Guyana chronicle e paper 12 20 2017 by Guyana Chronicle

Brazil donates 10,000 units of MMR vaccines to Guyana Page 15

No. 105132

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2017

Price: $80 (VAT Inclusive)

On guard against dirty money … GLSC on the lookout for money launderers buying up state lands

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‘Put country first’

Traffic cop tops ‘A’ Division awards Page 3

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…Min. Greenidge urges a more ‘tranquil’ debate on oil sector

Young truck driver shot

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Police in massive campaign against carjackings Page 4

Sergeant Gavin Boyce received awards in four categories, copping the overall Best Cop Award. In this Department of Public Information photo he receives his trophy from a Laparkan representative, Ms. A. Singh

CARICOM opposes EU tax haven blacklist

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GDF to increase assets next year -chief-of-staff

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

CARICOM opposes EU tax haven blacklist

AS four territories within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have been blacklisted by the European Union (EU) for being part of the EU List of Non-Cooperative Tax Jurisdictions, CARICOM on Tuesday called on the European Union to enter an early dialogue with CARICOM states as a group, with a view to agreeing on benchmarks for good tax governance that could be applied in a fair and equitable manner, taking account of the economic circumstances and capacity of all their jurisdictions. On December 5, the EU announced that the first-ever EU list of non-cooperative tax jurisdictions has been agreed by the Finance Ministers of EU member states during their meeting in Brussels. Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, St. Lucia and Barbados, have been listed as four of 17 non-cooperative tax jurisdictions. “In total, ministers have listed 17 countries for failing to meet agreed tax good- governance standards. In addition, 47 countries have committed to addressing deficiencies in their tax systems and to meet the required criteria, following contacts with the EU,” a statement published on the commission’s website

stated. “This unprecedented exercise should raise the level of tax good-governance globally and help prevent the large-scale tax abuse exposed in recent scandals,” the statement added. Pierre Moscovici, Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs, Taxation and Customs, said: “The adoption of the first- ever EU blacklist of tax havens marks a key victory for transparency and fairness.” He noted that the process does not stop there as intensified pressure must be placed on listed countries “to change their ways.” “Blacklisted jurisdictions must face consequences in the form of dissuasive sanctions, while those that have made commitments must follow up on them quickly and credibly. There must be no naivety: promises must be turned into actions. No one must get a free pass,” Moscovici stated. But CARICOM has objected strongly to the European Union’s blacklisting of four CARICOM jurisdictions, calling the move a “false narrative” that ignores the continued and diligent efforts made by CARICOM member states to comply with the onerous regulatory measures. CARICOM countries, the secretariat said, has worked tirelessly to comply

with the standards for tax transparency, accountability and cooperation, enunciated by the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and associated institutions such as the Global Forum and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). CARICOM said the four CARICOM countries were blacklisted under the guise that they maintain harmful preferential tax regimes or have failed to comply with international standards for tax transparency and good governance. “This classification will significantly damage the reputations of these jurisdictions even if they are eventually removed from the list. The Caribbean Community considers the EU’s unilateral screening process to be unjust and inequitable since it has not been applied to its own members nor subject to peer review examination,” a statement from CARICOM said on Tuesday. According to the statement, the screening process involves an assessment of a country’s tax regime against criteria, which in their entirety go beyond the generally acceptable international tax transparency and accountability standards, compliance with which CARICOM states have worked assiduously over the past

several years. Moreover, the regional body said the implementation of the expanded scope of the EU’s criteria requires domestic legislative and administrative changes that go beyond the timelines set by the EU Code of Conduct Group. “Such reforms cannot be undertaken by our small jurisdictions without considerable technical assistance due to significant capacity constraints.” Additionally, the decision to apply both non-tax and tax-related defensive measures is also of great concern to CARICOM member states, “as it seeks to coerce compliance with screening benchmarks that have been unilaterally determined by the EU and that are not applicable to its own members.” The recommended nontax and tax-related defensive measures will serve as a deterrent to much-needed existing and new foreign private investments that are required to grow our small, highly- vulnerable economies and promote sustainable development, CARICOM said. “In addition to being harmful, these recommendations are inconsistent with the objectives and principles enshrined in the EU-CARICOM Economic Partnership Agreement. The Caribbean Com-

CARICOM Secretary-General Irwin LaRocque munity recognises the right of every state to protect its revenue base, but the determination of standards, which might be adopted by other states, must be undertaken in a mutually inclusive process.” Therefore, the Caribbean Community calls upon the EU to desist from the imposition of any defensive measures and to enter an early dialogue with CARICOM states as a group with a view to agreeing on benchmarks for good tax governance that could be applied in a fair and equitable manner, taking account of the economic circumstances and capacity of all their jurisdictions. Among those on the EU List of Non-Cooperative Tax Jurisdictions are Amer-

ican Samoa, Bahrain, Guam, Korea (Republic of), Macao SAR, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Namibia, Palau, Panama, Samoa, Tunisia and United Arab Emirates. Meanwhile, the idea of an EU list was conceived by the commission and subsequently taken forward by member states. Compilation of the list has prompted active engagement from many of the EU’s international partners. However, work must now continue as 47 more countries should meet EU criteria by the end of 2018, or 2019 for developing countries without financial centres, to avoid being listed, the EU statement said. The EU listing process is expected to continue into 2018 and as a first step, a letter will be sent to all jurisdictions on the EU list, explaining the decision and what they can do to be de-listed. “The commission and member states (in the Code of Conduct Group) will continue to monitor all jurisdictions closely, to ensure that commitments are fulfilled and to determine whether any other countries[sic’ should be listed in the future.” A first interim progress report should be published by mid-2018. The EU’s list will be updated at least once a year.

British High Commission donates cash, other items to Joshua House

THE British High Commission and Quantum Leap Security on Tuesday handed over cash amounting to approximately US$ 1,500, toys and books to the Joshua House Children’s Home. The money, toys and books were raised with the generous support of donors, spectators and players from two recent charity cricket matches that took place between the diplomatic community (representatives from the British High Commission, the U.S. Embassy, the High Commission of India and United Nations Development Fund) and Quantum Leap Security. Some of the donors that made this charity initiative

British High Commissioner, Greg Quinn, hands over some of the items to children of Joshua House a success were, Pizza Hut Guyana, Marriott Hotel, Palm Court, Roy Beepat

of Gift Land Mall, Ameena Gafoor, Ricki and Bibi Ramsaroop and Lewis and

Neeve Kartick, the British High Commission said in a release.

British High Commissioner Greg Quinn hands over US$ 1,500 to an official of Joshua House

On guard against dirty money 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

… GLSC on the lookout for money launderers buying up state lands

By Svetlana Marshall THE Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) said that while it is taking steps to speed-up the process for the leasing of state lands it is has been collaborating with agencies such as the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), to guard against the purchasing of lands for the purposes of money laundering. “We are following the anti-money laundering law in relation to large sums of money being paid over in cash, for example, by our prospective lease holders,” Chief Executive Officer of the GLSC, Trevor Benn told a news conference on Tuesday, adding, “we are on the look-out” despite the fact that “we are paper-based”. The US Department of State’s Inter-national Narcotics Control Strategy Report for 2005 had named convicted drug lord Roger Khan, saying then that drug traffickers appeared to be gaining a significant foothold in Guyana’s timber industry. The report mentioned that in 2005, the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) had granted a State Forest Exploratory Permit for a large tract of land in Guyana’s interior to Aurelius Inc.- a company that was controlled by Khan. Such concessions in the remote interior may allow drug traffickers to establish autonomous outposts beyond the reach of the Guyanese law enforcement,” the US report had stated. The publication of the report resulted in a freeze of the forestry transaction. Benn told reporters that unless there is good reason,

persons could not be blacklisted based on newspaper reports but on concrete information from SOCU (Special Organised Crime Unit) and the FIU (Financial Intelligence Unit). “We don’t process those applications,” he said, when asked if FIU and SOCU advises the GLSC what is done. Only recently, Attorney General Basil Williams disclosed that SOCU continues to receive referrals from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and is conducting investigations into money laundering offences involving over $900B. The AG was at the time making his contributions to this year’s budget debates in the National Assembly. Director of the FIU, Matthew Langevine had also told this newspaper that his unit continues to work together in monitoring new cases of money laundering with improved intelligence analysis. The FIU director said that the unit has had a few new cases which have been passed on to SOCU.

many success stories, its inability to issue allocations within a timely manner continues to be one of its greatest challenges. To date there are approximately 32,000 applications for lands within the system, some of which date back to the 1980s. “We have applications, 32,000 applications on (our) records still to be processed, and, so, every day we receive new applications, new expressions of interest some of them are converted into application,” Commissioner Benn said as he painted a picture of the situation. DEVELOPING NEW AREAS Cognisant of the situation, GLSC is forging ahead with its plans to develop new areas not only for residential purposes. The Commissioner recalled that it was in the late 1960s or early 1970s when the last land development scheme was developed by the commission along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway. “CHPA has done a good job over the years with that (developing lands for housing), but Lands and Surveys has not managed to keep up, we want to change that to open, not only for residential but for commercial purposes, industrial and agricultural purposes,” he posited. While stating clearly that squatting and informal occupation of public lands are illegal, Commissioner Benn said that GLSC is fully aware of some of the issues that give rise to such illegal activity. “Let’s face it a lot of people squat because the process is too long-winded.

GLSC Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Trevor Benn addressing reporters in the presence of Chairperson of GLSC Board of Directors, Paulette Henry (extreme left) and two senior officials attached to the commission We are not allowing them as the Financial Intelligence Because of its financial to squat, we are going after Unit (FIU) to guard against situation, there were a defithose people who squat but the purchasing of lands ciency in equipment, limited the process is so long-wind- for the purposes of money renovations done to buildings ed, imagine you are waiting laundering. and in terms of liquid cash since the 1980s for a lease, the commission was “close NON-PERFORMING five years, 10 years, for one to $200M in the red.” LEASES lease. So we have to change Since then, the ComThat aside, non-permission has made steady that,” he explained. Benn said: “people are desperate, forming leases and infor- progress in addressing these they want some place to live mal subletting remain as challenges. and the Government system stumbling blocks for the “When I arrived, the has not created the momen- commission. Commission was in excess Non-performing leases of a $188M in the red, a tum to allow for the speedy development of new housing refer to the issue of non-pay- $188M, today we have m e n t o f l a n d r e n t a n d over $200M in the bank areas for people.” Commissioner Benn has non-beneficial occupation account but this is even been working with his staff of public lands. It is esti- after we would have exat GLSC to accelerate the rate mated that 40% of all leases pended on a number of in which land applications are issued by the Commission is projects across the counprocessed. It is his hope that non-performing. Defaulters try, we still have that, and within the not so distant fu- are being written to on the is- I believe that it is largely ture, applications can be pro- sue, and steps are being taken due to the efforts we made cessed within three months. to repossess lands, especially in 2017, in particular, to But while the Commission those non-performing. change the way we operate This 40%, Commissioner in terms of dealing with is implementing the necessary measures to reduce the Benn, noted accounts for potential lease holders, so backlog of applications, it is millions of dollars which we now have a more rigalso conducting the necessary stymies the commission’s orous system in collecting due diligence to ensure that operations. He recalled that our revenues and accountthose awarded leases are not upon entering office in 2016, ing for it,” Commissioner engaged in money laundering the commission was millions Benn explained. For 2017, or any other illegal activities. of dollars in the “red” due to the GLSC raked in a total GLSC has been collab- issues such as non-perform- of $900M as compared to orating with agencies such ing leases. $250M in 2014.

introspection going forward into the New Year. “Much is expected of us every day… so it is important that we understand this calling that we have chosen…let us see how best we can reduce those shortcomings we have”, Ramnarine advised. The acting commissioner said he was pleased with the overall performance of the ‘A’ Division. Giving an overview of the ‘A’ Division’s performance in 2017, Commander Marlon Chapman highlighted that his unit in addition to recovering a total of 54 different firearms, has seen a 17 per cent reduction in break and enter larceny. The commander also praised his division for their performance in traffic control, noting that the Best Cop awardee serves in that department. Chapman assured the public that more will be done by his unit in 2018. The officers were treated with a two-course lunch and several entertaining performances from their colleagues.

