Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 01 02 2017

Regions get 60% of 2 primary drug need – Lawrence P.

No. 104810

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Linden-Lethem road

UK to fund first phase

…122.5 km of road between Linden-Mabura …600m dual lane fixed bridge across Kurupukari Page 19

Hope for Imbaimadai …residents forging ahead with syndicate, to apply for mining lands Pa3ge

Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes and residents of Imbaimadai assessing possible mining lands that the syndicate can access. Also in the photo is MP Jermaine Figueira (extreme right)

Cop drowns No VAT on air Bandits snatch during river travel for hinterland $6M from ECD …gov’t warns against patrol businessman residents price gouging Page 17

Page 12

Page 11

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Regions get 60% of primary drug need …as gov’t moves to address shortage, strengthen procurement MINISTER of Public Health, Ms. Volda Lawrence said that all of the regions across the country have received 60 percent of their primary drugs need in an aim to address an ongoing drug shortage.

This announcement was made even as the Minister moves toward creating a better system to ensure efficiency in the procurement and distribution of drugs to serve the health needs of Guyanese.

The Minister, in an interview with the Ministry of the Presidency’s Press and Publicity Unit, said that as of January 30, 2017, seven out of the 10 Administrative Regions, which were asked to submit a list of drugs needed, were provided with 60 percent of the required drugs. The three remaining regions, she said, indicated that they were no immediate drug needs.

As the Ministry continues to engage suppliers, it

is expected that the remaining 40 percent, though not immediately needed by the regions, would be provided in the coming days. “We have one of the containers, which arrived last Friday and presently we are taking possession so that we can distribute to the various regions. Not many of them would have need for some of the drugs that are here presently. As we speak, we are engaging with suppliers because we are going to treat it as an emergency so that we can have those drugs arrive through a quicker process than would be the norm and so our outside date is February 15,” she said.

Last Thursday, while conducting a tour at the Ministry of Public Health’s Drug Bond, located at Diamond, the Minister found several gaps and loopholes, which she said needed to be addressed. Among the gaps identified was the shortage

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence

of some drugs at the bond.

After the tour, the Minister immediately convened a meeting with her Directors, Permanent Secretary and other officers from the Ministry to begin work on creating short and long term solutions to prevent a re-occurrence. At the same time, the Director of Regional Health Services was mandated by Minister

Lawrence to make contact with all of the regions across the country to ensure that they were not affected and to determine their primary drug needs.

Already, the Minister has begun taking steps to facilitate a change in the system, which governs the procurement, storage and distribution of drugs. From engaging suppliers to determining the estimated arrival of shipments and challenges affecting deliveries, to completely overhauling the management system, Minister Lawrence is committed to seeing the gaps and loopholes removed from the health centre. The Ministry, she said, has a lot of work to do but she is optimistic that it will be achieved.

“We are looking at how data is captured in terms of needs and to ensure that the averages, which are taken for the various drugs across the regions that that is as accurate as possible so that we are

not ordering short quantities which creates a need. We are seeking to ensure that we fill those vacancies, especially with the officers within the various regions, whose job requires them to ensure that the register for the drugs in stock, usage and balance are done in a timely manner and that information is forwarded to the Secretariat in a timely manner. We are also going to look at the system. It is still a paper system and too many papers shuffling around the place and we are going to work with our partners to ensure that we review the present system and have an electronic system put in place so that the connection is there,” she said.

Further, the Minister noted that work will also have to be done in determining critical levels for drugs and examining the right number and looking at the stock factor in checking the critical levels. The onus, she said,

is on her to address the deficiencies and these will be addressed during her leadership at the Ministry.

“We are looking at our critical levels because if you look at your critical levels it gives you time to place an order to have the process done because all of that is taken into consideration in arriving at that level. We have to ensure that we have the right data, the correct information. We have to correct from within. The government has recognised that there are issues and that we also recognise and believe that a healthy nation is a wealthy nation and we are working towards removing the bottlenecks and removing the gaps. I have dedicated persons, intelligent persons and persons fitting to be in this sector. What I have to do is to give them the tools to do their work and do it in a timely manner,” Minister Lawrence said. (Ministry of the Presidency)

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Hope for Imbaimadai …residents forging ahead with syndicate, to apply for mining lands

Some of the residents and small miners of Imbaimadai present at the meeting

By Svetlana Marshall RESIDENTS of Imbaimadai, a mining community situated in the CuyuniMazaruni District, are forging ahead with plans to establish a syndicate – a move which will see them accessing mining lands soon, but as a single body.

On Tuesday, Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes, Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira and a team from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) met with the residents, many of whom are small miners but have been experiencing a number of challenges. It is anticipated that through the syndicate, the small miners will be able to pool their resources together, and combat many of the challenges they currently face.

In updating residents on the progress made thus far, Wallis Daniels, who is no stranger to the community, explained that during the initial stage of forming the syndicate there were a number of unanswered questions, however, those questions have since been answered.

According to him, a committee has already been formed, and he is currently in the process of acquiring the required signatures, paving the way for the registration of the syndicate. Once registered, an application will be made to GGMC for mining lands in places such as Chi-Chi. Daniels told Minister Broomes that to date, approximately 79 residents and small miners have signed up to be a part of the syndicate; 40 per cent of whom are Amerindians.

Wilton Tafarest, who is the “unofficial” community leader, told those present during the meeting that through the “syndicate” they will move from “strength to

er’s pledge to create the “good life” for all Guyanese.

Pointing to a geological map, Minister Broomes highlighted a number of areas from which the syndicate

An overhead view of Imbaimadai

strength” as a united body.

“Once we organize ourselves we can move mountains,” Tafarest assured his fellow men and women, noting that the syndicate when established and in operation will revive the village of Imbaimadai.

“At one time, they had 20-something shops on this landing, half of them have closed down. We use to get about 15 flights a day, (we had) one of the busiest airstrips but now you are getting one and two flights.

This goes to show that the situation is very critical in Imbaimadai,” Tafarest pointed out.

Minister Broomes, in addressing the residents, said the Government is ready to deliver its people in keeping with President David Grang-

can access mining lands, once the application process is approved.

“Long gone are the days, when what people call small miners have to suffer at

the hands of landlordism, bullyism, bossmanism, and all the “isms” that you can talk about,” she told those present.

In recent times, small miners have been speaking out against the treatment meted out to them by the well-established miners, who would grant them permission to mine on their properties but when there is a “shout” or the gold is found, would give them marching orders.

Minister Broomes said the syndicate will not only empower small miners but would create equal opportunity for all. “All of you will benefit and will benefit equally,” she said while emphasizing that the Government is creating a level playing field for all miners.

Minister Broomes noted that during the last meeting with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), the Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMO), the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Ministry of Finance and Natural Resources, repre-

sentation was made by the small miners present to the Finance Minister Winston Jordan, for similar concessions to be granted.

She said that appeal has now made the way for syndicates to access similar concessions being accessed

by GGDMA, once they are tax compliant.

In her address, the Minister not only educated the miners on the syndicates and the concessions to be offered once compliant but also encouraged the miners to mine in an environmentally friendly manner. “You must care for the environment,” she emphasized.

Additionally, she said while some are of the opinion that she is against the establishment of business in interior and mining locations, that is not the case.

However, she is totally against Human Trafficking. Minister Broomes, who is a US State Department recognized Heroine, said children must be given the opportunity to complete school and enjoy their childhood.

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Only a third of Americans think Trump’s travel ban will make them more safe

(Reuters) Imposing a temporary travel ban on citizens from seven Muslim countries, President Donald Trump said the move would help protect the United States from terrorism. But less than one-third of Americans believe the move makes them “more safe,” according to a Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll released on Tuesday.

The Jan. 30-31 poll found roughly one in two Americans backed the ban, which also suspends admission of all refugees for 120 days, although there were sharp divisions along party lines.

GRAPHIC: Americans divided on Trump travel ban - view the data

Trump has pushed back against critics who say the travel ban targets Muslims. He says the “extreme vetting” is necessary to protect the country and its borders.

“This is not about religion,” Trump said in a statement after announcing the travel ban on Friday.

“This is about terror and keeping our country safe.”

In the Reuters/Ipsos poll some 31 percent of people said the ban made them feel “more safe,” while 26 percent said it made them feel “less safe.”

Another 33 percent said it would not make any difference and the rest said they don’t know.

Trump’s executive order blocked citizens from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen

and placed an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees.

Some Republican lawmakers criticized Trump’s order and said it could backfire by giving terrorist organizations a new recruitment message.

“This executive order sends a signal, intended or not, that America does not want Muslims coming into our country,” senators John McCain of Arizona and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said in a joint statement.

The Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 49 percent of Americans agreed with the order and 41 percent disagreed. Some 53 percent of Democrats said they “strongly disagree” with Trump’s action while 51 percent of Republicans said they “strongly agree.”

Democrats were more than three times as likely as Republicans to say that the “U.S. should continue to take in immigrants and refugees,” and Republicans were more than three times as likely as Democrats to agree that “banning people from Muslim countries is necessary to prevent terrorism.”

Cheryl Hoffman, 46, of Sumerduck, Virginia said she was thrilled that Trump ordered the ban.

“I understand that the country was founded on immigrants,” said Hoffman, who participated in the poll. “Please, I get that. But I’m worried that refugees are coming in and being supported by my tax dollars.”

Another poll respondent, Veronica Buetel, 57,

of Green, Ohio felt just the opposite: “Yes, we do live in scary times, but there are other, better ways to root out terrorism.”

Westy Egmont, director of the Immigrant Integration Lab at Boston College, said Americans have grown increasingly hostile toward refugees and immigrants as the influx has shifted from Eastern Europeans to people from countries like Iraq, Somalia and Afghanistan.

“The rise of those numbers, as relatively small as they are, have gathered just enough attention to set off a small reaction from people who are genuinely uncomfortable with the diversity around them,” Egmont said.

Most Americans, how-

ever, don’t think the country should show a preference for Christian refugees, as Trump has suggested.

Some 56 percent, including 72 percent of Democrats and 45 percent of Republicans, disagreed that the country should “welcome Christian refugees, but not Muslim ones.”

The Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted online in English in all 50 states. It gathered poll responses from 1,201 people including 453 Democrats and 478 Republicans. It has a credibility interval, a measure of accuracy, of 3 percentage points for the entire sample and 5 percentage points for the Democrats and the Republicans.

Wednesday, February 1st , 2017 - 05:00 hrs Thursday , February 2nd , 2017 - 08:30 hrs Friday, February 3rd, 2017- 09:00 hrs

DATE: 28/01/2017 31/01/2017

J 09 13 18 20 25 26 11

08

14

15

20

25

31/01/2017

05

04

00

31/01/2017

03

02

00

31/01/2017 10

11

12 15 19 20 21

5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

TT confirms more than 100 nationals involved in terrorist activities overseas CMC – The Trinidad and Tobago government Tuesday said more than 100 nationals are involved in terrorist activities “in countries away from Trinidad and Tobago”.

National Security Minister Edmund Dillon told the Senate that many of the persons had left the country giving false information regarding their true destiny.

ISISS“Madam President based on our information at this point in time there are roughly 130 nationals who have left Trinidad and Tobago to involve in terrorist activities in the countries away

from Trinidad and Tobago.

Information at hand right now reflects about 70 adults and 58 family members.

“In terms of our intelligence and information gathering people would live Trinidad and Tobago, sometimes on a destination not mentioned. They may leave for instance Trinidad and Tobago to go to England and they end up in Syria so that their intended destination is sometimes not known to us,” he told legislators.

Dillon said that Trinidad and Tobago has to rely on its international partners “to give us the kind of informa-

tion, the kind of intelligence that will confirm that they are in a terrorist country”.

On Monday, Trinidad and Tobago joined its Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member state, the Bahamas, in dismissing a report on the American television network, MSNBC, that the terrorist group, ISIS, has members in the two CARICOM countries.

In a statement, the Office of the Prime Minister noted that Trinidad and Tobago and the United States have a historic, enduring and multifaceted bilateral relationship built around significant cul-

GTT to absorb 14% VAT on DSL services …but mobile data now attracts VAT THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company said that it will absorb the 14% VAT on its DSL services, but will charge on its mobile data.

In a statement on Tuesday the company reminded that government in its 2017 national budget presentation announced the application of 14% VAT on internet services, which becomes effective on February 1, 2017. “GTT assures that the prices for DSL internet service will not change because of 2017 national budget measures. We recently changed the prices for our internet plans to offer more value to our customers and we want our customers to continue to enjoy the higher speeds without the 14% VAT at this time. “ However, GTT said it will apply the 14% VAT to mobile data and dedicated internet business services. The reduced VAT amount will also be applied to landline services which previously attracted 16% VAT. Meanwhile, Digicel in a message to its customers, announced that effective from today data related services will attract VAT.

tural, economic and national securities interests and ties.

“In fact, the United States is the home to a number of vibrant Trinidadian and Tobagonian communities reflecting the bond of friendship between our two nations.”

Reporting on the decision

by United States President Donald Trump to sign an executive order banning cit-

izens from seven countries, namely, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, an MSNBC contributor, Malcolm Nance, described as an expert in security and terrorism, indicated that the United States “have not banned terrorists from Brazil.

“ISIS has dozens of members from Brazil or Trinidad or The Bahamas who have

more terrorists members than any of those other countries,” he added.

But Port of Spain said that “Nance’s broad and simplistic statement is not supported by fact and ignores the robust and substantial national security cooperative partnership between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States”.

gnnleditorial@gmail.com 6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Editorial

The new Mash route AS GUYANA ushered in the celebrations in honour of its Golden Jubilee last year, the country’s Mashramani parade was shifted from its usual date on February 23 to May 26. With this change, came the introduction of a different route that would see the revellers moving from the Stabroek Market Square, along Brickdam and into D’Urban Park.

Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, said that the route held historic significance, given that Brickdam is the first street to have been built in Georgetown, and that the revellers would pass by the Independence Arch.

While Mashramani has returned to its regular date this year however, the route has not, and the change- though met with concerns from the public- is said to have been a strategic one made by government; one that will allow for greater safety and security for the revellers and onlookers.

