‘One Stop Centre’ at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) old compound.

The initiative enables victims of childhood sexual abuse to relay their experience only once, at an interview where representatives from all the necessary agencies will be present, rather than to meet with them separately, thus having to narrate the ordeal every time.

Present at the forum will be a police officer, doctor, relative, welfare officer and whoever else is needed in the process to allow for justice to take its course.

A simple ceremony saw the official opening of the centre on Tuesday. Present were Assistant Director of Child Protection Agency, Tionna October, and other CPA officers, regional officials, LHC Chief Executive Officer Dr Mohammed Riyasat, non-government organisation (NGO) Blossom Inc. programme coordinator Michelle Amsterdam and a representative of UNICEF, among other stakeholders.

October, in her short address, expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders that are involved in making the imitative a success - one that was very belated in Linden, giving the high level of sexual abuse against children in the town.

The ‘one stop centre’ is available to provide the

much-needed support for the interview, the aftercare service and to bring the perpetrators to justice via the multi-disciplinary approach, which requires the involvement of all necessary agencies including law enforcement, prosecution and the health sector to record the child victim’s account of abuse.

A forensic interviewer will be in a special child-friendly room with the child while the representatives from key disciplines will observe and listen to the interview in a different space. “The usage of this approach is known to result in increased successful prosecutions of childabuse perpetrators and allow more healing for the victims, preventing them from being raped twice, have to be telling the hurt over and over and to, many times, insensitive personnel,” she shared.

The centres will be established throughout the regions and managed by NGOs. “The State and NGO partnership for child protection will ensure that communities across the country are able to help prevent child abuse and offer child abuse victims the services and support that they need and observe,” October added.

VITAL SPACE Dr Riyasat said the hospital is very happy to have collaborated with CPA to provide a space for the centre since it was noted that children were not given the kind of privacy in dealing with such vulnerable issues.

LHC CEO, Dr Mohammed Riyasat assists Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, to cut the ceremonial ribbon to open the ‘One Stop Centre’

“They were exposed more and open to the public, the amount of persons who have to tend to them then a whole set of spectators around, so ideally this is the area, and we are happy to be part of this.

The hospital fully supports this activity.”

Regional Chairman Renis Morian urged the stakeholders to look at the centre as a stepping stone to a building in which not only sexually-abused children can benefit but all residents of Region 10.

“This is a good start, but I’m saying to the MoSP (Ministry of Social Protection), the RDC (Regional Democratic Council), the Town Council, the hospital and every other agency represented here that we need to push the envelope beyond a space, we need a building that people can come, not just children, but social protection can be extended to

Upper Demerara-Berbice,” Morian urged Region 10 has been identified as the region with the highest general rate of abuse in 2017, with statistics showing that 22.1 per cent per 1000 children were reportedly abused. Director of Child Services Ann Greene told this publication during a previous interview that much needs to be done in order to tackle this phenomenon.

She explained that in the entire region, Linden has the most recorded cases of abuse, with neglect being the highest form followed by sexual abuse.

Greene said the statistics will be able to pave the way in instituting measures to tackle this social phenomenon. “It helps us in our programme planning. We will be looking at Linden and how we can better things,” Greene posited.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Bandits hold salespeople at gunpoint, cart off $$$M – Proprietor’s nephew in custody

EMPLOYEES of the Trinidadian-owned firm, R. Maye Hardware at Providence on the East Bank of Demerara are still gripped with fear after three masked men robbed them at gunpoint.

The incident occurred around 21:22h Saturday evening. The businessman’s nephew, Rajendra Maye, is presently in police custody as investigations contin-

ue into the matter. He was listed as the main suspect, since he had knowledge about the operations at the premises, and was recently fired by his uncle in relation to another robbery which recently took place at the store.

Relating the horrific ordeal, a salesgirl attached to the company, Arina Rookmin, 26, said that she was in her apartment on Saturday night when she

heard a noise outside. Upon peeping out, she saw two men putting on masks.

They were already armed with a crowbar, knife and a gun. On seeing this, she immediately went into the washroom in her apartment and locked herself in.

However, the men kicked the door down and gained entry into her apartment, one of many in the store’s compound to house employees.

“After they came in,” she said, “they jump up on my bed and point the gun at the washroom, telling me to open the door or else they will shoot. I began to panic, and then they warned me if I don’t open the door, they will kill me.”

After she opened the bathroom door, the masked men then duct-taped her feet, hands and mouth and putting a knife to her throat, demanded the keys for the upper flat where they presumed the businessman kept his money. After telling them she knows nothing about the keys, they took her upstairs with them, and proceeded to ransack the premises.

On finding what she presumed to be millions of dollars, Rookmin said one of

the men then took her back downstairs to her apartment, where she saw the security guard, Orin James, trussed up there. “He was watching us,” Rookmin said. “We were tied up; they were asking who to shoot, then one said, ‘Shoot the girl.’ I begged and started to cry, telling them I have a daughter to live for,” a traumatised Rookmin said. They then relieved her of her Samsung S7 cell-phone, $7,000 in cash and a gold earring.

She said the man who was monitoring her and the security guard left and, in the meantime, she was trying to unwrap her hand. “I hopped my way to the sink where I took a knife and cut my hand and help the security,” she recounted.

“By then I ran outside and began to scream where another guard who had just resumed his duty assisted,” she said.

By then the masked men escaped and the police were alerted. The matter was reported to the Providence Police Station and investigations are currently ongoing.

This will be the second robbery for the businessman in 2018.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Before the end of 2018…

Cummings Lodge/Sophia communities to be handed over to M&CC THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) wants to hand over Constituencies Five and Six (Cummings Lodge to Sophia) to the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) before the end of this year.

Chief Executive Officer of CHPA, Lelon Saul, would not state an exact time but he told the Guyana Chronicle, in an invited comment, that they are currently working out arrangements to make the handing over possible.

“What we’re doing presently is going through the area and doing an inventory of the roads, etc. The infrastructure in Sophia is slated to be upgraded under the IDB reformulated loan,” Saul said, adding that quite a few of the roads, open spaces and recreational areas will be upgraded.

Even after the handing over, Saul said the CHPA will endeavour to ensure that the infrastructure is up to standard, and will continue to finance the upgrading.

Currently, the Sophia area is not benefitting from any of the services provided by the M&CC and hence for years, basic amenities such as water and electric-

ity could not be extended to residents of North Pattensen, North Sophia, and Block ‘R’ Extension, among other communities.

The CHPA had ideally wanted to hand over the communities on December 17, 2017, but was unsuccessful in its attempt.

Town Clerk Royston King had made a call for the process to be expedited so that the community can benefit from vital municipal services.

“At the moment, it is out of the curtilage of the Council. It’s a large community; it’s a valuable community, and we need to move ahead and have it brought under the careful watch and service of the M&CC,” King had said.

Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen had supported King’s argument, saying that Sophia has three representatives on the Council, and hence some sort of assistance ought to be granted the community.

