Issuu

Page 2

GBTI opens new ATM at Anna Catherina

New aircraft for GDF No. 104830

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

…China adding two new planes to GDF’s fleet

Page 13

President opens Chetwynd Centre

Page 3

President David Granger and students checking out some of the books available at the newly-commissioned Chetwynd Learning Centre (MOTP photo)

…to honour the legacy of Forbes Burnham

Parking meter Soldiers charged for stealing GDF boycott milk, butter continues Page 12

Page 8

‘Highway destruction’ …Residents breaking curb walls of Linden Highway to make driveways

Page 2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

‘Highway destruction’ Residents breaking curb walls of Linden Highway to make driveways

By Vanessa Braithwaite RESIDENTS living in villages along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway are allegedly breaking the curb walls of the main thoroughfare to create driveways to their homes and/or villages. Concerned citizens recently brought this to the attention of the Guyana Chronicle since, this practice can be deemed the reason for several breakages and erosion issues that are presently occurring on the highway. According to a resident, a section of the highway curb wall in the vicinity of Loo Creek was broken away by residents only a few days ago to facilitate the easy access of lumber trucks operating in that area. The resident added that while residents are guilty of this practice, several lumber operators and truck drivers are also involved. While some persons use implements to break the highway, some of the damage is as a result of the regular traversing of heavy-duty trucks. “Is a steady practice that needs to be addressed, because this resulting in the road breaking away and eroding and water gushing down into people’s yards, it causing all kinds of problems and the relevant

authorities need to see down there, there is need what’s going on and put for signs on the road saya stop into it,” the resiing to truck drivers that dent who asked not to be they should not break the named, said. curb and once they want The resident remia driveway, they need to nisced that several recent contact Ministry of Public accidents recently at YarInfrastructure so that an rowkabra and Kairuni engineer can come and were as a result of the help them make the drivebreakage. “December ya way; and when they are coulda get nuff nuff fatalputting stuff on the road to ities on the highway, but make the driveway, they thank God nothing serious are redirecting the water ain’t happen, but nuff man that should be running run into the big hole deh in a particular direction had up Yarrowkabra.” and that is also causing While these eroded breakage on the road,” the sections were temporarregional chairman posited. ily repaired, the MinisIf truck drivers disobey try of Public Infrastructhe signs, Morian suggests ture is currently repairthat they be prosecuted as ing breakages at Kuru the highway is the governKuru, according to Chief ment’s property. Works Officer Geoffrey The Region 10 Road Vaughn. He told the GuySafety Organisation ana Chronicle on Monday took a different apthat the ministry is aware A recent breakage of the curb wall proach in suggesting by residents to facilitate lumber of other breakages, but that logs be transportoperations will be investigating same ed by river, so as to save before awarding small the only thoroughfare contracts for repairs. When at Kairuni, Yarrowkabra, connecting Region Four asked about the damaging of Moblissa, Amelia’s Ward and to Region 10 and several the curb walls by residents, Kara Kara, Region 10 Chair- other interior regions. The Vaughn said that his ministry man Renis Morian made a visiting team, while inwas not aware of the situa- call for the placement of road specting the eroded areas, tion, but will be looking into signs on the highway so as pointed out that several it urgently. “I will have to to notify truck drivers on the sections of the foundation dangers and consequences of the highway are void address that,” he said. Last December, while the of removing the curb walls and the situation was deRegion 10 Works Committee to construct access drive- scribed as life-threatening. was inspecting breakages ways. “Once the curb wall is Morian suggests that a moved the water is running

A recently repaired eroded hole at Yarrowkabra that resulted in minor vehicular accidents

walkthrough of the entire highway be done by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure so as to ascertain the weak points. “So first thing I would recommend here is that the ministry do a walk-through survey, look at the stress points and threatening areas so that they can do corrective work,” he stated. One civil engineer explained that the condition of the highway

will deteriorate as a result of its void foundation and with the continuous pressure from vehicular traffic -- especially the heavy-duty trucks plying the Georgetown to interior locations -- the surface of the highway may soon cave in. Morian revealed that there is significant funding in the 2017 budget for extensive repairs to be done to the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

GBTI opens new ATM at Anna Catherina – to offer new security features on future ATM cards THE Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) Monday commissioned a new Automated Teller Machine (ATM) service on the public road of Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara (WCD). In attendance were GBTI staff, Regional Executive Officer (REO) Dennis Jaikarran, Regional Chairman Julius Faerber, teachers, students and special invitees. GBTI’s Manager for Administration, Sean Noel, said the launch of the ATM was based on the requests of cus-

tomers to extend the bank’s service. He explained that the two extreme branches at Vreed-en-Hoop and Parika require support in a central area which gave birth to the new ATM. “This ATM service will lend to the business of the area, it will lend to the social aspects of the area and of course the convenience of customers,” the manager said. He charged members of the community to take responsibility for the ATM as part of their community,

since it enhances business within the district. “At this facility you can pay your bills, do your transfers and so many other things that bring convenience to daily life…” Meanwhile, Noel announced that no longer will the security of new cards depend on the magnetic stripes behind them. He said the bank will soon issue an upgraded version of the card that contains a chip that offers greater protection and security. He said GBTI has always been looking at ways to improve the lives of customers and services. The new card, he said, now offers greater protection when it is stolen. Jaikarran in brief remarks said the confidence the people in Region Three has placed in GBTI result-

The new ATM situated on the Anna Catherina, Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD)

ed in a new ATM machine being made available to them. The REO urged students and teachers present

at the opening to be part of GBTI’s early savers account. He noted that the banking system of the

company has made tremendous leaps across the country and expansion is inevitable.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

President opens Chetwynd Centre ON Monday, founder of the Peoples’ National Congress Reform (PNC/R), the late Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, would have celebrated his 94th birthday, and President David Granger declared open the Chetwynd Learning Centre aimed at the preservation and dissemination of his ideas which form part of his legacy. Located at the former home of President Granger in Durban Backlands, the Chetwynd Learning Centre will now bring together three main agencies under the PNC/R: the Burnham Education Scholarship Trust (BEST); the Burnham Book Trust (BBT) and the Burnham Research Centre (BRC). President Granger said that the centre will also create a space for young people to access information, thereby contributing to the education of the nation’s youth. “Anything you want to

…to honour legacy of Forbes Burnham know about education had its genesis in Forbes Burnham’s first decade as the prime minister of this country. Teacher training, nursery education, university education, the Teaching Service Commission…” President Granger told the gathering at the opening. “People have come on and added to it, but the ability of that man to see an educated nation is what propelled this country out of the backwardness of the 1960s and made it one of the most educated and competitive countries in the Caribbean.” The President said that bringing these three agencies under one roof is fulfilment of the fundamental philosophy of Forbes Burnham and it is what will move Guyana forward. The centre, he said, will allow for their services to be opened to a wider

President Granger and Mrs Granger unveil the plaque to officially commission the new Chetwynd Learning Centre (Adrian Narine photo)

range of Guyanese citizens. BEST currently sponsors about 58 children, spending an average of about GY$2 million annually. The centre

President David Granger and First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger are being escorted into the Chetwynd Centre by PNCR General-Secretary, Oscar Clarke, Chairman and Attorney General, Basil Williams and Ms Yvonne Sampson of the women’s arm of the party (Adrian Narine photo)

will now be opened to these and other students for research, homework and other school-related projects. “This learning centre is being opened to provide a public good. As our resources permit all three agencies will be opened to a wider range of Guyanese citizens,” he said. The President also expressed his wish to see similar learning centres opened in every town of Guyana,where children can have a place of refuge to do research and to advance their education. “These agencies are supplements of the education system and the vision of these agencies have come from the mission of Forbes Burnham to provide a good life for all Guyanese,” he said. General-Secretary of the PNCR, Oscar Clarke, highlighted that education was a key focus of Forbes Burnham and quoted from the late

leader’s March 1961 speech ‘A Destiny to Mould,’ where he said: “For us, education is the cornerstone of equality and one of the chief instruments for the abolition of snobbery, the removal of discrimination, the development of creative beings and the production of a nation of men and women who will never surrender to mediocrity or dictatorship of any kind.” Clarke lauded President Granger, whose ini-

tiative it was to open the centre, for carrying on the legacy of Forbes Burnham and for continuing the push for education like the former leader. “Like our founder- leader, our present leader is keenly aware that education is the cornerstone of equality; the key to eradicating poverty, ignorance and bigotry,” he said. He said that the idea to preserve and disseminate the ideas of the PNCR’s founder-leader has been a main aim of the party for years. This aim has seen the establishment of the Burnham Foundation in 2005, as well as the subsequent establishment of the other initiatives such as the Sophia Literacy Project, along with the observation of other memorial events. He said that the idea for the establishment of the Learning Centre was part of President Granger’s goal of preserving Forbes Burnham’s legacy as well. The event saw attendance of several government officials and other dignitaries. Also present were Mayor Patricia Chase-Green, former Mayor Hamilton Green, students of BEST as well as executive members of the PNCR.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

‘We’re not in Iraq to seize anybody’s oil’ The U.S. military is “not in Iraq to seize anybody’s oil”, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said as he arrived for talks with Iraqi leaders on Monday, distancing himself from remarks by President Donald Trump. Mattis was the highest-ranking Trump administration official to visit Iraq since Trump irked Iraqis with a temporary ban ontravel to the United States and for saying America should have seized Iraq’s oil after toppling Saddam Hussein in 2003. Trump told CIA staff in January: “We should have kept the oil. But okay. Maybe you’ll have another chance.” Mattis, however, flatly ruled out any such intent. “We’re not in Iraq to seize anybody’s oil,” he told reporters traveling with him late on Sunday, ahead of his arrival. “All of us in America have generally paid for our gas and oil all along and I’m sure that we will continue to do so in the future,” said Mattis, a retired Marine general who once led forces in Iraq. His remarks are the latest sign of differences with Trump. Trump

has acknowledged that Mattis disagrees with him about the usefulness of torture in interrogation and said he would defer to his defense secretary on the issue. Mattis has been more critical than Trump of RussianPresident Vladimir Putin, and distanced himself from Trump’s labeling of the media as “the enemy of the American people”, saying he had no problems with the press. A retired Marine general who led American troops in Iraq, Mattis has sought an exemption from Trump’s travel ban for Iraqis who have served with U.S. troops, including translators. He said he had not seen a new executive order which the administration is considering. “But I right now am assured that we will take steps to allow those who have fought alongside us, for example, to be allowed into the United States,” Mattis said. Mattis’ visit came a day after Iraqi Prime Minister Haideral-Abadi announced the start of a ground offensive on westernMosul, where Islamic State militants are under siege along with an estimated 650,000 civilians. It was unclear whether

