Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 07 02 2017

‘Break that glass ceiling’

– First Lady urges WAC at 50th Anniversary service

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No tightening of currency trade …but greater regulation – Central Bank No. 104816

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2017

Price: $80

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Door open for dialogue on parking meters – Bulkan

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Smart City Solutions workers, with clamp in hands, hunt drivers who parked their vehicles without tickets (Delano Williams photo)

5 years, Aggressor in $237M fine Corentyne attempted for cocaine murder/suicide dies Page 2

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New nurses’ exam for Feb 21 Page 17

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Door open for dialogue on parking meters – Bulkan MINISTER of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, on Monday said the door was still open for dialogue on the parking meter issue and said it was unfair for the Private Sector Commission to accuse government and the Mayor and City Council for not engaging or consulting the business community, when there is evidence of efforts to do so.

Bulkan also on Monday released a letter he had written to the Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) Edward Boyer on January 10, 2017, in response to a November 25, 2016 letter that Boyer had written to President David Granger seeking clarity on a number of issues surrounding the parking meters. In a statement Monday,Minister Bulkan made reference to reports in numerous sections of the media that made reference to the reactions of business representative groups, one of the largest and most influential being the Private Sector Commission (PSC).

“As a specific example of such reports, I refer to an article captioned, ‘Hundreds protest city parking meters,’ (SN, February 4). The article states that business representatives are calling on central government to resolve the dispute. Among other assertions, the PSC – according to the report – states that, ‘The City Council have displayed unmatched arrogance in their refusal to engage businesses in any attempt to compromise.’ He said he has

not received a response from the PSC to his letter and that “one may reasonably take such a failure to take advantage of the opportunity afforded by my invitation as a refusal by the PSC to engage the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown, through the Min-

vened a meeting with the mayor and other representatives of the M&CC. “At this meeting, when it became evident that the Council was not prepared to concede to any of the concerns of the private sector, the idea of a Tri-Partite Committee being formed was first mooted. This committee was intended to consist of representatives of the Private Sector Commission, the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown and the Government of Guyana.”

According to the PSC, this committee was formally launched by His Excellency, President Granger, in early September of 2016 and this first gathering included the Ministers of Business and Communities. “It was made clear to the

Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan

istry of Communities.

“It is therefore, unfair of the PSC to accuse central government or the M&CC of not engaging or consulting the business community, when clearly there is evidence of our efforts to do so. In closing, I wish to make clear that the invitation for dialogue still stands.

I believe that such dialogue is likely to be far more fruitful than confrontation, whether in the streets or via the media,” Bulkan said.

Meanwhile, in a swift response, the PSC detailed that in August of 2016, when the idea of parking meters being installed in the city by the Mayor and City Council was first introduced, it had con-

Chairman of PSC, Edward Boyer

participants that the purpose of the Tri-Partite Committee was to promote dialogue between the Private Sector Commission and the Council and to arrive at a mutually agreed position which would ensure that the Council increased its revenue without unduly burdening the citizens and the businesses which plied their trade in the capital. It was further agreed that the Tri-Partite Committee would be supported and facil-

itated by Government through the Minister of Communities.”

According to the PSC, after the first few meetings, it became increasingly clear that the Council was paying only lip-service to the initiative, since it soon became inconvenient for them to attend meetings because the mayor either was abroad, or was otherwise indisposed and no deputy was authorised to represent her.

The Private Sector Commission said it then wrote to the mayor, seeking to discuss alternatives to the metering project, and to His Excellency, the President, seeking answers as to the position of the central Government with respect to the parking meters. The unions were also appealed to for support. The PSC said as the project steamed ahead with unseemly haste, it engaged the services of a media and public relations consultant. This, the PSC said, resulted in a series of radio and television advertisements explaining the improper nature of the manner in which the project was introduced and the negative impact that parking meters would have on the populace.

Meanwhile, the PSC said it had received no response to its letter to the mayor of November 25, but on January 11, 2017, it received a letter from the Minister of Communities in which he stated that the letter had been written in response to the Commission’s letter of November 24, 2016, to His Excellency the President. The PSC said the letter further noted that the information “duly enclosed had been provided by the mayor in response to the Commission’s letter to the President.” It then proceeded to relay to the Private Sector Commission three pages of the mayor’s opinions.

Last Friday, hundreds of citizens protested the recently implemented parking meter

system, even as City Mayor Patricia Chase-Green made it clear that citizens will have to get used to the meters as they are here to stay. The peaceful protest which comprised a wide cross-section of citizens, took a turn for the worse when City Hall brought out its own people to protest in support of the parking meters. Many of the protestors stood silently on the northern side of City Hall holding their placards, which read, “#notoparkingmeters,” “Can’t afford to pay for parking,” “No consultations, no meters,” “Guyana is not ready for park-

ing meters,” “ Why y’all killing poor people” and “No zoning, no feasibility study.”

The protest was led by persons associated with the group, “Movement Against Parking Meters,” but their movement ended abruptly after one of their own was taken into custody following reports that he had threatened two women who were protesting in favour of the parking meters. The man arrested is said to be a former councillor of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown.