The new route, which is also shorter, will now make room for a joint parade for both the adults and children, while its points of assembly and culmination will allow for more floats, more revellers and more people. These are the main selling points for Government’s decision, and attractive though they are, the question arises as to what the disadvantages are and how or if they will be remedied.

For starters, consideration must go into whether there ever was a need for both the children and adult parades to be merged. Many may argue that a separation is necessary in order to give freedom to certain behaviours that are likely to occur among the older age groups, while preserving the behaviours that are still affiliated with the younger ones.

Persons have also argued as to whether the children- many of whom fall among the youngest of our student population-be able to endure the enlarged crowd, intense heat and prolonged judging period?

A shorter route could also mean less space for vendors and these stakeholders have been among the lot to raise arms in objection to the change. Certainly, D’Urban Park has the space, but as opposed to the placement they have enjoyed for years along the Church Street/Vlissengen Road route, the vendors don’t seem to like this idea much at all. Organisers have pointed to the several open spaces near the D’Urban Park and surroundings areas that would be available for vending.

In retrospect, the idea of “bigger and better” may also very well be a stretch of the imagination, given that last year’s event did not quite translate to that. D’Urban Park is indeed bigger, and allowed for more people to observe the parade, but its massive platform seemed to swallow up the less than 30 floats and its revelers as each float passed through the ground. There was limited visibility for persons on either end of the venue and the sound provided by individual systems on the trucks faded quickly from earshot before reaching centre ground. So this year, while the bigger venue will be used as a selling point, one must wonder if the size of the floats and the bands will grow as well to make for a better display.

Of course, for this or other solutions to have been possible, the announcement that the change in route would now be permanent would have had to come much sooner than it did. This would have allowed for adjustments to be made by even the most skeptical of

Please use the metered parking system Dear Editor THE Mayor and City Council continues to encourage all motorists to use the metered parking system installed in a section of the central business district of Georgetown.

It is public knowledge that Council is responsible for a raft of activities, including the construction and maintenance of roads and allied facilities in the nation’s capital. An estimate from the City Engineer’s Department suggests that the construction of one (1) mile of road cost twelve million dollars ($12m).

Metered parking allows citizens to participate in the way the network of roads in the city is financed, ordered and managed. It influences the fluidity of vehicular traffic, the progress, growth and development of the municipality.

It is known that, whenever a new technology or

medium is introduced in a society it creates a new environment and stimulates various reactions to it. It is clear, too, that individuals tend to see the old way of doing things in the new innovation or technology introduced into the community. This, sometimes, causes them to miss the importance and utility of the new path created by the medium, and the economic and other values of it to the city.

The Council is aware that citizens have gotten use to taking the collectively owned spaces of the city for granted and some feel no obligation to assist the council to manage these spaces.

The effects of metered parking in Georgetown include rearranging the way citizens do business, in the city, reducing congestion and pollution and providing more resources for the council to maintain, upgrade and construct roads,

walkways, sidewalks and related facilities in the city.

The city’s administration could not allow Georgetown to continue along its old path of disorder and indiscipline without making a fundamental error in its approach to make this capital glorious and comparable with the great cities of the world. The city is part of the global village and consequently connected to the rest of the world, which is progressing in the area of technology; our national capital must not be left behind.

Therefore, the Council urges all citizens to participate and share in this aspect of the city’s h i s t o r y a n d d e v e l o pment.

Regards Royston King Town Clerk City of Georgetown

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial

stakeholders. More importantly, however, it would have allowed for more time to create a shift in attitude and outlook, after all, it is popular belief that the old route seemed to work just fine all these years, so the introduction of an alternative would take some time to swallow. But perhaps the new route should instead be approached with a wave of enthusiasm, as was seen in Charmaine Blackman’s newest music video. After all, a new route could signify new direction with new opportunities. And with the Government’s thrust of the ‘Good Life’, perhaps “Celebration with dignity, liberty and greater unity” may best be honoured by traversing along a brand new path.

Not the right time for metered parking Dear Editor IN an effort to control the current ongoing traffic congestion mainly in Georgetown, the Government through the Mayor and City Council, introduced Guyanese to the ‘parking meters’.

The minds behind this initiative are of some concern to me since, there is always some agenda hidden behind political status, so one has to sit and think of whether the current system was introduced as a means to an end or just another tactic to continue political corruption.

With all that being said, I believe the parking meter system is a great initiative.

However, $58.00 per every 15 minutes (vat inclusive) is blatantly harsh and does not support our nation’s motto (One People, One Nation, One Destiny). The main task of any government is to

minimise poverty and boost prosperity. Adding another bill to people’s monthly expenses is contrary to what I think governance is about.

Very often Guyanese people will compare Guyana to ‘America’ (North America) saying things like: “If them went in America them wouldda had to pay.” That is besides the concerns of the people as it relates to the parking meters. What people fail to acknowledge is that ‘America’ is economically stable and strong. The economic status of Guyana and North America are vastly different and the comparison is simply not fair. There is so much to be taken into consideration if Guyanese are going to compare Guyana to the North America, Guyanese people please stop it.

Another way that the government can curb the traffic situation and discipline road users is by intro-

ducing the ‘ticket system’ a system being used by the famous and envied ‘America’. This system is used when and if a road user violates the road laws they pay a fine/penalty. Some people say that the parking meter system is a leaf on the tree of economic development; I say yes it is, but paying an additional $37,000 per month for a career person like a nurse or teacher is absurd and the government should be ashamed. It is a death sentence and a burden to the nation. The nation is crying and the government needs to listen.

I think if we take it one day at a time and make some change in high places we will see lasting progress in this nation and our economic trees will flourish.

Praise God and may God bless this wealthy nation.

Regards Abigail Bijader

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

7

8

Steel rims, egg tray, scrubbing board and the Linden-Lethem trail

During a pit stop on a trip to Lethem a few months back, our group noticed that all the Lethem mini buses were fitted with steel rims, a marked departure from the more aesthetically pleasing and vogue alloy rims which can be found on the mini buses plying coastland routes.

We enquired from one of the drivers why this was and after a wry laugh he enlightened us. The owners of the Georgetown-Lethem buses install steel rims for entirely sensible purposes. With the route being mostly unpaved rough trail with loose stones, bricks, potholes and craters, alloy rims would crack, bend and disintegrate in little time.

Steel rims are the order of the day.

The length of time it takes to journey from Georgetown to Lethem varies considerably depending on the weather conditions. In optimal conditions, meaning a dry trail, the journey would clock 12 hours or half a day of driving time. This excludes waiting time at the Kurupukari Crossing and the usual pit stops along the way. If the weather is poor and the trail conditions are bad, the journey could take as much as 20 hours. This is a distance of 263 miles (or 423km).

For reference, to fly from London, England, to Sydney, Australia – a distance of 10,560 miles – it would take about the same time. The flight from Ogle to Lethem

A minibus on the Lethem trail

takes an hour these days on the comfy Trans Guyana Airways Beechcraft, but costs significantly more than the bus fare.

In recent times, even in rainy conditions the Linden-Lethem trail and its fickle bridges has been kept in fairly decent condition allowing for the journey to take between 14-16 hours or so.

Typically, the Lethem buses leave Georgetown at 7/8pm and pass through Linden on their way to their first pit stop at 58 Mile. Here the buses refuel, engines, wheels and other parts are checked while passengers take washroom breaks and grab something to eat at the popular roadside restaurant and grocery.

The portion of the trail from Linden to 58 Mile is perhaps the least comfortable and has been labelled the ‘egg tray’ for its unending number of smaller potholes which make

it impossible to dodge or navigate around.

The next leg, from 58 Mile to Mabura Hill, which is the second pit stop location, is not much better. From Mabura Hill to the Kurupukari crossing the conditions are much improved and the Lethem buses usually arrive at 2/3am ahead of the 6am ferry crossing of the Essequibo River. Travelers and drivers get a few hours of snooze time before daybreak.

After the crossing the journey continues following security checks at the Fairview Police Outpost and the third and final pit stop is usually had at Annai before the homestretch leg of the journey to the border town of Lethem. With its dusty, wind- swept undulations on the trail, which leaves travelers feeling as though the drive is being done on a corrugated roof, this portion

of the trail has come to be known as ‘the scrubbing board’.

Having left Georgetown the previous evening at 7/8pm, travelers arrive at Lethem anytime between 10am and 1pm once the trail is not in an absolutely deplorable state. The return journey is just as long with buses typically leaving Lethem at 6/7pm for the Surama Junction where they arrive at approximately 10pm and spend the night before heading off at 4am or so for the Corkwood Checkpoint which opens at 4:30am.

Then it is on to Kurupukari, then Mabura Hill, 58 Mile, Linden and Georgetown.

On a paved road, driving at a modest average speed of 80 kmph, the Georgetown to Lethem journey of 423km should take a shade over 5 hours of driving time. It would mean that you could have lunch in Georgetown, enjoy a half hour pit stop along the way and get to Lethem in time for dinner.

This is the dream.

And realizing the first phase of the dream is about to commence with the design of the Linden to Mabura Hill sector. Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson has reported that this phase of the project covers 122.5km of roadway and will be funded by the United Kingdom through its UK Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund.

The other critical component of this project is the bridging of the Essequibo River at the Kurupukari Crossing with a 600 meter bridge. These two aspects – paving the egg tray from Linden to Mabura Hill and

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

bridging the Kurupukari Crossing – have been the most challenging over the years. Once complete the journey of 12-15 hours could be reduced considerably to about nine-hour drive time, with no need to spend several hours waiting for the ferry crossing at Kurupukari.

Once the other phases of the trail are paved as the Linden-Lethem Road Project continues, taking Friday afternoon off and hopping in the car with the family in Georgetown for a weekend road trip to Lethem can be a norm, an attraction even.

And you can be back home

by Sunday afternoon after having brunch in Lethem.

It would mean booming business of hotels, such as Takutu Hotel, Rupununi Eco Lodge, Ori Hotel and others in Lethem. Restaurants, entertainment spots, tour guides, gas stations, supermarkets, itinerant vendors and the many stores in Lethem’s commercial district would see an explosion in business. Interest in investing in Lethem would skyrocket.

After decades of ‘are we there yet?’ the paving of the Linden-Lethem trail will soon commence. Wither the egg tray, wither the scrubbing board.

Soon Lethem mini-bus owners will not be consigned to steel rims only. They too would be able to install flash alloy.

The Kurupukari Crossing

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

More people making GRA clarifies VAT use of decentralised on parking meters passport service MINISTER of Citizenship, Winston Felix said more persons are now able to access passports and other civic documents since the service was decentralised.

In an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Felix explained that the government is currently working to acquire locations in Linden and New Amsterdam to set up passport offices.

“At the New Amsterdam location we have gone a stage further in terms of processing the papers. At the Linden location I’m at the initial stage. We are still at the stage where we were dealing with New Amsterdam and Linden on last year’s programme We also did some work in Parika and we’re currently we’re doing some visits to Lethem to provide them with them services as well,” Minister Felix explained.

The Minister of Citizen-

ship said his Ministry aims to provide the services in as many communities as possible, thereby eliminating the need for persons to travel to Georgetown which can be time consuming and costly.

The minister noted that persons in the hinterland are among those who were recently able to apply for birth, marriage and death certificates in their communities “While these locations are not the core of the decentralisation programme, what we’re doing is taking the service to as many locations as possible to ensure that people get the service in their community and they don’t have to travel to Georgetown and waste a lot of hours to get a minor service done,” the minister explained.

Felix added that by the end of 2017, persons in all the ten administrative regions will be able to apply for birth, marriage and death certifi-

cates in their communities.

He said persons are appreciative of the services provided and have been making full use of it.

“They are supporting it and coming in their numbers and I think it is set now for general acceptance use by others who may not have been familiar with it,” Minister Felix emphasised.

The Minister of Citizenship said the government is committed to providing improved services to all Guyanese, in or as close to their communities as possible.

In the 2017 National Budget, the sum of $625M was allocated for Citizenship and Immigration Services, including strategies to cover births, deaths and marriages, issuance of work permits and granting of citizenship. An additional $50M was budgeted for the establishment of two new passport offices.(GINA)

OFFICIALS of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), led by Commissioner-General Godfrey Statia and Deputy Commissioner-General Hema Khan, met with representatives of Smart City Solutions (SCS), led

by Mr. Amir Oren, Managing Director of Business Development Tuesday on the matter of Value Added Tax (VAT) being added by Smart City Solutions (SCS) for metered parking.

The Guyana Revenue Authority determined that the VAT applied to the service provided by SCS is in compliance with the requirements of the VAT Act.

VAT is being charged by SCS upon the purchase of the prepaid parking cards at current VAT rates. The VAT is, however, applicable to the consumer only at prevailing VAT rates when parking is transacted.

The VAT which is currently being charged at a rate of sixteen percent (16%) is included in the cost of the prepaid cards which are being sold citywide. It should be noted that as of February 1, 2017, VAT will be applied at a rate of fourteen percent (14%).

Given that a quantity of cards was printed prior to the VAT rate being reduced,

Smart City Solution has agreed to inform its vendors of the need to reduce the total cost of cards accordingly. For example: where a card states a cost of five hundred and eighty dollars ($580), VAT inclusive, it will now be sold for five hundred and seventy dollars ($570) reflecting the VAT reduction from sixteen percent (16%) to fourteen percent (14%).

Consumers making their prepaid metered card purchases at vendor locations are asked to be vigilant in ensuring that the cost of cards are reflective of the reduced Value Added Tax of 14%.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Man causes uproar after murder committal ORPHEUS Johnson, the man who is accused of killing Travis Rudder Snr was committed to stand trial at the next sitting of the assizes by City Magistrate Judy Latchman.

The decision was made on Tuesday at the close of the preliminary inquiry into the charge against the accused.

Johnson, 28, a pork-knocker of Second Street, Craig, East Bank Demerara, is accused of murdering Travis Rudder Snr, on

June 21, at Republic Park.