Trump’s remarks on oil had come up during Mattis’ with Abadi, who has told Washington that Iraq’s oil is the property of Iraqis. Mattis also met Iraq’s defense minister and top U.S. officials in Iraq. Influential Shi’ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr on Monday called on Iraq’s government to order the withdrawal of U.S. and allied forces after the battle of Mosul is over. “The Iraqi government has to demand that all occupying and so-called friendly forces leave Iraq in order to preserve the prestige and the sovereignty of the state,” Sadr said. Mattis declined to address Sadr’s remarks directly, describing them as an internal political matter. But he said he was reassured after his talks in Baghdad that Iraq’s leaders recognized the value of its relationship with the United States. “I imagine we’ll be in this fight for a while and we’ll stand by each other,” he said. The U.S. commander in Iraq, Army Lieutenant General StephenTownsend, has said he believes

U.S.-backed forces will recapture both of Islamic State’s major strongholds - Mosul and the city of Raqqa in Syria - within the next six months. Trump is looking for a plan to accelerate the campaign against Islamic State, which could lead to an additional deployment of U.S. forces, who currently number less than 6,000 in Iraq and Syria. The Pentagon may also look at increasing the number of attack helicopters and air strikes and bringing in more artillery, as well as granting greater authority to battlefield commanders fighting Islamic State. Townsend told a news conference in Baghdad he had been putting U.S. military advisers closer to front lines in Mosul. “We adjusted our posture during the east Mosul fight and we embedded advisers a bit further down into the formation,” he said. Townsend added he was certain victory in Mosul was within sight. “The Iraqi security forces are going to take that city back. No doubt about it,” he said. (Reuters)

Norway pledges US$10 million to counter Trump’s global anti-abortion move

Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg, attends the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, January 18, 2017. REUTERS/ Ruben Sprich

Norway has joined an international initiative to raise millions of dollars to replace shortfalls left by U.S. President Donald Trump’s ban on U.S.-funded groups worldwide providing information on abortion. In January, the Netherlands started a global fund to help women access abortion services, saying Trump’s “global gag rule” meant a funding gap of $600 million over the next four years, and has pledged US$10 million to the initiative to replace that. Sweden, Denmark, Belgium, Luxembourg, Finland, Canada and Cape Verde have

all also lent their support. “The government is increasing its support for family planning and safe abortion by 85 million Norwegian crowns (US$10 million) compared with 2016,” Prime Minister Erna Solberg said. “At a time when this agenda has come under pressure, a joint effort is particularly important,” he said in a statement. Last month, Trump reinstated a policy requiring overseas organizations that receive U.S. family-planning funds to certify they do not perform abortions or provide abortion advice as a method of family planning. (Reuters)

Tuesday , February 21 st , 2017 - 01: 00 - 14:00 hrs Wednesday , February 22 nd , 2017 - 02:00 - 14:30 hrs Thursday , February 23rd , 2017 - 03:00 - 13:00 hrs

DATE: 18/02/2017 20/02/2017

N 07 13 14 17 22 25 15

20/02/2017

20/02/2017 02 05

07 10 13 16 19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Caribbean countries warned of the impact of lingering drought situations Many Caribbean countries experienced a relatively dry January this year but there is some likelihood for incipient drought concerns in some places by the end of February if it becomes as dry as January, the Caribbean Drought and Precipitation Monitoring Network (CDPMN) has warned. In its Caribbean drought Bulletin released here Monday, the CDPMN said there is however, little concern over drought in the Eastern Caribbean apart from in the south, particularly over Tobago, where there could eventually be impacts by the end of the dry season in May. “There is some likelihood for incipient drought concerns in some places by the end of February if it becomes as dry as January. There is much greater concern for western countries over both short and long term drought. This is particularly so over the Cayman Islands and Cuba. “Other countries like Jamaica, Belize, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico and French Guiana should monitor conditions closely as the region goes through its dry season,” the CDPMN noted. It said that rainfall quantities were varied across the

islands of the Eastern Caribbean during January. Conditions in Trinidad ranged from slightly dry in the northwest to moderately wet in the southeast; Tobago slightly wet; Grenada, St. Lucia, Dominica and Antigua, and Anguilla normal; Barbados from normal in the north to severely dry the southeast. CDPMN said that St. Vincent and St. Thomas experienced slightly dry weather in January, while the weather pattern in Martinique ranged from normal in the south to severely dry in the north; St. Maarten and St. Croix moderately dry. “Conditions in the Guianas ranged from normal in the north of Guyana and the central Suriname and French Guiana border to very wet in the south of Guyana and south west Suriname.” The CDPMN, which was launched in 2009 under the Caribbean Water Initiative (CARIWIN), said Grand Cayman has experienced its driest year on record with an observed wet season rainfall sum of only 50 per cent of average. “As a result, the island is in both short- and long-term drought. Belize, central Cuba and Tobago are also in long-term drought,’ it

said, adding that “we expect a shorter-term drought situation to continue in Cayman, Cuba and south French Guiana and, to possibly develop in Bahamas, Jamaica and north Haiti”. It said that long term drought situation, until May 2017, is likely to persist in Cayman and potentially become more impactful as the dry tourism season progresses. “It is evolving in central Cuba and Tobago, and is possible in portions of Belize, east Cuba, Grenada, French Guiana, Jamaica, north west and south east Puerto Rico and Trinidad,” CDPMN said, noting that though that dry season impacts may be quite similar to the usual, longer-term drought will not likely be a major concern by the end of the dry season in other areas. During the three month period, November last year to January 2017, the CDPMN said predominantly normal to above normal rainfall was experienced in the islands of the eastern Caribbean for the three month period. Trinidad was normal to moderately wet; Tobago slight to moderately wet; Barbados moderately wet in the

north to extremely wet in the south; St. Vincent ex-

ceptionally wet; St. Lucia moderate to exceptionally

wet from north to south (CMC)

Editorial

We are not delivering fast enough SECRETARY-GENERAL of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, in his presentation at the just concluded 28th Inter-sessional Summit of the Heads of Government, poignantly stated that, “Starkly put, we are not delivering results as fast as we should in a number of areas.” He was referring to the challenges facing the institution in several areas and the importance of getting things done in the interest of the Region’s security and people’s development. LaRocque’s entreaty is not singular, given that similar expressions are often heard from the Region’s peoples. In 1992, Sir Shridath Ramphal in an incisive report, “Time for Action,” addressed the need for making real the dreams of the integration process. Almost 24 years to the date of the 1989 Grand Anse Agreement that established the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), he revisited the issue and drew attention to shared concerns about the level of action and inaction by some Heads of Government. Noteworthy is the counsel of former Jamaica Prime Minister P.J. Patterson that, “West Indians understand – WE ARE SPINNING TOP IN MUD! They do not wonder why we are getting nowhere.” There was convergence by the Heads last week -- albeit using different focus -- that action and implementation in CARICOM are slow. President David Granger called for full implementation of the CSME, while there was a parallel concern expressed by out-going Chairman Roosevelt Skerrit on regional security. These calls make real concerns of the Caribbean people and contribute to the ambivalence of CARICOM’s relevance.

Under the Treaty of Chaguaramas, the secretariat has responsibility for developing laws, protocols, agreements and charters for the Region. Respective governments have the responsibility for implementation of these within the confines of the established parameters. Yet for some reason, the citizenry is led to think that implementation is the Secretariat’s responsibility. It is also not unreasonable to think that the Heads of Government may hold a similar view, listening to them calling for action and implementation, when they, under the Treaty, are so empowered to execute. In the absence of knowledge of the clear distinction of roles between the Secretariat and Government, the concern, interest, and angst of the people will be mis-directed. For instance, a few years ago there was strong political opposition to Jamaica remaining a member of CARICOM. This exit pursuit was led by then Leader of the Opposition Andrew Holness, who has since been elected prime minister and committed that Jamaica will remain a member. The dichotomy of this situation is that while political fodder is oft derived by presenting CARICOM as being incapable of fulfilling its mandate, governments -- including the Opposition -- are let off the hook of shouldering their responsibility, thereby having the attacks directed at the Secretariat. Recently, the secretary-general felt compelled to impress upon the society that CARICOM remains relevant and pointed to some of its achievements as testimony of this. At the same time, it may be opportune for the Secretariat to look inwards and ascertain the causes for disaffection and misunderstanding among the people. There are reasons that come readily to mind: one is the absence of clear understanding of the roles between the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

Secretariat and the respective governments. The other is the need to revisit the publicity and public relations strategy that has undoubtedly not filtered down to the masses. If CARICOM is to succeed, there must be respect and implementations for the laws, protocols, agreements and charters informing its existence and relevance. Each sector and section, such as the secretariat, government, opposition, employers, workers, and citizens, must also be au fait with their s and responsibilities and seek to exercise same and hold themselves and others accountable. Where leaders of the community fail to acknowledge the importance of every group in making the integration process work, CARICOM will unfortunately find it hard to shed the misnomer that it is irrelevant to the people and merely exists as a talk shop and social club. Debunking this false notion lies in giving true meaning to the secretary-general’s entreaty that “we are not delivering results as fast as we should in a number of areas.”

A discussion with Edghill is like standing on shifting sand

Dear Editor,

HAVING a discussion with the Honourable Juan Edghill is like trying to stand on shifting sand. It was the Honourable gentleman that mentioned the gross annual revenue of the Wärtsilä contract, something which I had never previously publicly stated. However, as soon as his claims were proven incorrect, he made an about face and said that he only mentioned same for reference purposes. He then went on to claim that his figure was just “an average.” Mr Edghill’s game is obvious: he made his claim to give the impression that large sums of money are involved in a bid to link this to corrupt activities. However, having been proven incorrect, this was quickly cast aside as “an average.” Mr Edghill should be aware that there are varying

types of maintenance carried out on engines; there is routine maintenance – which can be as basic as changing oils and filters – then there are major overhauls on engines after prescribed engine running hours. In the case of the company’s generating sets, both activities were conducted by our local engineers. However, in the latter case, an external engineer was sent to certify that the works were completed to specifications. All costs for this external engineer were borne by the local branch, hence the reference to paying for someone to “check off” the works. It should be noted that our local engineers are highly trained and qualified to certify these works themselves. Interestingly, when other neighbouring countries perform major overhauls, our local engineers are dispatched as the certifying engineers. This dispatch is, of course, at a

cost to the neighbouring company. It is noteworthy,that from September 2015 all major overhauls in the Guyana operations were conducted by local engineers only – all of whom have elected to work for Power Producers and Distributions Inc. (PPDI). It should be noted that currently in the PPDI’s organization, all the Plant and Workshop Managers possess degrees in electrical and mechanical engineering. Additionally, among the field-service engineers and plant technicians are over 20 persons with degrees or diplomas in engineering. If the Honourable Juan Edghill is suggesting that empowerment of our local engineers is a scam, then the Ministry of Public Infrastructure is pleased to be associated with this scam. On the matter of spare parts, once again I am certain that the honourable gentle-

man is aware that not all the parts in these generators are manufactured by Wärtsilä; the engine block, crankshaft, and cylinder heads are primarily the parts manufactured by the company, while other parts provided are manufactured by other reputable companies and assembled to complete the generator. Hence, parts such as the pistons, fuel pumps, turbo chargers, injection equipment, alternators, and so on are outsourced. Under the previous arrangement, these outsourced parts were ordered by the company and then resold to GPL. PPDI will now be procuring these parts directly from the manufacturers, which results in cost-saving. I assume this is the “scam” being referred to by the honourable gentleman. I must emphasise that the costs saved will be transferred to the consumer. Additionally, PPDI will be a state-owned entity. The

contractual arrangements are similar to that of Wartsila’s, specifically, all spares, local labour and expert labour will be paid for by PPDI. The performance guarantees for heat rate, lube oil consumption and plant availability are similar to Wartsila’s. Finally, the honourable gentleman is correct; the full board for PPDI has not yet been constituted and it is my intention to shortly seek Cabinet’s endorsement for nominees. Note that, in keeping with our stated policy, a board position will be reserved for the Opposition. It is my hope that this offer will be taken up so that the Opposition can have a representative present to prevent any potential scams. This hope might be a futile one, based on previous experience with the Opposition not taking up similar offers in at least eight other State boards under the ministry.