“Sophia has three representatives in this Council, and I know they will be looking forward to some assistance from us,” she said, adding: “It’s not fair to say it’s off limits; we have to take responsibility of it,

security-wise.”

Meanwhile, residents have to foot the bill for everything, including garbage disposal, which can cost as much as $500 each week.

But they have had to live with these and other ill conditions, as they are so often reminded that they are just squatters. The communities were not started as structured or regularised areas, and so the residents have to fend for themselves in every instance.

President David Granger had signalled his interest in having the community upgraded to the point that it can be handed over to the M&CC. Only three of the eight communities in Constituency Five fall under the purview of the M&CC, namely Bel Air, Turkeyen and Liliendaal. The others are North Pattenson, North Sophia, ‘B’ Field, ‘A’ Field, Plum Park, and Farmer’s Field.

In the areas mentioned earlier, theft of electricity and water have become major concerns for the authorities.

SQUATTING Saul said the immediate desire of the CHPA

is to address squatting in critical areas but he noted that this will take time.

“We have already drafted a plan to address squatting. What we’re waiting on is the vesting of the lands to us so we can address the issue. We have already identified source

of funding, so at this moment we are waiting on the release of the lands to CHPA.” According to Saul, areas for relocation have already been identified. “We are not going to put all the squatters in one area, but they would be dispersed over several localities. Ideally, we were hoping that by this time we would’ve already developed an area and some of the squatters would’ve been relocated. Unfortunately, that did not happen.”

Saul said he is still optimistic that by August this year, development of a particular area can commence.

Chief Executive Officer of CHPA, Lelon Saul

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Inspectors, subordinate officers in Berbice receive training

POLICE inspectors and subordinate officers in Berbice recently received training in areas of their duties and functions, in a bid to further strengthen them in executing their work in the Guyana Police Force.

The tuition, facilitated by Officer-in-Charge of Number Two Sub-division, Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud, was held at Felix Austin Police College, Adventure, Berbice.

Among the topics covered were com-

munity relations, management of resources and time, lectures to school and the Drug Abuse Resistance Education programme (DARE) programme.

Superintendent Persaud also highlighted the need for on-the-job training and proper supervision for constables on and out of their probationary period, amongst others.

In addition, the quarterly strategies for the year 2018 were also rolled out to the ranks and what is expected of them.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud and police ranks during the recent training.

Revised Prevention of Discrimination Act closer to reality - SASOD FOR some time the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) has been working on the revision of the Prevention of Discrimination Act and the new Act is one step closer to fruition.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle recently, SASOD’s Managing Director Joel Simpson noted, “We’re at the stage now where we’re waiting on the Attorney-General to produce the final report and our draft of the Bill.”

In January, the Director had indicated that SASOD engaged in consultations with stakeholders on the proposed legislative amendment, which would provide legal protection from discrimination in relation to the right to work for lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders (LGBT) people in Guyana.

At the time, the Bill was not ready and needed “technical” enhancements vis-à-vis; areas such as its fashioning and wording.

The organisation is lobbying for an amendment to the 1997 Act to protect vulnerable persons within the LGBT community; the inclusion of “sexual orientation” will legally protect persons identified as lesbians, gays and bi-sexuals, while “gender identity” will offer protection to transgender persons.

This amendment has been called for since the Bill prohibits discrimination in the workplace based only on “race, sex, religion, colour, ethnic origin, indigenous population, national extraction, social origin, economic status, political opinion, disability, family responsibilities, pregnancy, marital status or age…”

While the crafting of the Bill may be completed or almost completed, it must

still be presented and debated in Parliament before it is assented to.

Although Simpson does not foresee much opposition to the Bill, he did indicate

Managing Director of SASOD, Joel Simpson that the human rights organisation will be seeking to sensitise Parliamentarians.

“We’re also planning to have sensitisation workshops with two Parliamentary Standing Committees: the Social Services Committee and the Economic Services Committee,” he noted and explained, “At the heart of it, this is a socio-economic rights issue and we think that we need more parliamentary champions before the Bill gets to the House.”

These sensitisation measures will take the form of two half-day sensitisation workshops which will be helped through support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) offices in Guyana.

Simpson further noted that the organisation is seeking to engage in these workshops within the next few months.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Seminar targets strengthening corporate governance

THE Private Sector Commission (PSC), in collaboration with the Caribbean Corporate Governance Institute (CCGI), is hosting a breakfast seminar today for the refining of corporate governance in local organisations.

The seminar is taking place at the Marriott Hotel where over 40 attendees have already registered. The seminar is being held under the theme: ‘The Role of the Director in Good Governance: Leading with a Progressive Prospective’.

This high-level seminar marks the first of several events to come, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the PSC and the CCGI in April of this year.

Corporate Governance is defined as the decision-making processes within an organisation which guide internal and external relations;

Seated from left are: Keynote Speaker, Alison Kibirige; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CCGI, Denise Deonarine; PSC Vice Chairman, Desmond Sears; Executive Member of the PSC, Ramesh Dookhoo and Manager of the PSC Secretariat, Devon Seeram (Photo by Samuel Maughn) roles and the structure within to the country. to bring to our corporate a company.

“The PSC remains com- entities,” Sears said.

Delivering opening re- mitted to addressing national Meanwhile, Executive marks at a press briefing on issues and influencing poli- Member of the PSC, RaTuesday, PSC vice-chair- cies that promote socio-eco- mesh Dookhoo, said that man, Desmond Sears estab- nomic growth and develop- although Guyana is in a lished the private sector’s ment in Guyana. Corporate relatively good place when position on corporate gov- governance is one such issue it comes to the topic, the ernance and its importance that the commission wishes country must not become

complacent.

“The structures that we have in Guyana, they’re very evolved … Guyana has a strong infrastructure in place but we believe that the training to nourish that infrastructure and to make it work is always necessary and ongoing.

“We need to keep doing it because people die, boards change, governments change and they change boards, so it is important that we target new directors, people who need retraining (and) people who can benefit from rebooting the whole thought process of corporate governance,” Dookhoo explained.

In July, the PSC and CCGI plan to host a seminar targeting family-owned enterprises and, in October, a workshop geared towards state-owned enterprises, which Dookhoo hopes the relevant parties will support.

Speaking further on the matter, Chief Executive Of-

ficer (CEO) of the CCGI, Denise Deonarine said: “Those are two key stakeholders in any economy. Family-owned businesses really drive growth in an economy and it is something that we see as a common trend; so that’s why we found that it was essential for us to engage those businesses and help them to move from the second generation to the third generation which is where they might have some challenges with succession planning.”

The keynote speaker of the seminar is Alison Kibirige, a global expert on corporate governance and who has worked for 25 years with both private and public sectors across several industries.

The CCGI is a non-profit organisation founded in 2012 and aimed at assisting other entities within the Caribbean in improving their corporate governance practices.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

International Museum Day

–– remembering Guyana’s historic past

By M. Margaret Burke SLAVERY, a word that speaks of bondage, captivity, yoke and many more inhuman conditions is really what many Guyanese people originated from.