The magistrate told the court that she was satisfied with the evidence presented by the prosecution. When the ruling was handed down, Johnson asked the magistrate why she was committing him and she knew that he did not murder anyone.

When he was ordered to sign a court document he refused, causing an uproar in the court room, causing the magistrate to return to her chambers, and sending police ranks to take up strategic

positions around the court.

Gunmen firing semi-automatic pistols through a bedroom window, pumped 12 bullets into career criminal, Travis Rudder Snr, and a few more rounds into his wife and baby son, as they slept in their bedroom.

By the time the gunmen’s clips were empty, 26-yearold Rudder lay sprawled and lifeless on his bed; his 18-month old son, Travis Rudder (Jnr), badly wounded, with six gunshots to the stomach and back, and Rud-

Orpheus Johnson

der’s reputed wife, Mawanza Gill, bleeding from gunshot

wounds to both legs.

Rudder was accused of the March, 2007 murder of his 17-year-old ex-girlfriend Donnis King, who was shot in the stomach at her Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara home.

Rudder was arrested some six months after the killing, but was found not guilty in 2011.

Orpheus Johnson was committed in August of 2016 for another murder.

It was alleged that on April 22, at Agricola, East Bank Demerara, he murdered Gladstone George.

Gladstone George, called ‘Brother’, 32, of Agricola,

was pronounced dead at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), minutes after he received two bullets to the head, while he was sitting in a mini bus.

George had just joined the bus and from all indications, his killer was trailing him and waited for the opportunity to strike.

Johnson, a father of one was also accused of robbery under arms. His criminal career dated way back to 2009 when he faced multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder and robbery under-arms.

However, Johnson was not convicted on those charges.

Magistrate advises miner not to be led astray Minibus driver CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Tuesday ordered a 27-year-old miner to pay compensation or serve 12 months’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to a break and enter charge.

Christopher Punch of

West Coast, Berbic, confessed to breaking into the dwelling house of Anthony Mahase at Bartica between January 7 and January 24, and stole a chain saw and television valued $275,000.

According to the unrepresented Punch, his girlfriend

was left as the caretaker for the Mahase home while the man was away. He admitted that he broke into the home and took the TV, along with the chainsaw to sell and make a profit.

“Me and meh girlfriend say that we would sell the

things and buss up the money but we didn’t getting market for the TV so we decide to put it back in the man home but that’s when he catch we,” Punch explained to the court.

Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones, explained to the court that Punch’s girlfriend was charged before the Bartica Magistrate Court for the same offence, while Punch was nabbed during his appearance in court.

“This is not like longtime.

Don’t let a woman encourage you to do bad things,” the Chief Magistrate urged Punch.

Magistrate McLennan ordered Punch to repay Mahase $200,000 compensation for the stolen chain saw or serve 12 months in jail.

jailed in his absence A MINIBUS driver was on Tuesday sentenced to two years in jail by City Magistrate Fabayo Azore after being found guilty of dangerous driving and causing a man’s death.

Orlando King of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara, was found guilty of the charge that said on Sunday, July 26, at Camp and New Market Streets, Georgetown, he drove minibus BSS 4305 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Wilbert Andrew Anthony.

The magistrate declared that all evidence presented by the prosecution was found to be sufficient and as such, she handed down her sentence.

King was sentenced in his absence.

According to the facts, on the day in question King was driving the vehicle at a fast rate when he collided with Anthony, who was pitched several feet away. The defendant crashed into several government properties, causing them to be damaged.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Bail for Moco-Moco No VAT on airport couple on drugs charge security, car park fees A MOCO-MOCO farmer and his reputed wife were on Tuesday released on $200,000 bail each by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, in relation to three kilos of cannabis sativa that was allegedly found in their home during a police raid.

Louis Cupertin, a 29-yearold farmer and his reputed wife, Felicia Mandokin, 18, were jointly charged for having the cannabis in their possession on January 27 at Moco- Moco Village, Central Rupununi, for the purpose of trafficking.

The couple denied the

charge. Their lawyer Jerome Khan in his application for bail explained that the police carried out a raid in the village in search of Cupertin’s brother, Roland.

He added that Ronald had earlier visited the home and left a bag, saying he would return in a couple of days. Cupertin did not however check to see what was inside.

Khan told the court that police ranks later on January, 27, carried out a raid, unearthing the narcotics in the bag.

He also pointed out that the man’s wife had told the same story when held by the police.

Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones in his facts to the court explained that on the day in question police, acting on a ‘tip-off,’ went to the couple’s home and carried out a search finding the illicit drug in the process.

Jones further pointed out that Cupertin, under caution by the police, explained that it was his brother that had left the drugs at his home.

The Chief Magistrate put the couple on $200,000 each and had the matter transferred to the Lethem Magistrate’s Court for March 2.

“Cornbread” murder trial underway LAST Monday the “Cornbread” 2012 murder trial started before Justice Navindra Singh and a 12-member jury in the High Court.

The indictment stated that the three accused - Ray Yakumaka, called “RayRay”, Steffon Campbell called “Burnham” and Faisal Moore called “Winston Bostwick,” “Vizul” and “Hard Mouth” on May 8, 2012 murdered Glen Xavier in the furtherance of a robbery at Cornbread Mini Mart at D’Urban and Lime Streets, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown.

On the day in question Glen Xavier and Orin John were having ‘drinks’ at the popular bar when two men arrived on CG motorcycles and pointed a gun at them while demanding that they hand over their money.

Both Xavier and John were relieved of their cash and jewels then shot. The robbers escaped on their motor cycles.

Xavier, 32, of Harlem, West Coast Demerara, died from shock and hemorrhage due to gunshot injuries to the abdomen while his friend John, 48, of St. Cuthbert’s

Mission was shot to the shoulder but survived his injuries after being hospitalised.

The state is being represented by Siand Dhurjon and Tuanna Hardy and they are expected to call more than 10 witnesses to testify.

The case started on Monday with a voir dire (a trial within a trial) and two witnesses have so far testified.

Yakumaka is represented by George Thomas and Peter Hugh while Campbell’s attorney is Maxwell McKay and Moore’s counsel is Trenton Lake.

THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport will not charge the 14 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on airport security fees nor will it increase the current car park fees by 14%, effective from today.

Ramesh Ghir, Chief Executive Officer, explained that, after serious consideration, the airport’s Board of Directors decided that the Airport Corporation would absorb the loss

of income.

“The Board opined that it would have been unreasonable to add VAT to fees that were recently increased. Instead, the Corporation would bear that loss,” Mr. Ghir stated.

Meanwhile, VAT will be charged on all other categories of income.

All airport operators were officially notified of the new tax charges.

Bandits snatch $6M from ECD businessman TWO bandits armed with handguns robbed a businessman of $6M cash at his Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara home Tuesday afternoon.

Reports indicate that the bandits had trailed the businessman’s wife from Republic Bank, Water Street location. She had withdrawn the cash and jumped into a taxi she normally uses to return home. Upon disembarking at her home and walking towards the workshop situated on the lower flat of the house she observed a silver grey Toyota Allion HB 5059 heading towards her direction.

Two men exited the taxi which drove up next to her, and she was held at gunpoint.

Police said the woman then threw the bag of cash into the yard where her husband was located causing the men to charge towards him, assaulting him in the process, while relieving him of the bag filled with cash. The two armed bandits also relieved the woman of a Samsung Galaxy cell phone before they escaped in the taxi.

Police have launched an investigation and the driver of the taxi used by the woman is being questioned.

12

Man wounded during fight at rum shop A MAN is currently in a critical state at the New Amsterdam Hospital after being stabbed several times to the abdomen by a friend.

Martin Ramsarack, 26, of 323 Number 1, Road Corentyne, Berbice, was rushed to the hospital nursing stab wounds following an argument with his longtime friend Simon Palingam, 25.

Guyana Chronicle understands that on Sunday 29, January, the man left his home to purchase

snacks for his children when he stopped at a bar in the village where some friends were imbibing.

Shortly after Ramsawack and Palingam got into an argument. It is unclear what prompted the argument.

Rohini Persaud, Wife of Ramsawack, said she was home when someone informed her that, “Martin get bore up and it serious.

I left to go see him. I meet he half way on the street. I tell he we going doctor and he tell me no he don’t want go anywhere”.

She told this newspaper that when she enquired from her husband what happened he said, “Simon and he was arguing and he pull out a knife and stab he but because he went in plenty pain and was bleeding a lot he didn’t get to say why. When we reach the hospital they had to do emergency surgery. The doctor tell we he get bore deep in his stomach.”

Meanwhile, a relative of Simon gave a different account of what transpired on Sunday evening

at Suresh Jagdeo Liquor Store. “Simon was in the shop talking to the shopkeeper telling he that all the money he work for does done here. When he nah get none he hope Shar Rukh (Shopkeeper) can give he a pint rice. Martin was in there too and ask Simon who he think he talking to and Simon tell he Shar Rukh.”

The relative disclosed that, “Martin pushed Simon and chuck he up and they start fight and Martin pull out a knife.”

Afterwards they scuffled and ended up outside the shop since the shopkeeper put them out. The relative went on to say the fight continued outside of the shop during which time Martin was wounded.

Police are investigating the matter. Ramsarack, a father of four remains a patient of the New Amsterdam Hospital.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Cop drowns during river patrol

Commander of “F” Division- Senior Superintendent Ravindradat Budhram and Assistant Superintendent Kamraj Shivbarran with civil society representative and some of the relatives of the deceased police rank

A POLICE corporal drowned Monday night while on river patrol with two other ranks in a boat that sank in Ekereku River, Cuyuni-Mazaruni, Region Seven.

Dead is Belgrave Bartholomew, 39, of Rupununi, Lethem. When contacted, Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Ravindradat Budhram, said that the three ranks were on patrol at 20:30hrs when their boat sank. Two of the ranks swam to shore while the corporal did not make it to the shore. His body surfaced

on Tuesday. A postmortem is expected to be done this week.

The commander said that he and Assistant Superintendent, Kamraj Shivbarran, along with civilians visited some of the police corporal’s relatives in Itabali, CuyuniMazaruni and held a prayer session after giving their support and condolences. Superintendent Budhram said the corporal who had 21 years of service will be missed as he was a dedicated worker who had discipline and loved his job.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

GNBS seized 694 defective scales last year Sometimes something may weight 1.5kg but in reality you are only getting 1kg,” he explained.

With the GNBS act re-

(Left to Right) Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GNBS, Lloyd David, Executive Director Candelle Walcott-Bostwick, Head of Legal Metrology Department, Shailendra Rai and Senior Inspector for Legal Metrology and Standards Compliance, Dillon Beckles during the press conference

THE Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) conducted 7, 632 surveillance visits to business premises in 2016 resulting in the seizure of 694 defective scales and 394 masses countrywide, Executive Director of the entity Candelle Walcott-Bostwick has said.

Speaking at a press conference Monday at the GNBS office at the Exhibition Complex in Sophia, Walcott-Bostwick said the surveillance visits were conducted biannually to ensure compliance with weights and measures devices used for trade. She said the GNBS has offices in regions, two, three, four, six and nine and the department provides verification and inspection services while addressing consumers complaints for products monitored by the bureau.

Underscoring that the largest category of instruments initially verified are scales, masses and electricity meter, the GNBS head said

this amounted to 5,991 initial verifications, but subsequent verifications added up to 22,827.

Meanwhile, she said the bureau received 188 complaints in 2016 when compared to 155 in 2015. These complaints surrounded issues with furniture, new and used tyres, cell phones and electrical appliances. The GNBS official noted that its officers completed verification exercises which included the stamping of scales, masses and measures used for the commercial trade at shops, markets, supermarkets, hospitals, clinics, health centres, manufacturing companies, fish complexes, rice mills, petrol stations and bulk terminals.

Head of Legal Metrology Department, Shailendra Rai, added that persons using these devices should ensure that they clean them, submit them for verification and make sure they are properly maintained.

He explained that consumers should not purchase

from businesses with scales that are not verified by the GNBS. Rai said the bureau has been encountering problems with the use of approved devices in commerce.

“What happen is that the GNBS cannot restrict the importation of domestic scales, because this can be purchased and used for domestic purposes, but what we are doing is trying to ensure that domestic scales are not used for commercial trade,” the Metrology Head said.

He explained many of the scales are not designed for commercial trade and businesses that want to purchase a scale for such trade can contact the bureau and recommendations will be given along with a verification stamp for the device.

“What you would find happening is that the consumers are cheated as the domestic scales damages faster because the spring becomes weak and the scale reports more but in reality the consumer is getting less weight.

vised and updated, there will be steps taken to increase penalties and fines as it relates to the use of the defective scales. Persons

are also asked to contact the GNBS to know what devices they can use and purchase for commercial trade.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Duo committed to High Court for Robb St. murder/arson TWO MEN were on Tuesday committed to stand trial at the High Court after a prima facie case was made out against them for the murder of Theresa and Feresa Rozario and their father Hilrod Thomas back in 2014.

The paper committal against Ganga Krishna, 72, a businessman of Lot 11 North Road, Bourda, Georgetown and his employee, Avishkar Kissoon, 24, of Lot 1 Sheriff Street, Campbellville was done by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

The Chief Magistrate ruled that a sufficient case was made out against the duo and ruled that the oral statement that the men had given to police were given freely and voluntary.

“Madam, I’m very innocent,” were the words of Krishna as he declined to call witnesses since he would be reserving them for his High Court hearing.

Meanwhile Kissoon echoed the same sentiment as his boss. “I’m innocent,” he said before being committed to the High Court.

The men were represented

LC Oil outreach

Oil sector public outreach to start soon A NATIONAL outreach programme to provide information and answer questions on the emerging oil and gas sector will be launched this month by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Government Information Agency (GINA) has reported.

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, in a recent interview with GINA, said his team is in the process of finalising the outreach programme, which is expected to be rolled out in mid-February.