However, one can hope that this petty behaviour is put aside for the greater good of our nation. These back and forth communications in the media could be avoided if the Opposition upheld its responsibility by allowing itself to be privy, first-hand, to information. In closing, it must be stated that Wärtsilä has been an excellent companion to Guyana through the years; their generating engines have performed above standard and I have no doubt that we will be seeking to engage the company in the supply of equipment in the near future. The change in our otherwise excellent relationship is limited to the operations of the O&M contract. Regards David Patterson Minister of Public Infrastructure

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Some problems at the Ministry of Public Security Dear Editor,

PUBLIC servants are persons who choose to use their expertise to serve their nation. However, the unfortunate and glaring reality is, it seems as if “public servants” are viewed as slaves by other public servants who hold higher offices. Currently, there is a situation brewing within sections of the Ministry of Public Security (MoPS) and the Public Service Ministry (PSM) with respect to annual leave allowances. Members of staff who have been employed by the MoPS on a contractual basis have been transitioned to the Pensionable Establishment. In other words, they are now “permanent staff.” This in itself is not an issue. The problem is that the PSM/ MoPS have decided that these employees will now be treated as new members of staff. This implies that ALL staff members will now be

required to undergo a oneyear probationary period, during which they will not be eligible for annual leave. How does this make sense? Have all of the work done, skills gained and commitment shown during their previous years of service been erased? When contacted, the principal personnel officer and permanent secretary divulged that, “PSM is going by the book now!” This tale gets even more ridiculous. Consider this: if Ryan’s contract ends on 20th April, 2017 and he becomes a “permanent” staff member on 1st May 2017, a reasonable person would expect that after 12 months of service, in May 2018, Ryan would be eligible for leave. Makes sense, does it not? However, members of staff have been informed that this is not the case. Ryan would become eligible for leave from January 2019. How? Apparently, annual leave is only

granted after the completion a “calendar year” (January 1st – December 31st) of service. So, unfortunately, Ryan would be eligible for leave after serving in the proverbial coalmines for nearly two years (22 months)! If this is not the equivalence of modern-day slavery, I don’t know what is. Are the people reading and interpreting “the book” not human beings? Do they not possess the intelligence, commonsense and emotions that should be used to guide their interpretation and implementation of the rules of the book? What do we do when the book does not make sense and when it impacts negatively on the mental, emotional and even physical well-being of employees? What do we do when the book is so rigid that it does not take into consideration the basic needs of a human being – for rest, recuperation and rejuvenation? Where

is the consideration for the impact of work on family life and the psychosocial well-being of staff? It is not rocket science -- people give their best when their need for rest is prioritised. Government organisations cannot expect the best from employees if they are treated this way. Are PSs being

subject to these rules? are Directors and Managers? To paraphrase a colleague, PSM’s rulebook needs to be burned, since most of it was written before the majority of the current Guyanese population was born. If attempts at dialogue and intellectual conversations about this critical

issue keep falling on deaf ears, public servants will be forced to explore other avenues to have their concerns considered. The rulebook should serve the people, not the other way around. Sincerely, Disillusioned Patriot

NO, really it was. While everyone around me prepared ginger beer and mauby, there I was steeping leaves from a soursop plant -- one of the first natural treatments. I started a few days after hearing the words no woman wants to hear-- “you have breast cancer.” The biopsy was inconclusive in terms of being able to stage my cancer, but it was able to determine the bare minimum -- cancer, not very minimal at all, actually. To describe how I reacted would be false, because it’s a blur to me -- my post-surgery doctor’s interactions I remember quite well -- but this I am a bit lost about. The brain has a way of suppressing or substituting bad memories -- I’m sure my brain filed it within a folder within many folders into my sub-conscious, but for what

it’s worth, I didn’t freak out. I do remember my doctor starting to discuss that my treatment would most likely entail chemo and radiation. Hearing those words was an intense feeling, it finally hit home. I have cancer, like I really have cancer-- no joking, no mistaking. Here at 28 years old I was being diagnosed with cancer-- that the doctor felt was close to a stage two, because of how rapidly developed and large the tumour had become and the information about ‘margins’ in the biopsy report. He suspected that my cancer may have been caused by genetic factors. I was advised that I could request slides or blocks of my tumour from the GPHC lab for testing at a private facility. I decided I needed to do just that. That December I was not just searching for the best

Christmas presents, but also for the best oncologists with whom I could start discussing my treatment options. I met with about four doctors, some of whom came personally recommended. The thing about getting second, third and fourth opinions is the repetition of information; I was getting to the stage where I was confused about what to do. One doctor in particular bashed the Chemotherapy Treatment offered at the GPHC’s Oncology Department-- he told me I would pretty much be dead if I chose that option. When I met with doctors I would have to ask: ‘Does this doctor care about me or does he have a monetary interest in my health?’ as unethical as that sounds, I have found in my medical experiences that ethics don’t always apply. For instance, there is an institution that deals pri-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

marily with cancer patients and they no longer accept medical tests from other institutions except their own. This is unfair to those of us who may be coming for a second opinion from another hospital or medical institution where we would have already completed just days before the exact tests the institution requires. I find it unconscionable and uncaring to request the same tests to be done at their institute as opposed to using recent results from a competent facility. Fees for medical tests are quite high, so to ask a patient to spend the same or even more is unfair. I received the tissue blocks from the GPHC Lab in a timely manner and sent them for further testing at the Mt Sinai Hospital in Canada. I was advised to test for the BRCA gene by the oncologists I had met with.

The following information is scary and I wish it were possible for both men and women to get tested for this early in their lives, so they would be able to employ preventative medical treatments. Knowing how close you may be to having cancer at some point in your life is a motivational factor in making the best decisions for your body, health wise. Knowing can make all the difference in how much meat you consume, how active you are and many other simple choices we make daily which can have seriously adverse effects if you are a carrier of this gene. “BRCA1 and BRCA2 are human genes that produce tumour-suppressor proteins. When either of these genes is mutated, or altered, such that its protein product either is not made or does not function correctly, DNA damage

may not be repaired properly. As a result, cells are more likely to develop additional genetic alterations that can lead to cancer. Together, BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations account for about 20 to 25 percent of hereditary breast cancers. Breast and ovarian cancers associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations tend to develop at younger ages than their non-hereditary counterparts. A harmful BRCA mutation can be inherited from a person’s mother or father. As I waited for the results from Mt Sinai I scheduled a CT Scan which would determine how much of my body was being affected by the cancer cells. This scan was just a taste of what would soon become the norm as my life began as an oncology patient.

Omar Shariff to go on Dataram’s wife freed on another charge trial in March COME March 6, Former Permanent Secretary of The Ministry of the Presidency, Omar Shariff , and his reputed wife Savatri Hardio, will go on trial for failing to comply with a production order contrary to Section 26 of the Anti Money Laundering Act. This was disclosed on Monday by City Magistrate Fabayo Azore when the matter was called before her for report,and statements were filed by Special Prosecutor, Patrice Henry. At Monday’s hearing,the prosecutor had made an application for a joint trial for the defendants, with a total of seven witnesses expected to testify. Magistrate Azore scheduled March 6, for the commencement of trial and

Omar Shariff

will also rule on the prosecution’s application. The couple was charged on January 23, after they failed to comply with the production order issued by the Chief Justice, Yonette Cummings-Edwards, after a summons was served by

the High Court to produce certain named documents to Assistant Police Commissioner, Sydney James within seven days. They pleaded not guilty. The duo was ordered to report every other Monday to the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). Omar Shariff was fired from the post of Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Presidency. The ministry said his services have been terminated with effect December 31, 2016. Shariff, the subject of a probe into alleged financial crimes by SOCU, has denied such allegations but conceded that he has unsettled tax matters with the Guyana Revenue Authority in relation to the sale of phone credit.

Cyclist killed in Sophia accident identified as resident THE pedal cyclist who was killed by a speeding minibus Sunday evening on Dennis Street, Sophia, Greater Georgetown was Monday identified as Balwant Ramdin of ‘B’ Field Sophia. The man’s body was taken to the Lyken’s Funeral Home. According to residents, the man was

riding on the northern side of the road when he was struck down by a speeding minibus that was travelling in the same direction. Residents said from all indications the man died on the spot. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

ANJANIE Boodnarine, the reputed wife of convicted drug lord, Barry Dataram, on Monday walked out of the courtroom in smiles after she was freed on the charge of attempting to defeat the administration of the law. Boodnarine, 21, of Lot 79, Patentia Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara had denied the allegation which stated that between September 20, 2016 and October 15, 2016, having been charged for the offence of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking and having knowledge that the decision in that matter

was pending, she willfully attempted to defeat the administration of the law so as to avoid the consequences. Boodnarine appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Leron Daly, where the matter was dismissed after the Magistrate ruled that the Prosecution failed to prove an essential element of the charge. Magistrate Daly stated that the prosecution failed to prove that she willfully attempted to defeat the administration of the law; and once the prosecution failed to prove an essential element of the case the ruling must be in favour of the defendant. On February 13, Bood-

narine had another charge against her dismissed after City Magistrate Renita Singh ruled that the prosecution failed to prove that Boodnarine conspired with one or more persons to forge a Guyana passport. Boodnarine was charged for conspiring with persons to commit a felony. Also on January 19, Boodnarine was freed of the charge of possession of illegal ammunition after her husband took responsibility of the ammunition found and Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor, Konyo Sandiford announced that the Prosecution was withdrawing the charge against her.