And none of them have so far expressed anything other than sadness at even the thought that any of their ancestors had to endure that experience.

At this time when the country is celebrating over 50 years as an independent nation, education and information may be two of the best tools by which people would be motivated to beneficial action. Certainly there is no time to look back with vengeance, but to now feel a sense of liberty and being propelled to action, which would make life better.

The Ministry of the Presidency and the Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport, as part of International Museum Day, under the theme, “Hyperconnected museums: New approaches, new publics” invited a number of teachers-in-training, university students, along with other officials to visit Fort Zeelandia and the Court of Policy Hall, two national heritage sites once occupied by the Dutch.

The Fort and the Court of Policy were part of a large urban settlement on Fort Island during the Dutch occupation.

This island, which lies at the mouth of the Essequibo River, was at one time an established community, which was actually regarded as the Seat of Government for the Dutch settlers.

According to the Guyana National Trust, this monument was once the seat of the Fort Zeelandia was constructed in 1744(Photos courtesy the National Trust of Guyana)

The Court of Policy on Fort Island

Dutch administration in the colony of Essequibo for over 40 years, which was before the development of Demerara.

However, as currently set out on the island are the two buildings, which are buildings of the Dutch West Indian Company and were amongst the first non-indigenous structures that were constructed in Guyana.

The National Trust of Guyana regards Fort Zeelandia and the Court of Policy as representing the skill and creativity of the Guyanese people, identifying it as “a

testimony to the cultural patrimony of the nation.”

The Court of Policy was built from solid brick, 103 feet long and 36 feet wide, with walls that are about 24 inches thick.

It was used as a courthouse; a place where many slaves were locked away, tortured and or put to death, among other activities.

The Fort and Court of Policy were declared national monuments by the Guyana Government in 1999 and are being maintained by the National Trust of Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Stigma and Discrimination hinders the fight against HIV/AIDS –– Says NAPS Programme Manager

EVEN though the availability of treatment for HIV/AIDS has increased in Guyana over the years, Programme Manager of the National AIDS Programme (NAPS), Dr. Rhonda Moore has bemoaned that pervasive stigma and discrimination continue to hinder the fight.

Speaking at the ninth annual HIV/AIDS Candlelight Memorial organised by the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) and held at the organization’s Lamaha Springs office, Dr. Moore stressed the need for greater societal involvement in tackling the disease.

According to her, Guyana has made strides in approving the accessibility of treatment for Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and making this treatment affordable, even free of cost, yet persons are unable to access these services.

“The elephant in the room continues to be stigma and discrimination,” the Programme Manager said.

Adding to her sentiments was Managing Director of SASOD, Joel Simpson, who spotlighted the fact that while persons are discriminated against for having HIV/AIDS, the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LBGT) community continues to be further discriminated against and marginalised.

While the provision of medical services is critical, Dr. Moore also posited that cognizance of people’s rights regardless of their sexual orientation, ethnicity, creed or other attributes is tantamount.

Dr. Moore nevertheless noted that persons living with HIV, though discriminated against and are marginalized, are “the greatest teachers” in the efforts to reduce the scourge.

“Without the involvement of persons living with HIV, policymakers will never understand what

needs to be done,” she noted.

And despite dwindling donor funding internationally to reduce the HIV/ AIDS related cases, Moore assured that the government remains committed to funding treatment and testing through its National Health Strategy.

The overarching international goals that Guyana has aligned itself with include the elimination of AIDS by 2030 and the achievement of the United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) 90-90-90 target of diagnosing 90% of all HIV-positive persons; providing Anti-retroviral Therapy (ART) for 90% of those diagnosed; and achieving viral suppression for 90% of those treated by 2020.

“All Guyanese have a right to quality care,” Moore highlighted but stressed, “This can only be achieved through working together.”

On a macro-level, a Sustainability Oversight Steering Committee has been established by the Public Health Ministry to guide the sustainability plan for continuing the gains already made vis-a-vis the goals outlined. The Committee is chaired by Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence and includes Junior Health Minister, Dr. Karen Cummings; Dr. Moore; representatives from civil society organizations; representatives from faithbased organisations; and representatives from government ministries, among others.

SASOD has been the local organiser for the annual AIDS Candlelight Memorial in Guyana since 2010. Also in attendance at the Memorial was UNAIDS Country Director, Dr. Martin Odiit; UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative for the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Mikiko Tanaka; and members and supporters of SASOD.

Patrons of SASOD’s ninth annual HIV/AIDS Candlelight Memorial

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Thorough probe into crash involving police vehicle IN the aftermath of a police pickup crashing into a house at De Hoop Public Road, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD) Tuesday morning, Commissioner of Police (ag) David Ramnarine has ordered a thorough investigation into the accident.

The Force vehicle PWW 5411, a Foton Tunland Pickup (Chinese grant) was attached to Mahaica Police Station. The vehicle was extensively damaged in the crash. No one was in the house at the time of the crash.

Residents said the jeep toppled several times before crashing. The three police

ranks in the pickup escaped unhurt.

In a statement, it was noted that the vehicle driven by a police constable under the command of a police corporal, was proceeding west along the southern side of the road when the driver reportedly swerved to avoid hitting a cow.

In the process, he lost control of the vehicle. It careened off the road, crashed into a house and overturned.

The two ranks, along with another who was seated in the backseat, received minor injuries. They were taken to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital, treated and sent away.

The damaged pickup at the scene of the accident

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Region 4 REO issues new D&I contractors stern warning –– about timeliness, adhering to regulations

THE Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Four has issued 33 contractors with their agreements to carry out drainage and irrigation works.

The contracts, which were issued in the presence of the Regional Chairman Ms Genevieve Allen by Regional Executive Officer (REO) Ms Pauline Lucas, are the first in a series of such contracts for 2018.

“Today, you 33 have signed these contracts, which are for the beginning of the cleaning of drainage for works in Region Four,” began the REO sternly.

“I want to stress that while I have no intention of pointing out anyone, I would like to stress that I am not prepared to accept work that is below our standards.

“I am warning persons that they have received contracts which have given clear guidelines as to when they must complete these works, and under the circumstances that they would be paid. So please note that we are sticking to what the contracts state.”

The contracts are geared at ensuring that several drains and trenches are cleaned, thus reducing a number of bacteria and insect-borne diseases.

Several of those signing the contracts

were doing so for the first time, and for that they thanked the Regional Chairman and her deputy, Mr Earl Lambert for giving them the break.

They also thanked the REO for ensuring that opportunities are created for ‘the small man’, so as they too may earn a decent income.

REO Lucas urged the 33 contractors to ensure that those that they employ deliver excellent and quality work, as it is their responsibility to do so.

“There is certainly more work for the rest of the year,” Ms Lucas said, “but we will be taking them in parts.