A section of the gathering at the ‘A’ Division Annual Christmas Luncheon and Awards Ceremony held at the Brickdam Police Station Compound (DPI photo)

OPENING NEW LANDS Meanwhile, with approximately 32,000 applications within its system, Benn said the commission is taking critical steps to open up new lands to meet the growing demands of the citizens. At the same time, the commission will be moving aggressively to clamp down on squatting and in possession of non-performing leases. Benn told the news conference that in 2017 the GLSC received a number of Expressions of Interests (EOIs) and applications for lands and, while it has had

Traffic cop tops ‘A’ Division awards

A TRAFFIC rank copped the Best Cop Award when 'A' Division held its awards and prize giving ceremony on Tuesday at its Brickdam headquarters. Over 40 ranks from the division received gifts and awards in various categories for their performances throughout 2017. Awards were presented by the Acting Commissioner of Police, David Ramnarine and representatives from Laparkan, National Hardware, Roraima Airways and several other companies at the division’s annual Christmas luncheon and awards ceremony, at the Brickdam Police Station on Tuesday. Sergeant Gavin Boyce received awards in four categories, copping the overall Best Cop Award. Acting Commissioner of Police, David Ramnarine implored the officers and ranks to use the season to reflect on their work throughout the year. Placing focus on the growing demands of the public and the growth in membership of the police force, Ramnarine charged the officers to do some

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Police in massive campaign against carjackings

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is embarking on a massive campaign across the country to clamp down on the number of carjackings that have occurred over the past few months. Crime Chief Paul Williams told reporters Tuesday that while the police have made some inroads; more work has to be done. He said over the past three days, law enforcement officers have been able to apprehend four persons who are deemed to be involved in a carjacking

ring. One of the accused hails from West Demerara, while two are from the East Coast. “We are looking at it seriously– we are mobilising a joint team- there is going to be a massive joint operation across the country and we are going to deal with this matter seriously because these cars are going somewhere and we have to find out who is encouraging it because if they weren’t markets then they won’t have been stolen,” Williams

declared. He said that based on statistics before the Police, Premio and Allion model cars are in high demand but cautioned citizens to be vigilant and alert while using the roadways. “…when you look at it, you can’t rule out that they won’t come after other vehicles,” he said. “What I see is that these are persons who are moving around looking for the opportunity to strike. Once the opportunity avails itself then they strike. What I am

appealing to the public is that on your way home, alert somebody that you are coming…have then look out for you, come down and open the gate because most of the persons who have been attacked are persons who parked, come out of car to open gate and that is where they are being stuck up and the car taken away,” the Crime Chief asserted. He is urging drivers to be on the lookout for persons who may be trailing them. “Just be observant…I am

asking you to be alert, very vigilant,” he said noting that the Police is following every lead possible to crash the carjacking ring. Williams assured that the situation is being monitored closely but noted that while the police are in pursuit of those in the ring, several factors have to be taken into consideration. He questioned the motive behind the carjackings. “Is it that dealers are sending people to retrieve the cars – is it indeed that these cars that are being

hijacked are no longer being allowed to be imported because of the restrictions by GRA…are they are being dismantled for spare parts?” he questioned. That aside, the Crime Chief also questioned whether people are staging the hijacks “because they want to claim money from their insurance.” “These are things we are taking into consideration but it is something we are very concerned about,” Williams stated.

France pledges support to help CARICOM fight organised crime

FRANCE has re-committed to participating in the development of the Caribbean Community with the accreditation of a new envoy, Antoine Joly, to the Region. At the accreditation ceremony held at the Georgetown, Guyana Headquarters of the CARICOM Secretariat last week, Mr Joly told the Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque that France wanted to encourage economic exchanges, contribute to security and to

strengthen cultural ties within the Region. He said his government was interested in supporting the Region’s fight against organised crime and drug trafficking, as well as strengthening the capacity of local authorities. Describing France as a partner in protection of the environment that it shares with the Region, he said since its chairmanship of COP21, France has maintained “close dialogue” with the Caribbean in the fight against climate

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change. “With the risk of natural disasters facing the Caribbean, France favours a logic of prevention, leading the Climate Risk Early Warning Systems (CREWS) initiative. It implements cooperation actions in the most vulnerable countries and seeks to leverage other funding and projects,” he noted. Against that backdrop, he said the purpose of the One Planet Summit was to fulfil the financial commitments of the International Community

for climate change adaption in vulnerable countries. Noting that he was aware of the “extremely important” contribution framework presented by the Caribbean Climate-Smart Coalition to address obstacles to climate-smart investments, he said French solidarity was expressed not only with emergency aid when natural disasters occur, but also by participating in the establishment of networks to understand natural phenomena, to prevent risks, to organise

(L-R) Amb. Colin Granderson, Assistant Secretary-General, Foreign and Community Relations, CARICOM Secretariat; Mrs. Edith Joly, wife of the Plenipotentiary Representative of France to CARICOM; His Excellency Antoine Joly, Plenipotentiary Representative of France to CARICOM; Secretary-General of CARICOM, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque; and Honorary Consul of France in Guyana, Mr. David Bertelli.

for small and medium-sized companies. But we want and we can do more by bringing to the Caribbean Community, in particular to the numerous specialised agencies that you have been able to create, the willingness to cooperate with the men and women of our collectivities in the Caribbean, their elected representatives, their universities, their research centres, their hospitals, their businesses.” In this context, he said his government supported Guadeloupe, Martinique and French Guiana’s applications for associate members’ status in CARICOM. This, he said, will allow new initiatives to flourish in respect of their relationship with the European Union as French Overseas Departments. “For that they will have, and you will always have the support of France and its government,” the new French Ambassador underscored. (CARICOM Secretariat)

aid and relief systems for the affected population, and to mitigate the consequences of disasters. “And we are ready to sign the agreement on civil protection between France and the Caribbean Community on Technical Co-operation and mutual assistance in civil security,” the new French envoy stated. France has been an important partner with the Community in areas, including Security, Agriculture, Health and Disaster Management. The ambassador noted that economic exchanges and commercial trade were also a priority of France within the Economic Partnership Agreement between CARIFORUM and the European Union. He said: “The Caribbean is also the first tourist destination in the tropical world, with about 30 million tourists a year and French companies are very involved in this sector. Intra-regional trade also offers interesting development opportunities

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, decemBER 20, 2017

One dead after Vlissengen Road accident

A 42-YEAR-OLD pedal cyclist, Desmond Grandasoult, of Dedication Place, South Ruimveldt Park, Georgetown, died after he was struck by a Route 40 minibus, BTT 8476 at around 08:45 hrs on Monday morning. A Police report stated that the minibus which was driven by Jamal John, 30, of Long Dam, Vergenoegen, West Coast Demerara (WCD), and the cyclist were

The partially submerged minibus in the Vlissengen Road canal. proceeding south along Vlissengen Road. Grandasoult was on the eastern side of the road and in the vicinity of Eping Avenue and KFC, the cyclist attempted to cross to the western side of the road and in front of the minibus.. The minibus, the Chronicle learnt, collided with the rear of the bike of the cyclist causing him to fall before running over him. The bus ended up into the nearby canal. An unconscious Grandsaoult who was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) in a critical condition, died subsequently. Eyewitnesses told the Guyana Chronicle that after the bus ended up into the canal and began to submerge, the driver came out and fled the scene. Shortly after, the alleged owner of the minibus arrived and he jumped into the canal to rescue the passengers who were still trapped inside. The man also tried to salvage equipment that was inside the bus. Investigations are ongoing.

Duo nabbed at Victoria with stolen car POLICE said that their investigators continue to redouble efforts to arrest the recent suspects in incidents of robbery under arms where vehicles were stolen and late Monday night nabbed two men at Victoria, East Coast Demerara with one of the stolen vehicles. In a statement police said about 23:00h at Victoria, ECD police ranks in C Division arrested two men in a motorcar which had no registration plates and is suspected to have been stolen. A third suspect was detained shortly after in connection with the said vehicle. Also Monday morning an ex-policeman was arrested minutes after he allegedly stole a policemanâ€™s vehicle at Alberttown. Further, last week in the West Demerara (D Division) another suspected car thief was charged with simple larceny of two vehicles and has since been remanded.

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Social Cohesion THE construction of the Cummingsburg Accord gave birth to the coalition of six parties that contested a national election in Guyana. Multi-ethnic in composition, there was no surprise that this coalition -- the A Partnership For National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), made national unity one of its main election campaign platforms. It is a coveted goal that resonated with all right-thinking Guyanese, especially those who would have lived through the racial strife of the early 1960s, and witnessed what it did in terms of damaging what was once good neighbourly relations and the psyche of this country. As an accomplished historian, the narrowness of

the 2015 coalition victory would not have missed President David Granger’s analytical appraisal in terms of what it meant for Guyana. It explained why he readily offered his administration’s willingness to work with the political opposition, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), towards establishing a mechanism to work towards national unity. His sincerity to such an end was underlined by his formation of a Ministry of Social Cohesion. Such a development was indeed welcomed and a necessary step in seeking to advance such a seminal concept to its desired end, because of its all-importance to what could accrue for the socio-economic potential of Guyana. Such an important proposal, ought not to have

been held hostage as any form of condition for participation in such a critical endeavour, as the quest for national unity, especially by an opposition party whose role in finding solutions for national unity,is equally important. For any opposition party to speak of non-participation because of what it has alleged to be “witch-hunting” of its supporters, being investigated for criminal theft of state resources, was most unconscionable, as it was unreasonable. The importance of social cohesion cannot be overemphasised. According to the United Nations, “Fostering social cohesion is about striving for greater inclusiveness, more civic participation and creating opportunities for upward mobility...Social capital refers to trust

between people and in institutions and the sense of belonging to a society.” Though we understand the inherent challenges in the concept of national cohesion, it is still a desired goal, a missing element and an absolute necessity for a country that is ethnically divided. The realisation of this sad fact of our national life that has continued to bedevil the untapped potential of this country, from generation to generation, should be enough of a reason for national conversations to commence in earnest. We argue, unapologetically, that the promotion of this ideal will lend to a better understanding of each of us; commence the breaking down of disdain, suspicion, and mistrust; an acceptance that as Guyanese our destinies are all intertwined, and

that working together, we can move Guyana to greater heights as never before. If we are saying that those goals cannot be achieved, then we are admitting failure even before we have started. We are saying to ourselves that we lack the will to pursue the single most important political landmark that continues to elude us all as Guyanese. The bottom line to this admission of self-defeat, is that we will be constantly in fear of each other and bequeath a divided nation to our

heirs. There are those, who for narrow and selfish ends, such as political power and dominance, continue to trample this important quest for social cohesion under foot, and trivialise its necessity for the future well-being of Guyana and its people. These are unpatriotic Guyanese, who are patently selfish. But they must understand that for each day of not joining in the quest for national unity, is a day less for the final prosperity and peace of this nation.