5 years jail, over $200M fine

…for businessman caught with cocaine MAGISTRATE Leron Daly on Monday sentenced a 31-year-old Enmore, East Coast Demerara businessman to five years imprisonment after he was found guilty of having over 200 pounds of cocaine in frozen fish in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Kapil Haresh Thakurian was also fined a total of $237.6M, which is three times the street value of the illegal substance. The court heard that on August 9, 2016, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Thakurian had in his possession 88.200 kilograms of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

The magistrate said that she is satisfied with the evidence presented by prosecutor, Bharat Mangru. Meanwhile, his lawyer, Peter Hugh, orally

Kapil Haresh Thakurian

notified the court that he would appeal the conviction and sentence.

According to a police report, on the day in question, the police narcotics branch intercepted and seized a cargo shipment of 35 boxes of seafood, eight of which contained a total of 88.2 kilos of cocaine. The shipment was intended for New York through a local air-cargo service.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

No tightening of currency trade …but greater regulation – Central Bank GOVERNOR of the Bank of Guyana (BoG), Dr Gobind Ganga, has given the assurance that there will be no tightening up of the foreign currency business, but instead a move to upgrade guidelines which govern the practice.

During a telephone interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Monday, the bank’s Governor refuted accusations by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) that tightening foreign currency trading would be counter-productive and would lead to increased capital flight.

“There will be no tightening of [the] foreign currency trade…we will be upgrading the guidelines to ensure that there is no exploitation by the key players in the market,” said Ganga. He

said in essence, the bank has developed new regulations to monitor the local foreign exchange markets, so as to ensure that there are no shortages and foreign-currency hoarding.

The measures, if not put in place, will result in investors taking advantage of the market and monopolising the trade, said the BoG Governor.

However, in a statement on Monday, the PPP/C warned against any attempt to control the flow of foreign currency in the economy, stating that “it will have devastating consequences.”

It was highlighted that any such measure will be counter-productive and will lead to increased capital flight, greater hoarding of foreign exchange and even

less foreign and local investments. The party contradicted the potentially new measures by highlighting the fact that the economy grew and how the private sector rapidly expanded in an environment of economic liberalisation and free trade.

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) also last week said it had read with consternation the pronouncements of the Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, regarding the introduction of stricter regulations and closer monitoring of the foreign-exchange market in Guyana.

In a release, the PSC “strongly condemned the move by the Government, which it said would effect the acceleration of capital flight which has already begun with the erosion of confi-

dence in the economy. “The Private Sector Commission also warns against the stated intention of Government to introduce restrictions preventing the unfettered repatriation of earnings of foreign companies operating in Guyana. Foreign direct investment in the economy has already slowed and a policy which prevents the repatriation of the earnings of these companies has the potential to move the influx of investment from a trickle to a halt.

The Private Sector Commission wishes to remind Government that the country has gone down this path before with disastrous consequences to the economy. The Guyana economy can ill afford the certain deleterious effects of history repeating itself,” the PSC said.

Last Thursday, Harmon told a post-Cabinet media briefing that Central Bank is

expected to issue a number of guidelines with regard to the new regulations and monitoring. These include ensuring that exporters repatriate their export earnings to the banking system as is required and conducting close monitoring and examination of bank and non-bank cambios to maintain orderly behaviour.

“Measures will also be taken to ensure that all foreign loans and grants that are issued are disbursed on time, so as to increase the flow of foreign currency to the country,” Minister Harmon told reporters.

Even though the Bank of Guyana has been maintaining that there is no shortage, some commercial banks have stated otherwise. There is a belief that the commercial banks are siphoning foreign exchange to selected customers and clients. When asked how the BoG will deal

with this, Minister Harmon said more oversight will be required. “It is the quality of the oversight which the Central Bank has been engaging in over the operations of these banks and non-bank cambios. I think what the minister has recommended is that the bank strengthen its monitoring capacity and ensure that the rules and regulations by which these banks operate, that they hold them on a much closer, tighter leash.”

He added: “The fact of the matter is, yes, there are some companies that have actually been sending large amounts of foreign currency abroad, because when you examine the situation all around us, in the entire Region, you have foreign currency issues in Suriname, in Trinidad, in Barbados, in Venezuela, in Brazil.”

Carpenter killed in road accident POLICE are investigating an accident which claimed the life of 60-year-old Ivan Preme, who was struck down on the Number 1 Turn, Public Road, East Berbice Corentyne, on Monday morning.

According to reports, Preme, a carpenter, left his lot 45 H and J Street, Albion home for a fishing trip and was on the way back home on his bicycle at approximately 09:15 hrs, when he was struck down by a Toyota Wagon – HC 5720.

Preme was taken to the

New Amsterdam Hospital where he succumbed to severe internal injuries. His wife, 56-year-old Arai Preme told the Guyana Chronicle that her husband would usually come home around 08:00 hrs and as she was awaiting his arrival she received the devastating news.

“Me and my son in the hammock when a boy come with a motorcycle and say he get accident. I hurry up and went to the hospital but I didn’t get to see him, his daughter did,” the distraught woman said.