Soldiers charged for stealing GDF milk, butter ON Monday three Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Officers were placed on $50,000 bail each after they appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, charged for stealing milk and margarine from Headquarters, Camp Ayanganna. Twenty-six-year old Richard Charles, twenty-

six-year old Kevin Phipps of East Ruimveldt and twenty-seven-year-old Linton Logan of Hadfield Street, Wortmanville pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to them by City Magistrate Leron Daly. The particulars of the charge stated that between February 13 and

14 at Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown they stole 11 bags of 25kilogram powdered milk worth $ 153,890 and seven cases of Golden Cream Margarine, property of the Guyana Defence Force. The facts of the matter were not stated. However, the matter was adjourned until March 6.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

CARICOM heads approve draft ICT space roadmap THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government believe that advancing a single Information Communication Technology (ICT) space could drive economic development and enhance the environment for investment in the Community. Chairman of CARICOM, President David Granger, announced at the closing press conference last week that the Heads have approved a draft roadmap for a single ICT space. The 15-member Community met over the last

two days in Guyana at the Marriott Hotel for the 28th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government. “It would support a sustainable increase in growth and jobs and enhance efficiency and increase access to public services,” President Granger said of the initiative. Incumbent Chairman of CARICOM and Prime Minister of Grenada, Dr Keith Mitchell, echoing President Granger’s acknowledgements of the benefits of a single ICT space, noted that

more details on the roadmap and the financing of the programme will be revealed at the Conference of Heads of Government meeting slated for July in Grenada. Grenada has led regional responsibility on Science and Technology, including Information and Communications, within CARICOM’s Quasi Cabinet. “As lead head, I cannot overemphasise the importance of ICT,” Prime Minister Mitchell noted. The single ICT space programme will be designed to help harness and use the

power of this aspect of technology for the benefit of the Region as a whole, the Grenadian Prime Minister explained. The single ICT space will not only deal with ICT, but will also encompass programmes which look at how the Community can make citizens digitally literate, provide high-speed next generation networks to support innovation, as well as address cyber security protection with the “best legal and regulatory frameworks to support our citizens in the

digital economy.” Additionally, the single ICT space is expected to provide meaningful partnership among the private sector, public sector and the general public at large. It is expected to link existing national ICT programmes for regional impact. Educational opportunities will also be examined by the programme, especially in the seamless linkage in subjects like Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Meanwhile, Secretary General of CARICOM,

Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, noted that the Community will, “put our foot to the pedal” to ensure that the development of the single ICT space and other objectives set for the July meeting are completed in time. The Caribbean Telecommunications Union, the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) and the officials who had prepared the document were commended by President Granger for their work in drafting the roadmap. (GINA)

City in moves to regularise GWI commissions filtered $3000 annual water tanks in Reg 7 auto repair shops …adds registration fee

A section of the gathering at City Hall on Monday

By Telesha Ramnarine OWNERS of mechanical, as well as body works and scrap metal shops, will now be required to pay the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) a registration/inspection fee of $3000 on a yearly basis. Moreover, the operators will also have to now pay additional fees to maintain certain licenses that the M&CC is requiring them to have to be able to comply with a “specific format” that all workshops will be guided by. Beginning sometime next week, Town Clerk Royston King yesterday told a packed room of operators at City Hall that the M&CC will be visiting their premises to inspect what degree they are measuring up to the standards for the trade. Those who are compliant will be registered by the M&CC at the above-mentioned cost and must renew their registration each year after inspection. Those who are non-compliant will be given about three months to correct themselves. King said the M&CC will help such operators to become

compliant. In those cases where it is impossible for the operator to become compliant, such as if the workshop is at an inappropriate location, King said the business will have to cease until the owner can be relocated. Chief Engineer, Colvern Venture, told the workshop owners that it is of grave concern to the M&CC that some of them are operating outside of the boundaries of the prescribed regulations and are not even meeting the minimum ones. A lot of complaints are forwarded to the M&CC, he noted, regarding noise nuisance, sprays spilling over to the neighbours, and substances that are harmful for the human body. He pointed out that the operators must now obtain a ‘Land Use Clearance’ from the Central Housing and Planning Authority, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Guyana Fire Service, and the City Council. Venture assured those gathered that the M&CC was not seeking to put them out

of business but to put them on notice that they should get their act together. The Town Clerk added that it is unacceptable for those workshop owners who conduct their business using the council’s pavements, roadsides, and reserves. This practice greases up the road, which can be dangerous to pedestrians, blocks the free flow of traffic and sees toxic materials going into the drains. King also alluded to the fact that using the council’s reserves contributes to traffic congestion because some customers would park wherever they feel like. This problem, he noted, is compounded on streets that are narrow. One workshop representative subsequently expressed concern that many of these new changes will come at a cost to business owners. He further noted that many of them do not have the resources to meet these new requirements and that some are merely renting facilities to conduct their business. He pleaded with the Council to help them find alternative city space.

GWI’s Managing Director, Dr. Richard Van-West Charles and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe raise their glasses to try the filtered water in Kamarang. Also in photo are: GWI’s Hinterland Manager, Osei Manifold (left), Dr. In-Charge of Upper Mazaruni District Hospital - Amitraj Persaud (second right) and GWI’s Exec. Director – Mr. Ramchand Jailal (right)

THE Guyana Water Incorporated last Friday commissioned two C2 filter tanks in Kamarang and Kako, Region Seven (Cuyuni/ Mazaruni). In Kamarang, the filter which is connected at the Upper Mazaruni District Hospital, will also serve the Kamarang Primary School and residents, a release from GWI said. The source of water being purified is the Kamarang River. Over in Kako, the filter was installed nearby the primary and nursery schools to treat the water from the river and serve the schools’ population and residents as well. Managing Director of GWI, Dr. Richard Van-West Charles, told Principal of the school, Ms. Kathleen Andrews and the Doctor-inCharge at the hospital, Dr. Amitraj Persaud, to ensure only filtered water is used for consumption. This, he said, will help to significantly reduce diarrheal cases in the region. Dr. Van-West Charles

explained that the filter removes bacteria and other viruses present in the water. The Managing Director of GWI reiterated that the utility is working to ensure that all hinterland areas have access to potable water, especially the schools and hospitals there. He assured the villagers that GWI personnel will train them to operate the filter and to ensure the water distribution system is functional at all times. Also present at the commissioning was Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. Valerie Garrido-Lowe. She encouraged residents to make good use of the filtered water and urged Ms. Andrews to put arrangements in place to ensure the water is fully utilised at the school. The team of GWI officials headed by Dr. Van-West Charles and accompanied by Minister Garrido-Lowe also visited the village of Paramakatoi to assess the water distribution system and look at ways

of improving it to allow all residents easy access. The community currently depends on a reservoir of spring water that is deemed insufficient and villagers also complained of droughts during the period of January to March. In this regard, Executive Director of Project Implementation & Partnership Building, Mr. Ramchand Jailal, agreed to meet with a team of villagers in Georgetown, who are proposing a plan for a new water system. Dr. Van West-Charles advised that they explore the possibilities of drilling a well, rain water harvesting and another source of spring water. Vice-Toshao, Mr. Jimmy James said residents are willing to pool their resources and skills with GWI to improve the system there. The visit to the three hinterland villages forms part of GWI’s mandate to guarantee equal access to potable water to citizens countrywide.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

IWAA award for doctor with Guyanese roots By Frederick Halley DR DIONNE Duncan, a distinguished scholar with Guyanese roots, has been selected from among a group of women chosen to receive the prestigious International Women’s Achievers Award (IWAA) for the year 2017. The awards ceremony, which is being held to coincide with Canada’s 150th Independence anniversary, is set for Saturday, March 4 at the Toronto Plaza Hotel. Dr Duncan, whose parents are Guyanese Hector and Util Duncan, graduated from the University of Toronto last year with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Health

Policy Management and Informatics. She has since been serving as general manager of the Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA). Dr Duncan also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Mass Communications, a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, an Executive Degree in Business Relations from York University and Kellog-Schulich School of Business. Apart from being general manager for MACCA, Dr Duncan also serves on several boards within the Greater Ontario Region, including Wychwood Open Door, a charitable organisation and is part of the advisory board

that supports cancer research and services throughout the region. Dr. Duncan’s work is centered on developing and integrating innovative statistical approaches to advance public health and health care research and support across Ontario. Her methodological research focuses on nonparametric, machine learning for casual inference and prediction within health policy and informatics. She also works on risk adjustment, comparative effectiveness, research and health programme impact evaluations. The World Achievers Award is held during the International Women’s month of March.

It celebrates and honours the accomplishments and contributions of women in world-wide community development; women who have excelled in different spheres of life. The ceremony underscores the paramount role played by women in society while appreciating their attitudes, initiatives, will-power and perseverance. These are women who have distinguished themselves as prominent citizens, who displayed a strong mettle and capability to perform well in any field of endeavour. The purpose of IWAA is to empower young women, so they too can reach their goals.

Dr Dionne Duncan

The IWAA brings together women from across the

globe and recognises their accomplishments. It also facilitates a global award ceremony for women of all culture, nationality and ethnicity. This ceremony will serve as tribute to these women to celebrate their work, their life and their contribution to society. “By doing this, we will empower young women, so they too can reach their goals,” a release from IWAA pointed out. The release further said that the vision is to be the premier international awards show which will pave the way through collaboration and inclusion, by engaging people, organizations, and governments in the celebration of women’s accomplishments.

CH&PA team to tour housing project in Poland FOLLOWING the expression of interest by a Polish developer to construct houses here in Guyana, a team from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), led by subject Minister Valerie Patterson, is expected to travel to that country before weekend. Minister Patterson told the Guyana Chronicle that some time back a Polish developer had visited Guyana and expressed interest in fulfilling housing work here. The minister noted that while her team would be visiting Poland, all expenses would be paid by the Polish company, since they are interested in highlighting the types of housing projects they have executed in their country. “It is just like the Surinamese developer who invited us there [to Suriname] to see their model homes,” Minister Patterson explained. “After expressing interest in doing work here, they wanted us to see what they have done in their home country.” Minister Patterson explained that at this stage, it is purely an expression of interest and interaction between Guyana and the Polish company as to what they can offer. The government recently announced Cabinet’s approval of some 758 housing units to be constructed in seven of the country’s administrative regions to the tune of G$5billion. When asked about the Polish company in relation to the new homes to be built, Minister Patterson indicated that no consideration has been given to that, since the ministry and the company are in their initial stage of communication.

It was noted however that the construction of the housing units is the first phase of a programme to develop local housing to benefit particularly public sector families, youths and low-income earners. Minister of State Joseph Harmon made the announcement last week, during a post-Cabinet press briefing. Minister Harmon pointed out that the housing units would take the form of either town houses or duplexes, and that some 1500 persons would be shortlisted from a backlog of housing applicants. The project, it was stated, should start almost immediately, and “it is anticipated that within the space of 12 months it will be completed.” The last time the Housing Ministry had however visited a foreign country in relation to housing development, several local contractors had expressed discontent. The local contractors, General Contractors Association of Guyana (GCAG), had claimed that they were being overlooked for even consultations in relation to housing development. They had claimed in a letter to the Housing Ministry and forwarded to President David Granger that an “assignation of a sizeable housing construction project to a foreign firm is taking place, even as several of our members as well as large numbers of other tradesmen in various sub-sectors of the construction sector remain without jobs.” They had called for an urgent meeting with authorities to discuss the issue.