The vulgarity and immorality in front places of worship must stop Dear Editor, I write this letter not only as a concerned resident of West Coast Demerara (WCD) but also out of concern for the health of senior citizens and the vulgarity, violence and immorality that pass off as entertainment in our society for the youths. Most recent is the “Grand BBQ and Lime Family Fun Entertainment” that was hosted Saturday night (December 16) at Tarla Dam, Meten-Meerzorg which promoted vulgar music, disrespect for the community and its leaders, while managing to escalate into violence that led to the death of 44-year-old

Amit Roy Jairam. Jairam was struck down by the same person who chopped and injured others, due to the deliberate, reckless and wanton driving of a 54-year-old minibus driver who is an ex-policeman of Stewartville, WCD. Apparently not satisfied, the suspect returned in his vehicle and at a very fast rate struck down the other two victims who were among other persons attending to the injured. The victims, all unconscious, were rushed to the West Demerara Regional Health facility where they were treated and transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital. First, this lawlessness

occurred not too far from the Meten-Meer-zorg east masjid and I would like to know which police office or NDC official gave permission for such an event, without notifying the masjid or residents in the area. President David Granger and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, these are the type of things that must not be allowed to slip through the cracks, because it will evolve into something worst. Next weekend there is another vulgar event at the same venue right opposite the mosque. The title of this event on a banner is “Split in De Middle All Black Party.” This event, as stated on the banner, is promoting

vulgarity by awarding cash to a woman who does the “Split in the middle” while promoting noise pollution by seeking bus and cars that play the loudest music. [poster provided] These are the types of things that are taken for granted and we wonder why our society has lost its moral compass and there is so much violence against women and their bodies. These are root causes for the disrespect. How can the NDC or police give permission to such lawlessness within the division or even allow such events that promote disrespect to women in our society? Sanctions must fall

where they may, Mr. President and Security Minister. If this is not a wake-up call, I don’t know what is. This is why residents fear weekends and holidays, as they are forced to be entertained by this unwanted vulgarity and lawlessness. Our children cannot study for crucial exams; our pets are terrified while we cannot even speak to our relatives in our own homes, as we are unable to hear each other properly. We look forward to an early resolution of this problem as thousands of our peace loving and hardworking residents are affected. If such an event in future ever be granted permission, then such event should be

held in a zinc-fenced area and not in a public square, like in front of places of worship’ If last Saturday night’s event was held in a fenced area, then Amit Roy Jairam would have been alive today. We the residents and t h e v a r i o u s re l i g i o u s groups are declaring that we don’t want any type of these activities in front places of worship. We are also demanding that the event permit for ‘split in the middle ‘on December, 23, 2017, should be rescinded, since it is less than 500 feet from a place of worship. IMAM HALIM KHAN

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Dear Editor, I have written a letter to the press expressing my utter disappointment on how the noise pollution on the Upper Corentyne areas are negatively affecting the residents, especially the vulnerable, through the illegal use of 1200 watt amplifiers and loudspeakers to do mobile commercial advertising and vending. I would like to point out that the Commander of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in Region 6 should not be

the one to grant permission to do this. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the body responsible for this. Those in authority in this country seem to be harbouring a debilitating misbelief that if you ignore facts then they will go away with time. However, what they have failed to recognise is that ignoring negative things that need to be fixed cannot only be counterproductive but destructive as well. I have intended to invoke the attention of the Minister of Public Security, the Com-

missioner of Police and the EPA. In fact, the scenario is getting worse since it now seems that only a particular person is given the Commander’s ‘permission’ to conduct this illegal commercial mobile advertisement. This same particular person has a virtual monopoly and is doing as many as six advertisements per day using a few vehicles. This would rake in at least hundreds of thousands per week. I hope the GRA office is taking notes. This person has great

Jagdeo’s promise should be questioned Dear Editor,

WORKERS/CITIZENS have to hold the politicians accountable for lying to them, taking them for granted, and treating their business with contempt. Bharrat Jagdeo’s statement that should the PPP/C win office in 2020, laid-off sugar workers will be paid a stipend, must be questioned. When the workers of Diamond Estate were laid off during his presidency, they did not receive one cent in stipend. In fact, for the laid-off Diamond workers to receive their redundancy benefit, they had to go to the court. It was only after this matter was before the court that the Jagdeo government sat with the sugar unions and set-

tled the issue of redundancy pay. If redundancy benefits, which are supposed to be paid under the Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act, the Jagdeo government initially refused to respect, how in heavens a Jagdeo/PPP government of 2020 will ever pay a stipend when no law prescribes such. In all the talks about the state of the industry, its future and that of the workers, Jagdeo has failed to come up with a plan and put it in the public domain that would cause the APNU+AFC government, sugar workers, their unions, other stakeholders and society to examine. Instead, sugar workers are being told pie-in-the-sky stories not to improve their lot, but Jagdeo/PPP’s chances at the next elections.

Sugar workers must demand from Jagdeo a plan to resuscitate the industry, making it viable, in order that their jobs can be protected. It is time the trade union and society hold him accountable for his statements on the industry and promises being made to sugar workers. Equally, the APNU+AFC government must be held accountable for their actions in the industry, whether or not they are feasible. The focus on this industry must not only be driven by profit and loss, but the socio-economic welfare of the workers and their communities must be given equal consideration. Regards LINCOLN LEWIS

connections with high persons in the GPF. Unless given a top rank police a commission to get the monopoly to advertise. Indeed, he has mastered of the art of getting maximum benefits. This just goes to show the power of money. This individual has his hands in everything: he is in contracting, he is in advertising, he is in promoting shows, he is doing pujaree (doing religious services for money) work and he is actively involved in playing both sides of politics as a means of amassing his mate-

rial wealth. Indeed, this man is real ’fit and proper’ for all seasons. My region has five local television programmes that cover from end to end and these commercial advertisements can be advertised on these programmes so why use public announcement system to disturb the peace? It is difficult to fathom such massive corruption perpetrated by a man in society. The EPA has failed, the Public Security Minister has failed, the Commissioner has failed and

of course the Commander of the Region has failed the elderly, single mothers and not to mention the workers in the night trying to rest. I do feel it will be futile to call upon the authorities to do anything, so Good Lord will you help us? However, a final word of advice to the Government: By ignoring the show you’re ignoring the audience who put you there. Yours sincerely, SHERRY ANN JOHNSON (Retired teacher)

City Hall recommits to securing the health, safety of citizens Dear Editor,

PLEASE refer to a letter which appeared in your newspaper on Monday, December 18, 2017 titled “City Hall is a special place.” by Shanta Singh. The Mayor and City Council wishes to thank Ms. Singh for the interest she has shown in the work of its various agencies, in particular, the City Constabulary. It should be noted that this particular writer appears to see the Council only in a negative light. This is demonstrated by the pattern and contents of previous letters written by her in our dailies. Suffice it to say, we are not worried with this negative perspective by Ms. Shanta Singh, but we continue to ask that those who write on matters affecting the council and consequently the city, to be fair, truthful and objective in their writings. Of course, if writers have their own hidden agendas, then this would be difficult to achieve.

In this particular letter, the writer seems to be in possession of information that is not within the archives of the Council when she stated: “In the past there have been disappearances of large quantities of ammunition…” Paragraph 4. We are not aware that this has ever happened at the City Council. However, we would be happy to peruse any information or informational materials the writer may have in this regard. We have always admitted that the Constabulary, just like every other police and security agency, has its challenges. That notwithstanding, it is well known that the Council has put in place systems to manage and monitor the movement and use of all its properties, including weapons and allied security equipment. In the case of the Constabulary, there are systems in place to track the use of all of its properties including firearms, communication sets and vehicles. In fact, the discovery of the missing firearm testifies

to the effectiveness of those systems. Therefore, we disagree with comments made by Shanta Singh at Paragraph 5 to the effect that: “…This points to gross negligence, sloppy management and extreme dishonesty and the buck must stop at the political and administrative leadership of the Council …” We are afraid that the writer appears to be totally uninformed and as a result her utterances are unfair, not only to the leadership of the Council, but also the entire city of Georgetown. We wish to reaffirm our commitment to securing the health, the safety and the protection of local communities and their citizens. We continue to demonstrate the credentials and responsibility to manage all of our statutory duties and obligations to the city. Regards ROYSTON KING Town Clerk City of Georgetown

Dear Editor, SINCE May 21, 2015 when President David Granger with comrades, Joe Harmon and Raphael Trotman, took a helicopter ride to the ExxonMobil oil` rig in the Atlantic Ocean (Stabroek Block) to be embraced, Rastafari in Guyana have been monitoring the APNU+AFC government, winner of the election on May 16, 2015, on all aspects (or non-aspects) of oil and gas production and administration in Guyana by ExxonMobil. Rastafari have been in gold production for decades and know well about gold and diamond exploration, production and regulations. Rastafari have been reading and watching the news about the oil fields in off-shore Guyana, because we have mastered the gold fields in the hinterland of Guyana. For us, Rastafari is the destiny of Guyana. It is from this view point that the Rastafari Community of all Guyana (RCG) and their counterparts react to the newspaper headline ‘Greenidge jumps to ExxonMobil’s defence’ in Kaieteur News (December 5, 2017). The newspaper quoted Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, as saying in Berbice, “Prolonged cuss out of oil company ExxonMobil is unwarranted”. Greenidge also cautioned citizens to not “believe these jokers that would have you cuss out a company that has found oil and develops that oil”. Greenidge was referring to journalists as jokers. Question: Is Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge a stooge of ExxonMobil? Does he know the hidden agenda of the oil company? Discuss. Rastafari Intellectual Army (RIA) will not allow pain to be inflicted on the Rasta-

fari in Guyana by ExxonMobil or the APNU+AFC government. What are the aspects (or non-aspects) of oil and gas exploration, production and regulations that the RIA will be monitoring? First, let it be known to all Guyana that Rastas will be monitoring oil and gas from production to closure of all oil fields in Guyana. Every reservoir on-shore or off-shore, shallow or deep we will examine. We will share with counterparts in Africa. We will begin with Liza oil field in the Stabroek Block in off-shore Guyana that ExxonMobil is contracted to liberate oil from its reservoir. ExxonMobil has a floating production, storage, and off-loading vessel above the Lisa reservoir. Commercial production of oil for export is expected to start in 2020. The gas could be used for production, flared or sent onshore for generation of electricity; no decision has yet been taken on Guyana’s gas, and this Rasta will monitor. The Rastafari Intellectual Army expects the journalists of Guyana to release to the citizens of Guyana the Field Development Plan (FDP) of Liza oil reservoir. The oil belongs to Guyanese. Not only senior politicians must know of the Field Development Plan. The FDP is one aspect of the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) between the people of Guyana and contractor ExxonMobil. This FDP by ExxonMobil will bring into being a new culture of Guyanese citizens because we, as owners of the reservoir, will be scrutinising it. Rastafari geologists, geochemists, geophysicists, geobiologists, geo-mathematicians, petroleum engineers, drilling and completion specialists, facilities specialists, operation and production specialists, environmental specialists, planners and cost

estimators, quantity surveyors, auditors, land surveyors, economists and commercial experts, pastors, lawyers, medical practitioners and other workers will advance Guyana to a new technical culture. Rastafari can supply all these workers because Rasta specialists are in the Caribbean and all continents of the world. When Carl Greenidge blurts out that “It is our job to ensure that our Inland Revenue Department is competently manned so as to analyse their books and impose taxes they are supposed to pay; you can’t start up by beating up the company when in fact the company hasn’t been due to pay taxes and (has not) refused to pay taxes”, he is addressing only one aspect of monitoring. Carl Greenidge’s vision must be taken beyond revenue and taxes. In the 1980s, Carl Greenidge as Minister of Economic Affairs, destroyed native manufacturers and enriched native importers (foreign currency was available to importers) and foreign investors. But not this time! Journalist Freddie Kissoon wrote recently “Hoyte engineered perhaps the cruelest anti-people structural adjustment system a post-colonial government ever pursued, named the Economic Recovery Programme. Hoyte had his own meaning of what people meant; for him it didn’t mean the masses”. President Desmond Hoyte’s Economic Affairs Minister was Carl Greenidge. Carl Greenidge has a degree in economics (wealth) but he does not know that wealth comes from the application of science (technology). He bows down to importers and investment paying rents, royalties, taxes and providing jobs. He favours foreigners and jobs – the recipe of enslavement of Guyanese. As Minister of For-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

eign Affairs, he has to show discernment of motives of actions. ExxonMobil is not into Guyana’s essence of egalitarianism and liberty. ExxonMobil is the very essence of a USA capitalist brute - high profit, tax dodging and low wages. Greenidge was told by journalists (and hopefully his diplomats) that in Chad, Papua New Guinea, Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria, ExxonMobil refused to pay taxes and royalties and has a track record of acts of bribery and corruption as well as destruction of the environment. Greenidge is now President David Granger’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Granger needs a foreign minister with the mental agility to deal with ExxonMobil’s hidden agenda and not revenue matters. On December 8, 2017, the media disclosed that the Guyana Government took US$18 million from ExxonMobil to finance ‘territorial integrity’ in the border dispute with Venezuela. Second, the media said that US$18 million is a ‘signature bonus’as per the Production Sharing Contract (PSC). Third, the media said that this money is in an escrow account at the