Dead: Ivan Preme

Meanwhile, the driver of the motorcar, Jeff Roberts is in police custody as investigation into the accident continues. Earlier in the day, he was taken to the scene by of the accident by Traffic Officer of ‘B’ Division, Boodnarine Persaud, where he explained what led to the accident.

According to a police source, Roberts reportedly said an insect flew into his eye and he became distracted, resulting in the accident.

Preme leaves to mourn his wife and two children.

The car involved in the accident

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

British Speaker opposes Trump’s Westminster speech

HOUSE of Commons Speaker John Bercow has said he would be “strongly opposed” to US President Donald Trump addressing the Houses of Parliament during his state visit to the UK. Mr Bercow told MPs “opposition to racism and sexism” were “hugely important considerations”.

He was applauded by Scottish National Party (SNP) MPs after his comments.

President Trump was invited to make a state visit after meeting Theresa May in Washington last month.

A petition to withdraw the invitation will be debated by MPs on February 20 after attracting 1.8 million signatures.

Responding to a point of order in the House of Commons, Mr Bercow set out his opposition to a Parliamentary address as part of the state visit.

He told MPs that ad-

dressing the Lords and the Commons was “an earned honour” not an “automatic right”.

‘PAY GRADE’ He said he was one of three “key-holders” for Westminster Hall, and referred to the US president’s controversial travel ban.

“Before the imposition of the migrant ban, I would myself have been strongly opposed to an address by President Trump in West-

minster Hall,” he said.

“After the imposition of the migrant ban, I am even more strongly opposed to an address by President Trump in Westminster Hall.”

The Speaker said he would also be involved in any invitation to address Parliament’s Royal Gallery.

He added: “I would not wish to issue an invitation to President Trump to speak in the Royal Gallery.

“We value our relationship with the United States.

If a state visit takes place, that is way beyond and above the pay grade of the Speaker.

“However, as far as this place is concerned, I feel very strongly that our opposition to racism and sexism, and our support for equality before the law and an independent judiciary are hugely important considerations in the House of Commons.”

Mr Bercow’s intervention was welcomed by Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn,

who has called for the state visit to be postponed, while Lib Dem leader, Tim Farron said Mr Trump was “not welcome”.

But former UK Independence Party (UKIP) leader, Nigel Farage said the Speaker “should be neutral”.

Prime Minister Theresa May, who has criticised the president’s travel ban affecting people from seven mainly Muslim countries, has defended the decision to invite him to make a state visit. (BBC)

Tech giants oppose Trump’s immigration ban A GROUP of 97 US tech companies have filed a legal document stating that President Trump’s immigration ban affects their operations, and “inflicts significant harm” on business.

The 97 signatories include Apple, Facebook and Microsoft, but not Amazon or Tesla.

The document is an amicus brief, which allows parties not directly involved in a

case but who feel they are affected by it to give their view.

It was filed in Washington on Sunday.

Mr Trump’s executive order halted the entire US refugee programme for 120 days, indefinitely banned Syrian refugees, and suspended permission to enter the US for all

nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries.

There is currently a nationwide temporary restraining order in place, which was issued on Friday by a federal judge in Washington.

Visa holders from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen will be al-

lowed to enter the US until the full case has been heard.

The president says national security is at risk as a result.

“Of course, the federal government can and should implement targeted, appropriate adjustments to the nation’s immigration system to enhance the nation’s security,”

reads the tech group’s brief.

“But a broad, open-ended ban -together with an indication that the ban could be expanded to other countries without notice -- does not fit the goal of making the country more secure. Instead, it will undermine American interests.” (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Region 2 promises exciting Mash activities

REGIONAL Executive Officer, Mr. Rupert Hopkinson, officially launched Mashramani activities in Region Two on Monday, promising citizens of the region an action-packed programme to commemorate Guyana’s 47th Republican Anniversary.

During brief remarks at

the launch late last month, Hopkinson pledged the Administration’s unconditional support in all aspects of the varied form of events. He further stressed the importance of the national event which he emphasised, as the enduring potential to embrace all races, even as he appealed for maximum participation

under the theme ‘celebrating with dignity, liberty and greater unity’.

The simple ceremony was chaired by Assistant Regional Executive Officer, Ms. Yvette Tafares-Hastings, who welcomed the gathering, including members of the private sector, regional officials, members of the

media and former Member of Parliament, Mr. Isahak Basir.

The proceedings were opened with prayers from the different religious denominations and followed by the reciting of the National Pledge. Outlining the chain of events was Mr. Dillip Singh, President of the Essequibo Cham-

bers of Commerce. The range of activities during the period January-March 2017 will include a road march, dramatic poetry and calypsos, costume display, steel pan in the street, history speeches, cultural folklore of songs, day of sports along with the main spectacle being the flag-raising ceremony

and cultural show to be hosted at the Anna Regina Community Ground on the evening of February, 22nd, 2017.

The colorful array of activities will culminate with the adjudging of the best kept community on March, 10th, 2017 at various villages along the Essequibo Coast.

