Guyana chronicle e paper 02 26 2017

SEE INSIDE

What a difference a dedicated teacher makes ► Page

XXXII

See inside:

Victory Valley

► Page

III

Bridges and Roads in our Co-Operative Republic

Chinese willing ► Page

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Albouystown women on the move XXVII ► Page

Selfless Special Needs teachers making a difference in the lives of visually impaired students in Linden

No. 104836

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 26, 2017

Price: $140

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...agro processing, rail road, youth development

Page 3

From right: Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland; Chinese Ambassador Cui Jiancho and his wife; Regional Chairman, Renis Morian,and Economic and Commercial Counsellor, SHEN Huiyong

Guyana’s improvement in corruption index laudable Page 3

London – The small miners’ saviour Page 2

‘Little Johnny’ 100 not out Page 11

2

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

London – The small miners’ saviour

By Clifford Stanley

IN HARD rock gold mining the gold recovery process starts with the collection of suspected gold bearing rocks then the crushing of these rocks and extraction of the gold from the resulting talcum-like powder, using gravity concentration or chemical methods such as cyanidation.

This process is extremely effective, resulting in the recovery of 100% of gold in the rocks being liberated and recovered.

It, however, requires the use of expensive equipment such as large stone crushers and huge ball mills etc! etc! ie: equipment which in terms of affordability, is way above the reach of the local small scale gold miner.

As a result, small scale gold miners have been restricted to alluvial mining ie: mining/dredging in areas such as riverbeds and streams where gold particles , deposited by water movement, are already liberated and can be extracted using gravity concentration methods such as sluice boxes and pans popularly known as batelles.

But now comes local mechanical engineer and re-migrant Cloyd London, an innovator who is intent on giving the small scale gold miners access to the technology of the large scale giants at af-

fordable prices.

London specializes in making relatively small and inexpensive equipment which can allow small scale miners to extract gold from rocks in addition to or supplementary to routine alluvial mining.

This equipment can be purchased from overseas suppliers but at a greater cost.

But their manufacture locally by London is a first ie: the first ever opportunity for local small scale gold miners to access large scale technology at home and to benefit from all the possibilities for the recovery of more gold and profitability of their operations, of course at affordable costs.

For London who is a family man, he has his wife and raised four children and is in his early sixties. His innovations are as much a hobby as a business.

He told Chronicle: “Hey, technology is my bag. I am qualified. I am in this for decades. And I don’t do what everybody else does. Every piece of equipment I produce has the guarantee of my own unique signature to it.”

He is a British-trained automotive engineer and holds membership in the Institute of Motor Industries and the Institute of Training and Development in the UK. He told Sunday Chronicle last week that although he is an Automotive Engineer he

has put aside that trade in preference for service in fabrication of mining equipment /mining mechanization and to a lesser extent agricultural mechanization.

London hails from Smythstown, New Amsterdam, an area which is no longer known by that name but which in the 1960s stretched from Marks Bridge to Philadelphia Street.

He attended New Amsterdam Congregational school, under the Principalship of John Rollins and dropped out at the age of 13 since he was not academically inclined.

He became an apprentice in Motor Vehicle repairs.

He served as an apprentice in the Guyana Police Force, as a Workshop Cleaner with the Ministry of Works, acquired City and Guilds Part 1 and 2 from the New Amsterdam Technical Institute, New Amsterdam, Berbice, spent six years in the Army, served as the Technical Training Supervisor at the Guyana National Service Training Centre at Kimbia, Berbice River; was awarded a British Government scholarship in Industrial Training and Development and a second British scholarship in Garage Management and Administration, and served as Mechanical Engineer and Assistant Manager at the then Guyana Power and Light, among other experi-

ence building occupations.

He has been in and out of the country for a number of years but returned home to be involved in fabrication of equipment for mining and agriculture in 2012.

Moving around in his workshop last week, he explained:” While in the Army I spent a great deal of my time in the interior locations. And being there I observed how the miners worked and I saw that they were working with great inadequacies like no machines to speedily process ore. I also noted that their operations were really lacking in terms of advanced or appropriate technology for gold recovery and processing. Hence, my decision to help these small scale miners to improve their levels of production.”

He added, “I like to explore and to be creative and I saw the challenge and the scope in the mining industry as so very wide. I decided to fall in there because I know I have the capability and the capacity to come up with solutions; make a difference.

He displayed some of his innovations.

“My first one was a soil-sampling auger to support exploration. This auger has an extension of 24 feet so that a small miner can drill and locate pay dirt ie: the presence and depth of gold deposits which can be mined.

You know when you hit pay dirt you in business brother.”

“Moving on from the auger I made and designed a Mini Stone Crusher because not everyone can afford to purchase a H2 or H3 crusher which is in the price range of between $2 .2 to $3.2M. My mini crusher grinds the rocks to powder, it guarantees 100% recovery and I test my crushers with the toughest rock ie: granite.

“My 7 HP (Horsepower) crusher is capable of pulverizing 10 five gallon type pails of rocks into powder in an hour with a fuel consumption of one five gallon pail of gas every three days.”

The local made Mini crushers are new to Guyana.

The motors are bought from overseas but the rest of the equipment is made locally through collaboration with local machine shops.

Another good result of this local manufacturing is that not only can the produces be sold cheaper but a lot of foreign exchange stays at home.

The London Mini Stone Crusher works just as well if not better than large crushers and has the added advantage of being portable.

“Prices range from $250,000 for the unit which can crush and pulverize three five gallon pails of rocks per hour to $675,000 for the thirteen bucket capacity per hour. The feed size of the rocks varies from an inch and a quarter to three inches.

The three inch sized rocks are acceptable feed for the larger crusher and the inch and a quarter is for the mini three bucket crusher.”

Gold can be recovered from the talcum type powder produced, through the use of a mini sluice box or other gravity concentration method.

“This can be a one-man operation” London said.

London said that buyers of the mini stone crushers get a spare set of hammers as part of the bargain.

“They can’t get a better deal than this, that I know of,” he added.

Officials in the Mining Industry have hailed the Lon-

don Mini Crusher as a good development for the small miners.

“This will be beneficial for the small miners because more gold will be liberated.

Remember if you crushing you getting out everything as against a sluice box where you can only recover free gold. Also the feed will be more controlled with better possibilities for optimal recovery by gravity concentration methods.”

In more good news for small scale miners, he is currently working on the production of some other mini mining equipment.

Moving around in his workshop he showed me a mini water centrifuge in the making.

This centrifuge, he explained will help miners to expedite the wash down process for recovery of gold from their sluice boxes. Instead of the guys having to spend three or four hours on wash down they just put the materials in this concentrator and the centrifugal force of the water extracts the waste material and the pay dirt is left at the bottom; this reduces clean up time. This centrifuge that I am working on can process a five gallon pail of material every ten minutes. Good for a final clean up.”

He is also working on a mini trommel which will screen out larger sized particles from the ore feed into the gold recovery system and then next a mini jig; a known mercury free method for gold recovery .

London also designs and makes equipment for use in the agricultural sector.

He disclosed: “I make portable sawmills for the log trade, peanut shellers; cashew nut splitters, corn threshers etc! etc!.

Out of a personal interest I asked: “Can you do mechanical coconut graters?”

He said: “Of course I can but I won‘t. “Why ?

Hey, because everybody does that. I don’t do anything that everybody else does. I am different. I am a trail blazer.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Chinese willing ...agro processing, rail road, youth development

By Vanessa Braithwaite IN AN EFFORT to bring relief to the ailing food security and agricultural sector in Region 10, Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency Cui Jiancho, has put the idea forward of having the Chinese Government establish an agro processing factory in the region. The project modules for this he said can be completed by the first half of the year.

He put forward this solution on Friday to Regional Chairman, Renis Morian, Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland, and other regional officials during an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two parties.

His Excellency Cui Ji-

ancho visited Linden with a Chinese delegation including his wife and Economic and Commercial Counsellor, Shen Huiyong. The regional officials put forth to the Ambassador several areas in need of assistance with agriculture and food security being prioritised.

Regional Chairman, Renis Morian, posited that in the context of disaster risk management the sector was lacking terribly and the region was in dire need of assistance. “In the area of agriculture we want to move from just planting. We want to look at agro processing.

We have the land, we have the waterways and the airstrip to do this,” Morian outlined.

This was reiterated by Former Regional Chairman,

Mortimor Mingo, who alluded to the food crises that struck Region 10 during the 2005 coastal flood. Since most of the region’s food supply comes from the coastland, the region was terribly affected and the same will reoccur in the eventuality of another disaster since the region continues to be heavily dependent on food from other regions.

It is in this regard that the officials reached out to the Chinese Embassy for cooperation and collaboration.

“In Region 10 itself we have the capacity to feed ourselves once we have the kind of assistance to use the lands available under effective production, we do have a number of farming groups in the region and it is on behalf

of these groups that we are seeking assistance,” Mingo mentioned.

His Excellency Cui Jiancho, revealed that China too was experiencing food security issues and he was willing to share the techniques his country was using to alleviate the problem and to lend whatever assistance was needed to have these techniques utilized. “We can pool our ideas together to assist in agro processing not only to the local community,” he said.

Mayor of Linden Carwyn Holland requested assistance for a complete digital mapping in Region 10 which he believes can assist in the development of the agriculture sector. “This would give you a better view of areas that

you can tap into, you would be able to better track and know what is going on,” he affirmed. Holland also spoke of having a rail road service along the Linden to Lethem road which will even be more beneficial for Region 10’s development since it will also provide jobs for thousands of persons.

The Chinese Officials also mulled assisting the region with youth development as it relates to providing up to 10 scholarships per year for students to study in China and also in assisting with transportation for students experiencing difficulty travelling from Linden to Georgetown daily to attend the University of Guyana and other institutions.

To aid in Linden’s general development, His Excellency Cui Jiancho, affirmed that there was need for in-

vestment in the town to see it move forward. He alluded to the imminent construction of the first phase of the Linden to Lethem road and the rebuilding of the new airport at Timehri which he believes will aid Linden tremendously especially in the area of tourism. “I think it is a very important policy if you want to develop this region for you to attract more foreign investment. We could see more Chinese investment being here,” the Ambassador said.

The Chinese Embassy also positively responded to support in building a constabulary, dredging of the river’s channel, assisting in the area of ICT and support for sports development. His Excellency Cui Jiancho also donated a photocopy machine to the Linden Mayor and Town Council.

Guyana’s improvement in corruption index laudable – but TIGI says period too short to determine real achievements TRANSPARENCY Institute Guyana Inc (TIGI) has said Guyana’s ranking and improved score in Transparency International 2016 Corruption Perception Index should be celebrated, but noted real achievement by Government to fight corruption can only be determined overtime.

Though Guyana moved up 11 places to 108 based on a five-point increase (from 29 to 34) in the corruption perception score last year, TIGI said the difference in the score between 2015 and 2016 lacks statistical significance even at the 10 per cent level.

“The statistics therefore offer no confirmation of the apparent improvement. The statistical test is conservative since the number of surveys used in 2015 and 2016 (four and six respectively) are small.

But given that this is about the number of surveys rather than about the number of respondents, statistical significance would be an especially limited way to view the results since it is unlikely that there will ever be very large numbers of surveys to use,” TIGI said in a release.

And on that score, the non-governmental organisation said it would rely more on the substantive interpretations of the index, pointing out that within Latin America, changes in Government regimes are usually accompanied by a period of goodwill that endure an average of approximately two years (Johnson, 2015).

“This suggests that the re- ruption. When these scores are “Guyana has had a suscent change in Government (in converted to ranks, lower ranks tained poor showing on the 2015) would have ushered in a (larger rank values) on the CPI index and time will make it period of optimism that would indicate relative pervasiveness clearer whether the surge in be evident across several is- of corruption,” the NGO said. 2016 is temporary or more sues. This inindicative of cludes confi- “Salient issues to be addressed in Guyana include a real shift dence in Govin position. ernment and a functional Integrity Commission and Public A l t h o u g h perceptions Procurement Commission, implementation of the G u y a n a ’ s a b o u t c o r - promised Code of Conduct for ministers, cancel- current rank ruption. One lation of corrupt government contracts and estab- (108) is uncan therefore impressive, argue that im- lishment of campaign financing laws. The access to we emphaprovement in information act is also in urgent need of attention. sise that the the 2016 CPI The Government should become more transparent movement was to be ex- and accountable at all levels,”—TIGI. in the direcpected. This tion of imargument beprovement comes more attractive if the It also stressed that the observed for 2016 is reason to CPI returns to its usual level index should not be used to be optimistic.” subsequently,” TIGI said. evaluate Governments on an It noted that concurrently, annual basis since shifts in perIMPROVING there is inadequate informa- ceptions will likely occur when CORRUPTION tion to invalidate the com- the actions taken begin to result PERCEPTION peting view that there were in changes in the experiences TIGI also said that imreal achievements in the fight of the people. provement in corruption peragainst corruption.

“Some actions can take ception requires reductions effect quickly but others may in the people’s experience of OVERTIME require more time. The best corruption in everyday interThe argument for real way to view the CPI appears actions and in questionable achievements, TIGI said will to be over a period rather than occurrences in Government find support if the improve- as isolated years. and the private sector. ment holds in subsequent years.

“Nevertheless, neither argument is entirely proven or disproven depending on what happens subsequently since there can be real change followed by real deterioration or a good-will ripple followed by real achievements.

“The perception scores measure perceptions about the absence of corruption. For this reason, low scores are indicative of more pervasive cor-

Corruption in Government can have a large impact and there is a need for transparency and accountability and willingness to enforce penalties for corrupt behaviour, TIGI said.

It said law enforcement and the judiciary need to be strengthened to the extent that confidence in these institutions begins to improve, and overall, Government should swiftly address the things that it can easily address to demonstrate commitment.