Bank of Guyana. What are the techniques of bribery and corruption that tests a politician’s patriotism? ExxonMobil will get back their money using ‘Cost Recovery’ arithmetic. What is ExxonMobil, or political USA, inner motive here? The Ministry of Foreign Affairs needs to be schooled on how Ethiopia defended its territory between the Battle of Adowa and its membership of the League of Nations. How to prevent war and how to prevent the president and core ministers from being asphyxiated is Greenidge’s present responsibility. On June 14, 1999, USAborn Mrs. Janet Jagan, as President of Guyana, gave USA ExxonMobil 600 blocks of Guyana’s oil land instead of 60 blocks. One section of the regulations on oil says that an investor can get no more than 60 blocks of land. Another section of the same regulations says “Under special considerations” the Minister can give oil land in excess of 60 blocks. So, Mrs. Jagan gave ExxonMobil 600 blocks. What was Mrs. Jagan’s motive for this action? Beyond US$18

million, territorial integrity, signature bonus, 60 blocks, 600 blocks and ‘under special considerations’ is our border case with Venezuela. We could be at war within the next generation – no joke. Oil and wars have been companions for the last hundred years – check the history. Rastafari must unite. Regards, Ras Leon Saul (Publisher / Producer / Broadcaster) Ras Bizzi Pastor Elise Ras Daweed (De Kulture Ambassador) Ernest Sealey (Vendor) Lindon Jeffrey (Vendor) Troy Wright (Vendor) Neville Jordan (structural engineer) ‘Magic’ October (Prince, Sons & Daughter) Debra Rogers (vendor) Ras Leston Andrews (Transport Facilitator) Leonard Higgins (Aircraft Engineer) Ras Dalgettie I (Chemist at mineral processing) Jah Lion (Theocracy Mansion)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, decemBER 20, 2017

‘Put country first’ … Min. Greenidge urges a more 'tranquil' debate on oil sector

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge has clarified that he never suggested that media houses should “go easy” on ExxonMobil, but urged a more informed and reasoned debate while putting the nation’s best interest at the front of any debate. Recently, there has been much debate in the media about the US$18M ExxonMobil signing bonus and the government’s involvement, as well as criticisms against Greenidge for calling on citizens not to beat up on the oil firm. Greenidge told SafeTV News in an interview on Monday that there were reports floating around which suggested that he requested that the media “go easy” on the oil company. In response to these remarks, Greenidge said that he did not ask the media to go easy on Exxon Mobil but instead drew their attention to the implications the matter could have on the country attracting investments. “I have at no point asked the media to go softly on Exxon, I was drawing to the attention of the press that we are a destination seeking to attract investment, and, we have many competitors,” the minister stated. “Sometimes you have to understand how you are perceived. We need to attract other investors,” he said, adding: “Even today, another multinational investor is to join the team on the shelf and, that is a good thing, but I believe that they themselves would have had cause to pause when the debates were taking place over -- what some people object to the use of the term --, ‘cuss out’ and so forth.” Greenidge also stated that Guyana had, for over 51 years, sought to attract a petroleum investor with financial and other capabilities to maintain interest in Guyana and operate without fear of their vessels being ceased. “We’ve tried in that time to attract a major investor. We had not managed to do so until Exxon came along.

Exxon, having come along, also was prepared to put their money into a project, this is a US $4 billion project, it is very large…and Liza 1, which is where the oil companies are operating and drilling offshore in Guyana, is a project engaging three companies: Exxon Mobil, Hess and CNOOC,” the minister explained. These three companies, he went on to say, should receive similar attention and, at the same time, he found it odd that persons would single out one company to “carry a long string of criticisms of their performance elsewhere”. “My problem was not that they shouldn’t be criticised but that the criticism should be balanced. Exxon actually has not broken any laws in Guyana, it doesn’t owe the government any taxes and it has not yet produced a single barrel of oil. So while it is fine to draw to the public’s attention that, it seems to be a rather jaundiced focus,” he expressed. Greenidge then went on to speak on the coverage of his remarks on the matter by a particular media house. “My comment about Exxon, and maybe I’m at fault here, was not a comment directed to all the media. My comment was directed to one paper, which (paper) sought my reaction to their series on Exxon when that paper first started the series, which is since July. “I hadn’t at the time read it and I gave them a reaction. Without publishing my reaction, the newspaper then launched a very thin, veiled, personal attack, which I regard as abusive,” the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated. He said, he observed that a number of persons were saying that the newspapers had a right to comment, which he agrees with, but it also does not mean that every action the newspaper takes is correct, nor did it give them the right to put words in his mouth. Another matter Greenidge said was

being propelled by the media was that he suggested that Exxon approached him, to seek his assistance in relation to interaction with the press. Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram, was reported as saying that the posture by Greenidge suggests that he is “spokesperson” of the oil company. To this the minster said: “It’s completely false. And, that is the type of problem I’m dealing with. The issue is you can make a case without abusing someone because they have a different view, and you can make a case without fabricating stories.” He explained that it was not part of his responsibilities as the Minister of Foreign Affairs to monitor the activities between the government and its private stakeholders, but to manage and protect the image of Guyana. “My responsibility is not to monitor the daily arrangements between government and any of the private companies. The purpose of my intervention…is to help to deal with the image of Guyana. And, as Foreign Minister, Minister of International Trade, I have a responsibility for investment. “It is a position that is in my letter of appointment. That’s a responsibility; I didn’t [give] it to myself. These were the responsibilities I was given and I do make commentaries from time to time on other entities,” Greenidge said. He then explained that the management of taxation was not his responsibility but that of the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Natural Resources, of which he could make known his concerns to them privately. The Minister of Foreign Affairs then asked why media houses fail to question the government’s dealing with Exxon during the company’s first arrival in Guyana. “When Exxon Mobil and its partners came in here in 1999, I didn’t hear Kaieteur (News) and everybody else making these comments,

they never said to the government, ‘Don’t give them a concession, and don’t give a block.” In addition, he addressed comments that there were similar criticisms coming from his party while they served as the opposition, of investors like ‘Fip’ Motilall and Bai Shan Lin. Greenidge responded to these remarks in stating: “I reject that totally. I have certainly pronounced on ‘Fip’ Motilall not because I knew anything…or didn’t know anything about ‘Fip’ Motilall, but the terms under which he was granted a contract to organise and build a hydro, having had no experience in that regard...and, Bai Shan Lin, for breaking the law.” Greenidge further suggested that individuals attacking ExxonMobil singularly, either call for a contract termination or get along with the business of Guyana. “If some of the comments being made are being embraced fully, like we did recommend with Motilall, you terminate the contract, if that is your view,” Greenidge

stated, adding: “If you’re not going to terminate it, then you have to get on with your work, make sure you can get the taxes from them. Not to be only carrying that battle against them.” Greenidge, said the ExxonMobil signing bonus being alluded to as a bribe or underhand dealing of some sort was ill-conceived. Referring to past times where he had been offered large sums of monies to do something illegal, the minister said, “If I didn’t do it in that time, when money would have been scarce to ministers and to individuals, why would I do that now? “And who in their right mind would…suggest that you sign a contract that would enable you to put 50 million US dollars in your pocket illegally when [being offered elsewhere] there was no contract involved. They didn’t say ‘We want to offer you a bribe, sign this contract’, they simply made the offer…so some of us, I think may be letting our imaginations run away with us.” Greenidge admonished

Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge those debating the issue to look at the bigger picture. “I believe that we have to pay attention to what is going on around us.” “Guyana has national interest and I would like to see all of us address that national interest without the emotional and emotive dimensions that frequently intrude, I think we can all benefit from a more tranquil environment of debate, ” he added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Prevailing myths about rape By Akola Thompson IN 2014, then Commander of ‘A’ Division of the Guyana Police Force, Clifton Hicken, on the issue of rape was quoted as saying: “While we try to prevent somebody from committing the offence we must ensure that we do not create an atmosphere for it to happen,” he said; adding that “and that is why we advocate for young females within a certain age group who are vulnerable, between 13 – 18, to always embrace an attire that is accepted morally.” The Guyana Police Force would later apologise for the remarks of Hicken by stating that it was, “an unfortunate, bad choice of words, since like every other member of

the Guyana Police Force, Hicken understands rape to be a violent act of power and aggression by the perpetrator on a weaker person.” Hicken’s views regarding rape and why it happens is not something that occurred in isolation. He is not the only one who holds views such as that. Unlike others, I like it when those in power make remarks such as the one made by Hicken. It shows that the prevailing myths surrounding rape permeates every level of society. Last year at UG, I heard a male lecturer instruct a group of female students to dress appropriately on a field trip. I questioned him about this and his answers were not surprising. He had similar thoughts like Hick-

en. Only about a month ago, I appeared on a television programme to discuss victim-blaming following the murder of Kescia Branche and the comments surrounding her death. Before we went live, the male host asked myself and the other panelist, whether women should not “know better.” What he was trying to ask was whether or not women are not culpable in their own rapes and death. After all, we all know that we are not safe every time we leave the house, so why then should we still be dressing a certain way and partying into the early morning hours? If a woman is killed or raped tomorrow, chances are that there will be those who will seek to question

whether she had a role in it. The myths surrounding rape are so pervasive, that they are almost unshakeable. In 1993, lawyer and social activist, Josephine Whitehead, had written some viewpoints regarding rape myths. As I read them, I found it unsettling that most of the issues and perceptions we had then concerning rape victims are the exact same issues we have now. One that has changed slightly is the one that states that women cannot be raped in their marriages. It is here that we usually see how women are thought of as possessions rather than fully human. The argument almost always runs akin to the belief that because a man has married a woman,