Lost Bob Marley tapes restored --after 40 years in London basement

LOST recordings by Bob Marley found in a damp hotel basement in London after more than 40 years have been restored.

The tapes are the original, high-quality live recordings of the reggae legend’s concerts in London and Paris between 1974 and 1978. Tracks include ‘No Woman No Cry’, ‘Jamming’ and ‘Exodus’.

They were at first believed to be ruined beyond repair, largely because of water damage.

Marley, who died in 1981, would have been 72 on Monday.

The tapes were found in a run-down hotel in Kensal Rise, north-west London, where Bob Marley and the Wailers stayed during their European tours in the mid1970s.

They were discovered when Joe Gatt, a Marley fan and London businessman, took a phone call from a friend, who had found them while doing a building refuse clearance.

From the 13 reel-to-reel analogue master tapes, 10 were fully restored, two were blank, and one was beyond repair. Work lasted one year, and cost £25,000 ($31,200).

“They were in an appalling condition... I wasn’t too hopeful,” Martin Nichols, a sound engineer at the White House Studios in the west of England, told the BBC. The recordings are from concerts at the Lyceum in London (1975), the Hammersmith Odeon (1976), the Rainbow, also in London (1977), and the Pavilion de Paris (1978).

They were recorded on the only mobile 24-track studio vehicle available in the UK then. It was loaned to Bob Marley and the Wailers by the Rolling Stones. (BBC)

He chose to settle in T&T --but ends up hanged from a tree STEVEN Boodoo travelled to many places across the world, but chose to settle in the land of his birth. It was there, his aunt Sharon Fouche said, his life was taken.

Fouche said the family was clueless as to why anyone would want to kill the 27-year-old man.

But his family would not rest until Trinidad and Tobago is returned to the once peace-loving island nation, she said.

Boodoo’s decaying body was discovered by a group of hikers hanging from a tree in the Blanchisseue forest on Saturday.

He was reported missing last week Sunday.

Police said the body was found hanging from a piece of rope, inside a body bag, with his feet bound.

Boodoo’s identification card was found nearby.

Fouche, who lives in the United States, said no one knows why her nephew was killed. “None that we see, other than Steven was sweet and quiet, and was easily seen as an easy victim to be preyed on. It is a senseless crime, like so many in our country,” she told the Express on Monday.

But Boodoo’s death would not be in vain, she said.

Fouche has appealed to citizens to put pressure on the government to imple-

ment “stricter laws” to punish criminals. She said more needs to be done in the fight against crime.

“So, here is my plea; my initial attempt to advocate for my sweet baby, Steven, and for those families of victims, and for those who are still missing, who have never been found.

“Reach out to local government officials; put pressure on our national government to do more in ensuring stricter laws that punish criminals, and putting measures in place to effectively fight crime. It is so unfair that families who love their country and uphold the values of law-abiding citizens are forced to be

at the mercy of people who terrorise this country with fear. It is time to take back our once peace-loving island nation from the hands of criminals,” Fouche wrote in a Facebook post.

Fouche said her nephew was excited about training for a cruise-ship job.

She said Boodoo had gone to meet an attorney in Port of Spain regarding a property when he went missing.

“He never engaged in drinking or smoking or wild partying or anything that could have put him with the wrong crowd,” she said.

Fouche said Boodoo’s father, who lives in the Bahamas, returned to Trinidad to identify his son’s remains.

“He wants me to advocate for his son, so his death and

the death of so many killed are not in vain,” she said.

Fouche said she was appalled to learn that photographs of her nephew’s body were being circulated on social media. “His father has not viewed the photos taken by insensitive people, and I am appealing to everyone to please stop circulating these,” she said.

Fouche lamented that Trinidad and Tobago was in a state of terror, held hostage by those who were getting away with crime.

“Over the years,” she said, “I have seen the shocking rise in crime and murder in Trinidad; I have followed tragic stories like the murder of Nadia Simms and so many like her. How can those who have been killed have a voice? How can we

make sure their horrible, last painful moments count and matter?

“They need to matter; all these victims we have lost.

Steven did not want to give up on his country. Neither do I. I love Trinidad; I have had people asking about arranging a peaceful march in support of Steven and all the other victims we have lost.

“A march where everyone will be dressed in white to send the message that we have to do something to stop Trinidad from being held hostage to this state of terror.

It is sad that we are the murder capital of the Caribbean – one murder committed every 17 hours.”

An autopsy is scheduled to be performed on Boodoo’s remains shortly.

(TrinidadExpress)

gnnleditorial@gmail.com 6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Editorial

An enlightening experience LAST Friday, City Hall saw hundreds of demonstrators, for and against, the parking meters. Casual observers may be inclined to see this as another protest, expressing views to influence a particular decision, one way or the other.

But this protest represented and brought to the fore many experiences that should be noted, deliberated on and hopefully influence policies and programmes in the right direction.

Those against the parking meters presented various reasons. Among the crowd were those who observers would be quick to note, and not without merit, when the PPP/C was in government they were silent or tepid to its wrongs or benefitted through direct relations. Others note that some of these same persons are present beneficiaries of the APNU+AFC government and deemed them the so-called fortunate or opportunists to benefit at the political level, regardless of who holds office.