Fire guts DJ’s house 11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

…arson suspected POPULAR Disc Jockey (DJ), Delroy Romeo, known as ‘DJ , is in a state of disbelief after fire gutted his Lot 283 Goed Intent, West Bank Demerara home late Sunday night. He believes that the fire was possibly the work of arsonists, after neighbours reported seeing two women at the home moments before the fire erupted. “I was told that two females entered the yard, so what I’m trying to do right now is stay calm and use my intelligence to gather information. When I solve the puzzle, then is when I gon act,” the DJ told reporters as he looked on at his still smoking home in the wee hours of Monday. He was not at home at the time of the fire, and recounted getting the call around 12 midnight from his mom overseas who informed him

that the property was ablaze. Romeo told reporters at the scene that he lives alone, and is not aware of any enemies; however, he noted that he does come across his share of adversaries, particularly when it comes to the ladies. “Being Guyana’s most controversial and popular DJ, I do [receive a lot of threats from]both male and female. Not direct, indirect, I always receive threats. It’s something that is an ongoing thing. At this moment, the most thing I would assume is it gah do something with somebody heart that has been broken and [they] can’t control they emotions. I mean misery needs company, so whoever heart has been broken probably get a friend to prompt her up to do it. But like I said, nobody ain’t got no full evidence and I ain’t gon point fingers,” the DJ said. It was Romeo’s next door

Delroy “DJ Magnum” Romeo at the scene of the fire (Tamica Garnett photo)

The remains of DJ Magnum’s Goed Intent home after the blaze (Tamica Garnett photo)

neighbour, Norman Williams, who awoke around 22:hrs and saw the two women at the DJ’s home, but thought nothing of it and returned to his slumber. “I saw two females on the back step, before, just before

the fire. Normally he would call me and say what’s going on, but he didn’t call so I just relax and I fall back in a dose,” Williams told this newspaper. Williams said he did not see whether the ladies had

gained entry into the house, but heard them trying to open the door. “They were fighting with the door, because I hear the back door horse and staple,” Williams said. Some half an hour later

Williams awoke again to see the house on fire. “The fire woke me up around 11:15pm, I alert the neighbours around and start pulling back things in my house. It was in front of the building, the first room somewhere around there,” Williams explained. Williams said the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) arrived promptly, but by then it was too late to save anything. The GFS is investigating the incident.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Parking meter boycott continues

Motorists refuse to park on Main Street, Georgetown, where parking meters have been installed

MOTORISTS on Monday continued their boycott of metered-parking in Georgetown as the oversight bodies continued with the project’s implementation. Since being enforced on January 24, 2017, motorists have largely refused to park in metered zones -managed by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown and Smart City Solutions (SCS) -- in protest of what they describe as a far from transparent project. And those efforts to boycott the metered zones continued on Monday, after a brief interruption. A visit

to several highly commercialised areas in central Georgetown where there is usually a heavy concentration of traffic, revealed streets free of parked vehicles. A few weeks ago, anti-parking meter advocates had mobilised themselves and formed the Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM) which staged several mass protests against the parking meters. Having generated traction, central government intervened and requested that City Council adjust the rates which at that time was $58 for 15 minutes.

During that period of consultations for new fees, the project was put on hold, allowing vehicles to be parked without having to pay. During that time also, two court orders were filed against city Mayor Patricia Chase-Green, Town Clerk Royston King and Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, requesting them to show why the project should not be scrapped. Despite these two pending court orders however, the mayor last week announced that implementation of the project will continue from Monday. “As of Monday next, we will

An empty Carmichael Street, Georgetown

resume implementation of the parking meter project,” the mayor said on Thursday at a press conference. She justified this position, reasoning that, “There is not an injunction that stops us from operating.” It has not been made clear if a resumption of implementation means that persons who are non-compliant with the by-laws will be penalised as is stipulated. Mayor Chase-Green did say however that, “Nobody said we’re starting back clamping on Monday,” while Town Clerk Royston King suggested that the M&CC will be renewing its

operations, which include tools available to them for non-compliance of the bylaws. The Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM) upon hearing this, indicated that a court order will be filed against the M&CC should the local government body decide to continue implementation of the project. Speaking on behalf of the movement at a town hall meeting on Saturday at St Stanislaus College, Attorney Pauline Chase said that “… should Smart City Solutions [and the M&CC] take that step on Monday, we will see an application

being moved to the court for contempt.” However, no such application was made on Monday up to press time. And as a form of resistance, motorists on Monday parked in areas which were not metered parking zones. The MGPM is maintaining its call for a complete revocation of the contract which was signed between SCS and the City Council. Some City Councillors, on behalf of whom the contract was signed, including Deputy Mayorelect, Lionel Jaikaran, has said that to date, they have not seen the contract.

Woman remanded for illegal possession …had planned to smuggle items into of grenade, ganja Camp Street prison A SOPHIA resident was remanded to prison on Monday by Magistrate Zamilla Ally-Seepaul after she was charged with the illegal possession of narcotics and ammunition. Twenty-seven-year Kelly Ann Martin of Ram Singh, Sophia, Greater Georgetown was recently nabbed by police after a smoke grenade and a quantity of marijuana were found in her home during a raid. Police later learnt that the woman was planning on smuggling the contraband into the Camp Street prison for a death-row prisoner, known as ‘Smallie.’ It is alleged that the mother of 2, on February 16, 2017 at ‘B’ Field Sophia, had a CS

Convicted Bartica Massacre felon, Mark Royden Williams called ‘Smallie’

smoke grenade in her possession, without being the holder of a licence. It is further alleged that

on February 17, 2017 at the same location, she had 130 grams of cannabis sativa (marijuana) in her possession, for the purpose of trafficking. Martin, a dispatcher at New Wave taxi service pleaded not guilty to both charges and was remanded to prison until March 27, 2017. Police Prosecutor, David Goodridge told the court that police ranks acted on information and went to the home of the defendant, where they conducted a search and found the grenade and marijuana hidden in her bedroom. Goodridge further revealed that the accused, in her caution statement, admitted to police that she was taking the items for

Kelly Ann Martin

‘Smallie’. The prosecutor further explained that the woman told ranks that she collected the grenade from an unknown person and intended to carry it to the penitentiary for the prisoner. The police are still investigating the matter as they await Martin’s phone records. Based on information, Martin was charged before for attempting to smuggle marijuana into the Camp Street prison, but the matter was dismissed. According to reports, the contraband was for convicted Bartica Massacre felon, Mark Royden Williams called ‘Smallie’, who is on death row after he was found guilty of 8 counts of murder and four counts of manslaughter.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Golden Grove biker dies days China to add after colliding with truck new planes to A 21-YEAR-OLD man died at the Georgetown Public Hospital while receiving medical attention Sunday, after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a canter truck at Haslington, East Coast Demerara Wednesday night. Kristoff Spencer of Lot 99 Charles Street, Golden Grove, ECD and his girlfriend Ebony Scott were traveling along Haslington Public Road on a motorcycle when it collided with the canter truck around 19:30 hours. He died around 03:00hrs Sunday, but Scott remains a patient at the hospital. The two are members of the popular ‘Gold Rush’ youth group and former stu-

dents of Hope Secondary School. Spencer is employed with the Guyana Power and Light Inc. and is also a Disc Jockey (DJ). The Guyana Chronicle understands that Spencer was riding his motorcycle West along Haslington Public Road when the motor lorry, which was heading in the opposite direction attempted to turn south into a street at Haslington and they collided. Reports are that Spencer sustained head injuries, injuries to his spinal cord and broken legs, while Scott also suffered a broken leg. Apart from Scott, Spencer leaves to mourn his parents and four siblings. An autopsy is expected to be performed today.

GDF fleet

Kristoff Spencer and girlfriend Ebony Scott in happier times

Guyana can tap market for refined white sugar – GAWU says in proposal for industry A MARKET for refined white sugar exists in CARICOM for a total of 200,000 metric tonnes and Guyana is in a position to fill the void. This is among several proposals which have been put to the authorities by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) in a list of alternatives, which that body is proposing for the longevity of the country’s sugar industry. At the same time, the union is opposed to the closure of sugar estates in East Demerara as well as the Rose Hall estate in the absence of a feasibility study. In a list of product-improvement proposals as well as diversification initiatives, GAWU said that with improved production levels reaching 331,000 tonnes in 2014, GAWU noted that the Guyana Sugar Corporation ( GuySuCo) would be able to satisfy the CARICOM market for which it would receive in excess of US30 c/lb. “Our research informed us that a 180,000 tonnes sugar refinery at Skeldon was found to have an Internal Rate of Return of 28.8 per cent, when a price of US23 c/lb was expected”, GAWU noted . According to GAWU, “higher prices, in contemporary times, only serves to add to the project’s feasibility.” The union said the proposition holds basis through recent indication, through

press reports, by an Indian investor who plans to operate the Skeldon factory with plans to establish a refinery, among other plans. GAWU said the proposal by the Indian firm is an indication that significant sums can be earned in the venture. As regards brown sugar, GAWU is proposing that the management of the industry maximize current production. According to the union, GuySuCo is capable of packaging 50,000 tonnes of sugar per annum from its Blairmont and Enmore packaging plants. It noted that the prices received for this type of sugar is approximately US33 c/ lb19 and represents the corporation’s highest return. While supporting the maximization and further expansion along profitability lines, GAWU noted that opportunities for new product brands are numerous. It noted that a critical aspect to this venture is the “need for a robust product development and a marketing programme with clear vision and focus.” The union pointed to North American and European markets as hunting grounds which should be pursued in that regard. Meanwhile, GAWU said that it remains “strongly opposed” to the closure of any sugar estate , especially in the absence of a considered study to address the ramifications of such a

decision. The union said that it is often reminded of the closure of an estate without planning and adequate notice to cane farmers and the consequent serious circumstances the move brings to the employees, private farmers and the communities. GAWU also stated its position as regards the proposed sale of the Skeldon estate. According to GAWU, while it is aware that there are shortcomings at Skeldon, over the years GuySuCo has been steadily seeking to correct the defects and it noted that it has seen improvements in the factory’s performance. “We believe Skeldon holds great potential and can make a big impact in safeguarding the industry as a whole. We reiterate and urge all the relevant authorities to positively consider our proposals in this respect”, GAWU said. Last month, this publication reported that the outlook for Guyana’s sugar industry continues to look grim, with GuySuCo officials declaring that funds injected into the sugar industry at this time will be funds “wasted.” With a debt of $77.3B and consecutive losses, GuySuCo officials advised that the industry is one not worth investing in unless plans for the reorganisation, restructuring and diversification of the industry are present.

Phagwah to be celebrated on March 12 MINISTER of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, has declared March 12, 2017 as the date for Phagwah. Consequent upon Phagwah falling on a Sunday, and

by virtue of application of Sections 3 (1) and (2) of the Public Holidays Act, Chapter 19:07, Monday March 13, 2017 is hereby declared a Public Holiday as well.