he now has the right to that woman’s body regardless of her own wishes. Thankfully, since 1993 to now, the laws have changed to reflect more progressive thinking, in that persons can now be charged for rape even if married to their victims. However, the cultural attitude has not changed much since then concerning rape victims and marriage. Next comes the popularised but extremely inaccurate myth that rape is the fulfilment of many women’s sexual fantasies. This myth is usually used to justify the act of rape, by again insisting that it was the sole fault of the victim. If it is one thing I am sure of it is that women are under the constant fear of rape. A lot of times we walk down dark alleys and when we see suspicious men, we hope they just rob us. We hope that they do not get the idea in their heads to rape us. That is the real fear women face everyday. Josephine in her article had commented on this myth, stating, “The failure of men to appreciate the trauma of rape is no doubt due at least in part to the fact that they think of rape as something which only happens to women.” Josephine had also commented upon the myth that rape is caused primarily by sexual desire. Of this, she says “rape is a crime of violence in which the sexual act is merely the expression of the desire to violate and exert power over the victim.” Rape is an act of power. It is about meting out sexual violence on those presumed weaker than you. Finally, there is the prevailing myth of the “lying victim.” Aided on by a cul-

ture that sees women as lesser, the experiences of women are always invalidated, particularly when it comes to rape. Statistics for false rape allegations range between 2-8%. Due to the small number of false reports however, when reports are found out to be false, persons and the media amplify them. What this unfortunately does is lend to the inaccurate belief that women are always lying about rape. What all these myths seek to do is place the burden of responsibility on the victim rather than the rapist. These myths continuously tell young boys and girls that if they are raped, it is somehow their fault. It is not surprising then that we have such low numbers of reported rapes. It is not surprising that many victims would rather suffer in silence rather than speak out and be labelled a liar. Rape victims know that the majority of us are not serious when we tell them to speak out and we will protect them. They just have to look at how we treat other rape victims to know that when it comes to the preservation of a broken society, they will always choose the rapist over the victim. I wanted to go in depth with these myths, but space does not allow it. I will most likely have to do follow up articles to further expand some important points regarding rape myths. If you are interested in this discussion and would like to learn more and ask questions, you can follow the Women’s Wednesdays Guyana Facebook page tomorrow at 12:00pm. www. facebook.com/wwguyana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

President urges focus on Protestant Reformation

PRESIDENT David Granger on Monday met with Christian leaders at State House and urged them to focus on the 500th anniversary of what is called the Protestant Reformation, which was celebrated on October 31, 2017 and to determine the effects it has had on the wider world and Guyana. He said too that State House is a home for all Guyanese, regardless of their ethnicity, religion or culture, as he hosted a luncheon for leaders from the Christian community in observance of advent, a season observed by Christians as a time of celebration of the birth of Christ. In his remarks to the leaders, which included Bishop Raphael Massiah, CCH; Bishop John Smith, CCH; Apostle Elsworth Williams, CCH; Apostle Winston McGowan, CCH; Reverend Patrick Doolichand; Bishop Louis Crawford, CCH; Apostle Alim Musalim and Reverend Ravindra Shiwnandan, President Granger said that he is open to engaging all sections

and people of society. President Granger has been meeting with the Christian leaders since his time as leader of the opposition and this has continued with his assumption of the office of President. “I would like to ask that we maintain this pattern of meetings, so that we do not break contact. No matter how brief it is, no matter if there is lunch or not, I think it is important that we meet and engage on matters that you want to discuss. It is not a political rally. It is not a one-sided story. I wanted to welcome you here at Advent. At Diwali, the Hindus were here and after Eid, the Muslims were here. On the May 16, I said that I am President of all Guyana and Hindus are welcomed here, Muslims are welcomed here and Christians are welcomed here,” he said. Meanwhile, Bishop Massiah, in brief remarks, noted that the Christian community is thankful yet fascinated that the President has decided to engage the Christian community on matters of national

President David Granger addressing Christian leaders at the luncheon importance. Every Guyanese and institution, he said, has a role and duty to fulfil in the country’s development and it must begin now. “Since he was the leader of the opposition, we met with him and we found it fascinating that he wanted to engage the Christian community on issues that were heavy on his heart and the vision that

he had for the development of the nation. We believe that Guyana is poised to fulfil her continental destiny and that destiny would only be fulfilled as we ensure that the values that we share and admire, those values we must not trade them away or give them away. We have the duty to engage at every level. We cannot neglect our Guyana,

our city and the systems and structures. We have a duty to engage and we admire the leadership of His Excellency,” he said. After the opening statement, the President and the leaders engaged in private discussions on several matters. Present at the luncheon were leaders from Newton

Assembly of God Church, First Assembly of God Church, Central Assembly of God Church, Full Gospel of God, South Road, Bourda, the Glory Light Tabernacle, Love and Faith World Outreach Ministry, Tucville House of Prayer and the Bethel Church of God. (Ministry of the Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

GDF to increase assets, infrastructure in new year – chief-of-staff

ASSETS, development of infrastructure for the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and more collaborative training with the British are projected to increase next year, Chiefof-Staff, Brigadier Patrick West has said. He made the announcement at the traditional Christmas luncheon at the Coast Guard, Ruimveldt, Georgetown headquarters on Tuesday. The event also saw skits, poems and talent pieces by Coast Guard ranks. According to Brigadier West, in the first quarter of 2018, exercise ‘Tradewinds’ will continue, as well as collaboration with members of CARICOM to further develop military experience. “I think you had a very

good year, continue to work hard, continue to support the force and build capacities in areas that are lacking and continue to ensure the morale of the Coast Guard ranks and family are enhanced by the improvements in the quality of lives that we are making across the board,” he said. He explained that the Coast Guard unit has done well throughout 2017. There were more active anti-piracy programmes, familiarisation with more internal rivers and training with Joint Services members in riverine operations. A collaborative agreement with the Argentine Navy was also fruitful, as well as the supporting of operations across CARICOM. “We go into the oper-

Eureka Lab CEO cops Anthony Sabga Award WILLIAM Andrew Boyle, Chief Executive Officer of Eureka Medical Laboratory (EML), was recently credited as the Entrepreneur Laureate of the Year for the 2018, Anthony N Sabga Caribbean Awards for Excellence. After the announcement of the award, he said, “I am on Cloud Nine, deeply honoured. The most important part is that I feel so happy because I’ve come this far from my humble beginnings. It’s a deep feeling of accomplishment. Not that I will behave as though I’ve arrived but I feel vindicated.” Boyle was born in Haraculi (also called Good Hope), in Kimbia Village which is fringed by the Berbice River. The bush was Awardee Andrew Boyle his playground and the river, his daily route for every activity that he needed to attend. From his simple home, he had to paddle a canoe with his siblings to attend primary school. With the award, Boyle dreams to give back to his village by establishing some projects to help alleviate his people’s living conditions. With his business engagements in solar energy, medical laboratory science, and agri-business, the possibilities for development will be endless.

ation period of Christmas with Operation Watchdog. As we continue to support operations Clean Sweep, Operation Stronghold, your chief of staff is committed to giving you the assistance you need to ensure that you work to enhance the security and safety of this nation,” the chief-of-staff said. The GDF, in collaboration with the Joint Service forces, is working to ensure a peaceful Christmas season.

Chief-of-Staff Brigadier Patrick West shares lunches to Coast Guard ranks during the traditional Christmas lunch (Delano Williams photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Market vendor charged for stealing car parts A STABROEK Market vendor was on Monday charged and released on $70,000 bail by Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan for receiving over $1.4M worth in stolen items. Kelson Adams of Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara is charged with receiving three motor car batteries valued $190,000; a generator valued $400,000 along with three audio amplifiers worth $900,000, knowing same to be stolen or unlawfully obtained property of Leonard Young. Kelson Adams Adams who was unrepresented, denied the charge which stated that he committed the felony between December 6 and 14, at Stabroek Market, Georgetown.. Police Prosecutor Arwin Moore who made no objection to bail informed the court that all the stolen items were recovered at the defendant’s home. The matter was adjourned until January 3, 2018.

Minibus driver jailed for cyclist’s death A ROUTE 42 minibus driver was on Tuesday sentenced to two years in jail for causing the death of an elderly pedal cyclist along with the Herstelling, East Bank Demerara road last September. Seekumar Singh, 45, of Soesdyke Back Road, East Bank Demerara, after a trial before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, was found guilty of driving minibus BLL 4749 in a manner dangerous to the public and thus causing the death of 66-year-old Basil Rambarran, on September 19. According to reports, on the day in question at about 16:45 hrs, Singh was proceeding south in his vehicle BLL 4639. Rambarran who was riding a bicycle allegedly rode across the road and the minibus crashed into him. He fell onto the roadside and sustained multiple injuries to the body and was later proSeekumar Singh nounced dead at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre. The driver of the minibus was administered a breathalyser test and was reportedly found to have exceeded the legal alcohol limit. The Chief Magistrate in her ruling pointed out that she disbelieved Singh’s defence, since he had attempted to paint a picture to the court that he was not responsible for causing the accident and the pedal cyclist rode into his minibus. Magistrate McLennan further stated that Singh failed to proceed with caution which resulted in the accident thus causing Rambarran to receive injuries and later succumb. Rambarran died from a ruptured heart, liver, spleen and several broken bones.

Young truck driver shot

OSAFO Roberts, 26, a truck driver of 61 New Road, Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara has been admitted a patient in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Suddie Public Hospital, Essequibo Coast, after he was shot by an identifiable male Tuesday morning. Police in a release said at about 00:05hrs on Tuesday, the victim was leaving the business premises of his employer at Jamakie, Buck Hall, Essequibo River, when he was confronted and shot by the suspect. Police have launched a search for the suspect who fled the scene after the shooting.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Brazil donates 10,000 units of MMR vaccines to Guyana

BRAZILIAN Ambassador to Guyana, Lineu Pupo de Paula, handed over a quantity of Measles, Mumps and Ruebella (MMR) viruses vaccines to the Ministry of Public Health on Tuesday, the Department of Public Information has reported. Receiving the donation were Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence, Director of Family Healthcare Services Dr. Ertenesia Hamilton and Focal Point for Adolescent Health, Dr. Oneka Scott. A total of 10,000 units were received to aid in the continued fight against the MMR viruses. The Brazilian Ambassador noted that, “This is the second donation that Brazil is offering for the Ministry of Health, this year.” Earlier in 2017, Brazil and PAHO/WHO donated drugs to help counteract Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease found in tropical and sub-tropical countries. Ambassador Pupo de Paula said that, “It is in our interest to help to vaccinate children and everybody…This just shows how good the relationship between the two countries is going.” Minister Lawrence welcomed the Brazilian government’s gesture, noting that the vaccines acquired will go directly towards ‘cross-border vaccination activities’.

“We do have a lot of persons traversing through Guyana, whether they are coming here to find work or to invest or whether they are using here as a ‘jump off’ point to some other neighbouring country,” the minister explained. She alluded to the fact that there were outbreaks of the MMR viruses in neighbouring countries. However, she noted that through efforts made by these countries and the PAHO/WHO, efforts were put in place to prevent the spread of such viruses. Although these outbreaks did not affect Guyana in any significant way, Minister Lawrence emphasised that the vaccines acquired will “ensure that we have a stockpile of vaccines…We have a vaccination programme in Guyana; we are catering for that through our budget and through some of our partners.” Further, she added, “because of the high incidence of persons going back and forth, Brazilians, Surinamese, Venezuelans and so on, this boost will help us to take off that excess and ensure that we always have, to be able to help our sisters and brothers from the neighbouring states.” In issuing the MMR vaccines, the adult population will be primarily target-

Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence, receiving a portion of the MMR vaccines from Brazilian Ambassador to Guyana, Lineu Pupo de Paula in the presence of Director of Family Healthcare services in the Ministry, Dr. Ertenesia Hamilton. ed. Director of the Family HealthCare Services, MoPH, Dr. Ertenesia Hamilton detailed that, “Some of our adults are still at risk, because they would have not benefitted.…So this donation will be aiding in improving the immunisation of our adult population, and those persons, who would have not been caught in the normal immunisation programmes.” More specifically it was further explained that the adult population in Regions One, Two, Seven,

Eight and Nine (regions sharing borders with Venezuela and Brazil) will be the first to access vaccines from this

donation. “Also, we try to immunise all of our officers who are first responders such

as port health officers, our immigration officers, our police and our soldiers”, Dr. Hamilton stated. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

24-hour power for Mazaruni Prison … 12 new houses for warders under construction

By Rabindra Rooplall

The director noted that the tenders were already reviewed and the process is at the tender board. Further, he said only recently over 50 prisoners were transferred to the Mazaruni prison since there was available space.