Then there was the deputy mayor, who rejected the project from the inception and though some of his reasons are not without merit, in that the City Council voted in favour of and was in the counter-protesting group and he on the other side, sparked distinct conversation. The raw exchanges -- placards and vocal -- between the sides were spirited, though understandably it is not unusual or unfair to expect government representatives, irrespective of tiers or branches, acting in a manner consistent with the role government ought to play in citizens’ lives.

Something is happening in the society which became clearer in Friday’s protest. Outside of recognition that it creates opportunity for the enterprising to acquire land within the city to construct car parks and provide similar service at

competitive rates, the politics could not be missed. The opposition PPP/C is playing a role in the parking meter protest.

It is an organisation that represents constituents whose right to freedom of expression, including dissent, is constitutionally protected. When in government, the PPP/C was not so accepting of this right being enjoyed by others. Notably, the Leader of the Opposition as President governed with an iron fist, where few dare to cross him or speak out against any of this action, programme or policy, out of fear for the ill-fated consequences it brought.

Even as the PPP/C seized the opportunity to make its political point, and observers are concerned the APNU+AFC is creating the atmosphere for the PPP/C’s return to office, it need not be ignored the opportunity presented now to fearlessly dissent is not lost to many. At the same time, whereas government is respectful of this right, which correspondingly signals to the police non-permission to batter and brutalise protestors as would have been the norm, it cannot ignore rising dissent.

When dissent and alternative views are ignored by the incumbent, these always work against them. The goodwill that gave rise to the APNU+AFC’s victory was an investment by the people in the nation’s welfare and development.

Such a leap of faith should not be seen as one-off thinking, but a privileged opportunity to provide needed leadership that would create the space the people require to grow and develop. To see protests as something to be ignored -- even though the opposition may be using such events as redemptive opportunity and to re-enter office -- would not help the society or its people. Our society has created a subculture

How smart is this?

Dear Editor,

CITY Parking and Parking Meters are very hot topics these days, so I thought I should add my two cents for all that its worth.

I will begin by saying that the atmosphere of hostility which surrounds this issue is very common these days whenever the system is challenged. We are now living in different times, brought about by continuing advances in technology over a very short period.

Social media is now a great force to be reckoned with as we here in Guyana saw during the last elections and are seeing again over the parking meter issue. Whenever a people feel strongly or threatened by social issues, the social media will automatically kick in, as we are now experiencing.

The Movement Against Parking Meters, a non-political and peaceful movement which got started when just one person on WhatsApp suggested that it was time to show our resistance and within a very short time (less than three hrs.) over 300 persons weighed in with their responses and in less than two

weeks were able to galvanise thousands of supporters forcing those few who started it to act quickly, with stickers, flyers, and other methods of communication which grew so strong that it successfully pulled off a protest of hundreds in just a few days.

This is for sure a remarkable situation never experienced in Guyana by any movement -- political or non-political -that this writer has ever seen.

The city and its PR agents are doing everything they could to turn things in their favour, but this meter thing resonates deeply with all citizens who never saw the drastic and draconian action the meter roll-out had coming their way. So, our city fathers need revenue, especially since they are unable to collect the millions owing to them in rates and taxes which they negated to do much about or could not do much about, depending on whatever pressures they faced over the last few decades.

All of a sudden, the new first family of the council have awoken and decided that if they can’t collect from these delinquent taxpayers, then they are going to make all of us “Tom, Dick, Harry

and their friends and family pay up (Peter will pay for Paul).

True, some of us were aware of the coming parking meters through some PR bits and pieces on TV and the press, but never saw the method of implementation being forced on us, coming as it did. Our citizens were not engaged by survey or sensitisation education in the media as we are normally accustomed to when major changes such as Parking Meters are about to happen.

Why only a few focus groups, we are constantly told were done? What about a national or at least a city survey to gather information on How, Where, Why and at what Cost should this thing be introduced. Further, were there any other studies on economic impact etc. done and if so, what were the findings?

It is one thing to argue for modernization, but it must be consistent with the economic realities that exist.

Our people are burdened because of a severe tax-driven economy that keeps asking us to pay more and more from our meagre wages. Our level of unemployment is

very high and a large number of employees work at the lower to middle end of the retail trade and have to take care of theirs and extended family members from these low wages.

The Parking Meter contract that has been forced on us is cruel -- not to mention highly suspicious -- since it is a well-guarded one, and the by-laws that govern it are extremely draconian.

Instead of the City Council getting defensive and talking down to its citizens, calling them backward and elitist, it should reach out, late as it is, and find better, more constructive ways to deal with it before a larger crisis develops. We the citizens of Georgetown are very upset at the Council’s takeit-or-leave-it attitude.

The M&CC and Smart City Solutions can’t be so smart if they continue to ignore the protest of the social media Movement Against Parking Meters. Madam Mayor and Councillors, we humbly implore you to discuss this in a more civil way to find a better solution which is acceptable to all the Citizens of Georgetown and its environs. Our future depends on it.