“And I have already notified my staff, who will be reviewing and examining these work, as I am clear on this; that if you have not completed your work, you will not be paid; that this is as simple as I can get.”

She further told the contractors that she has an open-door policy, and to prove it gave them the number of her personal cell-phone as well as those of her office so as they can call her directly should they need her intervention.

The REO in stressing the need for timely deliver and quality work also noted that no contractor should have to wait

for undue periods to be paid, as once the work is satisfactorily completed, she will ensure that their payments are processed in a timely manner.

“I believe in paying people in a timely manner when they complete the work,” she assured contractors.

“As the REO, I would hate to know that after working very hard and executing my responsibilities, that the Ministry of Communities doesn’t pay me, or tells me that I cannot be paid in a timely manner.

“What I would hate for myself, I would hate for you as well; so be assured that I have an open-door policy, and you are free

to call me anytime...”

She also expressed what she dubbed as her disgust in seeing any contractor using child labour. “If you want to help a child with money that is fine but I will not tolerate anyone engaging in the services of children in executing these contracts as a child’s place is in school, not cleaning any drains regardless of the economic situation of that child,” she declared.

In reiterating her stern warning, REO Lucas reminded the contractors that they have one month to get the job done, and that she won’t be tolerating any sloppy or uncompleted jobs.

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Guyana, Bermuda promise ‘mouth-watering’ contest tonight WITH the CONCACAF Caribbean qualifying tournament (Group E) kicking off tonight, two sides, Guyana and Bermuda, will clash for the first time in female football. This matchup promises to be a mouth-watering contest when they meet at the Leonora Track and Field Centre.

The two will play the second match of tonight’s double-header from 19:30hrs, after the opening game between Barbados and Suriname at 17:00hrs.

Both coaches, Dr Ivan Joseph (Guyana) and Naquita Robinson (Bermuda), confessed that their women’s programme is in a rebuilding phase, but winning the group and advancing to the next stage is their ultimate goal.

While Dr Joseph stated that he is a defence-first coach, Robinson said her aim is to score as many goals as possible, especially since they will be playing against a seasoned Guyana team.

Speaking on the composition of the team, Robinson told reporters yesterday that while the team will feature some of the players from their 2018 CONCACAF Women’s U-17 Championship squad, majority of the team is made up of players who are scattered in the USA’s collegiate

system.

According to Robinson, not much is known of the Guyanese team, except that they have always qualified for the CONCACAF tournaments (2010, 2016), which translates to their quality.

For Dr Joseph, the Bermudans will be the Lady Jags’ biggest challenge, but he’s not worried since he believes in the ability of his team.

Guyana, more so the Lady Jags, are known as one of the most resilient teams in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) and the fact that they always make it to the Caribbean qualifiers in any of the tournaments they have played, speaks volume to their quality.

H o w e v e r, t h i s t i m e around, Dr Joseph said the aim, apart from qualifying, is building a more sustainable women’s programme; one which will see the Lady Jags in regular engagements internationally at all levels.

G o a l k e e p e r s : Ta y l o r White (Oshawa Kicks Canada), Natalie Nedd (Fruta Conquerors FC Guyana), Aneesa O’Brien (FC Durham Academy Canada).

Defenders: Sasha James (Fruta Conquerors FC Guyana), Odessa Romeo (GDF FC Guyana), Nikkita Persaud (Pickering SC Canada),

Sydney Cummings (Brown University USA), Brianne DeSouza (Carleton University Canada), Alicia Zaban (Ontario Regional Canada), Allison Heydorn (Central Michigan FC USA), Collette Hope (Fruta Conquerors FC Guyana).

Midfield: Brittany Persaud (Westside Timbers USA), Mariam El-Masri (Warriors FC Singapore), Tiandi Smith (Foxy Ladies Guyana), Jade Vyfhuis (Markham SC Canada), Ghilene Joseph (Arcardi University USA), Lakeisha Pearson (Fruta Conquerors FC Guyana), Horicia Adams (Foxy Ladies Guyana), Brianne Desa (FC Durham Academy Canada), Hannah Baptiste (AFC Wimbledon England).

Forwards: Calaigh Copland (Woodbridge Strikers Canada), Ashlee Savona (Alumni FC Canada), Annalisa Vincent (Silver Sands Guyana), Cameo Hazelwood (University of Pennsylvania USA), Jalade Trim (Kwakwani Strikers Guyana), Otesha Charles (West Ham Ladies England).

After today’s game, the Lady Jags will meet rivals Suriname on May 25, before wrapping up their group E contest against Barbados. All of Guyana’s games will start at 19:30hrs.

Teams… briefed ahead of Exxon U-14 football tournament MoPH joins tournament THE respective teams for the upcoming ExxonMobil Secondary Schools U-14 football tournament were briefed on the rules, yesterday, as the kick-off gets closer.

At the National Library in Georgetown, the teams, through representatives, were also given balls to begin training for the June 2 kick-off.

Speaking during the brief ceremony, co-director of the Petra organisation, Troy Mendonca, expressed pleasure to have the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) on board again.

“We want to again thank the Ministry of Public Health for coming on board with us through their Chronic Disease department. It is always important to have them on

board.”

Meanwhile General Medical Officer (GMO) attached to the department, Dr Martin Campbell, added that the ministry is always in support of events that promote healthy physical activity.

“For far too long, chronic diseases have been ravaging individuals in our society and chronic diseases such as heart disease, hypertension and things like that are what I am speaking about,” he added.

He contended that a lot of the younger persons are now falling prey to these diseases and projects like the tournament will fortify the fight against them.

The tournament will feature 24 male and eight female teams.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

21 Days to go …

WHEN the World Witnessed Diego Maradona’s

F

‘Goal of the Century’

OR many an English football fan, the World Cup of Mexico in 1986 will remind them of one moment: Diego Armando Maradona’s infamous ‘Hand of God’ in the quarter-finals.

Still standing as one of football’s most iconic moments in history, it is the Argentine’s second goal against the Three Lions that day that is sometimes forgotten for its sheer magnificence and footballing - nay sporting - wizardry that few goals can hold a candle to, even to this day.

Maradona’s second at the Estadio Azteca that afternoon was voted as the greatest goal ever scored in World Cup history, and few could argue this status.

With both and England and Argentina sharing one of football’s fiercest and hostile rivalries there was, on a scorching day in the capital the incident fanned the flames to almost levels approaching inferno, in the sixth minute of the second half.

As the watching world swallowed from perhaps what was and still is football’s most infamous moment, four minutes later however, shock turned to awe.

With the English players’ eyes lit up like beacons - gunning for Maradona - the Napoli man received the ball from team-mate Hector Enrique inside his half and began his fateful dash through Three Lions’ half.

It is often forgotten, but the goal’s greatest piece of skills was at the very embryonic stages of the move. With both Peter Reid and Beardsley for company, Maradona threw the two off the scent with the most sublime Cruyff-esque turn to race into space and into the England half wide on the right.