“We hope to go to all 10 regions and to as many villages and communities as possible and we hope at the same

address the pressing questions such as how can people benefit, where the money will go, how the money will be used in communities and measures to deal with an oil spill. “(We are going) to answer as many of the questions as possible and if we don’t have the answer immediately, to commit to providing them as soon as possible,” Minister Trotman said in his interview with GINA. Information on the oil find, government’s developmental plans for the sector, how the revenue will be spent and who the government is working with, will

The outreach programme will also engage the diaspora and provide special briefing to the parliamentary opposition, civil society, private sector commission, the diaspora and other specialty groups and institutions. time not to go by ourselves, but to work in tandem with other ministries,” Minister Trotman is quoted as saying.

The outreach programme will also engage the diaspora and provide special briefing to the parliamentary opposition, civil society, private sector commission, the diaspora and other speciality groups and institutions. Minister Trotman said further that information will also be disseminated by utilising the television, radio, newspapers and pamphlets.

There are also plans to engage school-aged children, the Minister noted.

BENEFITS The outreach seeks to

also be shared with citizens.

Guyana is expected to begin oil production by 2020.

The country made its first oil discovery of commercial quantities back in 2015 by ExxonMobil and its partners, who were exploring the Liza well in the 6.6 million acres Stabroek Block located offshore Guyana. Last year it was officially announced that the find is of commercial oil quantities equivalent to more than 1.4 billion barrels of recoverable high quality crude oil.

Earlier this month, Exxon and its partners also made another significant oil find in the Payara-1 well.

by Attorneys Nigel Hughes and Glenn Hanoman, in association with Mursaline Bacchus, respectively.

In November, 2014, Theresa Rozario (15) and her 12-year-old sister, Feresa were burnt to death after an early-morning fire destroyed a Robb Street, Georgetown building they were occupying with their father.

The two sisters, who were reportedly asleep, were trapped in the early-morning inferno.

Hilrod Randolph Thomas (63) managed to jump through

a window to escape the flames but he sustained second and third-degree burns and later succumbed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Investigations in this matter took the police two years, then a drug addict reportedly confessed that he was offered money to set fire to the disputed building.

Police believe that the building was torched to drive out individuals who were also claiming ownership of the property by prescriptive rights.

Avishkar Kissoon

Ganga Krishna

Digicel donates to Bosco Boys orphanage

Head of Marketing Jacqueline James as she outfitted this boy with school shoes on Tuesday at St. John’s Bosco Orphanage

DIGICEL Guyana on Tuesday visited the St. Johns’ Bosco Boys Orphanage at Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, where they made a donation to the boys and gifted the administration with a brand new washing machine.

The boys were given school shoes, back packs with stationery and sumptu-

ous snacks, after which they expressed their gratitude for the donation. Digicel Head of Marketing, Jacqueline James, told the gathering that as the cell phone giant celebrates its 10th anniversary on February 14 (Valentine’s Day), they have embarked on a series of charitable activities which started on Tuesday.

She added that Digicel

Guyana will visit 10 charitable organizations to make donations in 10 days across the country in observance of their anniversary.

James said their focus this year is on charities and they will make donations to several special schools and orphanages which include Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage, Kitty; Cheshire Home at Mahai-

ca; Canaan Children’s Home, Mahaica; New Amsterdam Special Needs School; Gifted Hands at Kingston; Diamond Special Needs School and Prabhu Sharan, West Coast Demerara.

During the presentation ceremony at St. John’s Bosco Orphanage, James outfitted several of the boys with school shoes.

The boys of St. John’s Bosco Orphanage flanked by Digicel Guyana staffers at St. John’s Bosco Boys Orphanage on Tuesday during a visit (Adrian Narine photos)

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Police Confab

New anti-crime strategies for implementation THIS year will see the enhancement of the Guyana Police Force (GPF)’s crime-prevention strategies and work plan as the agency reviews a list of recommendations made during its annual officers’ conference, held from 26-28 January, 2017.

The conference held under the theme “Forging ahead with professionalism and intelligence-led policing in collaboration with stakeholders” saw the attendance of 165 officers. According to a statement, police said President, David Granger addressed the conference on day two and gave his assurance that the Government is determined to implement strategies aimed at transforming the GPF to meet the current and future demands of Guyana. He said there should be enhanced focus on education and training, ethical standards and social responsibility.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo who delivered the feature address at the opening of the conference for his part, congratulated the force for a job well done in 2016. The Prime Minister charged officers to be ever vigilant of their performance, considering at all times the high expectations of the Commander-in-Chief, and

the country as a whole.

Further, Public Security Minister and Second Vice President, Khemraj Ramjattan during his address to the conference congratulated the GPF but urged officers to conduct continuous introspection with a view of transforming the force to meet the challenges of a fast changing society.

Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud also spoke at the event.

Police said that for 2017 the GPF will focus on issues surrounding crime, conduct of Police ranks, Audit and Inspection, Training and work plan, Implementation of Team Policing, Public Relations Development and Police Association, Issues and recommendations. During the conference, special recognition was also given to the COPs and Faith Community Network for their contribution to Guyana through GPF. This recognition took the form of a plaque awarded to members of the Group. Recognition was also given to the Justice Education Society of Canada for their contribution in training, and the Zara Group which boosted the capacity of the Force and contributed to the graduation of 3,572 civilians across

Skeletal remains of pensioner found THE skeletal remains of a pensioner were discovered at his home in Ikuraka Creek, Essequibo Coast, after a visit from a relative on Monday.

Dead is Robertson Abraham, 74, of Iturbisi, Ikuraka Creek, Essequibo Coast. Commander of “G” Division, Superintendent Khali Pareshram, said the body was discovered at 10:00hrs on Monday by Daphne Paton called “Auntie Dup, 58, who is a relative of the deceased. She is a housewife of Red village, Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast.

She had related to police that she last saw the pensioner on the 19th, December, 2016. A police source told this newspaper that the pensioner lived alone for several years and would usually cross the creek only to collect his pension since he has a small farm and a camp where he resides. There is no other person living in close proximity.

The police source added that the pensioner was reportedly suffering from stomach pains and high blood pressure which was confirm by health workers.

Guyana in the areas of MS Office 2007, Foundation & Advance Office 2007 and PC Repairs, and Networking.

The police said too that the conference also engaged

key stakeholders in the form of the Force Chaplain Pastor P. Doolichand, Police Legal Advisor, Justice Claudette Singh, CCH, SC, Justice Brassington Reynolds, Mrs.

Patricia Bisnauth-Sheerattan, Executive Director, Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association, Mr. Gerry Gouveia, Chief Executive Officer of Roraima Airways and a member of the Private Sector Commission who delivered timely and meaningful presentations to officers.

The conference culminated with the traditional

Dinner at the Police Officers’ Mess where a total of 11 officers with an accumulated 325 years of service were dined out and nine newly promoted officers were dined in. The Guest Speaker was the Reverend Dr. R. Massiah, Chairman of the Guyana Police Force Fallen Heroes Foundation Inc.

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Miners up ante against new tax measures …appeal for meeting with President

By Zena Henry MEMBERS of the local mining industry are resisting government’s “tough” mining taxes with an ultimatum to meet President David Granger within two weeks, or face immediate protest action. Miners say they have been expressing their concerns for a number of weeks but have gained no meaningful outcome.

In the first step toward possible demonstrations, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGD-

MA) and Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMA) issued a public notice on Tuesday, extending an invitation to the Head of State, who they believe will be more accommodating to their plight. The miners claim that previous meetings with other officials were “hijacked” thus causing their concerns to remain outstanding.

The associations have effected their first full page advertisement in local newspapers also informing association members to mobilise

for protest action if their concerns are not met. Administrative Manager of the GGDMA Colin Sparman told the Guyana Chronicle that the tax matters are of deep concern to all miners and must be addressed by the President. He said the mining industry has contributed a lot to the country before noting how the new tax measures will “squeeze the life out of the industry.”

The miners expressed discontent, stating that after 30 years of operating under the established tax code, they as

the main stakeholders should have had some input as to the new tax measures that directly affect them and their families. “We will not accede to conditions imposed upon the industry where there has not even been the courtesy of prior consultation,” the miners insisted.

They described a previous meeting with the Minister of Finance as being “hijacked” while another with the head of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), still left members of the mining association uneasy. Some of the measures worrying the miners include increased tributors tax

from 10 to 20 percent, filing yearly income tax plus the payment of two percent tax at source, and VAT exemption on heavy-duty vehicles among others. The miners are also seeking positive feedback on accessing existing mining concessions for small miners and improved infrastructure for better mobility and transport cost reduction.

Sparman told this newspaper that miners will incur increased operating cost that will prove devastating if some of these taxes are accepted. He pointed out for example that the recently implemented 14percent VAT on

domestic flights is one likely to have devastating effects on the industry. According to him, cargo to the interior is charged per pound. “That means prices will increase.

If you paid $500 for a small bottle of water in the interior, you will now have to pay $1000.” Sparman continued that there are some items that must be flown into the interior and there are locations that must be reached via air. “You will then have people trying to recover their money; that means things will increase.”

Sparman also pointed out the effect he believes the new Turn to page 18 ►

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

No VAT on air travel for hinterland residents …gov’t warns against price gouging HINTERLAND residents are exempted from paying VAT on air travel, a top airline official has clarified amid concerns over the 14% tax that will be charged on air ticket locally from today.

This new tax measure has however caused operators to express concern over this implementation, saying that it will likely result in increased cost of traveling within the country by air.” The matter has also caused concern about the effects it will have on sectors that depend on domestic aviation. However, Air Services Limited (ASL) Executive and President of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) Annette Arjoon-Martins told the Guyana Chronicle that, “the 14 percent VAT implementation while it will indeed have an impact on the sectors that depend on local aviation Hinterland residents were not subjected to the tax.”

She said however that the problem stems from identifying who are residents of the interior. Operators say they will not be able to identify Hinterland residents and thus exempt them from the tax. In another scenario, if a passenger is deemed unacceptable for the exemption, it is feared that that airline would have to bear the cost.

Wings Aviation Executive Roxanne Reece also expressed concern over the VAT implementation but noted that it is a cost that has to be charged to the passenger. “We will have to charge the VAT,” Reece noted. She recognised that the cost of traveling to the interior will increase, but given the requirement of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Reece said the company must abide.

Like Arjoon, she too touched on the businesses that would be affected with the new VAT implementation. Reece pointed out that certain aviation items that were previously zero rated are no longer so, and while

taxes paid could have been reimbursed, she said the VAT too will now be charged to passengers. The tourism and mining sectors heavily depend on the aviation sector since many hinterland locations are difficult to be reached by land. When asked, some operators were unsure what would become of tickets purchased before the implementation of the VAT. If not paid by the passenger, it is likely that touring agencies or airlines would themselves have to pay the 14 percent.

As it relates to identifying hinterland residents, Arjoon-Martin said that NATA is very interested in positive engagements with the GRA and intends to write the agency about resident cards or documentation identifying those residing in the interior. Arjoon-Martin said that NATA is also expected to meet with Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson in a matter of days and the VAT matter will be up for discussion.

Outside of the aviation arena, miners and tour operators have already expressed concerns over having to increasing their service costs.

Colin Sparman of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) told the Guyana Chronicle that interior operators such as shop owners will have to increase the cost of their items to accommodate the VAT. Already he noted, items transported to the interior via plane are charged per pound, the VAT, he said will be an additional cost to be carried over to the consumer. The Aircraft Owners Association has also acknowledged the effects that the VAT could have on the aviation sector and those that depend on their services. Some operators say they are keeping an eye on the situation to ascertain what changes could be made to make the system more workable.

Meanwhile, Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma, during a debate

on a motion regarding the VAT on Monday cautioned that measures would have to be taken to ensure that businesses do not take advantage of consumers through price gouging. “GRA may have to monitor and may have to sanction persons” who inflate prices for the protection of

consumers, Minister Sharma said. “The poor people should not be fearful,” Sharma assured.

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan also explained that the new measures are aimed at making the VAT relevant. The Minister noted that the pre-

vious VAT regime netted excessive revenues in its initial implementation, reaching 30.4 per cent in 2008. The VAT regressed to 24.8 per cent thereafter.

Jordan noted that while the new VAT measures were part of fulfilling a manifesto promises, the

new measures also sought to strengthen the VAT system. The decline in the collection included policy measures which weakened the VAT regime, Minister Jordan said this had implications not only for tax payers but for the government.

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

NCN revenue decreased by $25.6M in 2014

By Ravin Singh REVENUE generated by the state-owned National Communications Network (NCN) in 2014 decreased by over $25.6M when com-

pared to the same period for 2013.

This was according to the company’s 2014 annual report which was presented to the National Assembly on Monday by Prime Minister,

Moses Nagamootoo. The state broadcaster has been facing severe losses over the years. Audited by the Audit Office, the report states that the financial statements have been prepared under the his-

torical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of land and buildings and conform to International Financial Reporting Standards adopted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of

Guyana and the Companies Act 1991.

The report goes on to detail NCN’s revenue for 2014, which amounted to $432M compared to $457M in 2013, a decrease of over $25M. According to the statement of income found in the report, gross profit also decreased from $438M in 2013 to $396M in 2014.

However, on the positive side, net profit increased from $24M in 2013 to $30M in 2014. The company’s income from subvention in both years remained fixed at $81M. Interesting to note was that although gross profit had declined from 2013 to 2014, operating expenses for the company in 2014 was more than that in 2013. The report states that $514M was spent on operating expenses in 2014, while $508M was spent in 2013 – an increase of over $6M. In relation to the value of total assets, this increased by over $60M; from $1.474B in 2013 to $1.480B in 2014.

However, the Auditor General (AG) pointed out in the report that while $1.2B was shown as non-current assets for 2014, the company did not implement a Fixed Assets Register.

“In addition, neither mas-

ter nor sectional inventories were maintained for the year under review contrary to the Stores Regulations.

As a result, the accuracy, validity and completeness of the amount $1.2B shown, could not be verified” the AG said in his statement in the report.

At that time, the company had seven Directors, namely; Prem Misir, Andrea Branford, Julianna Hudson, Carlton James, Leslyn Lowe, Kwame McCoy and Lavaughn Stewart. A total of $320,000 was paid to the Directors for 2014.

NCN was incorporated under the Companies Act of Guyana (No. 29 of 1991) on February 6, 2004, following the merger of the Guyana Television Broadcasting Company Limited (GTV) and the Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC).