“Salient issues to be addressed in Guyana include a functional Integrity Commission and Public Procurement Commission, implementation of the promised Code of Conduct for ministers, cancellation of corrupt government contracts and establishment of campaign financing laws. The access to information act is also in urgent need of attention. The Government should become more transparent and accountable at all levels,” TIGI said.

It noted too that apart from the actions of Government, those of citizens and citizen

organisations are also essential in addressing corruption.

Citizens, the NGO said need to change their attitudes to many forms of everyday corrupt acts.

“In many cases, one can be regarded as foolish for not capitalising on some opportunities for quick gains or to circumvent procedures in everyday interactions including business transactions. This is an indication that many forms of corruption have become expected and condoned among citizens.

“Citizen organisations should educate people about corruption with a view to changing attitudes and the levels of involvement of citizens in the solutions. Subject to its own constraints, TIGI is currently engaged in a project to promote transparency, accountability and anti-corruption in local government.

This integrally involves the local authorities and will educate citizens about what is available, encourage them to help set the local agendas and facilitate citizen monitoring of regional projects,” the TIGI statement said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, February 26, 2017

Democrats pick Perez to lead party against Trump U.S. Democrats elected former Labour Secretary Tom Perez as chairman on Saturday, choosing a veteran of the Obama administration to lead the daunting task of rebuilding the party and heading the opposition to Republican President Donald Trump.

Members of the Democratic National Committee, the administrative and fundraising arm of the party, picked Perez on the second round of voting over U.S. Representative Keith Ellison, a liberal from Minnesota.

Following one of the most crowded and competitive party leadership elections in decades, Perez faces a challenge in unifying and rejuvenating a party still reeling from the Nov. 8 loss of Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.

He immediately made Ellison his deputy.

After losing the presidency and failing to recapture majorities in Congress, party

leaders are anxious to channel the growing grassroots resistance to Trump into political support for Democrats at all levels of government across the country.

“We are suffering from a crisis of confidence, a crisis of relevance,” Perez, a favourite of former Obama administration officials, told DNC members.

He promised to lead the fight against Trump and change the DNC’s culture to make it a more grassroots operation.

Perez, the son of Dominican immigrants who was considered a potential running mate for Clinton, overcame a strong challenge from Ellison and prevailed on a 235-200 second-round vote.

Ellison, who is the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Congress, was backed by liberal leader U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont.

The showdown between candidates backed by the es-

Democratic National Chair candidate, Tom Perez, addresses the audience as the Democratic National Committee holds an election to choose their next chairperson at their winter meeting in Atlanta, Georgia. February 25, 2017 (REUTERS/Chris Berry)

tablishment and progressive wings of the party echoed the bitter 2016 primary between Clinton and Sanders, a rift Democrats will try to put behind them as they turn their focus to fighting Trump.

Those divisions persisted through the months-long race for chair, as many in the party’s liberal wing were suspicious of Perez’s ties to the establishment and some Democrats raised questions about possible anti-Semitism in Ellison’s past.

Some Ellison supporters chanted “Not big money, party for the people” after the result was announced.

But both Perez and Ellison moved quickly to bring the rival factions together.

At Perez’s urging, the DNC suspended the rules after the vote and appointed Ellison the deputy chairman of the party.

“I am asking you to give everything you’ve got to support Chairman Perez,” Ellison told DNC members after the vote. “We don’t have the luxury, folks, to walk out of this room divided.”

‘TRUMP’S NIGHTMARE’ Perez said the party would come together.

“We are one family, and I know we will leave here united today,” Perez said. “A united Democratic Party is not only our best hope, it is Donald Trump’s nightmare.”

Trump took a dig at Perez and Democrats in a tweet offering his congratulations on the election.

“I could not be happier for him, or for the Republican Party!” Trump said.

Perez and Ellison wore each other’s campaign buttons and stood shoulder-to-shoulder at a news conference after the vote.

Perez said the two had talked “for some time” about teaming up, and Ellison said they had “good synergy”.

“We need to do more to collaborate with our partners in the progressive movement,” Perez said, adding he and Ellison would look for ways to “channel this incredible momentum” in the protests against Trump and

Sunday , February 26 th , 2017 - 05: 00 hrs Mondayv, February 27 th , 2017 - 05:00 hrs Tuesday , February 28th , 2017 - 05:00 hrs

against Republican efforts to repeal President Barack Obama’s healthcare plan.

Sanders issued a statement congratulating Perez and urging changes at the DNC. “It is imperative that Tom understands that the sameold, same-old is not working,” Sanders said. “We must open the doors of the party to working people and young people in a way that has never been done before.”

The election offered the DNC a fresh start after last year’s forced resignation of chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who stepped aside when the release of hacked emails appeared to show DNC officials trying to help Clinton defeat Sanders in the primaries.

Both Perez and Ellison have pledged to focus on a bottom-up reconstruction of the party, which has lost hundreds of statehouse seats under Obama and faces an uphill task in trying to reclaim majorities in Congress in next year’s midterm elections.

Perez said he would redefine the role of the DNC to make it work not just to elect Democrats to the White House but in races ranging from local school boards to the U.S. Senate, pledging to “organise, organise, organise.”

“I recognise I have a lot of work to do,” he said. “I will be out there listening and learning in the weeks ahead.”

Perez fell one vote short of the simple majority of 214.5 votes needed for election in the first round of voting, getting 213.5 votes to Ellison’s 200. Also on the first ballot were four other candidates -- Idaho Democratic Party Executive Director Sally Boynton Brown, election lawyer Peter Peckarsky, and activists Jehmu Greene and Sam Ronan.

Pete Buttigieg, the mayor of South Bend, Indiana, withdrew just before the voting, while Brown, Greene and Ronan dropped out after the first round. (Reuters)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, February 26, 2017

Mexico warns US over wall funding Mexico has warned the US against imposing a unilateral tax on Mexican imports to finance a border wall, saying it could respond in kind.

Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray said the Government could place tariffs on selected goods from US states reliant on exports to Mexico.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump vowed to start building the wall “soon, way ahead of schedule”.

The US Government says it will start accepting design proposals next month.

The US Customs and Border Protection Agency says it will ask companies to submit proposals “for the design and build of several prototype wall structures” on or around March 6.

A shortlist of the best designs will be drawn up

by March 20, after which bidders will be asked to cost their ideas. Contracts are expected to be awarded by mid-April.

Addressing the Conservative Political Action Congress (CPAC) in Maryland on Friday, President Trump vowed to always put American citi-

he said.

“Mexico will face this as a reality and not just as a rhetorical threat because we have realised that rhetorical threats come and go.”

According to reports, the foreign minister has previously identified states including Iowa, Texas and Wisconsin as possible targets for retaliatory tariffs.

Mexico “would have to respond” to a US border tax, Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray says

zens first and build a “great, great border wall”.

“We’re building the wall,” he said. “In fact it’s going to start very soon. Way ahead of schedule. It’s way, way, way ahead of schedule.”

Trump has pledged that Mexico will pay for the wall, which could cost up to $21.5B (£17.2B), according to Reuters, which cited a Department of Homeland Security internal report.

The figure is much higher

than Trump’s estimated price tag of $12bn (£9.6bn).

The President has proposed to levy a 20 per cent tax on Mexican imports to pay for a border wall.

In a radio interview on Friday, Videgeray said that “Mexico believes in free trade”, but “would have to respond” if the US tried to fund a border wall by imposing a tax on Mexican imports.

“What we cannot do is remain with our arms crossed,”

Guatemala expels abortion boat crew The Guatemalan authorities say they are expelling members of a non-profit “abortion boat” docked on its shores.

Officials said they had lied when they applied for tourist visas and would not be allowed to work in Guatemala.

The Dutch group, Women on Waves, offers free abortion services to women in countries where the procedure is banned.

It takes women in the early stages of pregnancy out to international waters, where the abortion is performed.

Abortion is only allowed in Guatemala when the mother’s life is at risk.

A spokeswoman for Women on Waves confirmed that they had been told to leave the country immediately, but she said its lawyers had appealed against the decision.

La Prensa Libre newspaper said the four crew members being expelled were US citizens.

It is not clear if other members of the group have also been ordered to leave the country.

The Army said on Thurs-

day it had been instructed by President Jimmy Morales to act, and would defend “human life and the laws of our country” by preventing the group from carrying out abortions.

The Women on Waves’ boat docked on the Pacific Ocean port of Quetzal, in the city of San Jose, on Wednesday.

The group says it had a legal permit to sail in Guatemalan waters and the boat was being illegally “detained” by the authorities.

The group says more than 60,000 illegal abortions are performed in Guatemala

every year, and most of the women who put their lives at risk at the hands of untrained professionals are poor.

“We respect religious beliefs but this [abortion] is a fundamental right in a democracy,” spokeswoman Leticia Zevich told La Hora Newspaper.

However, Guatemala’s Catholic Church, other religious leaders and politicians protested against the presence of the boat.

In most Latin American countries, abortion is either illegal or only allowed to save the life of the woman. (BBC)

The “Abortion Ship” is at Marina Pez Vela on Guatemala’s Pacific coast

Mexico is by far the top destination for Texan exports, with goods worth $92.4B exported there in 2015, according to the US Department of Commerce.

The wall is a sensitive political subject in Mexico.

President Enrique Pena Nieto cancelled a trip to meet Trump last month over the dispute and has said Mexico will not fund the wall.

On Thursday US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly met their Mexican counterparts in Mexico City.

Neither side made any mention of the wall in Thursday’s news conference after their closed-door meetings.

President Trump needs Congressional approval for funding before moving forward with construction of the wall. (BBC)

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Editorial

Re-establishing Youth Corps Essential to Youth Empowerment PRESIDENT David Granger in his address at the last Youth Leadership Programme graduation committed his administration’s intent to re-establish the Youth Corps on the 1st January 2018, which will coincide with the 50th anniversary of its launch. None can deny that such a focus is overdue given that the future of our young demographic, if not addressed in a forceful and concerted manner, is perilous.

Where the possibility of employment and economic opportunities seem dim, the education system perceived to be contributing to failure, the family structures going through its own challenges, instant gratification and anti-social conduct are being glamourised; there is a social crisis on our hands.

A country ought to be concerned when a generation, who will have to shoulder the responsibility for safeguarding and building the future, seems rudderless in an environment that has not provided them enough productive outlet.

The crisis in the youth community can no longer go unnoticed, nor will a hodgepodge or piecemeal approach in seeking to fix it, suffice. Approximately two-thirds of this society is 40 years and younger, which means that Guyana not only has a healthy human capital pool at the most productive period of their lives, but is under-utilising such talents which carry dire consequences for development, inclusive of self and nation.

The hope demonstrated two plus years ago by the young in getting involved to shape the political destiny of the country speaks to a group that no longer wants to be invisible, but being a major player in moulding their destiny. Thus the pronouncement by President Granger must be seen as a response

to the growing, visible activism to not be on the side lines of affecting their affairs and the course of the nation’s direction.

The Youth Corps (1968) was the precursor to the Guyana National Service (1975-2000) which suffered the injuries of having its objectives misrepresented. As the concept for the Youth Corps unfolds, it requires the involvement of stakeholders to ensure avoidance of the pitfalls of the past, and ensure the programme meets the acceptable desire of the young community. Staying engaged on this idea is a responsibility of every citizen, more so the older among us, who have a responsibility to create the enabling environment for younger generations to bloom and grow.

A 21st century youth corps needs to imbue in our society a greater sense of nationalism, since this awareness is important to harnessing the potential of the nation and the possibilities for the people. Where globalisation is much more than economic trade and transfer of money, avoiding pitfalls of crime, including money laundering and terrorism, it is also a potent machinery to positively learn from and share with others in building a more humane and inclusive society.

The threats humanity face as in instances of wars, hunger, poverty, climate change, and natural disasters, are matters the young will have to pay attention to in order to protect mankind and the environment. Nationalism is intertwined with internationalism, and what happens in other societies can too have a bearing in the domestic environment. Given this reality it helps when the young are cognisant of the landscape, domestic and foreign, and seek to influence the shaping of both to redound to their betterment.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, February 26, 2017

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

Opportunities for learning need not only be readily accessible but also affordable because in this growing complex world ignorance is not a choice. To respond to challenges and make the best of decisions, such are facilitated with careful understanding of the issues and the implications the decisions are likely to have. These are not skills and abilities that are developed overnight, they have to be nurtured and the earlier done the better it is for the people and country.

The benefits of a youth corps can see more people being put into productive activities, which can enhance various sectors in the economy, even as it creates new ones. With government’s aim of pursuing economic development in a sustainable manner, focusing on the protection of the environment can propel the transformation needed in tackling climate change.

Finally, a youth corps should seek to harness the diverse skills, talents, and abilities of the people. To make the most of this the technical expertise of educators, agriculturalists, sociologists, psychologists, engineers and so forth are needed from the embryonic stage to ensure delivery based on the desire of the society and more particularly the demographic it targets. The ultimate objective for the formation of this institution must be to unleash the creative potential of the young and channel their energies toward productive endeavours for the good of self, country and the world. Reply Reply to All Forward More

Appellant must do thorough homework Dear Editor: The decision by Appeal Court Justices retired Chancellor (ag) Carl Singh and Justice B.S Roy, with the dissenter being Chief Justice (ag) Yonette Cummings-Edwards, to uphold retired Chief Justice (ag), Ian Chang’s ruling that Bharrat Jagdeo can run for a third term, despite the fact that the Guyana Constitution instructs to the contrary, must begin spirited debate and acquaintance, including through the education system, with this instrument.

The Constitution is the nation’s supreme law. It guarantees the citizens’ rights and freedoms, lays out the objectives of the nation, and

outlines the system of government to manage the people’s affairs. These principles are usually referred to as the spirit and intent which guide the formulations and sectionalising of articles therein and laws therefrom. It is from this premise we must start in understanding what is required of us.