As the Argentine veered toward goal, Terry Butcher raced out but was brushed aside, but a deft angled flick forward by his left boot, with Terry

The calm before the storm

Fenwick left in his wake.

With Maradona bearing down on goal, Butcher tried in vain to race back to cover but despite the efforts of goalkeeper Peter Shilton to close the angle - moments after being cheated in the most despicable way –evaded the Derby stopper and skipper.

The Argentinian waved his magic wand once more dragging both Shilton and Butcher wide again, to loft the ball into the England net, as the jaw of a collective footballing world plummeted to the floor.

Those four minutes were perhaps the definition of sporting juxtaposition. How could two of the most talked about goals in football history occur within mere minutes of each other, from the ‘hand of God’ moments earlier to ‘the goal of the century’, both by the chief protagonist in question?

As Argentina held on for victory after Gary Lineker’s 81st-minute goal, there was still a huge sense of robbery on the part of English fans and indeed the team, offset having witnessed a moment that has still to truly be eclipsed even by the likes of Messrs Ronaldo or Messi.

Albiceleste went on to lift the World Cup that summer, beating West Germany 3-2 after a titanic tussle in the final with Jose Luis Burruchaga sealing a thrilling win as the Germans lost successive finals.

Whilst in the timeless realm of football the controversial has undoubtedly won out over time as one of the World Cup’s most notorious incidents, ‘The Golden Boy’ and his second goal on that afternoon surely earned Maradona’s reputation of a player that loved to be hated.

As the BBC’s Barry Davies so eloquently put it of Maradona’s goal after such sporting injustice so soon before, ‘you have to say that is magnificent’.

Diego Maradona weaves his way through the England defence at the 1986 World Cup.

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LeBron James scores 44 as Cavaliers even series with Celtics (REUTERS) - LeBron James scored 44 points on 17-of-28 shooting to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 111-102 victory over the visiting Boston Celtics on Monday night at Quicken Loans Arena to even the Eastern Conference finals at two games apiece.

Kyle Korver scored 14 points (all in the first half) for the fourthseeded Cavaliers. Tristan Thompson recorded 13 points and 12 rebounds, George Hill scored 13 points and Kevin Love collected 11 rebounds while scoring nine points.

Jaylen Brown scored 25 points and Jayson Tatum had 17 for the secondseeded Celtics, who dropped to 1-6 on the road this postseason. Terry Rozier notched 16 points and 11 assists, Al Horford

tallied 15 points and Marcus Morris scored 10.

Game 5 is today in Boston, and James is already gearing up for the contest.

“It’s a hostile environment, we understand that,” James said in a postgame television interview on ESPN. “There is no love in there. If you don’t have on green, if you don’t play for that team, if you don’t bleed green, they’ve got no love for you.

“So we’ve got to come out with a bunker mentality and understand it’s just us. It’s going to be a great atmosphere.”

Celtics coach Brad Stevens echoed that sentiment.

“It’s a best two of three to go to the NBA Finals.

It doesn’t get much better than that,” Stevens said in his postgame press conference.

“Ultimately,

Cleve and Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket against Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart (36) during the fourth quarter in game four of the Eastern conference finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. (Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports)

anybody that didn’t think this was going to be tough I mean everything is tough.

In this deal, it’s a blast to have to grit your teeth, get up off the mat and go after it again. That’s part of what

makes these guys on both sides special.”

Cleveland shot 50.6 from the field on Monday and had a 47-37 rebounding edge. Boston shot 41.2 percent from the floor.

Hill’s basket gave the Cavaliers a 96-81 lead with 9:53 remaining in the contest before the Celtics rattled off eight straight points. Love and James responded with back-toback baskets to increase the Cleveland margin to 100-89.

Boston again was within seven after Marcus Smart’s bucket with 4:29 left, but Thompson and James scored consecutive baskets to again push the Cavaliers’ lead to 11. Hill followed with a 12-foot floater to give Cleveland a 106-93 advantage with 2:36 left.

James drained a 3-pointer with 1:43 left to record his sixth 40-point outing of this postseason and give the Cavaliers a 109-95 lead. Philadelphia’s Allen Iverson (2001) is the most recent player to have six 40-point performances in a single playoff year.

“I put the work in day in and day out on my body,

working on my game every day to try to put myself in the best condition I can be in the postseason,” James told ESPN afterward. “My teammates, my coaching staff allow me to go out and do the things to try to help us win and trust me.

“And besides the seven turnovers … I think I earned their trust a little bit more.”

Cleveland led by 15 at halftime but saw Love head to the bench with this fifth foul with 7:40 left in the third quarter as Boston crept within 11.

The Celtics later trailed 80-72 after Tatum’s basket with 3:40 remaining in the quarter before the Cavaliers answered with a 9-2 surge to push the lead back to 15.

Tatum’s dunk with 1.7 seconds to play moved Boston within 89-76 entering the final stanza.

James scored 22 points in the first half as the Cavaliers led 68-53 at the break.

Real as hungry as ever, Zidane warns Liverpool

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane

By Joseph Casinelli MADRID, Spain (Reuters) - Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has warned Liverpool that his side are as hungry as ever to win the Champions League, rejecting claims

that the Spanish giants might have lost their edge ahead of Saturday’s final in Kiev.

There have been some suggestions that Real, having won the past two finals, might not be as motivated as Liverpool, with the English club not having tasted European glory since 2005.

“I can’t talk for the opponents, but we always have the same desire as we always do and nobody can say we don’t,” Zidane told a news conference.

“We’re in a third final and we have the chance to do something historic and win

it three times in a row. You can’t say Liverpool have more hunger than we; it simply isn’t true.

“Nobody can take our hunger away from us. We’re Real Madrid ... We always want more and will always give our all to get more.”

The Frenchman also said that his side’s experience of playing in and winning three finals in the past four years will have no bearing on the outcome.

By comparison, no player in the Liverpool squad has reached this stage of the competition before.

“It’s a one-off game, in a

neutral venue. We’re ready for it, but our experience doesn’t count,” Zidane said.

“Granted, we have more, but we need to show that we want to win it. Our experience doesn’t count for anything. It’s a final, they (Liverpool) haven’t played in a lot of them, but they’ll kill themselves for this and we know it.”

Inevitably, talk turned to star men Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah, but Zidane was unequivocal when asked if he would swap the Portuguese for Liverpool’s Egyptian star.

“Cristiano is the best, he

Ronaldo retains top spot as world’s most popular athlete - ESPN (REUTERS) - Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo topped the ESPN World Fame 100 list for a third straight year, pipping American basketball player LeBron James and longterm Argentine rival Lionel Messi.

Real Madrid forward Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon

d’Or winner, was named the most popular athlete in the world on the basis of his social media following, endorsement deals and search score.

Three-time NBA champion LeBron James retained his second spot on the list, while Messi came third on the back of his ninth league

title with Barcelona.

Brazil’s Neymar, who became the world’s most expensive footballer after his 222 million euros (£195 million) move from Barcelona to Paris St Germain last August, took the fourth spot.