Regards Bernard Ramsay

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

where politics is seen as an opportunity to look after self and not serve the people. Self-serving practices when in public service are debilitating to the society, given that they will make people lose interest in the political process, which would undermine the authority and reasons why governments exist. People are more enlightened today. This enlightenment would obviously come with greater demands and expectations of their governments. Government should not see enlightenment as hindrance -- particularly in our representative system of democracy -- but opportunity to pay heed and re-evaluate perceptions -- real or perceived -- about them. The parking meter protest allows for this and it should be seized.

PSC fails to take up offer to engage M&CC on parking meters Dear Editor I REFER to reports in numerous sections of the media that make reference to the reactions of business representative groups, one of the largest and most influential being the Private Sector Commission (PSC).

As a specific example of such reports, I refer to an article captioned, ‘Hundreds protest city parking meters,’ (SN, February 4). The article states that business representatives are calling on central government to resolve the dispute. Among other assertions, the PSC – according to the report – states that, ‘The City Council have displayed unmatched arrogance in their refusal to engage businesses in any attempt to compromise.’

For your information, please see the attached document which is self-explanatory. That letter was sent by me on the 10th of January, 2017, to the Chairman of the PSC, and copied to stakeholders and

officials. Please note that in the final paragraph of the letter, I had invited feedback from the PSC which to date, has not responded. One may reasonably take such a failure to take advantage of the opportunity afforded by my invitation as a refusal by the PSC to engage the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown, through the Ministry of Communities.

It is therefore, unfair of the PSC to accuse central government or the M&CC of not engaging or consulting the business community, when clearly there is evidence of our efforts to do so. In closing, I wish to make clear that the invitation for dialogue still stands. I believe that such dialogue is likely to be far more fruitful than confrontation, whether in the streets or via the media.

Regards Ronald Bulkan Minister of Communities

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

We must banish mediocre leadership Dear Editor,

I WAS a very vocal supporter for “change” in Guyana, which I saw was needed upon my return to my beloved land in 2010.

I believed then that the PPP/C government was the worst example and leadership and competence ever displayed in the Region and as an admirer of the late Dr Cheddi Jagan, I saw the new party’s leadership as a betrayal of his legacy. For many of us it was a dream to see change in leadership. I have always viewed extremely long periods of power by one political party as never a good thing for a country and Guyana saw numerous examples of this from the PNC and PPP. While I was optimistic for change and willing to give a coalition Gov’t a chance, despite my concerns of the same players reincarnated, I thought it was the best opportunity my country had.

Fast forward 18 months, and I am convinced that this coalition is determined to be a one-term government and are practically laying out the red carpet for return to power for the disastrous Bharrat Jagdeo and company.

Starting with the 50 % catastrophic increase in salaries for ministers for which

the justification used was to “dissuade corruption” was the first sign that not much had changed. In that short space of time, the APNU coalition has miraculously and unquestionably alienated its base of once ardent supporters, including the many Indo-Guyanese supporters who were tired of the inept and corrupt PPP/C and wanted change as well.

Today, every citizen is feeling the brunt of heavier taxes on every and all things under the sun, an ill-advised and possible corrupt parking meter system for Georgetown that is fraught with a number of issues and unintended consequences, including for a fragile business community, a significant reduction of small business investments, a shrinkage of economy which we are continuously told was inflated because of the rampant drug trade that flourished under the PPP/C resulting in a surplus of dirty money circulating, these and just of the few complaints that one will hear from the average citizen of every colour in Guyana.

Editor, each day that passes we see more evidence that President Granger, while truly a decent and noble public servant, is NOT the transformative leader hoped for and is leading a team of inept and out-of-touch with some

possibly corrupt ministers.

All of this, plus the broken promise of bringing to the halls of justice, the people who abused this country under the PPP/C for the past 22 years with Bharat Jagdeo as the principal, is now looking to be a non-reality and it is now my belief that the APNU does want to create a precedent which may come back to haunt them if they themselves are questioned for accountability or abuse.

So now as I look around the world, we see example after example of great democracies shifting from one side to the other due to the voice of the disenfranchised and the forgotten proclaiming enough is enough. We now see the shocking and unpredicted exit of the UK from EU (famously coined BREXIT), to the arrival of Donald Trump and the theme is always the same...”when you forget the people, someone will eventually have to pay”.

Editor, I must ask these questions: Are our leaders looking at what is going on around them in the world?

Are there any lessons to be learned?

After 18 months I must conclude that our leaders do not have a clue nor do they see the writing on the wall and we as Guyanese must decide if we can continue

down this path.

I beckon to all my fellow Guyanese that we MUST look at a future that does not include the PPP or PNC and perhaps decide that the time has come to change things radically, a time for a different political mindset.

I believe in my heart that Guyana needs its own version of candidate Trump to harken in a new era in Guyanese politics, a leader that does what he says and takes no prisoners, one to shake up the establishment and cares less about being politically correct and who loves his country and puts it first...this I believe is the direction our country needs to take and we must take or forever lose our country and rightful place in the league of exemplary nations for which we are truly capable.