AT the commencement of 2018, the Mazaruni Prison will receive electricity 24 hours a day along with the installation of solar panels to complement the energy supply that will power 12 new houses for warders and their families that are under construction at the prison facility. This is according to Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels who said currently there are 452 inmates between the Mazaruni and Sibley Hall Prisons. A site at the Mazaruni Prison was identified for the construction of a new wing which is expected to house 400 prisoners. In budget 2018, the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) received approximately $1.5B to address the expansion and rehabilitation of the prison infrastructure. In addition, work on the construction of a new Georgetown Prison is likely to begin in the new year. The prison riot in July of this year had virtually flattened the Camp Street location, and had forced the government to undertake a comprehensive examination of the security sector. Samuels said that there is a proposal at the level of Cabinet for construction to take place

at the Camp Street Prison, which will be used as a remand facility. “Those are the two main projects the money will be used for.” Over $150M has also been allocated to purchase surveillance equipment, body scanners, and beds, among other items. Provisions have been made for the strengthening of the Prison Service capacity for case management, as well as rehabilitation and reintegration. Samuels said that the initial area for the construction of the new building at Mazaruni has been cleared and several contractors who expressed interest have already visited the site and tenders were submitted.

MORE than 300 children of Moraikobai (Region Five) were feted with scrumptious meals, drinks, goodies, toys, and clothing when a team from Savannah Drive and several sponsors vis-

ited the village over the weekend. According to the coordinator, Shane D’Andrade, they mobilised a team of eight members and sponsors and through generous donations garnered from

Acting Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels

NEW HOUSES Meanwhile, Samuels disclosed that there are 12 new houses under construction within the prison compound which are family quarters that will cater for the proposed expansion of the Mazaruni Prison. “Most people had expressed concerns about being transferred, because they have to leave their families behind; and taking that into consideration, the need for appropriate housing for persons who would have to leave the comfort of their homes was considered, which led to the initial construction of 12 houses,” the director said. He said that eight additional houses will be built in 2018 and there will be a continued budget for the general plan for development of the Mazaruni Prison. Adding that the Mazaruni Prison is basically at the centre of the jungle, Mr. Samuels said and noting that in order to improve security, efforts will

Several of the new housing facilities that are under construction at the Mazaruni Prison be made to clear a one-mile radius around the prison, so as to increase visibility as the prison moves towards self-sufficiency in terms of agriculture. “It means that we would have a larger number of prisoners deployed for agriculture on a daily basis. Despite the usual security screening for persons being dispatched, we still need to ensure we are proactive in terms of breach of security that may occur,”

he said. At the Mazaruni Prison, the location is powered by generators and he disclosed that the prison will also be installing solar panels to complement its energy supply. “There was a time when electricity was only for two to four hours, which gradually increased to six hours, then from 18:00hrs to 06:00hrs. However, in keeping with the expansion and development at Mazaruni Prison, it is rec-

ognised that 24 hours electricity is critical. He pointed to the training of inmates, which he said needs to be done in the day, since proper skills-training cannot be done without the necessary power tools. He said with the installation of a new generator at the location, new utility poles were installed and the compound will be rewired with the use of the existing generator.

supplies and toys, while Twins Manufacturing Company donated a quantity of medical supplies which was handed over to the Moraikobai Health Centre. D’Andrade said it was their first charity and Christmas drive and the response was good, in that the entire village turned out for the event which took place on Saturday and Sunday last. He related that they received a quantity of clothing and toys, all of which were distributed to the children of the village. However, Pristine Waters came on board and provided the food items which were used to prepare the meal. D’Andrade is hoping that the event becomes an annual one, whereby they could continue to spread Christmas cheer throughout Guyana.

Representatives of Moraikobai pose with the team of sponsors and Savannah Drive members, following the handing over of medical supplies.

Moraikobai kids feted, swamped with toys local companies such as Digicel Guyana, and Twins Manufacturing Company, they were able to fete the children of that remote Amerindian community. He added that Digicel Guyana donated school

The children of Moraikobai who were feted.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Suspects in Qualfon worker’s murder released

THE police in ‘C’ Division have released the five suspects who had been detained for questioning following the murder of 18-year-old Raynelle Benfield last week, a Qualfon Call Centre receptionist. After the detention period had expired, the police were granted a further extension and when that ended they were forced to release the suspects who were all placed on bail, since there was insufficient evidence to continue holding them. Police sources have told the Guyana Chronicle that they are in the process of conducting further investigations into the homicide. The body of Benfield was found on Monday last in a cemetery along the Be- Dead: Raynelle Benfield terverwagting Main Road, East Coast Demerara. The police reported that the body of Benfield was found with her face smashed. The victim was last seen alive about 18:00hrs on December 9 by her colleagues. Detectives are of the opinion that she was the victim of a heinous crime in which she knew her attacker (s) and was probably held at gunpoint or knifepoint and taken forcefully into the cemetery, where she was beaten to the point where her face was smashed in. The body was found with her jeans pulled down almost to her knees and she was still wearing her blouse, while her hands were resting on her stomach near one of the many tombs in the burial ground. The face of the young woman was unrecognisable and it appeared to have been peeled off. Sleuths said a handbag which relatives said belonged to the teen was retrieved near the body, but her cell phone was not among the items in the said handbag. The body was found when a passer-by decided to check after experiencing a strong stench emanating from the Muslim Cemetery. After that individual had made the discovery, the police were summoned. They cordoned off the scene and the body was removed.

GWI says green and yellow decal on safety vehicle in accordance with ISO coding THE Guyana Water Incorporated has said that the selection of the green and yellow decal on its Safety Unit Vehicle is in accordance with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) colour-coding for safety and health and knocked a mischievous Guyana Times article on the issue. In its Tuesday edition, the Guyana Times published an article captioned “Colour Branding Continues – GWI vehicles being repainted,”. However, the GWI made it unequivocally clear that the selection of green and yellow decal on its Safety Unit Vehicle is in accordance with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) colour-coding for safety and health. The company said it is committed to continuous improvement of its workplaces and to the safety and health of employees and the public at large. “The Safety Unit Officers, by virtue of their profession, are often required to work in potentially hazardous work environments such as at street and road works One of the GWI’s safety vehicles sites and on busy highways. The visibility of the vehicle is an essential tool to both alert others in the vicinity of the potential hazards and to advise them to exercise caution.” According to GWI, doing this minimises the level of exposure to potential injury for all concerned. The Safety Unit Officers’ vehicle is a reflection of the continued commitment of the Board of Directors and senior management of the Guyana Water Inc., to promote and improve Occupational Safety and Health within the company and Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Guyanese fighters return THE team of boxers that competed at the (CBC) championships returned home on Monday evening. The tournament, which was held in St Lucia, saw Guyana capture three gold medals and a silver. Keevin Allicock, the Youth Commonwealth Games silver medallist, captured gold in the Bantamweight category, with

Middleweight Desmond Amsterdam and Colin ‘Superman’ Lewis also capturing gold. Joel ‘Stone’ Williamson was the lone silver medallist. “First of all I want to thank God for me coming out victorious; it was a wonderful experience going to the championships. I saw a lot of great fighters, a lot of different styles. It was a wonderful

experience,” said Allicock. The GBA had encountered some difficulties in securing funds to send a full complement of fighters, and according to Allicock, had Guyana been able to send more fighters, they would have been able to retain the overall title they held for the past two years. The boxers were

greeted by Guyana’s lone Olympic medallist Michael Parris and president of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA). The four Guyanese fighters who excelled at this year’s Caribbean Boxing Championship, Grenada, won the CBC title, having dominated most of the categories. The Spice Isle won 18 medals, followed by Barbados, while Guy-

ana, despite being shorthanded, finished third overall, followed by hosts St Lucia who managed to finish fourth. President of the GBA, Steve Ninvalle, lauded the team’s achievement, but said he was still disappointed at not being able to see Guyana hold on to the title they had since the inception of the tournament in 2015.

Shocked Gatlin sacks coach after doping claim By Mitch Phillips LONDON, England (Reuters) - World 100 metres champion Justin Gatlin said yesterday he was “shocked and surprised” at doping allegations made against his coach Dennis Mitchell - like Gatlin a convicted doper - but added that he had sacked him as soon as he heard about the issue. Britain’s Daily Telegraph set up a sting where they claim Mitchell, the American former medal-winning sprinter who was previously banned for doping, and sports agent Robert Wagner had offered to supply performance-enhancing drugs to undercover reporters claiming to be making a movie featuring a doped athlete. Gatlin, 35, who won the world title in London this

year against a backdrop of jeering, relating to his two doping bans, issued a statement via Instagram where he said: “I am not using and have not used PEDs (performance-enhancing drugs. ”I was shocked and surprised to learn that my coach would have anything to do with even the appearance of these current accusations. I fired him as soon as I found out about this. “All legal options are on the table as I will not allow others to lie about me like this.” The Athletics Integrity Unit and the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) have both said they are investigating the claims. USADA said in a statement: “Investigations stemming from tips and whistleblowers play a critical role

in anti-doping efforts. We are presently coordinating with the Athletics Integrity Unit in order to investigate these claims fully.” The International Olympic Committee said yesterday: “The IOC has full confidence that WADA will look very carefully into this matter.” The Telegraph quoted International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) president Seb Coe as saying: “These allegations are extremely serious and I know the independent Athletics Integrity Unit will investigate in accordance with its mandate.” In a statement to the Telegraph, Mitchell, who confessed on oath to using banned substances during his career, said: “I never suggested in any way that any of my current athletes used any

Steven Smith closer ...

Continued from back page

begins, Smith would have been at the No. 1 ranking for two years. Reflecting on his double century, Smith said he had never felt better at the crease than the first part of his innings on the second day. “I think that first night I was on, as you say,” he told ABC Radio. “I was in the zone, and everything hit the middle of the bat. I felt incredibly good ... that first night was probably as good as I’ve felt.” Smith currently has 426 runs at 142.00 in the Ashes which also included his unbeaten 141 which set up

Australia’s opening victory in Brisbane. Darren Lehmann, Australia’s coach, said Smith has taken his game to a new level. “He’s running pretty hot isn’t he? I’ve been lucky enough to see all of his Test hundreds. So for me, seeing him evolve from that first Test hundred at the Oval to now - he just changes his own plans to what the bowlers are doing and what the wicket’s doing, and what the game needs. He’s gone to another level, which is pleasing.” (ESPN Cricinfo)

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banned substances or that I was familiar with training any of my current athletes with those substances.” Wagner also denied being involved in doping but said he “played along” in the sting because he knew what was going on. Gatlin has been a divisive figure in the sport throughout his career, which brought him Olympic 100m gold in 2004 and a host of other global medals. He served two doping bans for offences he has always denied and after his second comeback, he was widely painted by the media as the bad guy going up against the sport’s darling, Usain Bolt. In August, in Bolt’s final individual championship race, Gatlin took the 100m gold at the World Championships in London, with the Jamaican finishing third. 08:40 hrs Perfection 09:10 hrs Drumochter 09:45 hrs Our Man In Havana 10:20 hrs Napping 10:55 hrs Noble Behest 11:25 hrs Heron Ludlow 08:20 hrs Honest Vic 08:50 hrs Burbank 09:20 hrs Nicolas Chauvin 09:55 hrs Tell It To Me 10:30 hrs It’s a Gimme 11:05 hrs Cloonacool 11:35 hrs Thibault Newbury 08:30 hrs Style De Garde 09:00 hrs Pacific De Baune 09:30 hrs Dadsintrouble 10:05 hrs Tacenda 10:40 hrs Born To Size 11:15 hrs Melrose Boy 11:45 hrs Empreinte Reconce

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

RHTY&SC receives much needed support from several sponsors THE Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Sports Club (RHTY&SC) received much needed support from corporate Guyana which would see brighter faces on thousands of Berbicians during the Christmas season. According to a release KSM Investment, Ministry of the Presidency, Peter Lewis Construction and Bakewell made major contributions to RHTY&SC’s Christmas programme. According to the release, the club worked beyond the call of duty to make positive differences in the lives of youths, the elderly and less fortunate. The ten cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, and the Club’s Over-35 Group are currently hosting a series of activities that would conclude on December

24.