According to the report, the company’s principal activity is to provide quality educational, entertainment and inspirational programming to Guyana via radio and television broadcasting. The national broadcaster has its headquarters in Georgetown, with three major out-oftown branches in New Amsterdam - Berbice, Watooka – Linden, and Anna Regina – Essequibo. The operation in Berbice and Linden are commercialised and earning revenues.

NCN also has several relay locations throughout the country to facilitate its national grid.

Miners up ante against...

From page 16

tax measures will have on jobs. He said that mining is one job where a police clearance is not always required and thus allows persons with a bad history to have a fresh start. He said some persons venture into the interior to stay out of trouble while others, not so intellectually capable, seek to make it within the mineral business. Sparman said that the associations are hoping that the President will take time out of his busy schedule to meet with the miners and thus avoid their retaliation.

In the meantime, members of the two mining associations have been asked to “join in solidarity” to ensure their collective voices are heard. They were told to wear yellow and walk with their yellow flags.

They were told further to, “be prepared to mobilise to take actions that may become necessary to ensure our collective livelihood and future. Miners have also threatened to stop mining and reduce mineral declaration if their concerns are not met.

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

UK to fund first phase of Linden-Lethem road

CONSTRUCTION of the first phase of the Linden-Lethem Road Project is expected to commence without a hitch as the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and the UK Government work closely towards its success.

The first phase of the project covers approximately 122.5km of road from Linden to Mabura Hill and the construction of a bridge across the Essequibo River at Kurupukari River, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure said in a release.

This phase is being funded by the United Kingdom Government through its UK Caribbean Infrastructure

Partnership Fund (UKCIF) programme and is currently in the design stage.

As part of the collaboration with the UK Government, the Government of Guyana is seeking to engage a multi-discipline and transport sector-experienced consulting firm to assist in the preparation of a two-component capital project. The components for this capital project include the upgrade of approximately 122.5 km of road between Linden and Mabura Hill (including drainage) and construction of a new single or dual lane fixed bridge across the Essequibo River at the Kurupukari ferry

crossing( approximately 600m long).

While the proposed road upgrade applies only to one section of the Linden-Lethem road, the capital works on the remaining 331.5km of the laterite road will be undertaken through funding from other sources. The remaining capital works would fall under additional phases and the Ministry of Public Infrastructure has already engaged the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) on possible funding for the stretch of road between Mabura Hill and Lethem.

Earlier last week, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Hon.

Annette Ferguson, met with officials from IsDB on the project and another team is slated to return to Guyana for further discussions. The final cost of phase 1 of the project is not yet known but will be determined by the

detailed design study being funded by the UKCIF. Meanwhile, the Ministry is optimistic about the success of the project.

According to Mr. Patrick Thompson, Chief Planning and Transport Officer,

the Ministry and the UK Government are working closely together to ensure that the project progresses smoothly. “We’ve received very favourable responses so far and we are feeling very optimistic about the progression of the first phase of this project,” Mr. Thompson said. He added that construction can commence in as soon as eighteen months.

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Local entrepreneurs launch eco-friendly detergent line

Ms. Sophie Dolphin, giving a brief overview of the Product

FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger on Tuesday congratulated entrepreneurs, Ms. Sophia Dolphin and Ms. Miranda Thakur of Eco Atlantic Investment, on the launch of the Seventh Generation Product line and encouraged them to consider using locally made products when expanding their business.

Minister of Social Protection, Ms. Amna Ally, also attended the launching ceremony, which was held at the Cara Lodge, Quamina Street, Georgetown.

The Seventh Generation brand is a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) certified biobased product line that manufactures household products such as laundry and dish washing detergents, baby and feminine hygiene products and other items.

The First Lady urged the partners to make good use of their product by implementing reusable items that can be of benefit to Guyanese. “While you are

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, delivering brief remarks

The Products on display

promoting important eco-friendly products, look at what we are producing here [in Guyana]; there are so many things happening that we feel excited about. I feel excited about it because I know a lot of women are producing stuff locally… Use what we have … You have to start thinking and go back to those old tales and old habits that we had… you use what you’re bringing in, but you also see how

you can expand from it,” Mrs. Granger said.

President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Vishnu Doerga, echoed the First Lady’s sentiments.

He too congratulated the women on their venture, particularly for marketing an eco-friendly product line that is in keeping with the Government’s green agenda.

He also urged them to make use of what Guyana has to offer when

they are ready to expand their business.

“You (are) taking that step in bringing these products to Guyana (which) is also going to become a pioneering move… It deserves our recognition to see that young ladies like yourselves have seen this opportunity way ahead of many other organisations, who might have been in the field for quite a while… I encourage you, from a

Chamber of Commerce perspective, to also look at what makes these products so special, look at what we have in Guyana that you can also start developing other products…that also meet the same [objective] of being environmentally friendly so that you can continue to grow your brand…,” Mr. Doerga said.

Mayor of the City of Georgetown, Ms. Patricia Chase-Greene was

also pleased that the women had launched the product line in Guyana. “Today I am happy to see that our women have been able to get this product [out] and the City’s happy to have these kinds of products... All the bio-degradable products that we’re having in the city, we welcome it,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ms. Dolphin said that with the launch of the environmentally friendly line of products, she hopes that consumers see the importance of going green in Guyana. “It is our mission at Eco Atlantic Investment to promote and sustain a greener lifestyle… It starts with our daily consumer choices… it is necessary that we start demanding more organic products on our store shelves,” she said.

The event was well attended by several business entrepreneurs, as well as Regional Chairman, Demerara-Mahaica Region Four, Ms. Genevieve Alleyne. (Ministry of Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

21

Linden leaders bullish on investments …trade fair billed for March

By Vanessa Braithwaite THE Linden Enterprise Network in collaboration with the Linden Chamber of Commerce and various stakeholders on Tuesday officially launched the Linden Trade and Investment Fair under the theme “Linden, the gateway for investment and opportunities, a window to future development.” The launch saw in attendance several members of the committee that was established to organise and coordinate the fair. In previous years, the fair was a signature event of the Linden Chamber of Commerce, but this year the Linden Enterprise Network has come on board as the main sponsor of the fair.

Coordinator of the Committee, Staydon Payne said the fair is slated for the 24th- 26th March at the Egbert Benjamin Conference Center. Its aim is to provide aid and exposure to current and potential business and to also invite foreign investors to establish businesses in Linden. The Committee has engaged several partners, including the Regional Democratic Council, Mayor and Town Council, several stake holders within Linden, such as Banks DIH, Courts Guyana Ltd, Citizens Banks, Republic Bank, Go-Invest and Guyana Geology and Mines Commission.

Payne revealed that the fair will commence with a workshop that is geared towards business development while the other sessions will include the exhibitions of the various entrepreneurs and investors, in addition to an entertainment segment and a river tour of the heritage trail.

Chief Executive Officer of the Linden Enterprise Network, Mrs. Tandika Miller, spoke of the need to collaborate and succeed in this venture through team effort and this is the main reason why LEN came on board. She urged Lindeners to come out and support the event as the development of Linden is everyone’s business. “If we succeed in every area, the region will succeed, we are approach-

ing this thing as a team and a belief that this year, as long as we go forward as a team, Linden is going to move forward,” Miller posited, adding that the events are also family oriented and entertaining. The main aim however is to provide all the needed information to current and potential investors to establish their business or to expand.

Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland encouraged Lindeners to get ready for new investments that will come to Linden and to be ready. He revealed that several established investors have expressed interest in investing in Linden and as such the event will play a pivotal role in the birthing of their visions. Holland said that with investment the standard of living will rise and development will increase and this will in turn boost the morale of the people. “For too long we have been looking in the direction of Bosai, it is time we look at those hidden areas, those untapped areas, let us work together to develop this great town… let us make Linden great again.”

Similar sentiments were echoed by Regional Chairman, Renis Morian, who stressed that Lindeners must analyse and internalise what has been the missing link to investment in Linden. He spoke of the soon to commence Linden to Lethem road, the untapped tourism potential and the need to exploit these and to move beyond the rhetoric. “This must not be another exercise in futility but this must be an exercise that at the end of it we can measure our successes.”

President of the Linden Chamber of Commerce, Kevin Deyoung, who officially launched the fair encouraged Lindeners to unite on the journey to economic success as this is the only way forward. He revealed that this year’s exposition will see the creativity of the LCC and the industriousness of LEN. Some of the sectors that will be targeted at this year’s exposition are tourism, mining, agro processing and construction.

From Left is President of the Linden Chamber of Commerce, Kevin Deyoung, Regional Chairman, Renis Morian, Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland, CEO of LEN, Tandika Miller and Chairman of the coordinating committee, Mr. Staydon Payne

22

Active citizenship

By Akola Thompson FOR years, I would sit by reading the news about the latest infraction against people.

I would ask those closest to me and myself, what was wrong with our country and why we continue to let ourselves be fed ethnic politics that promotes outward hate and discrimination.

After pondering these questions for short periods, I would quickly come to the conclusion that the government and the people were to blame and I had no part whatsoever to play in this. My thoughts never went further

than this and my opinions, though strong, were never voiced because I had never seen myself as my brothers or my sisters’ keeper.

I saw politics as something alien. Something the foolish meddle in, because to meddle in such a system was asking for trouble. I did not wish to question such a system, being so young, unknown and not anywhere in the world as yet. I did not wish for the trouble that would be brought on me for speaking out on the matters and decisions that hurt us as a people.

I would look at the dissenters, many of whom were close to me and shake my head

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

at their desire to be ‘involved.’ My fears were not founded upon nothing of course, these same dissenters were victimised and had hurdles put in their way that saw their livelihood and very existence being threatened.

It has been a hard tenuous journey, one which is by no means close to being finished, but I’ve learnt that I can no longer dish out the blame on others and keep myself free from tarnishing. I can no longer blame the people, not even the government. I have to blame myself. I have to blame myself for not being my brothers or my sisters’ keeper. I have to blame myself for witnessing injustice and never taking action against the said injustice.

I have to blame myself for our failing country and everything that goes with it. I have to blame myself for the rapidly increasing crime rate in our country.

I have to blame myself for even our failing education system, the Marriott fiasco, the BaiShanLin embarrassment and Harmon’s subsequent trip with them. I have to blame myself for the parking meters standing like

proud proclaimers of corruption about the city and even the fact that rape victims are in this day and age still being turned away when they go to some police stations. I have to take blame because I’ve read about them, seen the effects of them and in many cases, I have remained silent on them.

By remaining silent, I have unwittingly agreed to support a failing system where foreigners are treated better than one’s own citizens and where our elected officials continue to dance and stomp upon our rights without much dissent. This of course continues to uphold the culture of the powerful doing as they wish because they know they will have very little drawback from the larger electorate.

Thankfully, with the help of friends and people I have met along the way, who showed me both what I could and shouldn’t be, I recognised my ignorance and saw how my continued silence was slowly sinking this already sinking country. I blame myself for being a coward. What do you blame yourselves for?

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Verdict in Bartica Massacre trial Thursday

ON Tuesday the state presented its closing arguments to the members of the jury, two days before Justice Roxane George SC sums up the case.

Prosecutor Diana Kaulesar told the court that on the evening of February 17, 2008 when residents of Bartica were engrossed in the 20/20 cricket being televised, an atrocity was committed when 12 persons were killed. She added that the incident has left an indelible mark on the minds of the relatives of those killed.

Kaulesar stated that the men involved had a plan and acted on it as part of the joint-enterprise and it doesn’t matter at what point someone joins, they are also liable for their actions which caused the death of 12 persons. She gave a detailed outline of the case from start to end, pointing out certain evidence presented in court with more than a dozen witnesses testifying, in a two-month long trial.

She related that some witnesses were ‘witnesses of convenience’ like when Sheldon Williams showed up at the High Court to provide an alibi for his cousin, Mark Royden Williams, but never gave evidence in the Magistrate’s Court or gave a statement to the police.

She stated that he had an award-winning performance on the stand, claiming he was ‘squaddies’ and like a ‘brother and father’ with two of the three cops killed in that incident yet he could not recall their regulation numbers.

Kaulesar added that he went back to bed and slept after learning of their demise and was not troubled at all. She pointed out that Shane Fredericks’ mother testified and she was able to remain composed even though her son was shot 10 times. Kaulesar highlighted the role the three accused played in the crime and how witnesses placed them at the scene. She spent some time describing what took place in

Bartica on the night in question, which left 12 persons dead after a gang of heavily armed men descended on that community.

Meanwhile, Defence Counsel Peter Hugh also made his closing submission on Tuesday when he outlined several witnesses testifying in the trial stating that his client, Roger Simon called “Goat Man” was not at Bartica when the incident took place. He told the court that Simon was mistaken for Papa Willie by Police Constable Chester Benjamin, who picked him out in an identification parade as the man he saw from two storeys up, wearing a flop hat and was about 30 feet away that night.

On trial are Mark Royden Williams called “Smallie”, Dennis Williams called “Anaconda” and Roger Simon called “Goat Man” each indicted for 12 counts for the murder of nine civilians and three policemen at Bartica on February 17, 2008. However, two of the five accused, Michael Caesar and Clebert Reece have since plead guilty to manslaughter separately and have been sentenced.

Mark Royden Williams is being represented by Roger Yearwood, Dennis Williams’ lawyer is Saphier Hussain and Roger Simon’s attorney is Peter Hugh.

During the February 17, 2008 rampage, 12 persons were gunned down by a group of heavily armed men, who descended on Bartica at nightfall. Those who lost their lives were Bartica residents Edwin Gilkes, Dexter Adrian and Irving Ferreira; policemen stationed at the Bartica Police Station, Lance Corporal Zaheer Zakir, Constables Shane Fredericks and Ron Osborne; Deonarine Singh of Wakenaam; Ronald Gomes of Kuru Kururu; Ashraf Khan of Middlesex, Essequibo; Abdool Yasseen and Errol Thomas of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo; and Baldeo Singh of Montrose, East Coast Demerara.