Editor, we MUST banish mediocre leadership and join the rest of the world that say NO to politicians and leadership who do not have our best interests at heart.

Sincerely, Tony Persaud

Teleperformance committed to helping Guyana grow Dear Sir,

FOR THE PAST 25 months that Teleperformance has been in Guyana, we have done everything to ensure all of our actions are done within the laws and with the highest level of integrity.

We are not the owner or developer of the parking lot in question – we are a tenant of the landlord. It is the personal commitment of Teleperformance to help Guyana grow through employment and education. We appreciate all of the support we have received so far and for all of the

strong relationships we have built on this journey. We believe that just as it takes a “village to raise a child,” it equally takes a “community to build an organisation.”

We are very optimistic that with the collaboration of all government and private entities involved, this issue will be resolved soon. All further questions should be directed at the landlord of the parking lot.

Dr Dale Dan, Vice-President of Operations Teleperformance

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Knife-play after 5 teens committed for Mars murder IT was sheer confusion and “bacchanal” when the PI into the murder of 75-year-old retired professor, Pairadeau Mars ended on Monday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

City Magistrate Leron Daly, committed Paul Chance, 18, Orin Anthony McRae and Andre Benjamin (both 17-years old), Nikita

Dover and a 15-year old to stand trial at the High Court for Mars’ murder.

Additionally, Magistrate Daly admitted the five teens’ caution statements into evidence after she ruled on a voir dire (a trial within a trial) that the teens had given them to the police freely.

The preliminary inquiry was done by paper commit-

Injured teen, Paul Chance

The GFS ambulance at the courtyard taking Chance to the hospital

tal which was held in-camera. After Magistrate Daly made her ruling then the teens’ parents and relatives burst out of the courtroom in tears.

However about 12:30 p.m. two of the accused, while being escorted to the court lock-ups rushed Chance as he was coming from the courtroom chute and stabbed him to his abdomen with an improvised icepick. The two attackers were not handcuffed at the time.

Chance dropped to his knees in pain while police held on to the two perpetrators. It is reported that the

Lawyer says accused had no knowledge of ‘coke in fish’ COME February 13, Police Prosecutor, Bharat Mangru, will make his closing submission before City Magistrate Leron Daly in relation to two siblings, who are accused of trafficking 18 pounds of cocaine in frozen fish at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), last year.

Shafur Alli, 27, of Lot 27 La Jalousie, West Coast Demerara and Lazena Imrazie, 22, of Lot 8, Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara, are jointly on trial for having 9.044 kilograms of cocaine in their possession on June 8, last, for the purpose of trafficking.

On Monday, the duo’s attorney, Bernard De Santos laid over his written submission to the court leading the Magistrate to adjourn the matter until February 13, for the prosecution’s reply.

According to reports,

L-R: Lazena Imrazie, Shafaur Alli

ranks of the Police Narcotic Branch intercepted and seized the cocaine in a cargo shipment of frozen fish at the airport. Court facts revealed that the defendants declared 33 boxes of fish to be exported.

Routine checks were done on the cargo by the ranks and the cocaine was found concealed

inside the seafood.

The attorney is claiming that Alli and Imrazie had no knowledge or possession of the prohibited drug. Alli rents a fish plant that is operated by a third party and asserted that he plays no part in the processing of the fish.

two teens had planned to harm Chance if they were not freed since it’s believed that Chance had “ratted” them out to the police, leading to all of them being arrested.

The mother of the injured teen became hysterical and had to be restrained by three female police officers. “ Yall leh meh see my son…. Owww yall leh me see he and I guh gone my way” the mother wailed as the police blocked the woman from seeing her son.

The courtyard quickly became flooded with police officers as they tried to control the large crowd that had gathered.

Quick response led to the Guyana Fire Service Ambulance coming to take the injured teen (under police guard), along with his mother to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he is being treated for internal bleeding.

The teenagers are charged jointly for the murder of the former University of Guyana Professor on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at his Lot 395, Bissessar Avenue, Prashad Nagar home, during the course of a rob-

Murdered: Retired Professor Pairadeau Mars

bery.

Mars was killed by a gang of teens, who beat and bound him in his home. The teens are between the ages of 15 and 18 and reportedly confessed to the murder/ robbery, while in police custody. On the day in question, at about 18:30hrs, the professor was found in his home by his wife with his hands and feet duct-taped and with injuries to his head.

The house was ransacked, and a number of articles and cash were missing. He was pronounced dead on arrival at a private hospital.

According to reports,

the teens were known to Professor Mars. They were arrested after neighbours observed the group leaving the retired professor’s residence with suitcases and entering a car. Subsequently, his wife returned home and found his bloodied and lifeless body in the house.

Less than 24 hours later, the police arrested the suspects and recovered a sum of cash,a laptop computer, iPod and PlayStation that were taken from Mars’ home.

Mars specialised in African Studies at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, USA, having studied history at the University of Guyana and Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada.

He was also credited with developing an international academic exchange project between Africana Studies, the College of Urban Labor and Metropolitan Affairs (CULMA), and the University of Guyana.