There is disagreement with petitioner Cedric Richardson’s contention that the ‘third term’ case is similar to the 1998 Esther Perreira Election Petition, before the High Court, that led to the vitiation of the 1997 General and Regional Elections. The constitution expressly prescribes the right and eligibility to vote, which do not include presenting an identification card as a qualifying condition

to cast a ballot, which was a primary contention in that petition. What Richardson is asking the court to determine is Jagdeo’s eligibility to run for a third term when such is forbidden in the Constitution.

Article 90 (2) expressly says “A person elected as President after 2000 is eligible for re-election only once.” As despicable as some will find Jagdeo, to treat the court’s ruling as though it is about him and not the foundation of our legitimate existence, sight will be lost of what is at stake for the nation and its people.

Every citizen, providing he/she meets the requirement to be eligible to be president, once the electors grant him or her that privilege, can so become. Being a president is not a right, it is a privilege and

this privilege is not absolute, it operates within specific guidelines and expectations as outlined in the constitution, laws, time-honoured principles, universal declarations, international conventions and charters.

The contentious Articles 1 and 9 of the Constitution are expressly clear. The former addresses the sovereign state and its name. The latter places sovereignty in the hands of the people “who exercise it through their representatives and the democratic organs established by or under the Constitution.” Article 59 which addresses the qualifications and disqualifications of the electors (i.e. voters) are expressly made clear in Article 159.

Enjoying the right to vote

as a citizen based on the sovereignty vested in Article 9 does not supersede or nullify Article 90 (2). The right to vote does not confer that a person can be elected without satisfying constitutional requires. Equal as the Constitution sets out disqualifying conditions for persons to be elected members of the National Assembly (Article 155) it does likewise for being elected president.

Title 1 of the Constitution expressly states what are citizens’ “Fundamental Rights and Freedoms,” and nowhere among these articles is stated that being elected or contesting the presidency is a fundamental right. As such any arbiter who concludes that an individual’s fundamental right is being denied if he is barred

from contesting the presidency has to rethink that position.

Further, even fundamental rights and freedoms, which are premised on universal declarations and international conventions and charters, carry qualifying conditions.

The fundamental right to free choice of employment (Article 149A) does not translate to a janitor thinking that when he applies for the job to be a mechanical engineer, in as much as he does not possess the required qualifications for the job, that he is so entitled under the constitution. The same principle applies to being elected president for a third and any subsequent term.

Article 66 ‘‘The Alternation of this Constitution’ expressly states, “Subject to Turn to page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, February 26, 2017

The crime problem is solvable Dear Sir,

I noticed with much pain of heart that for the 47th Republic Anniversary, President David Granger pardoned only 9 persons and all were females. This fact is very heart breaking to me, if only because I think that circumstances forced the President to do what he did. Before I gave my suggestion of the circumstances (which I believe you already know), let me take you back to a promise Mr. Granger made, while he was still in the unbridled euphoria of his elevation to the Presidency. Mr. Granger promised and pledged that annually, he will release 60 ex-offenders (mostly males) and that he will do it because he thinks it is the right thing to do.

Slow march to just two years after that public and decisive pronouncement and what do we find? We find a President so broken

and tentative, that he is forced to reduce his ambitious numbers to a mere fraction of his initial pledge.

When the President made his original pledge I was overwhelmed with joy, for several reasons. One of which is simply because it makes sense. Also, it is a practice of Governors, Senators and Judges all across North America,because it helps to reduce prison cost.

It also serves at giving those released a second chance.

Most of the prisoners in Guyana (upwards of 80% of them), are repeat offenders. Many of them are from broken homes and began their life of criminality (like I did), by committing petty crimes. I was also happy for the President’s announcement because crime and recidivism are epidemic realities which have defined us as a nation.

Another reason I was embolden by the announcement was because I had discussed a formal rehabilitation program with several

Appellant must do... the special procedure set out in Article 164, Parliament may alter the Constitution.”

Article 164 the ‘Procedure for altering this Constitution’ says at paragraph (2) that any alteration/amendment being made to any articles that fall in subparagraph (a) which are 164, 1, 2, 8, 9, 18, 51, 66, 89, 99 and 111, requires the vote of the electors (i.e. a referendum). Subparagraph (b) which includes Article 90 can be altered by the National Assembly “by the votes of not less than two-thirds of all the elected members….”

Article 90 that instructs “any person elected as President after 2000 is eligible for re-election only once” means that person cannot be granted a third term. The clever manipulation in pronouncing on Article 164 by ignoring the intent of the semicolon which appears in subparagraph (a) after the list of articles that requires a referendum is unfortunate. A semicolon as used in this instance is clearly that to show the difference between subparagraph (a) and

(b). The Parliament, consistent with the power vested in its members, opted to amend the permissible article by not only meeting the minimum requirement of “not less than two-thirds” but the elected members voted unanimously!

Amendment of Article 90 was facilitated by national widespread consultation.

Willing participants in the society, including individuals, political parties, civil society, and the trade union community were allowed input. It must be recalled the spirit and intent behind the altering was to prevent the sense of permanency to the office, the notion of entitlement to it, and the need to facilitate diversity of the office holder, which were publicly made known for informing its conceptualisation. These positions were supported by the PPP/C and the Bill to alter said article was assented to by then President Bharrat Jagdeo.

Though the election to be president comes through a political party, a political

of those within the leadership of Government. I had also given them a turn-key proposal of how this rehabilitation, best practice, program can be implemented here in Guyana. I had explained to them that I was responsible for spearheading a similar program in the USA. I gave them references of persons within the US Department of Corrections and also some internet links for them to view some of my work.

And so the announcement made me think that they were planning to implement a formal, post-release, rehabilitation program, like I had outlined and suggested.

Imagine then, my surprise when I was told that not only was there no ex-offender rehabilitation program in place but further, that those released from prison would be free and clear of all charges and would have no accountability tied to their release.

It immediately became obvious that the President

From page 6 party is not an abstract entity. It comprises a List of Representatives, from which persons have to be eligible for the positions they are likely to fill. Here is where the political party cannot be looked at in isolation of the names on the List of Representatives and the eligibility of each candidate to fill the position pursued or placed in.

This matter is now set to go before the Caribbean Court of Justice. This society must demand the appellant do thorough homework and submit an incisive brief within the legally stipulated timeframe. This issue is not about Jagdeo, Basil Williams or Raphael Trotman, it is about the nation’s supreme law and protecting and advancing its integrity. The Government of Guyana, that represents the interest of the citizens, must have this as its foremost interest.

Lincoln Lewis.

was not being advised by anyone who understands criminality, criminology, or the concept of paroling – vis-a-vis the criminal mindset. The program was destined to be in trouble.

Guyana has a struggling pre-release offender rehabilitation plan but not one single post-release rehabilitation program. What that means is that the folks going into prison and then returning to the society are not likely being engaged in any satisfactory rehabilitation course. And if they do benefit from some academic or industrial program while incarcerated, when they are released, there is no continuum.

So now let’s return to my initial premise. The prison system in Guyana is made up of just about 5% females. Yet this year, of the 60 inmates the President pledged to release, he only released females, nine (9) of them. Not one single male.

Since this new administration began their tour of duty the crime situation has not satisfactorily subsided. Additionally, there is no clear way of tracking whether or not some of the released ex-offenders are actually involved in the current, nagging, criminal activities. Additionally, the President’s initiative lacked the necessary transparency needed for it to attract any sustained public support.

These realities have no doubt put a damper on the President’s goodwill and justifiable gesture. So this initiative which was intended to reduce the prison population, save tax payers substantial amounts of money and gave offenders a second chance has now been significantly curtailed, mostly because sufficient advice was not given to the President.

Editor, may I say in closing that the Guyana crime problem is solvable. However, it

will take some bold initiatives, guided by professionals in the field.

Also, the venture by the President is humanistic and besides, it is very practical. The President needs to regroup, put systems in place to ensure checks and balances and then continue with his worthwhile initiative. The society is not safer with more people in prison. The society is safer when those incarcerated are taught to change from their criminal ways to more socially acceptable behaviours. What is needed to assist in reducing our incidents of crime, is a formal post-release, ex-offender rehabilitation program. You cannot wish crime away, any more than you can piecemeal ex-offender rehabilitation. If it’s going to be effective, it must be done properly.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

More photos of Mashramani 2017 Delano Williams photos

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

More photos of Mashramani 2017 Delano Williams photos

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Ministerial team visits Kato Secondary School

A MINISTERIAL team today, visited the Kato Secondary School in Region Eight, to get a firsthand look at the state of the building and what needs to be done.

The team comprised Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, and Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton, along with their technical staff.

The Ministerial team was accompanied by Regional Executive Officer for the Region, Raphael Downes, and a Guyana Association of Professional Engineers (GAPE) representative.

Upon taking a tour of the school that was con-

structed at close to $1B, it was very evident that substandard works was done. This was visible by the cracking walls, floors which were either being eaten by termites or with large holes, poor toilet facilities and faulty electrical wiring among others.

According to Minister Patterson, the building is in a much worse state since the second audit report, conducted in October 2016.

However, the Minster noted that an independent consultant from GAPE will detail the works needed to be done, in addition to what is identified in the two audit reports.

“We will be seeking from them (GAPE), their recommendations. If the consultancy has to be done by a structural engineer,

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, easily breaking the ground with his boots as Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, looks on

then it is a must…I do think we need a mechanical engineer, and an electrical engineer. As you look around there is no electricity, and if you look around the pipe works are all exposed,” the Minister explained.

Patterson added that, “We are trying to find a solution, because it is unfair to the community if we do not try to find a solution.”

Minister Roopnaraine said that after looking at the building, there is not much that is “redemptive.”

The Minister noted that, “There is a lot of work to do. There is a lot of shabby work that has been done, and I think we have to go into major repairs and reconstruction.”

GAPE’s representative, Jean Ramkellawan also

voiced similar concern saying that after touring the school, it was clear that a lot of substandard work was done. Based on Ramkellawan’s assessment thus far. “Very poor supervision” is one of the main causes for the condition in which the building is currently in.”

The Kato Secondary School was built under the previous administration to facilitate students in the region who travel long distances to access secondary level education.

However, due to the substandard work done by the contractor it has not been occupied.

The Ministerial team is hoping to have the works on the building started and completed as quickly as possible.

The condition of the roof at the Kato Secondary School, Region Eight

A hole in the floor at the Kato Secondary School, Region Eight

Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, taking a look at the hole in the floor in one of the buildings of the Kato Secondary School complex, Region Eight

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, and Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, having a discussion about what they were witnessing at the Kato Secondary School, Region Eight

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

‘Little Johnny’ 100 not out “LITTLE deeds of kindness, little words of love make this earth an Eden, like the heaven above,” said centenarian Victor Lewis, called ‘Little Johnny’ or ‘Old Police’ as he reminisced on his life’s journey at his home at Brighton Village, Corentyne Coast on Saturday.

Born on February 25, 1917, to James Lewis called Johnny Lewis and Rachel Albert of Eversham Village, which is a short distance from where he currently lives, Lewis was nurtured by his paternal grandparents James and Mary Lewis at the very place he today calls home.

“I grew with Elric. He was my cousin. We were children of two siblings. My grandparents were farmers.

They cultivated ground provisions, corn and bananas.

We were never hungry, but if we were, we would just go to the farm, pick a few ripened bananas off the sucker or parch and pound corn before eating it with sugar.

“Life was not as it is now. People farmed and the villagers despite their ethnicity, lived in unity.

In those days if an African family had a function and did not invited their East Indian neighbour that would be a big problem and the uninvited person will enquire what was the reason for him/ or her not receiving an invitation before presenting themselves. Life was so good, without the politicians,” he chuckled, while clasping his hands between his legs.

The bespectacled gentleman in his formative years attended the Eversham Primary School, when James Henry was headmaster. However, while he completed his schooling, he was unable to take the then School Leaving Examination, which was held at Rose Hall Scotts School in Rose Hall Town.

“I cannot now remember what prevented me from going to write the exams, but my now deceased

friends Albert King and Marth Douglas, they were successful at the exams and had pursued higher learning resulting in them being educators. I became a carpentry apprentice, under the stewardship of ‘Brother Grant’ of Phillipi Village.

“As a small boy, I had visited the village shop and had observed Brother Grant doing some carpentry and he asked me whether I was interested and after responding in the affirmative, I started to learn the trade and have since specialised in all areas of carpentry,” he said.

According to the widower, his trade took him to many places in Guyana, including the mining town of Linden and Matthews Ridge, and his markings

Lewis with some of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren

Centenarian Victor Lewis

are on all the multilateral schools, and other learning institutions across the country.

However, he was quick to add, that as soon as he received his wages, he would hurry off to the nearest post office, where he would send the money to his wife Monica (now deceased).

They had 11 children, namely Denzil, Eon, Victor Jnr, Eldon, Fay (now deceased), Wendy, Patricia, Brenda, Kim, Yonnette and Denise. He has also fathered a son, Leon, who resides overseas.

NOT ABLE “I used to give towards the upkeep of my home,

wife and children. I have not remarried although my wife died over 30 years ago. When you have a wife you have to give and I am not able with that now,” he chuckled.

An elder of the Brighton Presbyterian Church, Lewis said church attendance was not an option for his family.

“We had to go. Sunday is the day to serve the Lord.

We have to look to our maker for everything. In these days, parents asking children if they would like to go to church. But I was never taught that, it was not an option. It was a necessity.”

The centenarian, who experienced short bouts of

memory loss during the interview, was quick to point out that as a youth he was a member of the Boys Scouts organisation which would instill values in youths just in case it was not instilled in the home.

Lewis also told Guyana Chronicle about an incident that rocked his village some 30 years ago. Nine members of the Cummings family were killed under mysterious circumstances.