23

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Barr St bridge to be completed in two weeks

The Barr Street Bridge in Albouystown is expected to be back in use later this month

THE $18M Barr Street Bridge in Albouystown, which has been out of order for several months, is expected to be back up by mid-February, City Engineer Colvern Venture announced recently.

Constituency Councillor Malcolm Ferreira raised the issue again at the City Council’s last statutory meeting and requested to be informed of when the bridge would be completed.

Venture then stood up to say that a redesign of the bridge had to be done due to the fact that water from the trench was touching the beams and hence they had to be elevated to prevent this.

After consulting with the contractor, Chung’s Global Construction Firm, Venture said the bridge should be back in use by mid-February.

Ferreira, in an earlier interview, had told this newspaper that the money for the bridge was coming from City Hall as Government, despite repeated requests, did not provide any assistance.

According to him, the work that remains to be done is not very complex and hence, the bridge should be back in order sooner rather than later.

Meanwhile, Proportional Constituency Councillor Heston Bostwick had raised the issue of Albouys Street having to now face the pressure. He noted further that the bridge at Hunter and Sussex Streets is also sinking.

He had expressed concern that vehicles would soon be unable to use any of the Albouystown links, as the other bridges surrounding the one at Barr Street are now feeling the pressure.

The councillor has observed that the bridges at Hill Street and Albouys Streets are becoming affected, as they now have to deal with more traffic than usual.

The Barr Street bridge serves as a key alternative to the La Penitence Public Road for vehicles coming from the East Bank of Demerara and heading to central Georgetown.

The closure of this bridge contributes to a severe buildup of traffic in contiguous areas, and many of the streets in Albouystown are too narrow to accommodate two-way traffic.

Albouystown has long been regarded as a ‘highcrime’ area, causing motorists to be hesitant about using the streets surrounding Barr Street.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

25

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

27

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

29

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

31

32

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 1, 2017

33

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 1, 2017

Chelsea extend lead at top with draw at Liverpool CHELSEA had to settle for a draw against a much-improved Liverpool at Anfield yesterday after Diego Costa’s late penalty was saved by Simon Mignolet - but still extended their lead at top of the Premier League to nine points.

Liverpool keeper Mignolet made amends for his first-half embarrassment when he had been caught off guard by David Luiz’s superb free-kick from 25 yards.

Georginio Wijnaldum’s close-range header 11 minutes after the break gave Liverpool a draw they fully deserved, ending a run of three successive home losses, two of which knocked them out of the EFL Cup and the FA Cup. However, it could have been much better for Chelsea and worse for Liverpool when Costa went to ground under challenge from Joel Matip 14 minutes from the end. Referee Mark Clattenburg pointed to the spot but Mignolet dived low to his right to save the Spain striker’s spot-kick.

Roberto Firmino wasted Liverpool’s best two chances, shooting high over an open goal and heading straight at Thibaut Courtois in the closing seconds.

HONOURS EVEN - BUT CONTE CELEBRATES Chelsea manager Antonio Conte disguised his disappointment about Costa’s late penalty being saved by Mignolet with his reaction at the final whistle.

The Italian knew Chelsea would be facing a wounded Liverpool after those three damaging defeats - and he clearly saw this as one point won rather than two lost as he went straight to the visiting fans and pumped his fists in delight.

The Blues were not at their best and yet showed the resilience and compact-

ness of old as they were dominated in possession but kept Liverpool at arm’s length for most of the game.

And in N’Golo Kante they had the game’s outstanding performer, perpetual motion and first to every loose ball in midfield and at both ends of the pitch.

Costa had an off night, including squandering the penalty, but Chelsea

The German, however, has proved his mettle against his closest Premier League rivals - and once again he emerged unbeaten to maintain his excellent record against Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham since his appointment.

This draw means that he has played 15 league games against that group, winning six, drawing eight and losing

Diego Costa both won and missed Chelsea’s late penalty. found answers elsewhere and carried a threat of their own after Pedro came on as a late substitute.

Chelsea may only return to London with a point, but results elsewhere for Arsenal and Tottenham made this a good night for the Premier League leaders.

KLOPP THWARTS RIVALS AGAIN Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had endured his worst week since arriving at Anfield in October 2015 with the Premier League defeat by Swansea City, the EFL Cup semi-final loss to Southampton and the FA Cup fourth-round humiliation against Championship side Wolves.

only one - a home defeat by United last season.

Liverpool’s hopes of a first title since 1990 are receding as they are 10 points behind Chelsea - but there was plenty for Klopp to be happy about.

This was more like the high-intensity Liverpool of the early months of the season, although their play lacks subtlety at times as they seem to get carried away by the emotion of the crowd, as well as their animated manager in his technical area.

And further good news was the sight of leading scorer Sadio Mane, who has nine league goals, coming on as a substitute after his return from Africa Cup of Nations duty with Senegal. (BBC Sport).

Watford beat Arsenal thanks to early double ARSENAL’S Premier League title hopes suffered a huge blow with a shock home defeat as Watford secured their first top-flight win over the Gunners since 1988.

Former Tottenham defender Younes Kaboul lashed in the opener within 10 minutes for Watford with a shot from outside the area which deflected off Aaron Ramsey.

Just two minutes and 57 seconds later, the visitors doubled their lead as Troy Deeney tapped in the rebound after Etienne Capoue’s fine run ended with his shot being

saved by Petr Cech.

The Arsenal goalkeeper was called into action again as he tipped Sebastian Prodl’s header over the crossbar and pushed away Daryl Janmaat’s curling strike.

The hosts improved significantly in the second half and Alex Iwobi pulled a goal back by steering Alexis Sanchez’s cross home.

Lucas Perez struck the crossbar with a powerful drive, but they could not find the equaliser.

Arsenal last won the title in the 2003-04 season

and face clawing back a nine-point deficit on London rivals and leaders Chelsea, who drew 1-1 with Liverpool.

And their task is made more difficult as they still face trips to play Antonio Conte’s side as well as Liverpool and Tottenham - the other three teams in the top four - between now and the end of the season.

Going into this game they were unbeaten in their last five league fixtures, but a desperately poor first half showing - with manager Arsene Wenger watching

powerless from the stands as he served the second of a four-match touchline ban - cost them dearly.The Gunners failed to get a shot on target in the first 45 minutes, but forced Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes into sharp saves from substitute Theo Walcott and Iwobi after the break, while the Brazilian pushed away Mesut Ozil’s snap shot.

But they suffered their first defeat at the Emirates Stadium since the opening day against Liverpool, ending a run of eight victories and two draws. (BBC Sport)

JADCO imposes one-year ban ...

From back page where he has made his name as an athletic fielder, a dashing lower order batsman and a lively seamer.

In particular, he will miss the cash-rich Indian Premier League where he is contracted to Kolkata Knight Riders and for whom he is a key player.

KKR’s chief executive Venky Mysore described Russell’s ban as a “big loss”.

Russell also features for Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League in Australia, Sylhet Royals in the Bangladesh Premier League, Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League and Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League.

The hearing to determine Russell’s fate wrapped up last September and he continued to play while awaiting the judgement to be handed down.

Faulkner said the panel had opted not to make the dates of the ban retroactive and had also felt under the circumstances, that only a one-year ban was necessary.

“In some instances, they (bans) commence on earlier dates before the decision and in this instance, bearing in mind all the circumstances, we believe the commencement date should be at the date of the decision,” Faulkner pointed out.

He added: “In our decision, we cited the circumstances, we cited the cases and explained therein … our decision (not to apply) the maximum (ban).”

Earlier this month, Russell was forced out of the Big Bash with a hamstring injury.

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Scottsville 08:10 hrs Isingamoya 08:45 hrs Karatage 09:25 hrs Blunderbuss 10:05 hrs Roy’s A mazing Ash 10:40 hrs Cabinda ENGLISH RACING TIPS Hereford 09:30 hrs Lillington 10:00 hrs Chef D’Oeuvre 10:30 hrs Ice Cool Champs 11:00 hrs Colin’s Brother 11:30 hrs Goodtoknow 12:00 hrs Grandioso 12:30 hrs Born For War LEICESTER 10:10 hrs Ballinvarrig 10:40 hrs Dusty Raven 11:10 hrs Ozzy Thomas 11:40 hrs Fingerontheswitch

12:10 hrs Reigning Supreme 12:40 hrs Seven Summits KEMPTON 10:20 hrs American Patrol 10:50 hrs Excel Again 11:20 hrs Flight Of Fantasy 11:50 hrs Garter 12:20 hrs Red Trooper 12:50 hrs Alcatraz 13:20 hrs Yasir AMERICAN RACING TIPS Gulfstream Park Race 1 Blame It On Dixie Race 2 Competitive Player Race 3 Mutaraamy Race 4 Blings Express Race 5 Golden Treasury Race 6 Dancing Wind Race 7 So Long Chuck Race 8 Completely Bonkers Race 9 Follow No One

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 1, 2017

Coe denies misleading doping committee

By Mitch Phillips LONDON, England (Reuters) - The head of world athletics Sebastian Coe has denied that he misled a British Parliamentary committee investigating doping in sport when he appeared before it last December.

Central to Coe’s evidence was his insistence that he did not know the specific detail of an email sent to him by former London Marathon race director David Bedford, which Coe says he sent to the IAAF Ethics Commission without opening the attachments.

Bedford told the Parliamentary Committee last month that he was surprised to hear that Coe had not read the attachments of the 2014 mail and committee chairman Damian Collins said Bedford’s evidence had raised questions over “the timing and extent of Lord Coe’s knowledge of these allegations”.

A mail sent by Coe to Michael Beloff, head of the

Ethics Committee, and released by the Parliamentary Committee on Wednesday, suggested the IAAF president was aware of the details of the allegations.

IAAF president Sebastian Coe Coe’s mail to Beloff referred to the receipt “documentation of serious allegations being made by and on behalf of the Russian female athlete (Liliya) Shobukhova from David Bedford”.

“The purpose of this note

is of course to advise you that I have now been made aware of the allegations,” Coe added.

Coe, however, said he did not know the specifics of Bedford’s claim and explained why in a four-page email to Collins this week which was made public by the committee.

“I wish to confirm that to the best of my recollection I was not aware prior to December 2014 of the allegations that Papa Massata Diack/others associated with the IAAF were involved in covering up Russian doping,” Coe, who was an IAAF vice-president at the time, before being elected president in 2015, wrote.

“This is even though I accept that in August 2014 David Bedford emailed me documents containing allegations along those lines,” he added.

“I trust this clarifies the matter to the satisfaction of the committee and as such there are no grounds for suggesting I misled the committee in any way.”

Blairmont Blazers retain Roy Fredericks Cup

BLAIRMONT Blazers retained the Roy Fredericks Cup when they defeated Young Warriors by six wickets last Sunday at the Blairmont Cricket ground.

With the weather creating some difficulties, organisers were forced to reduce the final to five overs a side.

Young Warriors took first strike, and posted 38-7. W. Edward (19) was the only batsman to reach double figures after Rajiv Ivan picked up the prized wickets of Alex Algoo, Gadjanan Singh and Ishwar Singh in the first over.

In reply, Blairmont Blazers lost two early wickets, at 6-2, but Kevon Jawahir (18) and Ivan (11 not out) ensured the home team reached the target with 1.5 overs to spare.

The preliminary games were eight overs a side, while the lone semi-final was six overs a side. Results from the preliminary and semifinals are as follows: Game 1: D’Edward Super King defeated East Bank

Captain of the Blairmont Blazers team Shabeer Baksh collects the winning trophy.

Gunners by seven wickets.

Game 2: Young Warriors beat Cotton Tree Die Hard by eight wickets.

Game 3: Blairmont Blazers beat Cold Fusion by 17 runs.

Semi Final: Blairmont Blazers beat D’Edward Super

Kings by two runs.

Best bowler and best catch of the day award went to Kevon Jawahir, most sixes of the day award went to Parmanand Ramdhan and Leon Andrews, while Ivan won the playerof-the-final award.

36

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 1, 2017

Despite challenges and adversities SCA president confident of further success

By Frederick Halley

TORONTO, Canada – Incumbent president of the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) Shiv Persaud is entering his second year as head of the body fully confident of further success following what can be considered a fruitful first year at the helm.

In a sterling report at the recently held annual general meeting of the SCA, held at the Agincourt Community Centre, Scarborough, Persaud spoke of the challenges and adversities encountered during the 2016 season and the viable solutions found for them.

According to the Guyanese-born Persaud, “One such instance was our women cricketers being shunned by Cricket Canada in their scheduled game against the touring MCC women’s team. Even though we were disappointed and heartbroken, we became more united. This was evident

to build on our successes in 2017. For example, structuring our junior division for Under-13, Under-16 and Under-19; contesting regular season finals at different times during the season and allowing our women cricketers to play at different venues and possibly games under lights.”

Persaud also reserved special praise for the several generous sponsors and also to the executives who contributed substantial amounts to host events during the 2016 season. “I am grateful for all that you have done and pledge to continue giving my best efforts towards the advancement of cricket in the Greater Toronto Area.”

Persaud told the several clubs present at the meeting that the SCA intends to approach Cricket Canada, the governing body for cricket here with a view of exploring the way forward regarding players eligibility to represent Canada. Once this

SCA president Shiv Persaud (fourth from left) is flanked (from left) by executive members Mathew Francis, Deo Samaroo, Bisham Singh, Abigail Rajkumar, Fareed Mohamed and Eon Gunraj. in the first-ever women’s all-star game in the SCA.” Persaud also referred to the loss of two playing fields at the Ellesemere ground, one of the SCA’s premiere venues. “This affected the T20 competition and regular season playoffs, as games had to be played in October, long after the cricket season was scheduled to end.”

Persaud pointed out that the challenges allowed him to grow as an individual and leader in the community while putting the SCA first.

He commended his executives for their hard work and dedicated service, alluding to the fact that he was proud to have them as part of the body and is anxiously looking forward to their future contributions.

“Prior to the beginning of the 2016 season, our goals were to ensure that the members of the SCA were given the recognition and support they required to succeed and to have confidence in the board of executives. Secondly, it was the time for us to embrace the popularised version of cricket - the T20 format. Lastly, we wanted to ensure that every effort was made to advance the sport amongst juniors and women,” Persaud asserted.