KSM Investments CEO Mahadeo Panchu hands over donation to RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster.

The multi-million-dollar programme’s main objectives are to make sure that no one goes hungry, thirsty, clothesless and lonely during the festive season. To date, the club has hosted the Pensioners Project, General Feeding Programme and has donated toys to several churches and NGOs to assist them in fulfilling their Charity Programmes for Christmas. Among those receiving toys were the Mission Chapel Family Centre, the Rose Hall Town Assemblies of God, the New Amsterdam Prison Service and the New Start Children Play School. The Club received a major boost last Tuesday when Mr Mahadeo Panchu of KSM Investment, Bakewell of Triumph, East Coast, Demerara, the Ministry of the Presidency and Minister Joseph Harmon made financial contributions towards the Christmas Charity Programme and the 3rd edition of the RHTY&SC Annual Christmas Village. CEO of Associated Construction Services, Peter Lew-

is, also handed over sponsorship for the construction of a massive manger for the Christmas Village Nativity scene. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the combined total of $550 000 was used to purchase over one thousand dollars and a large quantity of fairy lights for the Christmas Village, along with groceries for hampers for the less fortunate families. Donation of toys and groceries were also received from DDL, Ansa McAl Trading, Factory Price, HA Snacks Co. Ltd, Survival Supermarket, Toucan Industries, Lens Craft, Anil Beharry, The Gift Centre, Sterling Products Ltd, AM Khan Hardware, Kishon Sarwan, Food for the Poor, Sueria Manufacturing, Ricks & Sari Ltd, F&H Printery, Fitness Express, Guyana Beverage Company, Lotto, Starr Computers, University of Guyana (Tain Campus), Circle Centre, Balram Shane Store, Anamayah Memorial Hospital, Impressive Signs, King Solomon Logistics, China Trading, Delmur Trading and Ramoo Funeral Home.

The ten cricket teams King Solomon Logistics Under-12, Poonai Pharmacy Under-13, Farfan & Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Females and Gizmos & Gadgets Under-21 and First Division Teams would be handing out over 1000 toys to less fortunate children between the ages of 3 to 10 years, 300 food hampers worth $7 000 each to single-parent households, over $1M worth of clothing and children’s footwear, educational materials and massive donations to senior citizens and children’s homes in Berbice. The teams would like to express gratitude to all those who have supported them to date and special mention must be made of the Club’s Patron, President David Granger, Minister of State Joseph Harmon, Mahadeo Panchu of KSM Investments, Safraz Sheriffudeen of V Net Communications, Peter Lewis, Rajin Ganga of Bakewell, Frank Sukhu of Sueria Manufacturing and Troy Cadogan of Ansa McAl Trading.

Proteas welcome back top trio for Zimbabwe Test CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Reuters) - AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander will all make long-awaited returns for South Africa at Test level after being named in the 14man squad for next week’s day-night, inaugural four-day contest against Zimbabwe in Port Elizabeth. It means South Africa are back to full strength for the first time in almost two years for the December 26-29 match at St George’s Park which serves as a warm-up for three home Tests against India in January and a series against Australia straight after that. de Villiers’ last Test was

against England in Pretoria in January 2016 after which he asked for time out from the long format of the game while Steyn has been recovering

AB de Villiers last Test was against England.

from a serious shoulder injury suffered against Australia at Perth just over a year ago. Philander missed the 2-0 series win over Bangladesh in September and October following an injury on tour to England in mid-year. Faf du Plessis, who initially looked uncertain with a back injury, will lead the side. Squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock, Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Andile Phehlukwayo, Vernon Philander, Kagiso Rabada, Dale Steyn.

Overton an injury doubt for Boxing Day Test ENGLAND seamer Craig Overton fears injury could deny him the chance to play in the Boxing Day Ashes Test against Australia at Melbourne. The 23-year-old Somerset bowler made his Test debut in the second match of the series at Adelaide where he was hit in the ribs by a Pat Cummins bouncer. He exacerbated the injury in Perth and told BBC Sport: “We’re going to assess it over the next couple of days. “Melbourne might be a push but it’s still an option to play at the minute.” England have been comprehensively beaten in the first three matches and could suffer a third

5-0 whitewash in the last four Ashes series down under. “It’s looming in the background but we’re still pretty confident that we’ve competed in this series and we’re not far off winning games, they’ve just performed better for longer

Craig Overton

periods,” Overton said. “We’re still fighting to get that result and show everybody what we can do out here. “It’s tough, obviously they’re a good side in their home conditions and their bowlers are suited to playing out here with the pace they’ve got. We need to find a little bit more in our side and score a few more runs and take a few more wickets. The 6ft 5in bowler made an unbeaten 41 at number nine on his debut and has claimed six wickets in his two matches to date, dismissing Australia skipper Steve Smith for his maiden scalp.(BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Exciting double-header in GFF/Corona Beer Super 16 Year-End Classic TWO exciting matches are set for tonight, as the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Corona Beer ‘Super 16’ YearEnd Classic continues at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ground, Camp Ayanganna, at 16:00hrs and 20:30hrs respectively. The matches, which feature Western Tigers FC versus Grove Hi-Tech FC in the first match, and Fruta Conquerors FC against Ann’s Grove FC as the feature encounter, promise to be quite a treat with fighting words being exchanged by the coaches of the respective clubs. In an invited comment, head of Western Tigers FC, Calvin Allen, said he’s looking forward to an exciting and competitive game. According to Allen, Western Tigers FC, one of the GFF’s Elite League teams, will not be taking their opposition lightly, adding that Grove Hi-Tech

are a team “with good calibre players and they’re coached by two capable guys also.: “I also know they are a team with good, young talent and a mixture of experience so it’s not a team that you can take for granted. In fact, I’ve always said you have to give a team the respect that is due.” The coach, who once worked with Grove Hi Tech FC, said while he will not publicly share his tactical approach to the game, there is a definite plan but “the public should come to the ground and see the plan we have mapped out for Grove, because it’s a team that we have organised and planned for.” Meanwhile, head coach of Grove Hi-Tech FC, Levi Braithwaite, said the fans can expect an exciting match … as they are “not just in the tournament to participate but we are in it to win it”.

“Since we have uplifted the fixtures, we have been working hard. Basically, we

really fit so we need to get up to standard with our fitness. For the past week we have

the best football against Ann’s Grove. He pointed out that his club is looking forward “to

have been focusing on fitness as we know that Western Tigers are an elite club and are

been going hard with our fitness and the guys are eager and ready to go,” Braithwaite said. Meanwhile, Fruta Conquerors head coach, Sampson Gilbert, said his team is looking forward to the club playing

play with a level of intensity that would indicate our intention of overwhelming the opposition and imposing ourselves.” “We view this knockout tournament as an extension of the Elite league where we’ve added these project-

KSM Investments Inc. on board KMTC’s Boxing Day horse race meet … sponsors first prize for two events

THE KSM Investments Inc. yesterday joined forces with the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club’s Boxing Day horserace meet scheduled for the club’s facility, Bush Lot farm, Corentyne, Berbice.

and joyfulness at this time of the year. KSM Investments which is located at Good Hope, East Coast Demerara, and which specialises in producing rock-solid hollow blocks and

Justice Cecil Kennard (right) accepts the sponsorship cheque from KSM’s Director Khainwattie Panchu, while standing at extreme left is the company’s CEO Mahadeo Panchu.

This is KSM’s first-ever sponsorship for the event and according to the company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mahadeo Panchu, it definitely would not be the last. “Come next year, and years to come, KSM would be on board this activity which brings together Guyanese from all walks of life and from all Regions across the country together. This is not a Corentyne thing, it’s an activity that attracts thousands of persons to a day of entertainment

Dura LaT Vent Blocks will be sponsoring the first prize (cash) along with the winners’ trophy for Class `L non-winners as well as the first prize for horses classified `L Open. Both events are over five furlongs and the winner of the `L non-winners’ will receive $120 000, while the winner of the `L Open’ event will earn $150 000. KSM’s Chairman, Panchu, said he grew up in De Hoop Mahaica, a village that produced some of Guyana’s top horses and was always

enthused with the sport as a spectator and through the urging of Justice Cecil Kennard, he decided to contribute to the sport. Justice Kennard in response thanked KSM for coming on board and said he is certain that the company will remain on board for a very long time. The former Chief Justice said sponsorship for any event is vital to keep the sport alive. Meanwhile, the organisers of the event have extended the closing date to today, stating that the feature event which was originally a Class `D and Lower’ nine-furlong event will now be contested by horses classified `C’ and Lower. The closing date for entries to the seven-race meet is today and owners /trainers of animals they desire to enter in today’s activity can contact the following persons for more information; Ivan Dipnarine (331-0316), Justice Kennard (623-7609 or 235-4818), Fazal Habibulla (657-7010) or Dennis Deroop (640-6396). Metro Office and Stationery Supplies will sponsor the $1M first prize cash for the feature event of the day. Horses registered for this event include Just Call Me Boss, Lady Budapest, Honey Flo, Golden Blue Echo, Brave Sky and Goodwill Boy. The second-, third- and fourth-place finishers for the feature event will be rewarded with $500 000, $250 000 and $125 000 respectively.

ed four games as part of the league and we’re looking forward to a must-win 12 points. We’re definitely looking forward to win this tournament and, in so doing, play some of the best football at this time in our team’s continued development,” Sampson noted. Lloydwin Semple, head coach for Ann’s Grove United FC, said the public can expect a competitive game tonight from his team. Semple said his team have learned some crucial lessons from their first encounter with Fruta Conquerors, stating “we played Conquerors before,, a few weeks ago, in our second game of the Elite league. There were basic mistakes made by players, which cost us the game. “However, we have corrected those areas in our training sessions. We’ll come out with our game plan and will try to get the best of Conquerors. At the end of it we’ll see who will come out victorious.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Rose Hall Town Area ‘H’ Ground undergoing major upgrading THE Rose Hall Town Community Centre known as the Area ‘H’ Ground is currently undergoing some major restoration work due to the efforts of Guyana’s number one youth and sports organisation and the Regional Democratic Council of Region 6. The Area ‘H’ Ground is the home base of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS and since 1990, the club has been spearheading the efforts to transform the venue from a swampland into a modern sport facility. With funding from the Region 6 Regional Democratic Council, the entire outfield of the ground has been boosted with a large amount of suitable clay and has been leveled. Two new cricket pitches have also been constructed measuring 80 feet by 23 feet and have crusher-run as their foundation. The pitches have also been constructed six inches above the ground while special work has also been done

on the two bowlers’ run-up. The Club and its ten cricket teams would shortly be installing 410 running feet of boundary boards while four electric lamps would be installed around the all-weather court to allow its usage in the evenings.

had contributed $1M towards restoration of the outfield and stated that in the future the Area ‘H’ Ground would be one of the best facilities in Berbice. Additionally, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club also received assistance from the Regional Democratic

Area ‘H’ Ground is undergoing major restoration works.