Swiss Roger Federer, one of the most decorated players

in tennis history, came fifth ahead of NBA star Kevin Durant and Spanish rival Rafael Nadal.

American tennis icon Serena Williams replaces former UFC fighter Ronda Rousey as the most famous female athlete, with twelve women making the 2018 list compared to eight last year.

shows it every year,” the coach said.

“Sometimes pressure gets to players and it

spurs others on. He is certainly the latter. He’s of maximum importance to us.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Joseph Livan - one of Essequibo’s New captain Harry Kane says most multi-talented sportsmen England can win World Cup

By Elroy Stephney JOSEPH Livan was referred to as `bouncing Joe’, but no, he didn’t excel at boxing. Instead, the heavyweight and multi-talented sportsman enjoyed success primarily at cricket, football and table tennis.

He hails from Henrietta Village on the Essequibo Coast and is one of the county’s most gifted individuals.

In fact, it was no other than the incomparable Sir Garfield Sobers who first identified him as a prospect, when the legendary all-rounder visited Guyana during the 1980s on a coaching stint in Essequibo.

According to the soft-spoken Livan, “Sir Garry was impressed with my batting skills and even compared my style with his,” he remarked with a smile.

Livan was later presented with the Garfield Sobers trophy and a bat for being the best batsman during the exercise as a teenager at the time.

The elegant left-hander was best known for his rasping square cuts and punches off the back foot on his way towards dominating club cricket in Essequibo.

In his prime, he represented Gunners Sports Club, North Essequibo and Essequibo inter-county teams as an opening batsman.

The versatile athlete was also a member of the Guyana National Service (GNS), where he got the opportunity to enhance his talent as a cricketer and footballer, playing in Georgetown.

He recounted having pummelled numerous centuries and rated his majestic 165 against Queenstown in 1998 as his best innings.

Though he was a class act, he competed with himself at football and table tennis too, where he was also exceptional.

popular for his exciting style of play.

Livan was best known for scoring once he is in close range of the 18-yard box where he would unleash a right-footer with precision and power.

He later secured selection for trials at the national level

The multi-talented Joseph Livan

Livan was a lightning-fast striker who marvelled at dribbling his opponents and scoring frequently.

The dapper prodigy began loving the sport as a kid, growing up in the countryside, kicking wildly in the open pastures. He then seriously concentrated on the sport during his schooling and later for the Scramblers Sports Club where he became quite

though he was unfortunate not to make the final draw.

Yet, when he was not batting or scoring goals, he wielded his racquet indoors for a competitive and gruelling game of table tennis.

He boasted of having professional coaching to become a sharp player, who could loop, spin and back-hand the ball with consummate ease and accuracy. It was one of his precious time-consuming

periods when he would be focused, especially during the rainy season that would have prevented him from outdoors training.

Livan was also quick to point out that he was given the timely advice to play tennis by another West Indian legend, Roy Fredericks, who, he said. was good at it.

“Playing table tennis helps you to sharpen your reflexes, foot movements and eye sight,’ he remarked, adding that it helped his game tremendously, especially cricket.

He further pointed out that it was very difficult for him to separate the three sports and that “teammates sometimes would be angry with me, since, as soon as I took off my pads I would head straight into a game of football’ during many of his afternoon sessions.

Sports, though, formed a great legacy of his life and according to the 56-year-old, who has now hung up his gloves and pegs, he would always cherish the unforgettable moments whether punching a four through backward point, caressing the ball on his chess and converting it into a goal or back-handing a tennis ball over the net.

Livan now concentrates on leading the new cadre of young athletes as the coach of the Henrietta United Football Club.

He also frequently attends cricket matches as a reminder of his past times.

Livan has left an indelible mark in Essequibo and was rated as one of the finest to excel in three different sporting disciplines.

Ghana president demands criminal probe into football body chief ACCRA, Ghana (Reuters) - Ghana President Nana Akufo-Addo yesterday called for a criminal in-

vestigation into the head of the country’s football association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, for fraudulently using the

Ghana's President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo listens during a news conference to mark the end of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting at Marlborough House in London, Britain, April 20, 2018.

REUTERS/Hannah McKay

President’s name.

Deputy Chief-of-Staff, Samuel Abu Jinapor, told reporters that Nyantakyi had been captured on video using the name of the president and other senior government officials to induce “potential investors” to part with money.

Nyantakyi was not immediately available for comment when contacted

by Reuters.

The video was recorded by investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas and is due to be broadcast on June 6.

Its producers told Reuters it was an exposé on corruption among Ghana’s football officials and their affiliates.

“The president after consultations is fully satisfied that a prima facie basis has been established for criminal investigations to be launched into the conduct of the president of the football association,” Jinapor said.

Anas reported on alleged corrupt practices among the Ghanaian judiciary in 2015 that led to the suspension and in some cases dismissal of some judges.

Nyantakyi, who is also a member of the FIFA Organising Committee for Olympic Football and an executive committee member at the Confederation of African Football, has denied similar allegations of corruption in the past.

Harry Kane (left) said it was a massive honour to be captain, after being congratulated by Gareth Southgate.

NEW England captain Harry Kane says the team can win the World Cup in Russia and “anything else is not good enough”.

Striker Kane, 24, was informed about being made skipper by manager Gareth Southgate a few weeks ago and it was officially confirmed yesterday.

Kane scored 41 goals in all competitions last season as Tottenham finished third in the Premier League.

“It’s impossible not to dream about lifting the World Cup. It’s the biggest competition in the world,” said Kane.

“I believe we can win it - anyone can. I cannot sit here and say we are not going to win it because we could.

“It is my mindset and I want to win at everything I do. The players in the team want to as well. It is worth fighting for. I am sure we have all had dreams of lifting it and it is an opportunity for us.

“We are not favourites but you look at this season, no-one would have thought Liverpool would get to the Champions League final. You look at Manchester United back in the Sir Alex Ferguson days. They had a young team and dominated the Premier League for years to come.

“Being young is not an excuse - it could be a good thing. I believe we can and that is what we want to try and do. Anything else is not good enough.”

England head to Russia on June 12 and face Tunisia in their opening game on June 18, followed by matches against Panama and Belgium.

Kane first captained England in last summer’s 2-2 World Cup qualifier in Scotland, where he scored a late equaliser, before going on to wear the armband on a further three occasions.

Spurs team-mate Eric Dier and Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson have also skippered England recently.

Kane, who has scored 12 goals in 23 appearances for his country, was described as a “meticulous professional” by Southgate.

“It is a massive day and a very proud day,” he said. “It is a dream come true. I found out a few weeks ago when I met Gareth Southgate. We were talking for an hour and he said he wanted me to be the captain.

“I have had to keep it quiet for a while now but it is fantastic. I filled up with pride and went home and told my family. (BBC)

England director of cricket Strauss to ‘step back’ from duties LONDON, England (Reuters) - Former England captain, Andrew Strauss, is “stepping back” from his role as director of cricket while his wife is being treated for cancer, the 41-yearold confirmed, yesterday.