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is poised to receive two new planes, courtesy of the Chinese Embassy. Information reaching the Guyana Chronicle is that two Chinese-made Harbin Y-12s will be received by the Force. GDF’s Public Relations Officer, Major Earl Edgehill, confirmed the much needed upgrade to the Force’s current fleet, but was unable to say when the equipment will be delivered or ready for utilisation. Edgehill told the newspaper that the planes will be very beneficial to the Army. “Any and all additions to our current fleet of aircraft, ships or trucks will improve (the Force’s) capability.” It will not be the first time that the Army will be handling the Chinese equipment, having purchased a Y12 in 2001. In 2014, it was reported that that plane was experiencing corrosion of its fuselage, but continuous repairs by overseas contractors saw it receiving an extra five-year life span at the time. Around that same period, members of the GDF had called for an upgrade of their fixed-wing equipment, following a crash that left one of the Army’s main air support, a Cessna 206 with extensive damage. Without their own airlift, the Guyana Chronicle was made to understand that the Force would sometimes have to secure the services of private carriers if the need arose. More recently, a Commission of Inquiry into the landing of an illegal plane found to be used for drug smuggling, recommended increased aircrafts for the Army in a bid to better monitor and protect the territory. The plane had landed at an interior location in the country for a number of days without the consent or knowledge of security or aviation authorities. The COI found that an active and equipped Air Force would help to properly man the region, since the country’s civil aviation arm is unable to do. The last report on the GDF fleet had noted that the Force was utilising a 1960s British-made Skyvan with several years of operation, the “corroding” Chinese Harbin Y-12, a single-engine Cessna 206 seized during a drug raid and helicopters that included a Bell 412. The Harbin Y12 is a 17-seater twin-engine turboprop utility aircraft. It is notable for space and said to be suitable for the GDF to transport equipment and army personnel. Back in October, former GDF Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier, George Lewis had told the Guyana Chronicle that the army was hoping to boost its surveillance capacity with the acquisition of new fixed and rotor wing aircraft in 2017. This, he said, was in keeping with the advancement of its national mandate, which among other things, include combating the narcotics trade. The GDF currently operates two helicopters, the GDF One and GDF Two; while its Bell 412 helicopter has for months been unserviceable. In addition, the GDF operates several fixed wing aircraft. In its proposal in the 2017 National Budget, the army had requested funding for the acquisition of additional rotor wing aircraft, models which capabilities are said to be significantly advanced, as compared to the current Bell 206 helicopters on the army’s roster.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Mahaicony fishermen get $6M boathouse By Clifford Stanley FISHERMEN who use docking facilities on the Mahaicony River near the public road and residents living along this river as far south as Moraikobai Mission were recently the beneficiaries of a new $6M boathouse constructed by the Administration of Region Five (Mahaica/ Berbice) as part of its programme of providing improved infrastructure for residents in the region. The new boathouse is located on the banks of the Mahaicony River at Central Mahaicony, opposite the police station. It consists of eight storage rooms which residents can access to store private property such as fishing nets, boat engines, and outboard engine tanks and other related valuables in a secure environment. Prior to this, those travelling out to the coast by boat or fishermen operating in the Atlantic opposite the mouth of the river, had to endure discomfort due to having to remain

with their properties during night hours to ensure their security. They will now be able to access the secure rooms for such storage in the newly commissioned boathouse. The building will be managed by the overseer and staff of the Woodlands/ Farm Neighbourhood Democratic Council (WFNDC). The building was officially handed over to the NDC during a brief ceremony at Central Mahaicony. Those who attended and participated included Member of Parliament for Region Five, Ms Jennifer Wade, Regional Executive Officer of Region Five, Ovid Morrison, staff and councillors of the NDC and representatives of fishermen and villagers of Moraikobai, which is located along the Mahaicony River 90 miles south of the coastland. Wade urged the beneficiaries to take good care of the facilities, so that they can benefit from it for a very long time. Additionally, REO Morrison told them that putting

Some of the beneficiaries of the boathouse

the facilities in place was indicative of the Administration’s interest in helping the people of the region to go about their day-today economic activities with infrastructural support, which would enable them to improve their earnings and quality of life.

A fisherman, who preferred to identify himself as “Tiger,” lauded the development. “It is good for security of our equipment. Everything used to be left out in the open and fishermen had to take extra effort to ensure that their items were not stolen. This makes

life much easier for us.” Milton Andrews, a resident of Moraikobai, said the boathouse was definitely “a step up” for the residents who travel in and out of Moraikobai with their goods, using outboard engines. Regional Engineer of Region

Five, Dhanpaul Sukha, handed over the keys to overseer Shaundell Bristol and then officials and beneficiaries witnessed the cutting of the ribbon to make the boat house accessible to the fishermen and riverine residents of the Mahaicony River.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:10 hrs Highlander 08:45 hrs Sensible Lover 09:20 hrs Fieldmarshall Fenix 09:55 hrs Joan Ranger 10:30 hrs Don Christo 11:05 hrs King Of Mani English Racing Tips Wetherby 10:00 hrs Minella Suite 10:30 hrs Top And Drop 11:00 hrs Jerrtsback 11:30 hrs Plaisir Dâ€™Amour 12:00 hrs Milan Express 12:30 hrs Suzy;s Music 13:00 hrs Harrisons Promise Southwell 10:10 hrs Bo Selecta 10:40 hrs Native Prospect 11:10 hrs Custard The Dragon 11:40 hrs Lady Nayef 12:10 hrs Wimboldsley 12:40 hrs My Renaissance Taunton 10:20 hrs Avithos 10:50 hrs Without Frontier 11:20 hrs Verdana Blue 11:50 hrs Zanstra 12:20 hrs Sizing Granite 12:50 hrs Ballytober 13:20 hrs If The Cap Fits American Racing Tips Philadelphia Park Race 1 Tree Top Lover Race 2 Mr. Masterpiece Race 3 Untethered Race 4 Wilma Race 5 Timna Race 6 Kalabaka Race 7 Freemark Race 8 Will Did It

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Hamilton has ‘zero problems’ with Bottas

(REUTERS) Triple world champion Lewis Hamilton has clarified comments about not wanting to share data with Formula One teammates and says he has “zero problems” with new Mercedes arrival Valtteri Bottas. Hamilton told a Facebook Live session with F1 sponsor UBS last Friday that drivers should do their own “homework” rather than be able to copy a teammate’s racing lines and braking points. “I go out, do my laps, do all my homework and the other guy can see everything,” said the Briton. “When we’re driving we’re picking out braking points, bumps, tyre rubber marks on the track, all these different things to help get you through the corner quickest ... but because of this (shared) data they (teammates) can just copy you. “They should be able to go out there on their own and find it all themselves, without you.” Hamilton’s comments were interpreted by some as

Lewis Hamilton

Hamilton criticising Mercedes for insisting on shared data between teammates, but he took to Twitter yesterday to emphasise that was not the case. “I wish to clarify, I have not hit out at my team at all. My point on data-sharing is solely my feelings about the sport in general,” said the 32-year-old, who made his debut with McLaren in 2007 alongside double champion Fernando Alonso. “It has been my feeling since the day I started F1 and still is 10 years later. There are zero problems in

my team, zero problems with Bottas.” Hamilton is favourite to clinch a fourth title this season after losing out last year to teammate Nico Rosberg, who promptly retired. The German, a rival since their teenage years in go-karting, won fewer races than Hamilton (9-10) but enjoyed better reliability. Hamilton beat Rosberg to the title in the previous two campaigns. The Briton has said it does not matter who his teammate is and spoke warmly of Bottas, who joins

Hope wants consistency after success

Shai Hope

(CMC) – Shai Hope says he will use his outstanding performances in the just concluded Regional Super50 to kick-start his career for West Indies. The 23-year-old right-hander struck 101 in Saturday’s final to help power Barbados Pride to the Super50 title with a 59-run victory over Jamaica Scorpions at Coolidge Cricket Ground. Hope finished the tournament as one of the leading run-scorers with 482 runs and two centuries, following his 125

in the semi-final against Leeward Islands Hurricanes last Thursday. “I just have to stay consistent, consistent in front and behind the stumps. (I have to) score as many runs as possible and take the chances that come to me,” Hope said in reference to his international career. He added: “We set out to win the tournament, I set out to score runs, perform for my team and I was glad to be able to do that.” It was Hope’s 127-run, sixth-wicket partnership with captain Jason Holder which trans-

formed the contest, after Scorpions had put a stranglehold on the Pride innings. Hope struck five fours and five sixes in a 98-ball knock while Holder exploded in a 47-ball 69, as Pride clawed their way back from 138 for five in the 35th over to reach 271 for nine off 50 overs. “The key was not to panic at all. It was a crucial stage there when we lost a few wickets,” he noted. “But having said that, we knew we had batting right down to the end so it was just about capitalising on any bad balls they gave us and keep rotating the strike until we get down to those last 10 overs and then launch.” He continued: “I wouldn’t say that they bowled badly, I actually think they bowled well especially in the initial stages and I just have to give credit to Jason, he came out and really gave the innings that boost that we needed to get to the 271.” Hope has played seven Tests and four One-Day Internationals since making his West Indies debut two years ago.

from Williams without having won a race so far. “It is interesting to see how it’s going to go, how quick he will be, how quick he adapts, how he does with pressure ... I would say the most fascinating thing is the mind of my competitors, what limits they’ll go to,” Hamilton said during the Facebook Live session. “Some people will sell their mum to win a race, sell your soul, and some people will do other things so it’s really interesting to see where Valtteri will go.” The season starts in Australia on March 26 and Mercedes present their new car at Silverstone on Thursday.

Barcelona forward Neymar to stand trial after losing appeal NEYMAR is to face trial over corruption charges relating to his transfer to Barcelona from Santos in 2013. Barcelona forward Neymar is to stand trial in Spain on corruption charges. The country’s high court confirmed yesterday that the Brazil forward’s final appeal against the prosecution proceeding has been rejected. Appeals against the prosecution from Barca, Neymar’s former club Santos and the company run by his parents were also turned down. The charges relate to the 25-year-old’s transfer to Camp Nou from Santos in 2013, with Brazilian investment group DIS alleging it received less money than the 40 per cent it was entitled to from the disputed transfer fee.