“The news had stated that a snake was killing the family, but it was not so.

One of the young men had married a woman of another ethnicity and one of his sisters was in conflict with the woman, and as a result they were subsequently poisoned. That story had placed our village in the news,” he recalled.

That apart, the village which is bordered by Eversham and Kiltern was known for horse racing, but with time, the passion for the game has dwindled.

According to Lewis, young men are not committed to it.

“They want money and more money, but they are not committed when it comes to enhancing community relationship, so with time, the interest in horse racing has gone.”

Lewis said the youths

are aimless, just standing around “doing absolutely nothing.”

However, his daughter Patricia, interjected saying that the Guyana Police Force has a youth club in the community.

Lewis, who is fondly called “Grandpa”, has 30

grandchildren and 12 great grands.

He was thankful to God for allowing him to reach the magical 100, and said while there is no secret to his longevity, persons must always honour their parents and their days may be long.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Do suh nah like suh… a disturbing leadership quality THE utterances by the PPP/C leadership that the closure of sugar estates would lead to major protests nationwide, exemplify a foremost problem responsible for retarding the nation’s development and its people peacefully co-exiting. This warning comes directly in the crosshairs of the APNU+AFC government, given that the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is state-owned.

It was this same PPP/C, during the Bharrat Jagdeo presidency, that sent home all the workers of the then state-owned bauxite industry. The Jagdeo government refused to talk with the workers’ unions about a rescue plan for the industry, and severance benefits for the workers.

Pleas by the workers’ unions- the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers (GB&GWU) and Guyana Mines Workers Union

(GMWU)- and then Leader of the Opposition Desmond Hoyte, to meet with the unions and stakeholders to develop an alternative plan were ignored. Instead of engaging the unions on the workers’ welfare, Jagdeo visited Everton, Kwakwani and Linden, and lured the workers into forming what he called “workers committees” to meet with him and discuss their future.

This future, which those committees accepted on behalf of the workers, had no plan for their work life and ensured retirement was deprived of deserving dignity. The committees accepted the dismantling of the Workers’ Pension Plan, then valued approximately $3B, and known to be the largest single pool of money owned by the African community in Guyana.

Workers, in addition to seeing their work life eroded, have been deprived of enjoying a pension whose plan was solid and could have boosted their dignity in their retired years.

Proposals by the unions to save the plan through re-investment, and investment proposals made by persons interested in saving the Berbice Mining Enterprise (BERMINE) were all ignored by the Jagdeo government. This had a ripple effect in dampening any interest in pursuing the Linden Mining Enterprise (LINMINE). Today the PPP/C rails against political exclusion and the mistreat-

ment and marginalisation of sugar workers and their unions in developing a plan to rescue GuySuCo. The problem with the PPP/C leadership, outside of treating with bauxite workers and their unions harshly, and shutting out the Opposition PNCR, is that they too, when in government treated GuySuCo, the sugar unions, and workers poorly. The Diamond Estate, which was producing canes that gave the highest yield in sugar, was closed without consultation and input from the workers and their unions, and the lands were disbursed to friends of the PPP/C. Through the unions workers had to resort to the court to receive their severance benefit.

Today the PPP/C is crying foul, when this current corps of leadership showed scant or no regard for upholding the Laws of Guyana which require stakeholders’ involvement in the decision-making processes of any matter that impact their wellbeing.

In the 1980s when sugar and bauxite were experiencing profitability challenges, the Desmond Hoyte administration, upholding the tenet of equal treatment under the law, pursued strengthening the management of both industries. Bauxite was assigned to MINPROC, an Australian management company, and sugar was assigned to the British Booker Tate.

From all appearance equal opportunity was given to both sectors, which not only had political connotations, but also implications for exacerbating race relations, given the composition of the majority of the workers in both sectors.

Sugar is considered the PPP/C’s base and the majority of the workers and adjoining communities are Indians. Bauxite is considered the PNCR’s support base and the majority of these workers and their adjoining communities are Africans. Hoyte’s political wisdom, inclusive of the respect for citizens under the law, minimised any accusation that a government was self-serving and set out to punish a group because of identity and/or political association. At the societal level it also minimised friction between the two major groups.

In 1992, when the PPP/C was elected to office, the Cheddie Jagan administration was quick to say that it will move to privatise bauxite and keep sugar as a state entity. It should be said however, some decisions by his government were tempered with an eye to the social consequences they could wreak.

On 13th February, 1995, the bauxite unions and workers carried out a major protest in Linden, marching from three distinct points (One Mile, Christiansburg, and Amelia’s Ward) and endedwith a rally at Cuffy

Square by the McKenzie Market, which was chaired

by Joseph Pollydore, then General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress. The business community closed their doors in solidarity with us, and provided other support such as meals and beverages. This solidarity also exemplified the intertwined relations of business and workers and the survival of both being hinged on the success of the other.

Cheddie Jagan, after seeing this show of strength and determination, moved to address the nation and particularly the people of Linden. In this address, among the things he said were, his government has not forgotten the people of Linden and is prepared to put infrastructure in place for the creation of new jobs.

He particularly identified the building of an industrial estate at Dallawalla, and work commenced immediately after, with the clearing of the site. When Jagan died in 1997 this project died with him, replaced by one I call economic genocide.

In principle, the PPP/C and the sugar unions’ call for involvement in the decision-making processes of GuySuCo cannot be faulted.

At the same time it cannot be lost sight of, that when the shoe was on the other foot, the post-Jagan PPP/C demonstrated little or no regard for these sacred principles.

To be continued …..

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

If the APNU-AFC Coalition does not make it beyond one-term, they have only themselves to blame This year is shaping up to be a defining one in contemporary Guyanese politics. The government is under pressure from its constituents to do better while the PPP is trying its best to exploit the government’s inherent weaknesses and self-inflicted wounds.

Despite protestations to the contrary, given its novelty-- its departure from the norm—the government has a one-term window to prove that its type is durable and worth persisting with. The closest political formations to the APNU+AF Coalition which achieved office in the post-colonial Anglophone Caribbean occurred in Trinidad and Tobago twice and on both occasions, they served one term.

The first was the National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR), which governed from 1986 to 1991—one term.

Today NAR does not exist in any serious way--the only constituent party that is still alive is the United National Congress(UNC), which was the largest component of the so-called “One Love” Coalition. The second coalition, which lasted 2010-2015, was again dominated by the UNC and lasted for one term.

As was expected, the UNC has survived but the other partners have declined in terms of their presence on the landscape.

The pattern, if you can call it that, is clear—the electorate judges partnership governments by different standards. The first term is crucial. The two in Trinidad did not make it past the first term. Trinidad and Tobago is similar to Guyana as far as the political-ethnic dynamics are concerned. It is therefore not farfetched to believe that our Coalition could suffer the same fate as the two Trinidad partnerships. One can never predict socio-political with any certainty; we can only be guided by history. The jury is out on our Coalition and the other Anglophone Caribbean Partnership government— Team Unity in St Kitts Nevis.

Although that electorate is not ethnically divided as in Guyana and Trinidad, the political tribalism is equally

intense.

I have said over and over that I don’t think this Coalition government is steeped in a sense of its larger political significance to Guyana.

There is no clear political direction. The Coalition functions more as an administrative partnership—they manage the government. But that management is not part of a larger political vision and direction. That for me is the major reason that they stumble so regularly and so badly. And in a 50-50 ethnically polarized country, every little stumble is exploited by the opposition as part of that party’s larger political and ethnic narrative— “You see what we have been saying for decades, they are bullies, they are racist, they are corrupt.”

The Coalition must counter that kind of politics with its own alternative praxis which must do three things. First, they have to inspire their base that they will use government to remove the barriers to political and economic equality which is at the heart of their narrative of suffering. The Coalition’s base, which is not a reliable voting bloc as far as turning out to vote is concerned, came out in larger than normal numbers in 2015 and voted them into office not just to run an efficient government, but to ensure that the economic and political playing field is leveled. While the Indian Guyanese narrative of suffering is steeped in a sense of electoral fraud against them and in being vulnerable to the coercive force of the state, the African Guyanese narrative of suffering is grounded in a feeling of systemic political and socio-economic marginalization.

The latter was exposed during the PPP’s last term in office, when the Jagdeo-Ramotar regime moved to correct perceived Indian Guyanese insecurity with absolute domination of state and society. African Guyanese therefore are scared of another PPP term in office and expect their government to democratize the rules of the country’s political econ-

omy as a form of protection against future domination.

I am afraid the government acts as if it is unaware or oblivious to that reality. I think African Guyanese will not display the same kind of enthusiasm for the Coalition at the next election if they do not sense some shift in their collective socio-political and economic condition.

The coalition cannot simply depend on just the fear of the PPP; that must be supplemented by policies aimed at democratizing the political economy to give their constituents a fairer chance to advance. But if the attitude to the vendors, to the matter of public servants and teachers’ wages, to small miners and other contractors along with the absence of a comprehensive plan to stimulate small business are anything to go by, the government has a lot of catching up to do in this regard.

Unlike the PPP, the Coalition cannot opt for domination as a central mode of governance—its base does not constitute a majority or large plurality of the electorate and its traditionally lower turn out to the poll inflates the size of its opponent’s

base which does turn out in higher numbers. It means that the Coalition has to contend with the PPP in the Indian Guyanese community. It cannot allow the PPP’s negative definition of the Coalition in that community to go unchallenged. It may not be able to win more Indian Guyanese votes at the next election, but it can demonstrate to them that it is more enlightened than the PPP on matters of political virtue and ethnic equality. It must expose the PPP’s extreme abuse of power and the country’s common resources while they were in power. Indian Guyanese have to know what was done in their name.

There must be a larger political praxis that brings together the expectations and interests of the two major ethnic groups and the smaller but equally important Amerindian community. Policies that flow from vision are much more focused than those that are eclectic-not part of a cohesive approach.

This is an urgent necessity for the Coalition. Cabinet is a management body; it implements policy. It is not a place to construct vision and political strategy. Unfortunately, it

is the only functioning body of the Coalition. There is no decentralization of political thinking and planning among the partners; they are not consulted outside of Cabinet.

This is a major deficiency which could well come back to haunt the government at the next election.

I know managing partnerships is not easy. The big party invariably dominates, often without much consideration and respect for the socalled smaller partners. Small parties are left with burden of keeping the government together out of fear of being the spoiler and because some of their Ministers become comfortable with office and would never rock the boat.

In the case of the Coalition, I think we have a combination of all of the above.

The AFC and the WPA have therefore become prisoners of the logic of a Partnership government with the slimmest of margins—there is little wriggle room as far as challenging decisions that they disagree with. They have one thing in common— they want to hold on to power. Without power the PNC is big but toothless—since the Hoyte-Norton-led post-1997

upsurge was neutralized by Jagdeo, the PNC became a scared party that ironically, thanks to Corbin, came to grips with the folly that it could return to power on its own. The AFC’s importance diminishes if it is not part of government and the WPA will be an echo in the wilderness—they all need to be in power to affect the larger politics. But beyond that they don’t have anything that inspires confidence. They have not created a vision out of a shared world-view. Perhaps, they can’t or maybe don’t want to do so. But the hard truth is that they need something that goes beyond managing the government if they will break the ne-term jinx for Coalition Governments in the Caribbean. If they don’t it will not be because of the fitness of the PPP for office, but because of their lack of political vision.

More of Dr. Hinds ‘writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his website www. guyanacaribbeanpolitics. com. Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com

The driver of this Toyota motorcar swerved into the wrong lane while driving along Vlissengen Road into North Road and ended up in the canal outside the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) on Saturday afternoon. Luckily no one was hurt. (Adrian Narine photo)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

NA revenue collection up, tax down – New Amsterdam town clerk THE New Amsterdam municipality has seen a four per cent increase in revenue collection overall during the period 2015-2016, but tax collection also decreased by four per cent during that period, Town Clerk Sharon Alexander said.

She told the Guyana Chronicle that during the period referenced, revenue collection jumped from 73 per cent to 77 per cent while tax collection moved downwards from 51 per cent to 47 per cent.

Despite the reduction, a number of works were carried out, including clearing of overgrowth from parapets,

the cemetery and parks and desilting of the drainage system.

As a result of the works done, flooding was only experienced in December and it was due to intense rains and high tide.

The back market, inclusive of a solitary block, was constructed to the tune of $13M with funding by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Stalls were being built to accommodate vendors, who sell on the road shoulders. Cameras were also installed in the market.

Meanwhile, several training sessions were conducted for the elected Council by

Caribbean Local and Economic Development (CARILED) through the Ministry of Communities.

These training sessions sought to enable the elected Council to better understand their roles and functions.

Sessions were also conducted with Council staff and citizens in order to establish a Municipal Development Plan.

This year, the Council will be rehabilitating several streets in the township, some of which are 6th Street Islington, Middle Street at Mayor and Town Council Scheme, Lot 38 Stanleytown

and a Pathway, Lot 30 also at Stanleytown.

Rehabilitation works will also be done to the municipal stores and the front elevation of the Town Hall.

Several internal capacity building training sessions are planned for municipal workers to enhance customer service and computerise the tax collection system.

All property owners or their representatives, who are indebted to the Council, are encouraged to honour their obligation as soon as possible. The Council is striving to develop every community within the township and requires the support of citizens to do so.

With indiscriminate dumping of garbage prev-

New Amsterdam Town Clerk, Sharon Alexander

alent in the township, solid waste management continues to be a great challenge, and the Council plans to fine persons who are found guilty of this act. It is also looking to acquire machinery to assist in this regard. Town Clerk, Sharon Alexander,

said if domestic waste is not collected in a timely manner, citizens are advised to call the Mayor and Town Council on telephone numbers 333-2104, 333-2667, 333-4422.

She also said approval must be granted by the Council in writing, for construction of any property, which includes fencing and access (bridge/footpath) or any area.