Reflecting on the 2016 season, Persaud disclosed that there were many areas “that we have started planning and exploring

takes place, the players will be updated as to the progress of the intended talks.

While the SCA is also seeking other venues for the 2017 season, the status of the Ellesmere grounds remain in limbo but according to Persaud, they have approached the authorities concerned but there’s no guarantee that the grounds will be available this year.

Prior to the commencement of elections of office-bearers, a tribute in the form of a minute’s silence was observed for the close relatives of a few members who had passed away.

While Persaud’s post was not up for grabs, based on the constitution of the SCA, vice-president Bisham Singh was re-elected for another two-year term. He will also chair the disciplinary committee.

Mathew Francis, who served as assistant grounds coordinator, is now the assistant secretary/treasurer while Fareed Mohamed takes over as assistant ground coordinator. The new Public Relations Officer (PRO) is Lakshman Srianganathan.

Apart from Persaud, the others retained (based on the constitution) were secretary Eon Gunraj, Chief Financial Officer Vish Jadunauth, Grounds coordinator Deo Samaroo and Registrar/Statistician Abigail Rajkumar.

37

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 1, 2017

Shew’s 6 cart off Kadir memorial dominoes title

SHEW’S 6 emerged winners of the first memorial dominoes tournament, played in honour of the late Everest Cricket Club member, Mohamed ‘Fah’ Kadir, at the club’s Camp Road, Georgetown entity recently.

In a closely-fought encounter, which was decided in the final sitting, Shew’s 6 triumphed with 83 games, four better than Sukhai’s 6 who tallied 79, with Muntaz ‘Bhaji’ Ali’s 6 occupying the cellar position on 75.

The game was competitive from the outset and by the end of the penultimate sitting all three teams were still in with a chance of earn-

ing the top spot with the scores reading: Shew’s 6 on 69, Sukhai’s 64 and Ali’s 60.

The eventual winners, however, prevailed after recording 14 games in the final sitting while Sukhai’s 6 and Ali’s 6 scored 15 each.

Leading the charge for Shew’s 6 were Intikab ‘Corbie’ Ali and Rishi Das with 17 games each while Asgar ‘Supercool’ Ali and skipper Manniram ‘Packer’ Shew supported with 14 and 12 games respectively.

For Sukhai’s 6, the top markers were Brian ‘Hard Card’ Allen with 17 games, Hilbert ‘Bumpy’ Ali 14, Ramroop ‘Spoon’ Sukhai 13

and Savin Sookram 12.

Chibar ‘Tracta’ Seopaul led the way for Ali’s 6 with 17 games while there were 14 for Ron Callender and 13 for the overseas-based Ali who is vacationing in Guyana.

Apart from the winning and runner-up trophies, which were sponsored by the family of the late Kadir, a trophy was also awarded to the top player. Incredibly, four players – Intikab Ali (Shew’s 6), Rishi Das (Shew’s 6), Brian Allen (Sukhai’s 6) and Chibar Seopaul (Ali’s 6) all ended with 17 games.

In the end, it was Intikab Ali who took the prize, having given away the least amount of games.

Everest Cricket Club president Rajesh Singh (right) hands over the winning trophy to Boodnarine Persaud, who collected on behalf of the victorious team.

Skipper Manniram Shew is second from right.

African Nations Cup semis

Pakistan to host T20 Dream win coming closer, says Egypt boss Cuper league final on home soil

By Mark Gleeson

LIBREVILLE, (Reuters) - Egypt made a slow start on their return to the African Nations Cup after a seven-year absence, but have reached the semi-finals without conceding and are getting stronger as the tournament progresses.

The seven-time champions meet Burkina Faso today and their Argentine coach Hector Cuper says they are chasing a “dream that is getting closer

and closer with each game”.

Egypt won three successive titles between 2006 and 2010 but then did not qualify for the next three editions of the tournament.

“History is very important and I know all of Egypt expects but my job has been to prepare this side for the Nations Cup without looking back at what happened in the past,” the Argentine coach said yesterday.

“We wanted to come here and just do well but now that

Barbados Pride stay on top with nervous win

BARBADOS Pride secured a one-wicket win in a low-scoring Group B clash against Jamaica at the Kensington Oval, to keep their unbeaten streak intact in the Regional Super50 competition so far.

After Jamaica Scorpions were bowled out for 190, Pride lost half their side for 83, before recovering through late contributions and eventually limping past the finish line with two overs to spare.

They rode on a vital 40 from Shane Dowrich who came out with the score on 62 for 4; by the time he fell, caught behind in the 38th over, Barbados were eight down and still needed 48. The ninth-wicket partnership between Ashley Nurse and Kemar Roach knocked off 42 of those runs, with Nurse calmly seeing the side to the win and finishing on 21 not out. Jamaica’s new-ball duo of Jerome Taylor and Reynard Leveridge took five wickets between them, while Nikita Miller impressed with 1 for 22 in 10 overs.

When Scorpions batted, after winning the toss, they were in an early wobble at 27 for 3. Jermaine Blackwood held up his end for 40, but his wicket left the side at 97 for 6.

They recovered through a seventh-wicket partnership of 77 between Rovman Powell who top-scored with 74 and Damion Jacobs who struck 31. Powell’s knock, which came at a strike rate of 93.67, included three fours and six sixes.

He was the eighth man to be dismissed, seven balls before Scorpions were all out. Barbados Pride new-ball duo did the bulk of the damage with Roach and Jason Holder snaring three wickets each.

we have got this far our ambition is now to go on and reach the final and win the cup.” Egypt drew their opening game with Mali and then snatched a last-minute winner against Uganda before beating Ghana to top Group D. They then edged past edged Morocco 1-0 in Sunday’s quarter-final.

“I believe in their capabilities but I’ve been amazed by their determination,” added former Valencia and Inter Milan boss Cuper of his

23-man squad.

“I’ve never seen a group of players who love their country so much. They, as a new generation of players, have high ambitions to win an eighth title for Egypt. I feel that dream is coming true.”

Cuper’s side will be without injured midfield link man Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal and striker Marwaan Mohsen for today’s semi in Libreville. “It’s a pity they are out but we will have to adjust,” Cuper added.

SCOREBOARD JAMAICA SCORPIONS J. Campbell c Alleyne b J Holder 0 C. Walton c Benn b Roach 6 J. Blackwood c Benn b Nurse 40 S. Taylor c wkp. Hope b Holder 7 A. McCarthy c Holder b C Brathwaite 25 D. Thomas c C Brathwaite b Benn 0 R. Powell c Chase b Roach 74 D. Jacobs lbw b Nurse 31 J. Taylor c Holder b Roach 1 N. Miller not out 0 R. Leveridge c wkp. Hope b Holder 0 Extras: (lb-3, w-2, nb-1) 6 Total: (all out, 45.3 overs) 190 Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-7, 3-27, 4-63, 5-68, 6-97, 7-174, 8-190, 9-190.

Bowling: Roach 10-1-58-3, Holder 8.3-0-28-1 (w-1, nb-1), Benn 10-2-15-1 (w-1), C Brathwaite 8-0-36-1, Nurse 9-0-50-2.

BARBADOS PRIDE K. Brathwaite lbw b Taylor 6 A. Alleyne c Taylor b Taylor 12 S. Hope lbw b Miller 19 J. Carter c Blackwood b Leveridge 5 R. Chase c wkp. Walton b Jacobs 23 S. Dowrich c wkp. Walton b Leveridge 40 J. Holder stp. Walton b Campbell 6 C. Brathwaite lbw b Taylor 18 A. Nurse not out 21 K. Roach c Jacobs b Campbell 23 S. Benn not out 2 Extras: (lb-2, w-14) 16 Total: (9 wkts, 48 overs) 191 Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-26, 3-41, 4-62, 5-83, 6-100, 7-138, 8-143, 9-185.

Bowling: Taylor 10-0-39-3 (w-2), Leveridge 10-0-35-2 (w-10), Miller 10-1-22-1, Jacobs 10-0-54-1 (w-1), Campbell 6-0-33-2 (w-1), Powell 2-0-6-0.

Result: Pride won by one wicket.

Points: Pride 4, Scorpions 0.

By Mehreen Zahra-Malik ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan will host the final of its domestic Twenty20 tournament on home soil in March, the country’s cricket board (PCB) said on Monday, a big lift for a nation which has largely been shunned by international teams since 2009 due to security risks.

Last year, the inaugural Pakistan Super League (PSL), based on the franchise model of the Indian Premier League and Australia’s Big Bash League, became a success though all the matches were played in the United Arab Emirates.

The PCB said at the time that the real test would be to bring the game back home.

In 2009, gunmen attacked a bus carrying the Sri Lankan team from their hotel to Lahore’s Gaddafi stadium for a Test match, injuring six players and killing six security personnel and two civilians.

The incident forced Pakistan to play their home matches in the UAE and the country has since remained starved of international cricket at home, apart from Zimbabwe’s limited-overs tour in 2015.

“We will host the final in Lahore on March 7,” the PCB’s executive committee chairman Najam Sethi told Reuters. “We are going full steam ahead, and have all the green signals.”

Last week, Giles Clarke, the head of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Pakistan Task Force, arrived in the country on a two-day fact-finding mission on security.

“We’ve been able to see very significant work that has been invested in, and invested very wisely in how safety and security will be made possible for visiting international cricket teams,” Clarke said.

“There’s a considerable amount of perception that needs to be changed and information that needs to be shared. But I am most impressed by the efforts of the authorities to make Lahore a safe city.”

A senior PCB official said the PSL final would be hosted in Lahore “for sure, but only if there is no big security-related incident from now to February 9,” when the league kicks off in the UAE. Last year, the PCB sold five franchises for $93M and attracted players from 11 different countries, including big names like West Indies batsman Chris Gayle and former captains Kumar Sangakkara of Sri Lanka and England’s Kevin Pietersen.

National television viewing figures were higher than for the 2015 World Cup, with 55 percent of Pakistan’s TV-watching public tuning into the tournament at peak times.

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 1, 2017

Western Tigers, Santos set up STAG Nations Cup final clash WESTERN Tigers Football Club and Santos Football Club have earned a potentially mouthwatering date in the final of the STAG Nations Cup knock-out football championship, following hard-fought and contrasting semi-final victories last Sunday night at the GFC ground.

Western Tigers, having lost the Mayor’s Cup final to Police, were out to exact revenge and that they did, 6-5 via sudden-death kicks from the penalty mark following a grinding 1-1 tie at the end of regulation and extra times which saw both sides squander chances.

Santos fought off the late efforts of an ordinary-looking Riddim Squad and their lone goal of the game which came off the boot of Delon David in the 31st minute was enough to take them to the championship match on Saturday which has at stake $3M - the winning club set to pocket $2M. Such were the fitness and confidence of the Santos side that they only instituted one change during the course of the match, David making way for Rawle Adams in the 46th minute. Riddim Squad utilised three subs but just could not find the back of the net even

as their subs added life to their attack.

Despite spirited efforts in the final 20 minutes, Riddim Squad were unable to breach the Santos defence and had to settle for a third-place playoff

The ultra-fit Police side who had run riot in the earlier stages of the competition finally met their match, as the rampaging Tigers - who had also been destructive in their preceding matches of the

level of organisation in offence and defence in their matches, again replicated that discipline which eventually brought them

Santos’ Job Caesar battles his way past two Riddim Squad players on Sunday night at the GFC ground. against the Guyana Police Force (GPF) who had succumbed to the Tigers in the feature match of the night.

championship - cooled down the lawmen.

The Tigers, one of the teams who have shown a high

Upgrade and refurbishing of Timehri Rifle Ranges underway WITH the Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) set to celebrate their historic 150th Anniversary in the month of October by welcoming the Caribbean and the world to the West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) Championships, the upgrade and refurbishing of the Timehri Rifle Range has commenced.

The local association which has been the #1 team at the Short and Long Ranges in the Caribbean for many a years would be leaving no stones unturned to ensure that all coming to Guyana later this year leaves

… Police, Riddim Squad contest third place

short of having a fantastic time on and off the range.

To this end, a consorted effort to bring the range up to international standards has commenced with the extension of the 300, 500 and 600 yards ranges which would have been completed. Attention would shortly be turned to the 900 and 1000 yards ranges.

On Sunday last, work would have commenced on removing the old targets which would all be refurbished and increased from 14 to 24.

Leading marksman Lennox Braithwaite informed that work would also be done on improv-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday February 01, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPAMY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Alf Valentine-8/104 (WI vs ENG, Manchester, 1950) (2) Jerome Taylor & Kemar Roach

Today’s Quiz:

(1) How many teams are currently contesting the CWI Nagicor Super 50 Tournament?

(2) In which countries are the matches being played?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

ing the roads in and around the range.

“All the works we would be doing to ensure that the range is the best in the Caribbean would take into account all the requisite safety factors.

We would also be installing wash room facilities, a flag raising site with the requisite poles for the flags as well as a car park.”

Braithwaite also informed that the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Defense Force have already been contributing to the upgrade as Guyana would be on show in October. He noted that they are aiming to complete works by the end of March so that the Guyana team can commence training in early April ahead of the defense of their Long and Short Range Caribbean titles.

The WIFBSC Championships are set to take place from October 9-15 next with the Caribbean expected to invade in full numbers, the likes of Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda and Bermuda, among others.

International confirmation would have also been received from Canada, Great Britain and the United States of America Rifle Associations to date.

over the line after enduring a stern test by the cops.

Western took the lead on 35 minutes, Dwayne McLen-

non tucking his shot past the Police goalie, Darius Frank.

They kept the momentum going even as Police made a few enterprising runs into Western’s final third and looked the most dangerous from the crosses.

It was not until the 61st minute that the GPF were rewarded for their efforts when Quincy Holder surprised Tigers custodian Troy Carrington with a well-placed shot to nullify their advantage, at 1-1. It was game on.