Neymar

Prosecutors want a twoyear prison sentence for Neymar and his father, although as they are first-time offenders that would be unlikely to result in jail time. They are also seeking fines of $10M against the Neymars, as well as amounts of $9M and $7M from Barcelona and Santos respectively. (Sports Max)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

scored a total of 19 runs, after posting scores of 10, 2, 5 and 2. It is widely accepted that the player’s poor performance at the crease has been a major factor in the team’s struggles as they lost their first three matches before securing a win of the season against Islamabad

on Friday. Arthur, however, remained confident that Gayle would deliver sooner rather than later. “Gayle is the best T20 cricketer in the world. That is the brand he lives by. We’ve just got to keep backing him and keep hop-

ing that he has got one or two performances in him. Any tournament I have been involved with Chris, like in the CPL and with Western Australia, he always finds a way to win you a game somewhere along the line and what I am seeing now is a player

Chris Gayle

who is hurting at the moment because he hasn’t performed up to his past tag,” Arthur said. “He hasn’t performed up to the expectation on him. There is a lot in him that wants to come out and I am hoping that it comes out in the next couple of games and he gets us over the line,” the South African added. (Sports Max)

IPL deals for Darren Bravo, Pooran and Powell BATSMAN Darren Bravo, all-rounder Rovman Powell and wicketkeeper/batsman Nicholas Pooran are the new West Indians in this year’s Vivo Indian Premier League. The three were brought to the auction yesterday. Bravo, the left-handed middle-order batsman, and Powell, the dynamic Jamaican all-rounder, will turn out for Kolkata Knight Riders, while Pooran, the 21-year-old Trinidad and Tobago player, has been snapped up by Mumbai Indians. The West Indians retained are Chris Gayle and Samuel Badree (Royal Challengers Bangalore), Sunil Narine (Kolkata Knight Riders), Carlos Brathwaite (Del-

hi Daredevils), Kieron Pollard and Lendl Simmons (Mumbai Indians) and Dwayne Bravo and Dwayne Smith (Gujarat Lions). Darren Sammy has been brought by Kings XI Punjab, while Andre Russell, who is currently serving a one year ban, has been listed as a retained player for Kolkata Knight Riders. The West Indies players who went unsold were Andre Fletcher, Johnson Charles, Marlon Samuels, Evin Lewis, Jason Holder, Shane Dowrich and Ronsford Beaton. IPL 2017 will start on April 5 with defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad playing Royal Challengers Bangalore.

From left: Nicholas Pooran, Darren Bravo and Rovman Powell

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Pakistan all-rounder quits international cricket

SHAHID AFRIDI has finally bowed to the inevitable and publicly bid adieu to international cricket, over 20 years after making his debut for Pakistan. Afridi said goodbye in fitting fashion as well, after a 28-ball 54 for Peshawar Zalmi that nearly pulled off a remarkable chase against Karachi Kings in the ongoing PSL. In a sense Afridi was only adding the full stop to what has become a reality over the last year: he led Pakistan to the World T20 in India last year, stepped down as captain after it and though he didn’t retire, he was omitted from the two T20 squads Pakistan have picked since, for a one-off against England and a three-game series with West Indies. The issue of his not announcing his retirement, in fact, had become a prickly one. Last year, the PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan, said he had reached an agreement with Afridi that he would step down after the World T20. “He is also a Pathan and I am also a Pathan and once the agreement is done between two Pathans it can’t be changed.” However, before the tournament and during the inaugural PSL, Afridi revealed that he was reconsidering his retirement.

So once he didn’t announce his retirement after the World T20, a new selection committee under Inzamam-ul-Haq simply stopped picking him. For a while Afridi at wanting a farewell match, or series, so that he can leave the game “on a high” and “gracefully”. That, however, didn’t pan out and it would seem now that Afridi has put the matter to rest. “I have said goodbye to international cricket,” Afridi said in Sharjah. “I am playing for my fans and will continue to play this league for another two years but it’s goodbye from international cricket. Now my foundation is important for me. I have played with seriousness and in a professional way for my country.” On form alone the decision would seem to make sense. He has been a slightly less luminous figure at the PSL this season than the last - for one, he relinquished the captaincy to Darren Sammy before the season began. He has, after six matches, only one wicket this season, though his economy rate has been good. His 54 against Karachi was his first PSL fifty in 16 matches. It also completes a three-phased retirement from the international arena.

Campbell century guides... WEST Indies player and tournament MVP, Shemaine Campbelle smashed an even century and her effort was good enough to hand Berbice the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) female inter-county 50-over title on Sunday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground.

Berbice easily disposed of Demerara by 95 runs. Campbelle’s unbeaten century was the backbone in Berbice’s total of 214-6 from 50 overs.

Campbelle faced 138 deliveries, with three fours and a six. She was supported by Katana Mentore, who made 54. Melanie Henry (12) was the other batter to reach double figures, while 34 extras aided the Ancient County’s batting card. Hema Singh was the best bowler for Demerara with figures of 2-34. Demerara replied with 139-9 in their 50 overs, with June Ogle and Mandy

Afridi retired from Test cricket in 2010, although that Test itself was the first he had played in four years after he had announced and revoked his Test retirement first in 2006. But the first sign that a real end was near came with his retirement from ODIs, after the 2015 World Cup. It was in that format that he really made a name for himself, beginning with the 37-ball 100 against Sri Lanka in only his second ODI in October 1996. It was in the shortest format, however, that he found greatest glory. He was an instrumental part of Pakistan’s early successes in the format. He was player-of-the-tournament in the first World T20 in 2007, in which Pakistan lost narrowly to India in the final. And he was the central performer when they went one better in the 2009 World T20 in England. It was around his stunning catch in a game against New Zealand that Pakistan’s tournament pivoted. And for composure, control and timely impact, he has never bettered his all-round performances in the semi-final and final of that event. Such was his proficiency in those early years of the format that even as he calls time now, he leaves as the T20I wicket-taker, just three short of 100

From Backpage Mangru being their principal scorers. Ogle top-scored with 40, while Mangru scored 24. Off-spinner Plaffiana Millington captured 2-14 from 10 economical overs of mesmerising spin. The win means Berbice have now won the title on four successive occasions. Meanwhile, 22 players will be shortlisted soon for the Regional tournament billed for April 20 to May 14.

Hornets sweep Modern... the Panthers and the Hornets at 5-5. GDF returned after a break to take a thrashing at the hands of the Panthers 41-0, while the Hornets brushed aside the Caribs 35-12. The Panthers carried on their winning streak, beating Police 24-0, while GDF trounced Caribs 45-0 followed

From Backpage

by the Hornets beating Police 47-5. The Hornets walloped GDF by the largest margin of victory, 68-12, while the Panthers registered the day’s second largest margin, 54-0, against the Caribs. In the final game of the afternoon, the Police blanked Caribs 15-0.

Hornets captain Ryan Gonsalves was named the tournament MVP. The event is seen as continuous training for the Guyana team who will be participating in the Cathy Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong 7s, scheduled for April 7-9, 2017. (Stephan Sookram)

wickets. And nobody has played more than his 98 T20Is. Time, however, eventually caught up with him, and Pakistan. He oversaw a poor campaign at last year’s World T20, in which Pakistan looked like a team from an older era, losing three of their four games. Since his last T20I for Pakistan, against Australia in Mohali in March 2016, Afridi has been playing in T20 competitions around the world: for Hampshire in the NatWest T20 Blast, Islamabad in Pakistan’s National T20 Cup, Rangpur Riders in the BPL, and Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL. (Cricinfo)

GT Beer/Limacol 2017 Round... From Backpage

not find that decisive strike; their mid-field produced the goods that seemed not to translate to the final third. In the other round of games at the Victoria Ground, the Police Force through Dwain Jacobs (5th) and Quincy Holder (12th) overpowered Den Amstel for their 2-1 win, and a spot in the semi-finals. Kester Jacobs (3rd) minute strike was enough to give the West Coast Demerara side the lead, albeit brief. Almost the same plot played out in game two, where Santos came from behind to win against Mahaica Determinators 2-1. Eion Abel’s 4th minute strike was cancelled out through Dominique Bobb-(45th+3) stunner, with that crucial goal setting the stage for the decisive strike in the 77th from Orin Yarde to take the game away from the home side. In the semi-finals billed for the GFC on Friday, Winners Connection will battle the Boys in Blue while Santos will have the chance to meet Western Tigers.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

Windies cricket on right path, says Cameron THE spectacular success of West Indian cricket teams in three International Cricket Council (ICC) tournaments last year must not be taken for granted and can act as a pivot for the region to restore its reputation as a viable force in world sport. This point was hammered home by president of the West Indies Cricket Board Wycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron when he hosted a lively town hall meeting on Thursday at the Preysal High School in the company of his vice-president Emmanuel Nanton and leading officials of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board. Cameron, who returns unopposed as WICB president for a third consecutive term later this year, highlighted several other notable achievements in 2016 which he said have placed the regional game in an enviable position. “No cricket board in the world can boast of holding three ICC championships at any one time as West Indies do, and we must commend ourselves as last year was very big for regional cricket,” said Cameron. He also pointed to significant progress which has been made in the relationship between the WICB and its marquee players; the improvement of the regional board’s financial position; the positive results from restruc-

turing the regional game; and an increased emphasis on youth development. Cameron also said that a return to the core values enunciated by his administration when he ascended the presidency of the WICB in 2013 has helped chart the way forward and is the basis for many of the gains achieved in the recent past. Among the principles being strictly adhered to and demanded by his administration are accountability, integrity, respect, excellence, teamwork, inclusiveness and innovation and they form the framework for all decisions reached by the board. Cameron also disclosed that for the first time in the 90-year history of the WICB, the regional cricket organisation can boast of acquiring its own property, the former Sticky Wicket facility which is now a High Performance Centre in Coolidge in Antigua and Barbuda, co-jointly owned with the islands’ government. The Jamaican financial expert said he is also proud of the growth of the Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket initiative, a holistic development programme combining academics with basic cricket coaching, pioneered in Trinidad and Tobago for primary school children and now involves 140 000 children around the Caribbean. Cameron told the participants in the town hall

WICB president Dave Cameron

meeting, the second in a swing through the six WICB territories, that his board has also hired qualified personnel to several key positions including Chief Operations Officer, who is a female, which has strengthened its human resource capital and enhanced its ability to deliver on his vision going forward. He admitted though that the resuscitation of West Indian fortunes in the longer formats of the game, namely Test and one-Day Internationals remains a great challenge and is a work in progress, but he remains hopeful that the groundwork is being laid for meaningful success in the near future. “The decline started long before we came into office in 2013 and it will take some time to get to where we want to be, among to top Test-playing countries in the world once again,” said Cameron.