Anyone who fails to comply with the Municipal and District Council’s Act, Chapter 28:01, as it relates to the above will be fined, she said, and noted that all payments must be made only to the cashier of the Council.

The Council is highly understaffed in a number of key areas, especially the Constabulary and Town Engineer’s Department and is keen in having these vacant positions filled urgently. This is all in keeping with providing an efficient service to its tax payers, the town clerk said.

Speak out against criminals – Divisional Commander urges Rose Hall Town residents

GUYANA Police Force ‘B’ Division Commander, Ian Amsterdam, is urging Rose Hall Town residents to speak out against criminal elements, as failure to do so might hurt them.

“If you don’t speak out people will continue to hide and hold you at siege. Don’t wait until they attack you.

When you see something or hear of anything, report it to the police,” he said.

The commander made the appeal at a meeting with residents of Rose Hall Town last Monday to address safety concerns in light of the recent violent deaths of two persons there in the past few weeks.

The meeting, which was held at St. Francis Community Developers, Portuguese Quarters head office, saw attendance by members of the business community and residents who shared their concerns with Amsterdam and his team.

Amsterdam reported that since the last consultation in 2016, the Police Force has made some adjustments, based on the recommendation of residents.

However, he stressed that a lot more has to be done since the town seems to have become a haven for criminal elements.

“These are known characters and we have to be vigilant, we need to be doing surveillance on them to know what they are planning and be proactive to prevent the crime from occurring. If you want your community to be safe, you need to work together with us so we can get the bad people out of Rose Hall,” he said.

Meanwhile, officer-in-charge of Number Two Sub Division, Kurleigh Simon, said the goal this year is to reduce crime by 30 per cent, and the Social Crime Prevention Strategy for youths will be vigorously promoted.

According to Simon, ranks have been visiting various schools and doing motivational talks about discipline, respect for self, respect for the institution and respect for their uniform and career goals, in an effort to help youths break away from glorified tattoos and gangster lifestyles.

Further, he noted that there are 11 youth groups with 356 active members that the police have helped to get off the streets and be meaningfully occupied.

The residents in attendance called for more patrols and harsher penalties for criminals.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, February 26, 2017

A card for every occasion

-- Jenel Robert waiting for your orders

By Alva Solomon Finding a greeting card with words which takes the ideal message of the sender may be difficult.

In addition to the words, a uniquely designed card which suits the occasion can be a bugbear while shopping.

But Jenel Roberts found the solution and from personal experiences, she literally created her own handmade brand, cards which have wooed customers and receivers locally and even overseas.

All Things Handmade, the company she created, started out as a hobby for the young final year University of Guyana, International Relations student.

She said that she would create cards using cardboard and paper, printed with unique words and designed with hidden messages for relatives and friends. She said the idea came to mind after she could not find cards in the local stores which words reflected what she wanted to tell the receiver of such cards. “Inspiration came from me not finding a card to give to someone,� she said.

Turn to page 20

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, February 26, 2017

Empowering themselves through Syndicates

By Svetlana Marshall Despite naysayers, small miners in every nook and cranny are mobilizing themselves into mining syndicates as they seek to empower themselves by capitalizing on the opportunities created

by Government in the Extractive Industry.

Arthur Thorne, Chairman of the Parika/Mora Small Miners Association, said residents of Parika and Mora had long sought to capitalize on the Extractive Sector but their application as a group was turned down in 2013.

“We had applied for 15 Blocks and they rejected our application,” Thorne told a room full of small and potential miners during a meeting with the Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, at her Brickdam Office on Friday.

He added “thanks to Minister Broomes and the APNU+AFC Coalition, the syndicate was now on the go,” some four years after. With a sense of accomplishment, Thorne informed those present that the Parika/Mora Mining Association/Syndicate has a written constitution in place, and is in the process of finalizing its application for 15 Blocks of mining lands in the Puruni Backdam. Already, more than 100 small miners have signed up to be a part of that syndicate.

Wallis Daniels, who hails from Imbaimadai – a mining community situated in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni District, said residents there are forging ahead with plans to establish a syndicate with constant meetings being held. According to him, there are over 230 interested residents of which 54 regularly attend meetings.

That syndicate is applying for mining lands in places such as Chi-Chi in the CuyuniMazaruni District.

“Four years ago, Imbaimadai use to have eight flights a day, now we are getting four and five flights a week. We had about 30 shops, now we only have four shops and more than half the buildings are empty,” Daniels said as he painted a picture of the current economic situation in the mining community.

However, he strongly believes that once the syndicate goes into operation Imbaimadai will return to its glory days.

Another miner, Judith David-Blair, who is the President of the Karrau Mining Syndicate, said Minister Broomes and by extension the Government ought to be applauded for reaching out to the small miners who have been suffering for far too long, although they have been the back bone of the industry.

For her, the formation of syndicates across the country, signals the re-birth of the Gold

Mining Industry and the creation of equal opportunities for all miners.

“This is the time when we will take our place; this is the time when we will adhere to every rule, every law, we will comply with everything that we are supposed to do,” David-Blair said.

She, like many of the miners present, said while the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) is objecting to the new tax regime being implemented by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the syndicates stand ready to pay their taxes.

Due to the overwhelming response by miners, Garfield Wilt, who is a part of the Kanawaruk Mining Syndicate, suggested that a National Steering Committee be formed to manage all syndicates – a proposal which was well received. Wilt explained that through the steering committee the syndicates could make representation to the Central Government on behalf of all involved in the movement.

Representatives of syndicates from Bartica, Mahdia, Linden, Berbice, Georgetown and the East Coast of Demerara were also present, among others.

Minister Broomes, in addressing the small and potential miners, said Government’s decision to launch the National Syndicate Project, was not

Arthur Thorne, Chairman of the Parika/Mora Small Miners Association, making a point

done on the basis of a political gimmick but an initiative designed to empower small miners in particular.

“This project is about government delivering to its people. It’s about creating that good life,” she told the miners. Once tax compliant, the Minister noted that the similar concessions offered to GGMDA and larger miners, will be made available to the syndicates.

However, Minister Broomes warned that while Government through the Nat-

ural Resources Ministry, is making special provisions for syndicates, the laws governing the sector will not be compromised, noting that major emphasis is also being transparency and accountability.

“You have to abide by the rules and regulations, you have to put safety first and you must pay attention to the environment. It cannot be business as usual, you must be the pace setters,” the Minister urged. She made it clear that acts of human trafficking, child labour and

Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, engaging with small miners from across the country

disorderly conducts will not be tolerated.

In addition to discussing the various components of the syndicate projects, the miners used the opportunity to express a number of other concerns relating to the need for better roads and bridges. In response, Minister Broomes said the Natural Resources Ministry and GGMC have taken note of the concerns, and have already consulted with the Public Infrastructure Ministry.

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Amerindian Hostel to be renamed Student Hostel THE building which houses indigenous folks at Lot 36 Mudflat, New Amsterdam, will now accommodate students from the Canje Creek riverain community, following the recent completion of rehabilitation works, Regional Chairman, David Armogan has said.

The rehabilitation was done to the tune of $9M and the building will be renamed the Students Hostel, instead of the Amerindian Hostel, a name it had for more than three decades.

The hostel at Stanleytown caters for children from communities along the Berbice River.

Children of Bara Cara, a community that is deep up the Canje River, who were successful at the National Grade Six Examinations and had been placed in secondary schools in the townships, will be granted placement at the hostel.

Over the years, the New Amsterdam Amerindian Hostel has transformed itself, primarily from a residence, which was intended for secondary school students from the riverain and hinterland areas, to a building which houses permanent

families.

“This has got to stop.

Initially, it was intended for persons from the hinterland/ riverain communities, who would leave their respective village and travel with their agricultural produce or logs to have the items sold within the township within a few days before returning to their villages. But, it is not so now. We have permanent residents, and there are students who are in need of a place to stay, so as to complete their secondary education,” Armogan said.

It was noted that persons are overstaying their time and are conducting varying businesses, which are unacceptable even though the hostel’s operation is being financed by the Region Six Administration.

The hostel, which is housed on the upper-flat of the two storied concrete and wooden building, caters for 12 students, an equal number of boys and girls, from riverain areas, who were awarded placements at secondary schools in New Amsterdam.

Following reconstruction of the building in the early 1980s, it was managed for four years by the New Am-

The Amerindian Hostel at Lot 36 Mudflat, New Amsterdam, which will be renamed Student Hostel

sterdam Lions Club, under the presidency of Mavis Smith, before it was handed over to the regional administration.

A captain was appointed to manage its affairs and subsequently, house mothers were appointed and parents had the responsibility to pay for their children’s upkeep.

That money was used to pay the salary of the house mother. However, some parents

failed to honour their responsibility and their children were sent home.

Other students were forced to return home due to a ‘spiritual attack’ at the hostel, and yet others sought alternative living arrangements in the township.

Caretaker, Sybil Morris, noted that it took a while before students returned.

She said permission had to be sought from the Regional

Administration, allowing parents to stay with their secondary school-aged children, as well as their younger children placed at primary and nursery schools in the township.

She lamented about the behaviour pattern of the occupants, pointing out that “each parent trains his or her child differently.”

In addition, although the upper-flat was designed to

accommodate 12 students, along with a house mother, more persons are housed there, and this has created a situation where there are rifts amongst families.

Morris welcomes the idea of opening the hostel to students from other communities and is optimistic that the need for house mothers/ house fathers and security will be urgently addressed.

Fogging to Police win Bartica Mash commence Float Parade soon in NA THE New Amsterdam Municipality has purchased a machine and will commence fogging exercise within the township, Environmental Health Officer, Ackloo Ramsudh said.

However, there are persons who continue to have overgrown bushes in their yard and an accumulation of solid waste in their surroundings which serve as potential breeding ground for mosquitoes.

“Although this is a tropical country, we want to ensure that we can control the new arising vectors and mosquitoes,” the environmental officer said.

He said inspection of premises will continue, especially those owners who disregard notices sent out by the municipality.

Apart from solid waste,

the town’s biggest problem is overgrowth on buildings and in yards, and although notices were served on defaulters, many have largely ignored them.

Meanwhile, the Anglican Church at Stanleytown, which was closed for the past 12 years, is one of the buildings infested with vegetation.

“The church will have no exception. Notices were sent to them. But to date, they have not complied and so we will be targeting them aggressively,” Ramsudh said.

Defaulters are fined $3000 per month for non-compliance of the notice issued to them by the Town Council.

Citizens are also urged to have disposal bins so as to avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse around the township.

MEMBERS of the “F” Division (Lethem, Bartica and other interior locations) Police Youth Group copped the tops spots in the Region Seven Mashramani Float Parade while the Bartica police river patrol won in the float parade category.

The parade saw costumes depicting a wide array of concepts which highlighted the passion and talents of the participants who feted their way through the streets.

The youths from Bayderabo, Itaballi, Bartica, Kalcoon and Agatash participated collectively in the float parade under the theme “Celebration with Liberty, Dignity and Greater Unity.”

The costumed participants made their way from the Bartica Cenotaph Ground through the crowded streets, congregating at the Bartica Community Centre Ground. There they put on a brief performance before a panel of judges.

The Regional Mashramani Committee, as part of

their activities to celebrate the event, held a competition for the best illuminated building for business places and Government entities covering both small and large buildings.

The Bartica Police Station grabbed the first place

in the large building category for Best Decorated Building while “F” division headquarters copped the third place in the small building category for the Best Decorated Building.

There were a total of 20 entities covering both categories. In some cases organisations and business places entered more than one category.

Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Ravindradat Budhram, hailed the events a success and commended the participation and cooperation of all stakeholders in Bartica.

He said Bartica is recapturing its stride and will only get better through collaboration between the municipality, public and private sectors.

The eye-catching Bartica Police River Patrol float designed by resident Winston Miller.

This float won in the float parade category

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, February 26, 2017

A card for ...

From Page 16

Then on St Valentine’s Day 2016, she decided to market her talent using the newly-formed company.

“I specialise in personalised cards and when the client comes they would give me the idea and I take the idea and make it into reality,” she said.

In addition, she would pick up her cardboard and create cards using her thoughts.

“I would use my creativity and uniqueness whatever thoughts flow,” she said.

Building on the support she received from friends, she said she decided to make cards during 2016 for other occasions and for her, the feedback was very encouraging. As such, this year at Valentines, she made additional cards.

She said that being a final year student, she has to follow a disciplined approach to balancing her time as regards her school work , making cards and her other social responsibilities .

She said she tries to ensure the words written in the cards are effective and transmits the messages in a profound manner.

This year, her plans include rebranding her product, employing more innovative methods to her business as well as developing the brand to reach a wider customer base.

According to Jenel, the prices for her cards vary and this depends on the time and materials used.

She said that the prices start from $1000 up based on the designs.

She has created a Facebook page “All Things Handmade” which she uses to market her cards.

She has received orders from overseas, including Barbados and Jamaica and persons in the United States. However, at the moment Jenel’s p rimary target h app en s to be her Gu yanese customer who wishes to express his/herself in a unique creative tone through words meant to profoundly warm the hearts of the recipient.

A collection of Jenel’s cards

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Jeffrey outshines the pack in Georgetown Grand Prix

By Stephan Sookram TWO- time Caribbean Motor Racing champion,Kristian Jeffrey,returned and tuned up in fine style for his next assignment by sweeping a field of seasoned Karters in the Georgetown Grand Prix Friday evening last.

In front of a packed facility, Jeffrey thrilled racing fans with some excellent driving skills, racing to three wins in as many starts, overcoming former karting champion, now radical driving coach,Orry Hunte as well as his Canadian Driving coach Darryl Timmers.