Secretary/CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, Hilbert Foster also disclosed that earlier in the year, the Ministry of Sport

Council to cover the front part of the Rose Hall Town Primary School compound with asphalt at the cost of millions of dollars as part of the Club’s

Canada Under-19 World Cup squad

Singh, Shamsudeen also of Guyanese roots By Frederick Halley

TORONTO, Canada – Contrary to a report in our yesterday’s issue which stated that Ashtan Deosammy was the lone player with Guyanese roots in the Canadian Under-19 World Cup squad, it was brought to our attention that opening batsman Kevin Singh is also of Guyanese parentage while another player, Raqib Shamsudeen who is on the reserve list, also has Guyanese parents living in Toronto.

Kevin Singh

According to Singh’s father, Amar Singh, who hails from Burma, Mahaicony, his son represents Mississauga Ramblers in the Toronto & District Association (TDCA) and has been excelling over the years as an opener. Singh is listed as the second highest scorer in the TDCA Junior category, tallying 1 518 runs while he has an aggregate of 715 runs in the 2017 season,

Community Developmental Programme. The Club on an annual basis uses the school compound to host its popular Christmas Village Project. Foster expressed gratitude to Regional Chairman David Armogan, Vice-Chair-

inclusive of the highest score of 154 in the junior division. He has also recorded five half-centuries. Meanwhile, close relatives of Shamsudeen are questioning his omission from the squad. According to a senior member of his family, the 16-year-old should have been an automatic selection, based on his statistics over the past few years. He, however, stated that the family has accepted Cricket Canada’s decision and has vowed to support the youngster in his cricketing endeavours. The elder Shamsudeen pointed out that Raqib, who plays for Tranzac Cricket Academy in Toronto District Cricket Association League, also represents Everest Cricket Club during March breaks and has done so over the last two years. According to the TDCA website, Raqib, who is a left-arm leg-break chinaman bowler, is also ranked 14 in the batting department. Shamsudeen’s bowling stats in the Elite and Premier Division over 92 matches are: 478 overs,1 315 runs, 124 wickets at an economy rate of 2.78 and average of 1060 per wicket. His figures are also flattering at the youth levels (Under-13, U-15, U-16, U-18 and U-19) where he claimed 74 wickets in 61 games with an economy rate of 4.56m while

averaging 11.43 runs per wicket. Canada will compete alongside Bangladesh, England and Namibia in Group C in what is the 11th edition of the tournament and the third to be held in New Zealand. The top two sides from each group will advance to the Super League while the remaining eight teams will figure in the plate championship. The quarterfinals, semifinals and final of the Super League will be among the 20 matches to be broadcast live.

man Dennis Deroop, Regional Executive Officer Kim Williams-Stephens, engineer Mr Ali, Mayor of Rose Hall Town Vijay Ramoo, contrac-

The final will be played at Bay Oval in Tauranga on February 3 while both semi-finals will be played at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on January 29 and 30. The plate tournament will run simultaneously but end with the final at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Christchurch, January 28.

the ground. The Area ‘H’ Ground, despite its shortcomings, has produced a total of sixteen national cricketers, one hundred Berbice players and five for the West Indies at all levels. Additionally, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club won three National Championships, five Guyana Cricket Club-of-the-Year Awards, over fifty major cricket tournaments and is the only cricket club in the history of Guyana to have ever received a National Award. Vice-President Mark Papannah praised the cooperation of the Region 6 Regional Democratic Council and expressed confidence that the relationship between the David Armogan-led Regional Democratic Council and the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club would be strengthened in the future to benefit more youths in Guyana’s smallest township.

Canal 6 cart off Jupats Bar & Grill dominoes

Sonya DeAbreu of Jupats Bar & Grill hands over the winning trophy to Ramroop Sukhai of Canal 6 in the presence of other members and supporters.

CANAL 6 emerged winners of the Jupats Bar & Grill feature dominoes tournament played last Sunday at the sponsor’s 785 Block ‘Y’, Section ‘C’, Golden Grove, Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank, Demerara venue. Apart from the first sitting when they lagged one game behind Cool As Ice and Gansham Raqib Shamsudeen

tors Annirud Ramcharitar and Peter Lewis for their cooperation. The club would also be receiving assistance from another government agency to plant grass on the relaid outfield while funding would be sought to construct an indoor training complex so that Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club cricketers can practise all year round, despite the rainy season. Foster recalled that when the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club was founded in 1990, the Area ‘H’ Ground was virtually a swampland. The Club single-handedly financed over $25M to transform it into its current state and works done included fencing of the entire ground, internal fence, two sightscreens, concrete pitch, scoreboard, sanitary facilities, charity kitchen, storage room, three pavilions, all-weather court while a children’s playfield was constructed at the entrance of

General Construction, Canal led throughout the other sittings to come out top with a whopping 86 games, 13 more than Cool As Ice who placed second on 73 and Gansham General Construction who brought up the rear on 68. Ron Callender, with the maximum 18 games, led the way for Canal 6 while there were consistent scores of 16

CRCRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday December 20, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kraig Braithwaite-201 runs (2) Ross Taylor-216 runs Today’s Quiz: (1) Who took most wickets for the WI in the just-concluded Test series against NZ? (2) Who took most wickets for NZ? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

from Ronald Beharry, 15 from Mark Welch and 14 each from skipper Ramroop Sukhai and Basdeo Persaud. The top scorers for Cool As Ice were Adrian White and Ryan Prashad with 15 and 13 games respectively while Raymond Alli and Michael Thorn made 15 and 13 respectively for Gansham General Construction. The lone lovebird was Faiuze Sahid of Gansham General Construction. Trophies were awarded to the winning and first runner-up teams and the Most Valuable Player, Ron Callender of Canal 6, all compliments of Jupats Bar & Grill. The tournament was coordinated and run by popular dominoes enthusiast Manniram Shew of Shew’s General Store who expressed sincere thanks to the sponsors for their generous contribution.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Jaguars enter Christmas break with thumping 118 points

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Guyana Jaguars enter the Christmas break of the Regional Four-Day Championship with a near 43-point lead while Barbados Pride have stormed into second place, after both sides pulled off convincing wins in the seventh round of matches last weekend. The three-time reigning champions Jaguars crushed Leeward Islands Hurricanes by 10 wickets in Georgetown, to move to 118 points and stretch their lead at the top. Jaguars remain the only unbeaten side in the championship, having won five of their seven outings. They drew with Hurricanes in the third round fixture in St Kitts and played to a dramatic tie against Windward Islands Volcanoes in the sixth round at the Guyana National Stadium.

The Guyana Jaguars enter the Xmas break with a 43-point lead.

Trophy Stall continues sponsorship to KMTC’s Boxing Day meet

TROPHY Stall of Bourda Market continued its unflinching support for the Annual Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club’s (KMTC) Boxing Day Horse Race Meet, scheduled for the club’s facility, Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne, Berbice next Tuesday. Proprietor of Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich, yesterday presented Chief Executive of the KMTC, Retired Justice Cecil Kennard, with the trophy that will be up for grabs for the Champion Jockey and the Champion Trainer. The day’s feature event is open to horses classified `C’ and Lower and carries a first prize of $1M and will be conducted over a distance of nine furlongs. Sunich’s father Neville was a former champion jockey of Guyana and according to Sunich, he (Sunich) has been sponsoring the event even before the Trophy Stall was established. In photo, Sunich (right) makes the presentation of trophies to former judge Cecil Kennard.

Pride, meanwhile, began the last round fifth, but leapfrogged several teams following their impressive 207-run victory over Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at the Brian Lara Stadium. Runners-up for the last three seasons, Pride are now in a familiar spot in the standings on 75.2 but just narrowly ahead of Red Force on 71.6. Jamaica Scorpions, who lost to Volcanoes at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground in the last round, are virtually tied with Red Force on 71.4 points. Hurricanes, who started the season strongly but have now lost three matches, lie fifth on 61 points while Volcanoes, who secured their maiden win last weekend, are bottom on 52.2 points. The season resumes with the eighth round on January 4.

Cycling community mourns death of former GCF president THE cycling community was Sunday thrown into a pall of gloom following the news of the passing of one of its icons, past Guyana Cycling Federation president Winston George Humphrey, of the popular Humphrey’s Bakery, located at Ketley and Sussex Streets, Georgetown. He was a major contributor to the sport of cycling. In addition to carving his name in the baking industry, George Humphrey was known for brightening the faces of children in the Charlestown area during the festive season with his annual Christmas party and gift-distribution exercises. He was also known, through his bakery, for making numerous donations to several homes for the elderly and shelters throughout Guyana. Among the weekly recipients of his products are the Dharm Shala and the Palms Geriatric Home.

The sport fraternity is also known to have benefited from monetary and other worthwhile contributions.

Humphrey was the husband of Pauline, his teenage sweetheart. She bore him eight children, namely

Winston George Humphrey is dead at 69.

Humphrey was born on March 1, 1948 to Robert Humphrey and Miriam Allen. He had five siblings, grew up in Middle Road, La Penitence and was schooled at West Ruimveldt Primary School and St Phillip’s Anglican School. The latter was then located on Kettley Street, Charlestown.

Trevor, Troy, Shondell, Andrea, Roshell, Melanie, Marlon and Nimrod. Troy Humphrey, a champion cyclist, died in a motor vehicle accident a few years ago and in honour of his son, Mr Humphrey founded the Roraima Bikers Club (RBC) and served as president for a number of years before retiring.

Jaguars enter Xmas break with thumping See pag 118 points e 31

Guyanese fighters return … team finish third despite being shorthanded

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WELL DONE! GBA president Steve Ninvalle (first from left) and Michael Parris (first from right), and the Guyanese fighters at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport upon their arrival from St Lucia. (Adrian Narine photo)

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Shocked Gatlin sacks coach after doping claim

Justin Gatlin of the U.S. trains ahead of the ‘Mano a Mano’ challenge, a 100-metre race, at the Brazilian Jockey Club in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, September 29, 2017. (REUTERS/Bruno Kelly)

Former U.S. sprinter and present coach of Justin Gatlin, Dennis Mitchell

Steven Smith closer than ever to matching Bradman AUSTRALIA captain Steven Smith is closer than ever before to matching Don Bradman as the top-rated batsman of alltime, according to the ICC rankings for Test batsmen. Smith, who scored 239 to lead Australia to regaining the Ashes in Perth, increased his ratings points tally from 938 to 945 at No. 1, surpassing his previous best of 941 after the first

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Steven Smith is second on the all-time list along with England great Len Hutton.

Ashes Test in Brisbane. He is second on the all-time list along with former England batsman Len Hutton, and no one else apart from Bradman - who has 961 points - has ever achieved a higher tally. Smith earned seven points after his performance at the WACA led Australia to victory by an innings and 41 runs, overtaking the highest career tallies of

Peter May, Ricky Ponting and Jack Hobbs. His Test batting average of 62.32 is only behind Bradman’s 99.94 on the list of best averages for batsmen who have played at least 20 innings. And he’s number one currently ahead of India captain Virat Kohli by 52 ratings points. By the time the Boxing Day Ashes Test

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2017