He pointed to the current Super50 tournament’s new franchise-based restructuring which he said had achieved several major successes including the staging of more matches, bigger scores by players and teams, and the employment of cricketers full-time under retainer contracts. “We are not yet turning the corner but we are on the right path with the focus on the players,” Cameron said. The WICB chief said that there is an incorrect perception that the WICB has been negligent in seeking the interest of their players, but he said nothing is further from the truth as his board has been having regular interactions with its most valuable asset. He pointed to a trip undertaken before the ill-fated tour to India to Miami, Florida by the players, management and top officials when wide-ranging discussions took place and everyone had their say in an amicable atmosphere. Following this, he said ongoing interaction with board officials and players had yielded significant results and restored trust between both parties, and this is evidenced by a de-escalation of the heated rhetoric and antagonism which formerly characterised their relationship. (Guardian)

GBA/Bris/Mac `Nuff Cuff’ Int’l Boxing Card

Locals make light work of Dutch counterparts on an action-filled night LOCAL amateur boxers made light work of their Surinamese counterparts when the Guyana Boxing Association, in collaboration with the Bris/Mac Promotions Group staged an international amateur boxing card on Sunday evening at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue. As was promised by the promoters, the card saw `Nuff Cuff’ being thrown not only during the local fights, but also during the international bouts involving Guyanese and Surinamese pugilists. The card, which was scheduled for a 19:00hrs start did not get underway until after 20:00hrs, but once it got started, the handful of fans present were treated to some entertaining bouts by some of Guyana’s young pugilists, aged between eight and 11 years. After 10 local bouts, all entertaining, the four international

encounters saw the Guyanese dominating all, with three of the four fights ending within three rounds. First it was Richard Subratte (Guyana) who scored a technical knock-out victory over his Surinamese counterpart Stefon van Ommereren in their youth contest. Ommereren started off taking aim at Subratte and sent him to the canvas early in the opening round, but the Guyanese recovered and took the attack to his opponent scoring with telling combinations. From the start of the second round, Subratte came out gunning for his opponent and caught him with a number of combinations to body and head staggering the Dutchman a few times and one second into the final round, just as the bell was about to be sounded for the start of the third and final round, van

Ommereren’s corner threw in the towel to halt the proceedings. The second international contest saw Christopher Moore battle with Fitzgerald King and a lot was anticipated from King, but he lost his `throne’ as a result of a two-minute 50-second stoppage in the third round. The opening round could have been considered an even round as both boxers traded punches and seemed to have scored evenly, but from the second round, Moore stepped up the pace and connected steadily to the body and head of his opponent who tried in vain to counter Moore’s onslaught. Moore sent his opponent crashing into the ropes on two occasions and he (King) received two standing eight counts. As the fight continued, King came out in the third round attacking, but Moore, a seasoned amateur fighter was up to the task

and responded with several body shots and during the final minute of the bout, Moore pummelled king with combinations for which the latter had no answer and the referee eventually called a halt to the proceedings. It was then Jason Bakker’s (GUY) time to take the ring and he wasted no time in forcing the referee to stop his contest against Marlon Leming at one minute 59 seconds of round one. Bakker was the aggressor from the sound of the bell and, using his height and reach, he stunned Leming with some telling shots that earned two standing eight counts and after a third assault on his Dutch opponent, the referee stopped the contest. In the fourth and final international contest Guyana’s Shaquille Craig outlasted Suriname’s Steven Lim to win by a unanimous decision.

Forbes Burnham Memorial Three-Stage cycle race

Hicks edges Husbands to win first stage BERBICIAN cyclist Andrew Hicks edged Stephano Husbands to win the first stage of the Annual Forbes Burnham Three-Stage Cycle Road in Berbice on Sunday. Hicks, a member of WS United Cycle Club of Trinidad and Tobago, returned a winning time of one hour 03 minutes 34 seconds in the 36-mile event, which got underway in New Amsterdam, Berbice at 07:00hrs and proceeded to Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, before returning to the place of origin for the finish. According to reports, Hicks, a member of the Trojan Cycle Club of Berbice, was among a pack of eight cyclists, who broke away from the Canje Bridge and continued to distance themselves from the other starters. With approximately two miles from the finish line on the downward journey, Husbands attacked the leading pack and soon after,

Hicks responded and joined the Team Coco’s rider and eventually went ahead to finish one wheel ahead of Husbands. Husbands’ teammates Hamzah Eastman and Jamal John placed third and fourth respectively, some 30 seconds after Hicks and Husbands had crossed the finish line. Continental Cycle Club’s Geron Williams finished fifth. The final two stages of the event will be staged on Sunday as the participants will wheel off from Kara Kara, Linden/Soesdyke Highway and complete the second stage on Homestretch Avenue. The third and final stage will get underway later in the day from Homestretch Avenue. The riders will proceed to Belfield, East Coast Demerara and return to the place of origin for the finish.

Karachi coach Arthur backs struggling Gayle to come good KARACHI Kings coach Mickey Arthur has backed struggling West Indies star Chris Gayle to get back to his best following a poor start to the Pakistan Super League (PSL). In four matches so far the big left-hander has scored a total of 19 runs, after posting scores of 10, 2, 5 and 2. It is widely accepted that the player’s poor performance at the crease has been a major factor in the team’s struggles as they lost their first three matches before securing a win of the season against Islamabad on Friday. Arthur, however, remained confident that Gayle would deliver sooner rather than later. “Gayle is the best T20 cricketer in the world. That is

the brand he lives by. We’ve just got to keep backing him and keep hoping that he has got one or two performances in him. Any tournament I have been involved with Chris, like in the CPL and with Western Australia, he always finds a way to win you a game somewhere along the line and what I am seeing now is a player who is hurting at the moment because he hasn’t performed up to his past tag,” Arthur said. “He hasn’t performed up to the expectation on him. There is a lot in him that wants to come out and I am hoping that it comes out in the next couple of games and he gets us over the line,” the South African added. (Sports Max)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

COMPLIMENTS OF: THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE 176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)Dinesh Ramdin-T&T (16 dismissals: 14

catches & 2 stumpings) (2) Kieran Powell-16 sixes Today’s Quiz:

Who were the losing semi-finalists of CWI/Nagicor Super 50, 2017? (2) Who are the CWI/Nagicor Super 50, 2017 Champions?

(1)

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

North Georgetown maul Central in Milo U-18 fixture NORTH Georgetown were in fine form on Sunday when the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH)-sponsored Milo Under-18 football competition continued at the Ministry of Education ground.

The North Georgetown side won 10-0 against Central High, with Nehemiah Gomes scoring five times (9th, 21st, One of the five goals scored during the 3-2 game between eventual winners St George’s and Mae’s. (Stephan Sookram photo)

LABA/Hamid Foundation U-23 Basketball

Duncan hits 31 as Kwakwani thrash Falcons 84-32 … Raiders win over Flames 40-34 UNSEEDED Kwakwani and fourth-ranked Retrieve Raiders have virtually landed themselves final-four spots in the Linden Amateur Basketball Association/ Hamid Foundation Under-23 basketball championship, after winning their second game of the group encounters, Sunday night, at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court, the tournament venue. Kwakwani thrashed Bankers Trust Falcons 84-32, while Raiders whipped Block 22 Flames 40-34. The two teams now have one game in hand and should not be denied advancing even with a loss. However, the other teams are battling to survive to the next round. Last Friday’s washed-out matches are scheduled for tonight from 18:30hrs. The Half Mile Bulls/ Christianburg Pistons game is set to bounce off first while Amelia’s Ward Jets and third-ranked Victory Valley Royals will match skills in the second game. Another win for the Jets could spell doom for the Royals, who lost their first game against Kwakwani, and place the Ward side into the final four. But the Kwakwani team, with a tournament-high score from Domar Gladstone, saw them hammer the Falcons 84-32 after taking the initiative 40-14 at lemon-time. Gladstone had six three-pointers in that top

Domar Gladstone

score, which matched the 31 piled in by Terron Welch for the Bulls in the opening game of the tournament against Block 22 Flames. Gladstone was ably supported by Shafeeq Thomas, with 21 and Leonard Primo who got six points. Stephen Duncan was the best player for the losing Falcons side with nine points, as Akeel Primo and Raphael Robertson had six apiece. In the other game Sunday night, Retrieve Raiders calmly gained their second win and are assured a place in the final four. They got past Block 22 Flames after leading 23-15. Coel Winter led the scoring for the Raiders with 13 points and solid play by Travis Sutton accounted for 10. Otis Williams chipped in with six for the winners. Selwyn Henry remained the scoring chief for the Flames, getting 17 points, with the next best score coming from Rondel Fraser with seven.

28th, 56th, 58th), while Ruben Miller had a brace (36th, 62nd). Marcos DeLima (38th) and Brandon Solomon (39th) were also on the score sheet. Game two had School of the Nations through Benjonel Parkes (55th,,67th), and Andy Parkes (64th), whipped Dolphin Secondary 3-0.

St George’s in game three had to fight for their win against Mae’s Secondary, with that game ending 3-2. Oren Williams 45th minute strike coupled with Anthony Pierre’s brace (7th, 67th) ensured that their side emerged victorious as Diego Britton (34th) and Darshan Persaud (56th) tried valiantly

to push their side ahead. Tutorial High overcame Queen’s College 2-1 in the final game of the afternoon, thanks to a Zion Gray brace (29th, 35th), while Gaven Houston (25th) was able to ink his name on the scoresheet. Games continue this weekend.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 21, 2017

North Georgetown maul Central in Milo U-18 fixture P.23

GT Beer/Limacol 2017 Round-Robin Knock-out Football tournament … Close games in quarter-final action

Western Tigers scorer Joshua Britton

See Page 21 Winners Connection’s Rene Gibbons after scoring against Eagles FC

Hornets sweep Modern Optical VIIs THE Pepsi Hornets emerged champions of the Modern Optical-sponsored Rugby VIIs tournament at the National Park Rugby field on Sunday.

The Hornets and Panthers were tied at the end of the day, but on the basis of the points difference (points scored and conceded), Hornets were adjudged the winners. The Hornets’ 121 to the Panthers’ 119 gave them the title, with the Guyana Defence Force finishing third, Police Falcons fourth and Yamaha Caribs fifth. In the first game of the afternoon, the GDF mauled the Police Hornets 31-0, while game two was drawn between Pepsi Hornets captain and tournament MVP Ryan Gonzalves collects the winning trophy.

Turn to page 21

By Stephan Sookram

CLOSE contests were the order of the evening as the quarterfinals of the GT Beer/Limacol Limacol 2017 Round-Robin Knock-out Football tournament concluded in Linden and at Victoria, East Coast Demerara.

In Linden, it was nip and tuck when Western Tigers edged Milerock FC 1-0. The Georgetown-based side brought the game to the Lindeners and were rewarded when Joshua Britton found the back of the net in the 57th minute. However, it was by no means over as Milerock seemed to put ‘pep’ into their steps and became fiercer in their thirst to equalise; coming as close as the post in a last-ditch effort on the edge of time. However, the final blasts on the whistle ensured the score line remained unchanged. Game two was a physical contest between the veterans Federal Winners Connection (WC) and Eagles United, with the former winning 1-0 as well. Eagles started the game in fine style, weathering the physical style of the WC team and producing dazzling runs of their own, but the finishing in the final third lacked bite; with their players juggling their efforts at the goalmouth. While their defence was almost flawless, the centre backs let Rene Gibbons through just once and he made them pay the ultimate price, punching the ball past the flailing arms of the goalkeeper. Eagles continued on with the possession game, but could Turn to page 21

GCB Female Inter-county 50-over

Campbell century guides Berbice to title

See Page 21 The victorious Berbice team pose with winning trophy. Coach Andre Percival is second from right, standing, along with GCB officials.

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

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY, 21 , 2017