In the first race, Jeffrey was slow off the line compared to Elliot Vieira but managed to recoup that gap before the first lap

ENGLISH RACING TIPS Fontwell 10:30 hrs King Of Glory 11:00 hrs Lil Rockerfeller 11:30 hrs Sir Anthony Browne 12:00 hrs Mon Parrain 12:30 hrs Greyed 13:00 hrs Larry SOUTHWELL 10:10 hrs Uno Valoroso 10:40 hrs Tommy The Rascal 11:10 hrs Shanyou Rock 11:40 hrs Edward Elgar 12:10 hrs Sam Red 12:40 hrs Boher Lad 13:10 hrs My Mate Mark IRISH RACING TIPS Naas 10:20 hrs Kolumbus 10:50 hrs Adreamsstillalive 11:20 hrs Edwulf 11:50 hrs Joey sasa 12:20 hrs Just Cameron 12:50 hrs Cappacurry Zak 13:20 hrs Monbeg Worldwide SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Scottsville 08:40 hrs They Say 09:15 hrs Shine Up 09:50 hrs Sylvester The Cat 10:25 hrs Roy’s Roll’s Royce 11:00 hrs Fit For Fun TURFFONTEIN 08:25 hrs Chatrter Jet 09:00 hrs First Dance 09:35 hrs Dame Eleanor 10:10 hrs Duzi Moon 10:45 hrs Neuf Die Pape 11:20 hrs King Of Mani

elapsed, passing him with a routine ‘in and out’move to take the lead.

By the end of the 10 laps, Jeffrey had opened a four and a half second gap over the rest of the field, with Hunte second and Vieira third.Race two was almost a carbon copy of Race one, even though it sported a 50% inverted grid (the first 50% of the total competitors undergo an inversion of their finishing position) as is commonly used in the Formula 4 events.

Vieira produced another excellent start to take the lead with Jeffrey rising from third to second on lap two and then eventually taking the lead three laps in and then finally winning by another four seconds;clocking the fastest-time of the evening with 29.295.

Vieira finished second this time around with Mike Gonzalves third. Race three had Jeffrey on Pole once more alongside Vieira this time.The second fastest times were used to choose grid positions and once more, it was an almost carbon copy of the earlier races,with Jeffrey winning ahead of Vieira and Hunte.Overall,Jeffrey was adjudged the champion driver for his three wins.

In the 60CC Sunburst Kids Cup, Jeremy Ten Pow took the Champion driver class, having won two of the three contests, beating Justin Ten Pow and Nathan Rahaman in race two, and then Nathan Rahaman and Jeremy in Race three.

The First race was won

by Nathan with Paige Mendonca finishing second and Justin third. Both Ten-Pows as well as Mendonca are from the Pure Racing family.

In the 125cc, Mikhail Persaud emerged the best driver of the night having swept up two wins and one third place finish. He finished third in Race one behind race winner and Pure Racing’s John Phang and second place Elan Rahaman.

Persaud,however,returned to finish strong in the next two outings, overcoming Rahaman who finished second on both occasions with Phang picking up third in race two and Faraud Mohamed third in race three On the senior 125cc end, Trinidadian Bridget Singh won both of the events of the night ahead of Stefan Jeffrey and Terry Singh in race one and Terry Singh and Emma Vieira in Race two.

Both races were led for a

considerable amount of time

by Pure Racing’s Matthew Phang,who in the end suffered Kart troubles.

The Easy (Honda four Stroke) Cup light class had an entertaining battle between Stephen Vieira and Trinidadian Ravi Singh,with Ravi taking race one ahead of Stephen and Shan Seejattan,and then Stephen taking race two ahead of the Trinidadian and Seejattan.

Race three however had surprise entrant Timmers taking the chequered flag ahead of Vieira and Terry Singh, with Vieira being crowned champion driver for that class.

In the heavy section of the class, Seejattan dominated with two wins over Rameez Mohammed (two second place finishes) for the champion driver award with Raymond Seebaran and Haniff Mohammed each picking up a third.

The event was sponsored by Secure Innovations and Concepts, Sunburst, STAG Beer, Ocean Spray Hotel, Windjammer International, E Networks, BM Soat Auto Sales, Rays Auto Spares and Auto Sales and GT Motorsports.

Sixteen goals scored on day five of Milo Under-18 football CALVIN Peters scored a hat- trick in Master’s Academy 8-1 rout of St Roses High during day five of the Petra organised Ministry of Public Health/Milo Under-18 schools football tournament.

Played at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue, Peters (11th, 44th and 62nd) minute strikes were instrumental in demoralising the St Roses side who only had Joel Morrison (22nd) on target.

Andel Smith (37th and 64th), Derwyn George (28th), Randy Smart (51st) and Kareem Caines (59th) all got in on the scoring action for Master’s as they continued their form in the tournament.

In game two, The Bishops’ High School was able to scrape past Ann’s Grove in a come-from-behind 2-1 win.

Shemar McPherson’s 12 th minute strike was cancelled out by Tyrone Singh (54th),with Tyrese Souvenir putting the Carmichael Street institution ahead in the 60th minute.

In game three, Buxton Youth Developers raided North Ruimveldt 5-0 thanks to a brace from Kifumbo Goodman (15th and 19th); single strikes from Hamar Beckles (2nd) and Teffrel Campbell (16th) and an own-goal in the 61st.

Matches continue today at the same venue with Kingston playing St Mary’s in game one while Tucville take on Charlestown in game two.

After the break, Lodge Secondary tackles East Ruimveldt while Morgan Learning Centre will entertain the challenge of St. John’s College.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Aussies spin way to massive 333-run win to humiliate India ... O’Keefe returns career-best figures of 6-35, Smith compiles his 18th Test century

By Sudipto Ganguly PUNE, India-(Reuters)Left-arm spinner Steve O’Keefe picked up 12 wickets to guide Australia to a first win in India since 2004, the 333-run thrashing in the opening Test

also bringing the home side’s 19-match unbeaten streak to a juddering halt on Saturday.

The 32-year-old, who returned matching career-best figures of 6-35 in both innings for a maiden 10-wicket Test haul, shone with the

Steve O’Keefe is delighted after bowling Virat Kohli for 13 in India’s second innings.

India’s low Test totals at home (REUTERS)- INDIA were dismissed for 107 in the second innings of the first Test against Australia on Saturday.

Below are India’s lowest totals in Test matches played on home soil.

Runs Opponents Venue 75 West Indies Delhi 76 South Africa Ahmedabad 83 England Chennai 83 New Zealand Mohali 88 New Zealand Mumbai 89 New Zealand Hyderabad 90 West Indies Kolkata 100 England Mumbai 103 West Indies Ahmedabad 104 Australia Mumbai 105 Australia Pune

Date Nov 25, 1987 Apr 3, 2008 Jan 14, 1977 Oct 10, 1999 Mar 12, 1965 Oct 15, 1969 Dec 10, 1983 Mar 18, 2006 Nov 12, 1983 Nov 3, 2004 Feb 24, 2017

ball after his skipper Steve Smith had recorded his first Test century on Indian soil to anchor Australia’s batting.

India, who had not lost a home Test in 20 matches since a 2012 defeat to England in Kolkata, were once again unable to cope with O’Keefe’s probing lines after they were bundled out for a paltry 105 in the first innings.

Chasing a massive victory target of 441, India scored just two more runs in their second innings to capitulate inside three days at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, making its debut as a Test centre.

“We’ve got to hold our heads high, take it on the chin and accept the defeat, they completely outplayed us,” home captain Virat Kohli said after India fell 1-0 behind in the fourmatch series.

“That was probably our worst batting display in the last two years. I’m sure the guys will bounce back strongly but the batting was more disappointing than the bowling.”

Arriving in India on the back of nine straight defeats in Asia, Australia were in control of the contest once they scraped together 260 in the first innings and tasted victory in India for the first time since a 342-run Nagpur victory in 2004.

“I’m really proud of the way the boys have performed in this test match,” Australia captain Smith said.

“Steve O’Keefe was absolutely outstanding throughout. I think it’s been 4,502 days since Australia’s won a Test here in India. I know it to the day and I’m really proud of that achievement.”

SLOPPY FIELDING Four of O’Keefe’s six wickets in the second innings were leg before dismissals while he also got the prized

scalp of Kohli, who completed a forgettable display when he shouldered arms to a straight delivery and saw his off-stump uprooted for 13.

Spin colleague Nathan Lyon provided able support, picking up the other four wickets in India’s innings for 53 runs.

Earlier in the day, Smith capitalised on India’s sloppy fielding with a brilliant century to help his team make 285 in their second innings after the visitors had resumed on 143 for four.

Smith, the world’s topranked Test batsman, was eventually out leg before to left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja for 109 after he compiled his 18th Test ton to guide Australia to a winning advantage.

The 27-year-old right-handed batsman, who was unbeaten on 59 overnight, was dropped three times on Friday and was handed another lifeline on 67 but maintained his concentration on a tricky surface to bring up his 18th test hundred.

He also enjoyed another slice of fortune on 73 when a strong appeal for leg before off Jadeja was turned down by the umpire with replays indicating the decision would have been overturned on review had India not already used up their two referrals.

After Smith reached three figures with a couple of runs off Jadeja, he punched the air and planted a kiss on his helmet before soaking up the applause from the sparse morning crowd and his team mates.

Smith and Mitchell Marsh added 56 for the fifth wicket and the Australia captain contributed to two more significant stands with Matthew Wade (20) and Mitchell Starc (30) as Australia piled on the runs.

The second match starts in Bangalore from next Saturday.

Australia’s captain Steven Smith celebrates a fighting hundred in Pune on the 3rd day.

SCOREBOARD AUSTRALIA 1st innings 260 (M. Renshaw 68, M. Starc 61; U. Yadav 4-32) India 1st innings 105 (L. Rahul 64; S. O’Keefe 6-35) Australia 2nd innings (Overnight: 143-4) D. Warner lbw b R. Ashwin 10 S. Marsh lbw b R. Ashwin 0 S. Smith lbw b Jadeja 109 P. Handscomb c Vijay b R. Ashwin 19 M. Renshaw c I. Sharma b J. Yadav 31 M. Marsh c Saha b Jadeja 31 M. Wade c Saha b U. Yadav 20 M. Starc c Rahul b R. Ashwin 30 S. O’Keefe c Saha b Jadeja 6 N. Lyon lbw b U. Yadav 13 J. Hazlewood not out 2 Extras (b-4 lb-9 nb-1) 14 Total (all out, 87 overs) 285 Fall of wickets: 1-10 D. Warner,2-23 S. Marsh,3-61 P. Handscomb,4-113 M. Renshaw,5-169 M. Marsh,6-204 M. Wade,7-246 S. Smith,8-258 M. Starc,9-279 N. Lyon,10-285 S. O’Keefe Bowling: R. Ashwin 28 - 3 - 119 – 4,R. Jadeja 33 - 10 65 – 3, U. Yadav 13 - 1 - 39 – 2, J. Yadav 10 - 1 - 43 - 1(nb-1), I. Sharma 3 - 0 - 6 – 0.

INDIA 2nd innings (Target: 441 runs) M. Vijay lbw b O’Keefe 2 L. Rahul lbw b Lyon 10 C. Pujara lbw b O’Keefe 31 V. Kohli b O’Keefe 13 A. Rahane c Lyon b O’Keefe 18 R. Ashwin lbw b O’Keefe 8 W. Saha lbw b O’Keefe 5 R. Jadeja b Lyon 3 J. Yadav c Wade b Lyon 5 I. Sharma c Warner b Lyon 0 U. Yadav not out 0 Extras (b-8 lb-4) 12 Total (all out, 33.5 overs) 107 Fall of wickets: 1-10 M. Vijay,2-16 L. Rahul,3-47 V. Kohli,4-77 A. Rahane,5-89 R. Ashwin,6-99 W. Saha,7-100 C. Pujara,8-102 R. Jadeja,9-102 I. Sharma,10-107 J. Yadav Bowling: M. Starc 2 - 2 - 0 – 0,N. Lyon 14.5 - 2 - 53 – 4, S. O’Keefe 15 - 4 - 35 – 6 J. Hazlewood 2 - 0 - 7 – 0.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Chelsea surge 11 points clear, Leicester into bottom three

By Martyn Herman LONDON,(Reuters)-Chelsea’s processional march towards the Premier League title continued at Swansea City’s expense on Saturday as reigning champions Leicester City dropped into the bottom three.

Antonio Conte’s side were not firing on all cylinders against a resolute Swansea side managed by their former assistant coach Paul Clement but second-half goals by Pedro and Diego Costa made sure of a 3-1 victory.

They are 11 points ahead of Manchester City who have 13 games left and while Italian Conte is too cagey to start preparing the Prosecco yet, only a monumental loss of form looks like denying him the title in his first season in charge.

Tottenham Hotspur, the only other top-four side in league action this weekend, could trim Chelsea’s lead to 10 points if they win at home to Stoke City on Sunday.

“It’s important to continue this way. We need 29 points to be sure of winning the league,” Conte told reporters.

Chelsea’s victory made it mathematically impossible for Leicester to catch them as they are 42 points behind the leaders going into their home clash with Liverpool on Monday their first fixture since the sacking of manager Claudio Ranieri.

Chelsea’s Diego Costa scores their third goal Reuters / Peter Nicholls Leicester will start that game third-bottom after Crystal Palace’s 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Selhurst Park on Saturday took them out of the relegation zone.

Patrick van Aanholt’s 34th-minute goal was enough to lift Palace to 17th place with 22 points, one ahead of Leicester and Hull City, who drew 1-1 at home with Burnley.

“The three points are important as it puts us in amongst the pack, out of the bottom three and a bit closer to Bournemouth,” Palace manager Sam Allardyce said.

Boro also have 22 points

but are sliding towards the drop zone after nine league games without a win.