At times it looked like the GPF would have overpowered the Tigers with their robust play. Substitute Junior Gordon who was introduced in the 60th minute made rings around the Tigers with his pinpoint crosses into the box. One such cross was narrowly kept out by the crossbar after one of his teammates had already beaten Carrington with his header.

Regulation time did not see any more goals and the 1-1, which was taken over to extra time, remained the same.

Kicks from the penalty mark were the next option to decide

the winner and at the end of the first five, the score was locked at 2, with both sides missing three shots.

The respective goalkeepers did an excellent job, especially Tigers’ Carrington.

Jamal Pedro and Cleon Forrester were the players to score for Western while for Police, Rawl Turnell (sub) and Dwayne Charles were on target to keep their team in the hunt.

In the sudden-death period, the first team to miss lost.

Western Tigers were flawless as they scored four with Police missing their fourth, Travis Jones being the culprit. His teammates, Kester Dundas, Attio Wallace and Keron Boston (sub) tucked their chances away but went to naught.

Scoring for the victorious Tigers were Shane Morris (sub), Darren Benjamin, Joshua Britton (sub) and Ryan Adolph.

Saturday is championship day when Western Tigers face Santos while Police will play Riddim Squad in the third-place match with $500 000 and $300 000 up for grabs.

wickets apiece.

Emmanuel Stewart, batting at number four, top-scored with 30 from 66 deliveries with four fours but failed to get support as no other Under-19s batsman reached double figures.

In reply, T&T lost open-

ers Kyle Hope (8) and Evin Lewis (19) but Nicholas Alexis struck four boundaries in 19 not out off 20 balls to see his side home without further hiccups.

West Indies Under-19s are bottom of the standings without a win in three outings.

Red Force crush West Indies Under-19s

NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) – Reigning champions Trinidad and Tobago crushed an out-of-sorts West Indies Under-19s by eight wickets in quick time here yesterday, to win their second game and move into second spot in Group A of the Regional Super50.

Wounded by a defeat to Kent Spitfires last Sunday, Red Force routed the Under-19s for a meagre 58 off 31 overs and then galloped to their target off 10.2 overs at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.

They lie second on nine points, three behind leaders Leeward Islands Hurricanes whom they meet in their next game at Coolidge Cricket Ground tomorrow.

Opting to bowl first, Red Force’s attack was spearheaded by Jamaican left-arm quick Sheldon Cottrell who claimed three for six from seven overs while left-arm spinner Khary Pierre (2-16) and fast bowler Roshon Primus (2-20) picked up two

SCOREBOARD UNDER-19s innings S. Brathwaite lbw b Rampaul 0 M. Patrick c wkp. Ramdin b Cottrell 0 B. Yadram c Primus b Cottrell 6 E. Stewart b Pierre 30 K. Kallicharan lbw b Cottrell 0 K. Paul c Pierre b Primus 5 A. Athanaze c Pierre b Primus 0 J. Bishop lbw b Khan 3 M. Louis not out 1 J. Spencer lbw b Pierre 0 O. McCoy run-out 0 Extras: (lb4, w7, nb2) 13 Total: (all out, 31 overs) 58 Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-6, 3-14, 4-14, 5-27, 6-34, 7-57, 8-57, 9-57.

Bowling: Cottrell 7-4-6-3 (w-1), Rampaul 6-1-9-1 (w-2), Primus 7-0-20-2 (w-3, nb-2), Emrit 4-1-3-0 (w-1), Pierre 5-2-16-2, Imran Khan 2-2-0-1.

RED FORCE innings K. Hope c & b Spencer 8 E. Lewis c wkp. Stewart b McCoy 19 N. Alexis not out 19 J. Mohammed not out 4 Extras: (b-4, w-5) 9 Total: (2 wkts, 10.2 overs) 59 Fall of wickets: 1-23, 2-46.

Bowling: McCoy 5-0-26-1 (w-3), Spencer 4-0-22-1 (w-2), Bishop 1-05-0, Paul 0.2-0-2-0.

Points: Red Force 5, Under-19s 0.

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 1, 2017

High pass rate as IAAF Level I Coaching Course concludes

By Tamica Garnett PRESIDENT of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) Aubrey Hutson said he’s happy with the pass rate of participants who recently took the Coaches Education and Certification System (CECS) IAAF Level I Coaching Course, conducted by IAAF Lecturer Oscar Gadea of Uruguay and

by this. I cannot wait to see the kind of work that you are going to put out,” Hutson beamed.

The AAG on Monday evening held a closing ceremony at Olympic House where he praised the work of Gadea and Gilson, while the newly certified coaches bestowed several tokens of appreciation on the instructors.

America and it did not happen by fluke, it happened by perseverance to convince the IAAF that Guyana has been knocking on the door for a long time; so as soon as the manuals became available in English we were the first,” Hutson said.

Hutson also shared that this course was by no means the end of training that the AAG hopes to do. Given that over 50

on financing. Hutson explained that the course was funded mostly with money from the annual US$25 000 grant that the Association receives from the IAAF. There was also assistance from the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and National Sports Commission (NSC) with facilities and meals.

Apart from acquiring certified coaches Hutson said the

Some of the graduates with (front row) AAG president Aubrey Hutson (second from right), IAAF lecturer Oscar Gadea (right) and IAAF instructor Raymond Gilson (second from left). (Tamica Garnett photo) IAAF Instructor Raymond Gilson of Suriname.

A total of 24 potential coaches started the 12-day course but eventually two dropped out and, according to reports, some 20 of the remaining 22 participants passed the examinations at the end of the period.

Hutson said he would not confirm the number of passes, as the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) certificates for those who passed were still being finalised.

“I was made to understand there was a very high success rate and I’m so elated

“You were thorough and you were indepth and this can only move our sport forward, based on the kind of commitment that we’ve got now from our coaches,” Hutson said to the gathering.

The coaches, however, will officially receive their certificates at the AAG Annual Awards ceremony set for February 11. Hutson explained that it was only through diligence that the course became a reality after the AAG had been continuously trying to host the course for some time now.

“This is the first for South

persons had initially applied to participate in the course, but a maximum only 24 participants were allowed per course, the AAG hopes to hold another course later this year.

“We would want to go on to certify another 24. If we have 48 certified coaches in the system it would really and truly do well for Guyana athletics. We want to certify another 24 coaches as ideally we would have had in excess of 50 applications, of which we could have only taken 24 into this course.”

However, he reminded that this hope would depend heavily

AAG is also looking towards certifying technical officials.

Once the officials are certified locally the next step would be to get them overseas exposure at regional and international meets.

“In March we’re supposed to have our first National Technical Officials course in Guyana where we will be certifying our technical officials to conduct track meets properly. Right now in Guyana we have not one active national technical official, but when we do those people can go on to become area technical officials,” Hutson said.

Sol Campbell named T&T assistant football coach PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – English Premiership legend Sol Campbell has joined Trinidad and Tobago men’s senior team as assistant coach.

His appointment follows that of former T&T defender, Dennis Lawrence, who was named as head coach by the T&T Football Association two weeks ago.

Campbell ended his playing career five years ago and the new appointment represents his first taste of football management following the completion of his coaching badges.

“Dennis has been given the opportunity to choose

Ex-England defender Sol Campbell is named new Trinidad and Tobago men’s assistant coach.

his own staff,” TTFA president, David John-Williams said Monday at a media conference.

“Over the last couple of days he had recommended somebody whom he would like to be his assistant. He is a UEFA pro-licensed coach; he is a legend in the game in the English Premiership. He was part of the Arsenal invincibles and that person is Sol Campbell.

“I have been able to secure his signature … so he’s signed and onboard.”

Campbell became a cult hero at Arsenal between 2001 and 2006, playing alongside the likes of Thierry Henry, Dennis Berg-

kamp and Patrick Vieira in a golden period for the club.

The 42-year-old, who also played 73 times for England and turned out in three World Cups, said he was looking forward to the experience.

“It will be challenging but I’m ready to roll up my sleeves to help out,” Campbell was quoted as saying.

T&T are currently struggling in World Cup qualifying where they sit one from bottom of the table of the six-nation CONCACAF final round without a point. They are preparing to face Panama and Mexico in their next qualifiers in March.

WICB appoints Faustin as Chief Operating Officer VERLYN Faustin has been appointed the new Chief Operating Officer of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) as the governing body of Caribbean cricket continues its efforts to re-organise.

Her appointment became effective on January 1, 2017.

Faustin, who is the current Corporate Secretary, will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business, ensuring the organisation has the proper operational controls, administrative and reporting procedures. She will also lead the charge to put people systems in place to effectively grow the organisation and to ensure its financial strength and operational New Chief Operating Officer Verlyn Faustin efficiency.

Faustin’s appointment comes at an interesting time in the WICB as the organisation embraces management and operational changes aimed at making it more effective on and off the field.

The appointment falls within the time frame that the technical team has been boosted with the appointments of Jimmy Adams and Stuart Law as Director of Cricket and Men’s Head Coach respectively, and Johnny Grave as CEO. Faustin, an attorney, has been with the WICB for the last five years and has served as a key member of the executive team. She also retains the role of Corporate Secretary.

“Verlyn’s previous work is of quality standard and I have no doubt she will continue along that path. We look forward to her valuable contributions,” said WICB president Dave Cameron.

2017 Limacol Round-Robin Knock-Out Football …

Police stun Camptown, Winners Connection held

by Northern Rangers

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) were the only winners on the opening night of the second round of the 2017 Limacol round-robin knock-out football tournament on Monday evening.

In the first game, played at the Georgetown Football Club ground (GFC), the Linden-based side Winners Connection could not find that decisive goal against the Northern Rangers, with yellow cards being the order of the day.

Javon Figueira, Lennox Allicock and Kwesi Martian each received yellow for Winners Connection while Adolph George and Gregory Gomes got yellow for Northern Rangers.

There was no drawing the second game of the evening as Police arrested Camptown thanks to Jamal Codrington in the 53rd minute.

With that stalemate, Winners move to the top of Group A and Northern Rangers move up to third

place.

However, Milerock will have a chance to take over the lead of the group or Grove Hi-Tech can use the opportunity to move up from their fourth place when the two meet at the GFC from 18:30hrs today.

In the second game of the evening, Western Tigers and Eagles United will spar for the lead of Group B as they are both on three points with a positive goal difference of 1, while both Uitvlugt and New Amsterdam United are yet to score a point.

Den Amstel have assumed the lead of Group C while Santos and Ann’s Grove are tied for second with one point each and a goal difference of 0.

With the victory on Monday, Police have established a commanding lead of four points atop Group D with Mahaica Determinators, Riddim Squad and Camptown each with one point.

High pass rate as IAAF Level I Coaching Course concludes See story on page 39

JADCO imposes one-year ban on Russell

Andre Russell had admitted to feeling depressed while playing cricket ever since the charge was filed against him.

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – West Indies Twenty20 star, Andre Russell, was yesterday ruled out of several major upcoming global tournaments after being slapped with a 12-month ban for an anti-doping whereabouts violation.

The 28-year-old globetrotting all-rounder missed three drugs tests back in 2015 after failing to report his whereabouts, and was penalised by the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission(JADCO).

He had faced up to a two-year ban if found guilty of the violation but will now sit out the game until next January under the 12-month sanction which takes immediate effect.

“What the panel was required to do was look at the evidence given and to find whether the complainant established the requisite standard of proof, and that standard of proof is that it must be to the comfortable satisfaction of the tribunal that there was a first filing failure,” chairman Hugh Faulkner said afterwards.

“And we found from the evidence that there was a first filing failure for the period January 1, 2015 to March 31, 2015.”

Former Coe chief of staff expelled from IAAF LORD Coe’s former chief of staff has been expelled by athletics’ world governing body for concealing a 30 000 euro payment and misleading an investigation.

Nick Davies, who was IAAF deputy general secretary under Coe, was banned on June 10 over allegations he was one of three officials who took money to delay naming Russian drug cheats.

He was expelled yesterday but the IAAF said Davies was free to seek employment elsewhere in the sport and in IAAF-organised competitions.

In doing so, an IAAF ethics board stated that “it is no part of our decision that Mr Davies acted in any way corruptly”.

In a statement, Davies added: “I deeply regret misleading the board and am very sorry that my role

Nick Davies stood down as chief of staff to Lord Coe in December 2015. with the IAAF, which has been a massive part of my life for 24 years, has now come to an end.”

The decision relates to an email reported to have been sent by former IAAF consultant Papa Massata Diack

to his father and then IAAF president Lamine Diack in July 2013.

It claimed three IAAF staff members were in receipt of, or had knowledge of, a cash payment to withhold details of attempted cover-ups of Russian doping cases.

Davies’ wife Jane Boulter-Davies was given a six-month suspension backdated to June and is able to return to her duties at the IAAF with immediate effect.

A third official, Dr Pierre-Yves Garnier, was given a three-month suspension but this was also backdated to June and he is free to return to his duties at the IAAF with immediate effect.

Boulter-Davies is employed by the IAAF as a project manager, while Garnier is a medical manager. (BBC Sport)

He continued: “Again, using the standard of proof that we had enunciated, again to the comfortable satisfaction of the tribunal, we found that there was a filing failure – a failure to find whereabouts information – for the period 1st July 2015 to 30th September 2015, and then the third filing failure would have been for 1st July 2015 to 30th September 2015 but specifically, failure to provide the explanation required by the anti-doping rules for why you are late with the whereabouts filing.

“Now the rules require that there must be three missed tests and that three missed tests happen within a 12-month period and we found that was the case.

“As a result, the panel had no option but to apply a sanction. We looked at all the circumstances of the case, we looked at the evidence, looked at previous cases – precedents – and we came up with a one-year sanction.”

Russell has played one Test, 51 One-Day Internationals and 43 T20s for West Indies, and was part of the squad which won an unprecedented second T20 World Cup in India last April.

However, it has been on the global T20 circuit See page 34

GBA submits four-year strategic plan

THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) yesterday beat the deadline to hand over its four-year strategic plan to the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA).

The deadline was January 31. In this photograph GOA president K. Juman-Yassin (left) receives the plan from GBA president Steve Ninvalle.

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

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2017