Andrew Strauss

Strauss’s wife Ruth was diagnosed in December and is entering a new period of more demanding treatment.

Speaking in a video on the England and Wales Cricket Board’s Twitter account, Strauss said he would be temporarily replaced by former England coach Andy Flower.

“He will keep a very steady hand on the tiller while I am away,” Strauss said. “I need to step back and look after my wife and the family for a period of time.”

England face Pakistan at Lord’s tomorrow in the first Test of the summer.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

T&T, Jamaica happy with CONCACAF’s grassroots push

THE Jamaican and Trinidad & Tobago football fraternities are honoured to have been selected among the first set of countries in the confederation to be involved in CONCACAF’s NextPlay programme.

The Jamaican Football Federation (JFF), along with the governing bodies in the Bahamas, Barbados, and St Vincent & the Grenadines, launched programmes last Saturday, while Trinidad and Tobago get into the action this weekend at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.

Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) vice-president Raymond Anderson said Jamaica was delighted to be involved in the programme.

“The JFF feels special in that Jamaica has been chosen to be the lead country with this very important initiative, even though we know it is being activated in other countries in the Caribbean today (Saturday),” Anderson said.

“We are very proud of our grassroots programme that was carried across parishes between 2011 and 2014, but we are aware that it needs to go wider and deeper and must be sustainable.

This is the only way to build for the future. We congratulate CONCACAF for leading the way,” Anderson said.

JFF technical director Wendell Downswell added that grassroots development would certainly play an integral role in the development of the game in Jamaica.

“Grassroots football is an integral part of our development initiatives in Jamai-

ca. We know how important this is, as it encourages the kids to get involved and it reaches out to the wide cross-section of the society.

Programmes such as the NextPlay are vital in this regard,” Downswell said.

back there and now with the NextPlay initiative and the Train the Trainers Course, it comes as a breath of fresh air and we see this as a wonderful initiative by CONCACAF to really get all the stakeholders tied into the game,” Corneal

ments, schools, and volunteers across the region, to create a grassroots football delivery platform that will serve as an engine for football growth.

The CONCACAF NextPlay programme is guided by

Angelo Mathews

The JFF launched its grassroots programme last weekend.

The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) recently hosted a Train the Trainers course ahead of the commencement of the NextPlay programme on the twin-island.

Technical director of the country’s FA and FIFA and CONCACAF instructor Anton Corneal spoke of the importance of the initiative, saying, “Our focus on grassroots has been very strong for a number of the years but when you look back maybe 20 or 30 years ago, the game was more accessible at the grassroots level.

“We are slowly getting

told CONCACAF.com “We have a very vibrant Primary Schools League and this is where the next generation of national team players will come from. Therefore it is a critical level of our football on which we at the TTFA and with the assistance of CONCACAF will be placing heavy emphasis.

“This NextPlay programme compliments other nationwide Primary Schools programme which our FA started earlier in the year,” Corneal added.

CONCACAF, along with its member associations, will partner with govern-

the Confederation’s aim to inspire the love for our game and provide children with access to more opportunities to play football across its 41 member associations.

Through the sport, CONCACAF is promoting values, leadership, and healthy lifestyles. The aim is to deliver an official Football and Education School Programme to be implemented in the public school system by engaging in meaningful and sustainable ways with local communities and using football as a tool for education and positive social change. (CONCACAF.com)

Australia searching for 50 athletes, officials missing after Commonwealth Games SYDNEY, Australia – (REUTERS) - Australian authorities are searching for 50 athletes and officials missing a month after the Commonwealth Games ended in the host city of the Gold Coast while another 190 are seeking asylum, the country’s home affairs minister said yesterday.

Minister Peter Dutton told reporters in Canberra an operation had been organised to find the 50 people and “take them into immigration detention and eventually to deport them”.

He said another 190 people had sought protection visas, a class of visa in Australia assigned to refugees.

Fifteen more have applied for other types of visas.

While some participants at major international sporting events overstay their visas or seek asylum in the host coun-

Sri Lankan players to receive pay hike

tries, the number of claims in Australia following this year’s Commonwealth Games, held April 4-15, is high.

in 2014, typically numbered in the dozens, not hundreds, according to government statements at the time.

Australian Minister for Immigration Peter Dutton (AFPphoto)

Participants who went missing or sought refuge at previous Commonwealth Games, such as those held in Melbourne in 2006 and Manchester in 2002 and Glasgow

More than 6 600 athletes and team officials attended the 2018 event, held on Australia’s sub-tropical Gold Coast.

Some athletes, including

those from Cameroon, in Central Africa, did not show up for their events.

Dutton said yesterday, under immigration law, people who apply for temporary protection visas are given bridging visas, which allow them to stay in Australia while their claims are processed.

Asylum seekers are a highly contentious political issue in Australia, which has a policy of stopping the flow of such people before they land in the country. Its policy of sending asylum seekers for processing to camps in Papua New Guinea and Nauru has drawn criticism from the United Nations and international rights groups.

Australia defends its tough laws by saying it deters people from making dangerous sea journeys to try to reach its shores after thousands drowned.

HAVING cut salaries last year, a now-financially stable Sri Lanka Cricket )SLC) will return player payments to just above their previous levels.

Some national players had had their earnings trimmed by as much as 30%, when SLC moved to a performance-based model of remuneration in 2017. But the board has now announced a raise of 34%, after posting profits of about USD 13.5 million last year. Match fees would also be increased for the 2018-19 season, an SLC release said.

“Since SLC has made good financial gains during the concluded financial year, we thought it is appropriate to give a pay raise for the players, as they are making a major contribution towards the growth of Sri Lanka cricket,” board president Thilanga Sumathipala said.

Thirty-three top players have received contracts under the new pay scheme, with those players split into five tiers.

The highest per-match earners will be ODI captain Angelo Mathews, Test captain Dinesh Chandimal, and seniors Rangana Herath, Dimuth Karunaratne and Suranga Lakmal, having received ‘Category A’ contracts. T20 captain Thisara Perera, meanwhile, has been awarded a third-tier ‘Category C’ contract.

The notable exception from previous years’ contract list is Lasith Malinga, who has not been picked to play for Sri Lanka since September last year. Although he has repeatedly stated his availability for Sri Lanka, and has also played in domestic T20 competitions, the selectors, and now the board, have ignored him.

Sixteen players, many of whom are either on the fringe of the national team, or even those being strongly considered for selection (such as Lahiru Thirimanne), have been included on the fifth tier of the list. Somewhat confusingly, this is called the “Premier Category”.