Bournemouth, too, are being sucked into the relegation battle after a 2-1 defeat at West Bromwich Albion despite taking a fourth-minute lead through Josh King’s penalty. Craig Dawson and Gareth McAuley replied for West Brom, who are eighth.

In-form Everton continue to harbour hopes of catching the top four and beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to move within six points of fourth-placed Arsenal.

Romelu Lukaku made the points safe for Everton

Final two stages of Forbes Burnham Memorial cycle road race today

Trojan cyclist Andrew Hicks

THE last two stages of the Annual Forbes Burnham Three-Stage Cycle Road Race is slated for today,with the first expected to commence at 07:30hrs from the `Five Corners’ in Linden and concluding on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown.

The race leader is Trojan cyclist Andrew Hicks of Berbice,who won last Sunday’s first stage which was held in Berbice. Hicks returned a winning time of one hour three minutes and 34 seconds for the 36-mile stage and will go into today’s second stage with a three-second lead ahead of Team Coco’s Stephano Husbands who finished second in the Berbice leg.

Husbands’ club mates Hamzah Eastman and

Jamal John placed third and fourth respectively last Sunday, while national road race champion Geron Williams placed fifth.

The event which is being organized by the Flying Stars Cycle Club is expected to bring out the best of the local wheelsmen and today’s second stage can well see the `boys’ being separated from the `men’ as the saying goes, since it entails journeying up hill on the Linden/Soesdyke Highway.

The final stage will wheel off from Homestretch Avenue at 14:00hrs(today) and proceed to Belfield on the East Coast Demerara,before returning to the place of origin for the finish.

with 10 minutes remaining, taking his tally for the season to 17, level at the top of the scoring charts with Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez.

Sunderland’s fourth defeat in six left them on 19 points.

“There is a gap between us and the teams above us but there are still 12 games to go,” Everton manager Ronald Koeman said.

“You need to continue and get the momentum.

Watford host West Ham United in the day’s late kickoff.

Chelsea were made to work hard to dispatch a much-improved Swansea side despite taking a 19th-minute lead when Cesc Fabregas scored on his 300th Premier League appearance.

Fernando Llorente scored from Swansea’s first

real chance on the cusp of halftime, heading in after Gylfi Sigurdsson found him with a quickly-taken free kick.

Swansea were denied a penalty midway through the second half when Cesar Azpilicueta got away with a clear handball.

“That was a big moment.

Who knows what would have happened?” Swansea boss Paul Clement, returning to the club where he was assistant coach, said as he reflected on the defeat.

Shortly afterwards Pedro’s shot squirmed past keeper Lukasz Fabianski before Diego Costa, the fourth Spaniard of the day to hit the target, made the points safe with a volley for his 16th league goal of the season.

AB de Villiers passes ODI milestone in big South Africa win (REUTERS)-South Africa captain AB de Villiers became the fastest man to score 9,000 one-day international runs as he led his side to a 159-run victory over New Zealand in the third one-day international on Saturday.

De Villiers scored 85, having needed just five runs to surpass former India captain Sourav Ganguly, who took 228 innings to achieve the milestone. De Villiers did it in his 205th innings.

South Africa scored a credible 271-8 in their 50 overs and then their pace bowlers ripped the top off the hosts batting to reduce them to 58 for six in the 20th over before bowling them out for 112 in 32.2 overs.

The victory gave de Villiers’ team a 2-1 lead in the five-match series with the fourth game in Hamilton on Wednesday.

Colin de Grandhomme was the only New Zealand batsmen to really come to grips with the drop-in pitch at Wellington Regional Stadium with 34 not out and highlighted that he was batting too low at number eight in the order.

Andile Phehlukwayo (2-12 from five overs) and Dwaine Pretorius (3-5 from 5.2 overs) were the most economical of the South African bowlers.

De Villiers had again held his side’s innings together with a composed knock and was only dismissed in the final over when he failed to get underneath a Trent Boult full toss and was caught on the boundary.

Quinton de Kock also gave his side a solid foundation with 68, the opener passing 50 in his

last five one-day matches.

The visitors were adept at rotating the strike and ticking the scoreboard over, with 116 runs coming from singles.

A surprising double strike by de Grandhomme in the 23rd over slowed the visitors momentum, with the all-rounder having Faf du Plessis (36) caught by Tim Southee before de Kock was caught by Jimmy Neesham three balls later at deep midwicket.

South Africa had been cruising at 114-1 before de Grandhomme’s double strike.

Their vaunted middle order failed to fire with wickets falling at regular intervals and they were in trouble at 180-6 by the 39th over.

De Villiers, however, then combined with Wayne Parnell (35) to add 84 runs for the seventh wicket that gave them a target that was achievable but never in danger of being threatened by the hosts.

SCOREBOARD NEW ZEALAND South Africa Innings Q. de Kock c Neesham b de Grandhomme 68 H. Amla c Williamson b Southee 7 F. du Plessis c Southee b de Grandhomme 36 A. de Villiers c Neesham b Boult 85 J. Duminy run out (Southee) 16 D. Miller c Broom b Santner 3 D. Pretorius b Ferguson 11 W. Parnell run out (Santner, Latham) 35 A. Phehlukwayo not out 1 Extras (lb-2 w-7) 9 Total (for 8 wickets, 50 overs) 271 Fall of wickets: 1-41 H. Amla,2-114 F. du Plessis,3-115 Q. de Kock,4-157 J. Duminy,5-164 D. Miller,6-180 D. Pretorius,7-264 A. de Villiers,8-271 W. Parnell Did not bat: I. Tahir, K. Rabada Bowling: T. Southee 10 - 0 - 66 - 1(w-2),T. Boult 10 - 0 - 47 – 1, L. Ferguson 10 - 0 - 71 - 1(w-3),C. de Grandhomme 10 - 0 - 40 - 2(w-2), M. Santner 10 - 0 - 45 – 1.

NEW ZEALAND Innings D. Brownlie c de Kock b Rabada 2 T. Latham c Duminy b Parnell 0 K. Williamson b Phehlukwayo 23 R. Taylor lbw b Pretorius 18 N. Broom c Amla b Phehlukwayo 0 J. Neesham c&b Parnell 13 M. Santner b Pretorius 1 C. de Grandhomme not out 34 T. Southee c de Kock b Rabada 5 L. Ferguson b Tahir 4 T. Boult c de Villiers b Pretorius 4 Extras (w-8) 8 Total (all out, 32.2 overs) 112 Fall of wickets: 1-2 T. Latham,2-11 D. Brownlie,3-48 K. Williamson,4-48 R. Taylor,5-51 N. Broom,6-58 M. Santner,7-77 J. Neesham,8-82 T. Southee,9-95 L. Ferguson,10-112 T. Boult Bowling: K. Rabada 10 - 0 - 39 - 2(w-2), W. Parnell 8 - 0 - 33 – 2, A. Phehlukway 5 - 0 - 12 - 2(w-1), D. Pretorius 5.2 - 1 - 5 – 3, I. Tahir 4 - 1 - 23 - 1(w-1).

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

The National Under-17 team is being supervised by a six-man Technical squad.

National U-17 team encamped for Martinique Invitational tournament ENCAMPMENT for the National Under-17 football team has commenced with an eighteen-man squad in preparation for their participation in the “Tournoi Paul Chillan” in Martinique from March 1–5.

According to a Guyana Football Federation (GFF) release, the tournament in Martinique will feature six countries including Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti and the host nation (Martinique).

The eight-day camp, which began on February 21, consists of nine players from the Georgetown Football Association (GFA), two each from the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) and East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) and one player

each from the Berbice Football Association (BFA), Rupununi Football Association (RFA) and Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA). There is also one overseas-based player who is from the United States of America (USA).

Among the 18 players are two goalkeepers, six defenders,six midfielders and four forwards. They are being supervised by a six-man technical squad headed by Technical Director, Ian Greenwood,and Head Coach Bryan Joseph.

Among the other technical team members are Team Manager Carlos Bernard, Assistant Coach Gilbert Sampson, Goalkeeping Coach Eon De Veira, Physiotherapist Seulear Hope-Ross and Referee Kenisha Prescott.

Eastman wins R&R Int’l cycle road race

TEAM Coco’s Hamzah Eastman yesterday won the annual R&R International Cycle Road race to chalk up back-to-back victories withing three days,after winning the Courts Guyana Limited sponsored 30-mile road race in Berbice on Thursday last.He won in one hour, 31 minutes 36 seconds,ahead of his teammate Jamal John, Team Evolution’s Michael Anthony, Continental Wheelers’ Geron Williams, Shaquele Agard and Alonzo Ambrose. In the process, Eastman also won three of the six prime prizes that were up for grabs, while John won the other three.

On Thursday, Eastman won the Flying Ace Cycle Club organized 30-mile race in one hour 01.50 seconds in an event that brought out most of the country’s top riders.

In yesterday’s event, Eastman had to battle to

… chalks up back-to-back victories within three days

Prize winners of yesterday’s R&R International sponsored cycle road race strike a pose after receiving their prizes. stave off a strong challenge from six other top riders which included the other top five finishers.

After being sent on their

way from outside the Ocean View International Hotel, there was an eight-man group that made a break at Plaisance;a group that

comprised Anthony, John, Silvio Inniss who fell on the way up at Happy Acres, Shaquel Agard and Andrew Hicks.

The eight riders stayed together,inter-changing the lead,however,at Beterverwagting, Williams, Hicks and Ambrose broke from

the peloton and joined John and Anthony at Mahaica new road and after turning back, Eastman and Andrew Hicks went out and was only caught by the main chasing pack at Lusignan.From there the pack of seven raced to the finish line, but it was Eastman who prevailed to take the top prize.

In other placements from yesterday’s race, Curtis Dey of Berbice won the junior category ahead of Jason Cameron and Adeleli Hidge respectively, while Junior Niles won the veterans’ category ahead of paul Cho-Wee-Nam and Stephen Fernandes respectively.

The mountain bike category was won by Oziah McAulley. Second was Michael Holder.

The presentation of prizes to the respective winners was done by the race’s sponsor Jacob Rambarran, a former cyclist.

The event was organised by Hassan Mohamed.

29

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Pleased Smith warns Australia against possible India backlash

By Sudipto Ganguly

PUNE, India(Reuters)-Captain Steve Smith described Australia’s thumping win against India as one of his best victories but warned his team mates of a possible backlash from the smarting hosts.

“They’re an amazing team particularly in their own backyard. They’re going to come back hard and we’ve got to be ready for it,” Smith told reporters after Australia’s 333-run victory in the first test on Saturday.

The odds were heavily stacked against the visiting side when they arrived in India, after they had lost their last nine Tests in Asia and suffered a 4-0 whitewash on their 2013 tour to the country.

India, the world’s topranked side, were unbeaten in their previous 19 tests

Australia exult after taking India’s last wicket on the 3rd day of the first Test in Pune. with their last loss at home coming in 2012 against England in Kolkata, prompting the Australian captain to call his side underdogs.

Smith’s men, however, thrashed India inside three days to go 1-0 up in the fourmatch series.

“It’s right up there.

Coming to India, we haven’t won a game here in 4,502 days. I’ve been told those facts,” Smith said.

“So it has been an incredibly long time.

“The guys have been excited by the opportunity to come and play here. We know it’s a great challenge

England head coach praises Bermudian left-hander Rawlins

Bermudian batsman Delray Rawlins NAGPUR, India, (CMC) – England Under-19s head coach Andy Hurry has praised Bermudian lefthander Delray Rawlins for his role in helping his side force a draw on the last day of the second and final Youth Test against India at the Vidarbha Cricket Asso-

ciation Stadium here Friday.

Rawlins, who is on the books of English county side Sussex, followed up his 140 in the first innings with 49 in the second, holding India at bay in a crucial third-wicket stand of 121 with George Bartlett, who made 76.

Rawlins, on his England

Under-19s debut, fell one short of 550 runs in total on the month-long tour.

Both four-day Tests were drawn after India won the earlier five-match one-day series 3-1.

“Rawlins and Bartlett were outstanding in closing out that (final) morning session,” said Hurry after the second Test was drawn.

“The ball was turning and there was some uneven bounce as well. But they both showed great maturity as well as skill.

“Like everyone else in our squad, they will go back home for the 2017 season and the rest of their careers having learnt so much from the experiences we have all enjoyed out here in India.”

Rawlins, who is hoping his form in India will help him break into Sussex’s first team this season, ended the Tests with a superb average of 91.3 after accumulating 274 runs.

This came after he finished the ODI series with a batting average of 68.7, having compiled 275 runs, which included an unbeaten 107 and 96.

and this game the boys were up to the challenge.

“The pressure was on us. Everyone wrote us off and expected India to win four-nil. That can’t happen any more.”

On a surface offering prodigious turn for the spinners, left-armer Steve

O’Keefe picked up six wickets for 35 in both innings to help Australia scythe through India’s batting lineup.

Smith, who hit his 18th Test hundred and his first in India in the second innings, congratulated his team mates for their efforts.

“Terrific job over the last three days,” the 27-year-old said. “But it’s only one game. It’s a fourmatch series and we’d like to win the series, as you like to do with every series.

“For us it’s about taking it one day at a time and continuing to worry about our processes. If we do that like we did in this game, hopefully the result will take care of itself.”

Australia’s last series win in India came way back in 2004 when they won 2-1 and Smith urged his team mates to keep up the intensity.

“I wouldn’t say it was

perfect but we did a lot of things right in this test match, that’s for sure,” Smith said.

“But there are still areas that we can improve on. It’s going to be a tough road.”

There was a lot of criticism of the pitch at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, making its debut as a Test centre, with the surface assisting the spinners from the first session of the match.

Smith said the pitch was prepared to suit the home team but played into their hands.

“I think it was certainly a wicket that would more likely suit the Indian players. I think it evened up the contest a lot more,” he said.

“It was up to them to prepare a wicket and they prepared a wicket that actually played into our hands.