CONTRACTS LIST: Category A: Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Rangana Herath, Dimuth Karunaratne, Suranga Lakmal Category B: Upul Tharanga, Dilruwan Perera Category C: Kusal Mendis, Niroshan Dickwella, Dananjaya De Silva; Kusal Perera, Thisara Perera Category D: Akila Danajaya, Dushmantha Chameera, Asela Gunaratne, Danushka Gunathilaka, Nuwan Pradeep Premier Category: Sadeera Samarawickrama, Roshen Silva, Lahiru Thirimanne, Lahiru Gamage, Vishwa Fernando, Lakshan Sadakan, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dasun Shanaka, Kaushal Silva, Shehan Madushanka, Lahiru Kumara, Malinda Pushpakumara, Amila Aponso, Wanidu Hasaranga, Isuru Udana, Dilshan Munaweera.

(ESPN Cricinfo)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday May 23, 2018)

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Sunrisers Hyderbaad, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight

Riders & Rajasthan Royals (2) Rishabh Pant-684 runs (DD) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which team topped the table in the preliminary round of

IPL 2018?

(2) Which team took the cellar position?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Faf du Plessis blasts Chennai into IPL final

Dujon says history will keep Test cricket alive

Test legend Jeff Dujon (left) is with great former captain Sir Vivian Richards.

Faf du Plessis puts on a stunning show to lift CSK. (©BCCI)

MUMBAI, India (Reuters) - Two-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) marched into the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after Faf du Plessis smashed a blistering 67 not out to fashion their thrilling two-wicket victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad yesterday.

Chasing 140 to reach the final for the seventh time, Chennai were gasping at 62 for six when South African du Plessis mounted a spectacular counter-attack to see them home with five balls to spare at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.

T h e o p e n e r s c o re d the winning run with his

fourth six, which must have pleased skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni who had sealed India’s victory in the 2011 World Cup final against Sri Lanka at the same venue in similar fashion.

Hyderabad can still make Sunday’s final, for which they will need to beat the winner of tomorrow’s eliminator between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals.

Table-toppers Hyderabad had made it a habit of defending low totals in the group stage and once again their bowlers blew away the top half of Chennai’s batting order quickly to give them the

upper hand.

Siddharth Kaul (2-32) dismissed Suresh Raina (22) and Ambati Rayudu in successive deliveries to force Chennai onto the back foot in the fourth over.

In-form Afghan spinner Rashid Khan (2-11) deceived Dhoni (nine) with a googly and dismissed Dwayne Bravo for seven to further peg back Chennai.

Watching the meltdown from the other end, du Plessis then took the onus on himself to put Chennai’s chase back on track and he got good support from number 10 batsman Shardul Thakur who made 15 not out from five balls.

Wary of the dew factor later in the evening, Dhoni had earlier opted to field against 2016 champions Hyderabad and paceman Deepak Chahar gave Chennai a perfect start by dismissing opener Shikhar Dhawan for a first-ball duck.

Hyderabad captain Kane Williamson, lone foreigner to lead an IPL team this season, hit four crisp boundaries in his 24 but they kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

Yusuf Pathan contributed 24 but it was Carlos Brathwaite’s 43 not out from 29 balls that helped Hyderabad post 139-7.

However it was not enough in the end.

Argentina goalkeeper Romero out of World Cup BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero will miss the World Cup in Russia after suffering a knee injury, the country’s football federation (AFA) said on Tuesday.

“The Manchester United player today suffered a joint (injury) in his right knee that requires surgery,” the AFA said on their website.

The 31-year-old Romero was expected to be first choice for Argentina but that role could now go to Chelsea keeper Willy Caballero or River Plate’s uncapped Franco Armani, both of whom were included in coach Jorge Sam-

paoli’s squad on Monday.

The AFA said a decision on a replacement would be

taken in the coming days but the most obvious choice is Nahuel Guzman, the fourth

Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero

goalkeeper on Sampaoli’s long list.

The loss of the experienced Romero is a serious blow to a country that has struggled defensively in recent friendlies, losing 4-2 to Nigeria and 6-1 to Spain.

Sampaoli will expect to have a replacment before Argentina’s farewell friendly against Haiti at Boca Juniors’ ground on May 29.

The twice world champions and runnersup four years ago in Brazil also play Israel on June 9 before heading to Russia where they have been drawn in Group D with Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria.

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) - Legendary former West Indies wicketkeeper Jeff Dujon, has dismissed speculation over the death of Test cricket, contending the longest format of the game possessed too much history to ever disappear.

While he conceded that Twenty20 cricket was more popular and served as a great revenue-earner, he insisted the format would never hold the prestige Test cricket did.

“Test cricket is never going to die. Other forms of the game have got more and more popular but no books are going to be written about the individuals who played T20 cricket,” Dujon told the Gleaner newspaper here.

“There is really very little history. So I think Test cricket will go on, and I don’t think there is any danger of it dying out. There is too much tradition.”

He added: “The other forms of the game, basically, exist because of the money they generate. So Test cricket is going to be around because no books are really going to be written on T20 or 50 overs, for that matter.”

Test cricket’s appeal has declined in recent years, with broadcasters and audiences preferring the excitement of the made-for-television shortest format.

As a result, various domestic leagues have popped up across the globe, with the Indian Premier League, Australia’s Big Bash and the Caribbean Premier League among the most popular tournaments.

Recently, New Zealand batting star Brendon McCullum predicted the death of Test cricket, arguing cricket’s evolution would soon see players being owned by franchises, which would be reluctant to release them to play Tests.

Dujon said, however, respective national governing bodies for the sport needed to ensure this development did not occur.

“Franchises controlling players is really going to be up to the governing body of those countries,” the Jamaican pointed out.

“If they allow it, that is going to be a mistake. Just think – no more Ashes, something that is a great tradition. Other series have also become great traditions, especially when many of the top teams go to England and Australia.

“Test cricket will always have its historical value, and even though it has faded, it is not going to die.”

Once kings of the longest format, West Indies have taken a plunge over the last two decades and now lie at a historic low of ninth in the ICC rankings.

Also gone are the large crowds which once supported the regional side and Dujon said until there was an upturn in the Windies results, the crowds would stay away.

“Most of the Caribbean support is based on spectator-ship. It’s a function of winning,” he explained.

“So until West Indies start winning again, I don’t think any marketing ploy can change that (decline in support). It’s about winning, and for the people, it’s about the power of expectation.

“So if people have expectations of winning, they will go. If not, they will not go.”

Dujon played 81 Tests between 1981 and 1991, scoring 3 322 runs and recording 267 catches and five stumpings.

e s i m o r p a d u m r e Guyana, B t h g i n o t t s e t n o c ‘mouth-watering’

Guyana’s National Women’s team along with members of the coaching staff

See Page 34

Bermuda’s coaching staff (L-R), Vance Browne (assistant coach), Naquita Robinson (head coach) and Davon Cooper (goalkeeper coach)

Teams briefed ahead of Exxon U-14 football tournament See page 34

… MoPH joins tournament

Faf du Plessis blasts Chennai into IPL final T&T, Jamaica happy with CONCACAF’s grassroots push

See Page 39

See Page 38

The various teams in the ExxonMobil Secondary School U-14 football tournament

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 23, 2018