“It would be interesting to see what they come up with come Bangalore.”

St Kitts, Haiti end CONCACAF Under-20 campaign on losing note SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – St Kitts and Nevis could not withstand a first half assault from United States

Kittitians to a bottom place finish in Group B on Friday.

There was also disappointment for the other Ca-

Sebastian Saucedo … scored twice for the US and crashed to a heavy 4-1 defeat, to finish the preliminary round of the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship with three straight losses Sebastian Saucedo struck twice while Brooks Lennon and Jonathan Lewis added one each, to condemn the

ribbean Football Union side in action as French nation Haiti disappointingly went down 3-1 to Panama in the opening game.

The results ensured the elimination of both St Kitts and Haiti as Panama topped the group with a perfect nine points with the US second

on six.

Playing at the Estadio Ricardo Saprissa, Lennon opened the scoring for the US in the 16th minute when he collected Jeremy Eboisse left-sided cross and volleyed past goalkeeper Nathan Lescott from close range.

The second goal arrived three minutes later courtesy of some fortune as Lewis tucked in a loose ball after Lennon’s corner.

Saucedo then scored twice in seven minutes to end the game as a serious contest. His first was a spectacular long range shot from about six yards outside the box in the 35th minute and his second came four minutes from the break through a long range spot kick.

St Kitts gained some consolation in the 77th minute when Romario Martin capitalized on a mix-up in the US defence to net only his side’s second goal of the competition.

30

SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Walton’s stoke-filled 121 fails to stop England win

BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – Captain Chadwick Walton struck his second List A hundred three in three outings but it was not enough to prevent the UWI Vice Chancellor’s XI from crashing to a 117-run defeat to England here Saturday.

The 31-year-old, who gathered a career-best 117 against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force just ten days ago during the Regional Super50, improved on that effort with a strokefilled 121 off 109 deliveries as the Vice Chancellor’s XI were bowled out for 262 in the 40th over.

Youth World Cup hero, Shimron Hetmyer, stroked 40 and Cassius Burton, 25, but Walton lacked real support and the innings collapsed late on.

Sent in at Warner Park, the tourists had earlier piled up

IAAF appoints independent Vetting Panel

THE IAAF, committing to the overhaul of the administration of track and field, have announced the names for their independent panel of experts to oversee and assess the eligibility of new and existing officials being put forward for, or continuing to serve in, IAAF roles.

The three candidates, who will form the IAAF Vetting Panel starting Friday, are Chair Mr Akere Muna, and members Professor Mark Pieth and Mr Don Mackinnon. The three had to endure a recruitment process where 37 people were consulted.

The panellists are required to be independent of the IAAF, with experience in screening applicants and candidates for appointments to official positions.

Akere Muna is the Independent Sanctions Commissioner of the Africa Development Bank Group and Chair of the International Anti-Corruption Conference.

He also sits on the Governance Board of the African Governance Institute. He previously served for 10 years as Vice-Chair of Transparency International where he was also Chair of its Ethics Committee.

Professor Mark Pieth is a Professor of Criminal Law and the founder and Chair of the Basel Institute of Governance in Switzerland. He has served on the Integrity Advisory Board of the World Bank and was a member of the Independent Committee set up to revise financial practices in Panama.

He chaired the Independence Governance Committee overseeing the reform process within FIFA between 2011 and 2013.

Don Mackinnon is managing partner of a boutique law practice in New Zealand and has extensive experience working in the governance of different sports, including rugby union, rugby league, cricket and netball. He currently chairs a number of appointment panels in sport.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday February 26, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 434/4-50 overs (Jam vs T&T) (2) 58 all out (WI Under 19s vs T&T)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who took most wickets in the final of the CWI/ Nagicor Super 50, 2017?

(2) Who took most wickets in the knock-out stage?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

53.

Opener Chadwick Walton pulls during his entertaining 121 against England at Warner Park on Saturday. (Photo courtesy WICB Media)

an imposing 379 for eight off their 50 overs, courtesy of half-centuries from captain Eoin Morgan, Jason Roy, Joe Root and Ben Stokes.

Morgan struck 95 off 84 deliveries with six fours and six sixes, opener Roy blasted a stunning 79 off 43 balls with 12 fours and three sixes while Root’s 71 came from 76 balls and included five fours and two sixes.

Stokes weighed with 61 off 53 balls with a four and five sixes.

Fast bowler Jermaine Levy was the best bowler with four for 100 while left-arm spinner Khary Pierre claimed two for

Roy put on 42 off 34 balls with Sam Billings (14) for the first wicket before adding a further 72 off 50 balls for the second wicket with Root.

Morgan and Root then combined to plunder 127 for the third wicket and once Root departed in the 31st over, Morgan and Stokes put on 57 for the fourth wicket.

Left-hander Morgan was eyeing triple figures when he missed a swing at one from Pierre which kept low and was lbw in the 42nd over at 297 for four.

Stokes and Liam Dawson, who made 30, ensured England got beyond 350 by posting a frenetic 68 off 31 balls for the sixth wicket.

In reply, the Vice Chancellor’s XI were carried by Walton who struck 12 fours and seven sixes in an entertaining knock.

He lost opening partner Amir Jangoo and then Anthony Alleyne – both without scoring – in the space of three balls in the second over from seamer Steven Finn (2-22), as the hosts stuttered to 10 for two.

However, Walton anchored two successive half-century stands to put his side back on course, adding 70 for the third wicket with Hetmyer and 81 with Burton for the fourth.

The right-handed Walton reached his half-century off 44 balls with a boundary through mid-wicket off leg-spinner Adil Rashid and needed another 56 deliveries to complete a run-aball hundred, clipping left-arm spinner Dawson to mid-wicket for a single to reach his landmark in the 33rd over.

He was eventually eighth out at 216 in the 36th over, lbw to Root off a faster delivery.

After slumping to 230 for nine, Keon Harding (18) and Levy (15) ensure the tail wagged by adding a breezy 32 off 22 for the last wicket.

Pollard smashes six off last ball to hand Kings crucial win DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, (CMC) – Kieron Pollard smashed sixes off the last two deliveries of the game to fire Karachi Kings to a dramatic five-wicket win over Lahore Qalanders and keep alive their hopes of a playoff spot in the Pakistan Super League.

Chasing 156 for victory at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday, Kings entered the final over requiring 14 runs for victory with Pollard on strike and the West Indies batsman finally proved his worth in gold for the franchise.

He gathered a couple in the deep off the first delivery bowled by seamer Aamer Yamin, managed a single off the next ball but was handed the strike again quickly when Imad Wasim took a single off the third ball.

Pollard was kept scoreless off the fourth ball leaving Kings with 10 runs needed from the last two balls but the Trinidadian cleared the ropes at long off with the fifth delivery before depositing

the final delivery over square leg to pull off a sensational win.

The right-hander finished

wicket to put Kings on course for victory before four wickets tumbled for 23 runs in the space of 24

Kieron Pollard unbeaten on 45 from a mere 20 deliveries with a four and four sixes while prolific opener Babar Azam topscored with 49 from 42 balls.

Babar and captain Kumar Sangakkara (20) had added 53 for the second

deliveries.

Pollard and Imad Wasim (19 not out) then rescued the innings in an unbroken 55run, sixth wicket partnership.

Pollard’s West Indies counterpart and fellow Trinidadian, Sunil Narine, was

brilliant in his four overs of off-spin, taking one for 19.

Sent in earlier, Qalanders were carried by an unbeaten 32 from Mohammad Rizwan and 31 from captain and opener Brendon McCullum, while Narine lashed two sixes in a six-ball 19 batting at number five.

Kings moved into fourth spot in the standings on six points but a defeat in the remaining preliminary game on Sunday could see them eliminated.

In the other game, neither captain Darren Sammy nor Marlon Samuels had much of an impact but Peshawar Zalmi still managed to beat Quetta Gladiators by two wickets with four balls left in their final game, to go top of the table.

Sammy suffered the indignity of a first ball ‘duck’ while Samuels scored seven as Zalmi, chasing 129 for victory, slumped to 52 for six in the 10th over.

But Shahid Afridi arrived to hit an explosive unbeaten 45 off 23 deliveries to drag Zalmi over the line.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE February 26, 2017

Enticing matches in Limacol semi-finals tonight

WITH the four teams in the Petra-organised Limacol/GT Beer round-robin/ knockout football tournament having an extra two days to fine tune their strategies, the semi-finals are expected to be of a superior standard.

In the first affair, an all-Georgetown battle, Western Tigers will have a chance to tweak their style of play when the take on the unpredictable Santos FC.Based on their performance in this year’s tournament, the Tigers are continuously showing that they are not only capable of talking the talk, but walking the

walk.

They boast a record-winning streak of four wins so far, and their ability to get in even behind the sturdiest of defences will be put to the test this evening, and with players like Andrew Murray Jr. Devon Millington, Randolph Wagner, Jamal Pedro and Linden Picketts; they are going to be one to watch.

Conversely, there is the obvious under-dog feeling that must be on Santos FC mind, despite the fact that they have been steadily improving throughout. Their star players include O’Kenie

Fraser, Keith Caines, Job Caesar and Orin Yarde,and their fans are hoping that they can overturn what many feel may be an easy game.

Meanwhile, the two early games are no bench-warmers either with Police having to play Linden’s Winners Connection (WC).

The leadership of Dwain Jacobs has proved to be sound so far for the boys in blue(police) and while the unit may take a while to get into their groove,most teams would like to avoid them due to their ability to take it to another level.

Persons cannot count out

Western Tigers produced a firecracker when they played Uitvlugt at the GFC earlier in the tournament. Can they do it again?

Quincy Holder as well, one of the better players in the side to secure game-changing results whenever the conditions are right.

Central FC will get paid when government has the money – Skeene

2016/2017 Digicel Pro League champions Central FC

WC, on the other hand, are a known physical team who will no doubt let Police know early that they are in for a tough 90 minutes and after Sunday night’s perfor-

mance, Rene Gibbons has shown that all he needs is half a chance to make that difference.

Kick-off time is 18:30hrs.

THREE-time Digicel Pro League champions Central FC will have to continue to wait to collect their million-dollar winner’s prize because of the Government’s payment schedule.

The 2016/2017 champions of Trinidad and Tobago’s professional league are also owed the balance of their prize money from the 2014/2015 season.

But, according Dexter Skeene, the Chief Executive Officer of the TT Pro League, this is not unusual.

“For those of us who have been in the league from inception, we understand that the prize monies are paid the year after and continuing throughout because if you understand how Government subventions (are) paid, it is not paid in the particular year.

You get it whenever the Government has money,” Skeene told the Newsday.

Club owner Brent Sancho, while speaking to Sportsmax.tv shortly after the conclusion of the season, described the club as being in survival mode.

“We have had no real support from Corporate Trinidad and Tobago and inconsistent support

from the government, so survival is key,” Sancho said.

“Even though we have won prize money– more than TT$ 2 million - we still haven’t received it for the past two to three years, so we have reached a stage now where survival is paramount for the club’s success.”

Skeene empathised with the club’s position, saying that the government will do whatever is possible to help.

“I understand Central FC. They are crying out.

They want to be able to have the funds because they’re involved in the CONCACAF Club Championships as well. We’re trying to make every effort to assist them,” he said, adding that he wished the club well.

“We hope that they go out and represent us well. They’re one of our top clubs. They’ve won it three times, congratulations to them. They’ve done remarkably well given the circumstances and we hope that they go out and represent us in the (Club Championships) and help us to reach further than they have done in the past.”

Jeffrey outshines the pack in Georgetown Grand Prix Kristian Jeffrey on the charge during race two of the Pro Shifter Cup of the GT Motorsports Georgetown Grand Prix on Friday evening last (NLightimaging photo)

The various winners pose with their trophies for the GT Motorsports Georgetown Grand Prix on Friday evening (See story on page 25)

Regal All-Stars, Masters reach final

By Rajiv Bisnauth in Florida GUYANA’s top softball teams, Regal All-Stars and Masters have advanced to the final of the All-Stars and Masters’ finals after both teams won their respective semi-final games yesterday in the three-day Florida Cup Softball tournament played at the Brian Piccolo Park, Cooper City, Florida.

Both teams played excellent cricket, with the AllStars beating the South Florida Softball Cricket League by 252 runs, while Regal Masters edged the defending Champions by 20 runs.

In the Maters category, Mahesh Chunilall stroked an unbeaten 94, which was the backbone of the innings after Regal Masters were 9-2 at one stage.

The two City teams had an

… Floodlights knocked out

The victorious Regal Masters team celebrating the final Floodlights wicket. intense battle, but it was Regal who had the final say. Floodlights,after winning the toss and deciding to bowl first,made early inroads, removing Mahendra Hardyal (0), via the run out route and Eion Able;both

going in the second over.

But, Chunilall and Mohendra Arjune joined forces and built a superb partnership of 51 off 43 balls.

Both batsmen handled the early pressure with ease,

rotating the strike on a regular basis and in the process dispatching the bad balls when they came along.

However, Arjune was dismissed for a 13-ball 30, inclu-

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sive of four fours and a six;being dismissed at the half-way stage of the innings, with Regal Masters on 72-3.

After the interval, Chunilall and Eric Thomas added 64 for the

fourth-wicket before Thomas (8) and Rudolph Baker (9) were both dismissed in quick succession.

The right-handed Chunilall continued his measured innings to remain unbeaten on 95,which came off 53 balls and included six fours and seven sixes.

Regal Masters ended on 184-5.

In reply Floodlights ended on 164-8.

Meanwhile, Regal AllStars made 331-4 declared, with Richard Latif hitting an unbeaten 100. South Florida Softball Cricket League were bowled out for 79.

In today’s final at the Central Broward Regional Park and Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida, Regal Maters will play Amazon, while Regal All-Stars come up against Hurricanes.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2017