A post-mortem performed on Mars had revealed that death was due to manual strangulation, compounded by multiple fractures to the head and face.

Driveway shooter to know fate today ROBERT BENN, the businessman and licensed firearm holder who allegedly shot and killed 24-year-old Colin Perreira and injured his girlfriend after they had driven on his Perry Street, Tucville driveway, will know his fate today.

City Magistrate Dylon Bess will rule on whether Benn would be committed to stand trial or not for the capital offence of murder and attempted murder. Benn has been charged with murdering Colin Perreira, called ‘Malcolm’, of Barr Street, Kitty, on August 24, 2016

Robert Benn

at Tucville; and has been further charged with discharging a loaded firearm at 22-year-old Gail-Ann Chachon with intent to murder her on the said day and at

the said location.

According to reports, about 21:30hrs on August 24, Perreira was driving a heavily tinted motor car and the other victim was seated in the front passenger seat.

He attempted to turn the vehicle on the defendant’s driveway and in the process, the suspect, who was in his yard, drew his handgun and discharged several rounds at the vehicle, hitting the victims about their bodies.

Perreira was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Magistrate refuses to reduce bail A 53-YEAR-OLD Plaisance man was placed on $70,000 bail by City Magistrate Annette Singh after he made his appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Martin McLennan denied the allegation which stated

that on February 2, 2017 at Sunrise Import and Export on Regent Street he stole 60 pieces of children clothing valued $48,000; two pairs of shoes valued $7,000 and one bed sheet worth $8,500, property of “Limpy,” one male Chinese National.

McLennan asked the magistrate for a reduction in bail. But after consulting with the prosecutor the Magistrate said she was advised to maintain the same amount of $70,000.

The matter was adjourned until February 20.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Protecting the sea

EU plugs ¤1.25M for Guyana, Suriname – to protect marine resources THE protection of marine and coastal resources in Guyana and Suriname will be boosted significantly with a grant from the European Union (EU) to the tune of EUR 1.25 million.

The agreement, initiating the multi-million dollar project, was signed on Monday by the EU Ambassador for Guyana and Suriname, Jernej Videti? and WWF Guianas’ Representative, Laurens Gomes at the Regency Suites.

The project, “Promoting Integrated and Participatory Ocean Governance in Guyana and Suriname: the Eastern Gate to the Caribbean” was birthed out of a series of coordinated regional project planning and design efforts amongst WWF Guianas, Protected Areas Commission (Guyana), the Nature Conservation Service of the Ministry of ROGB (Suriname), and the Green Heritage Fund Suriname (GHFS).

Its primary goal is to increase protection of marine and coastal resources in Guyana and Suriname through participatory spatial planning, inclusive of defining priorities for marine protection and wise use.

Speaking in the presence

of WWF Country Manager, Aiesha Williams; Protected Areas Commission (PAC) Commissioner, Denise Fraser; and Head of the Department of Environment, Ndibi Schwiers, among other stakeholders, Ambassador Videti? said significant benefits are to be derived from the project.

“Roughly 1.1 million people will directly and indirectly benefit from the project as it aims at addressing the challenges deriving from climate change, fisheries, and carbon storage and thus contributes to decreasing the vulnerability of this part of the region,” the EU Ambassador explained.

“It will significantly enhance the protection of marine and coastal resources of Guyana and Suriname,” he further emphasised.

WWF Country Manager, in explaining components of the project, said that the ocean and coastal resources are vital to human development and sustainability of the environment. “Oceans and coastal ecosystems support important fisheries, major nursery grounds, spawning grounds, and a rich diversity of marine species of local, regional and global signifi-

cance,” Williams explained.

The economic benefits deriving from the oceans and coastal resources are tremendous, she further pointed out while alluding to the Fishing Industry, and the Oil and Gas Sector.

Notwithstanding these facts, the WWF Country Manager said the “over exploitation” of green resources in the Guianas and the entire Caribbean cannot be underscored.

As such, the project will enable stakeholders to understand the impacts of exploitation on the oceans and coastal resources with primary intention of coming up with plausible solutions on how to govern and protect the environment.

On the issue of exploitation, the WWF Guianas Representative said although the ocean is one of the greatest gifts to mankind capturing, more Carbon Dioxide than all the forest in the world, there are worrying signs of overfishing, not only in Guyana but Suriname as well.

As such, through the project, Gomes said another study will be launched to garner additional information on the issue of overfishing.

WWF Guianas’ Representative, Laurens Gomes and EU Ambassador for Guyana and Suriname, Jernej Videti, exchanging signed copies of the agreement at the Regency Suites

Additionally, he said the project will also enable the key stakeholders to effectively plan for the emerging oil and gas sector in Guyana with focus on the oceans and coastal resources.

Whilst existing pressures are recognized, such as overfishing and increased hydrocarbon exploration, there are significant data gaps, which hamper efforts to sustainably manage the marine environment in an informed manner.

It was explained that the project will fill critical information gaps by developing comprehensive and visually

appealing spatial data (a GIS atlas and 3-D ocean maps) collated through participatory processes, enabling informed decision-making regarding marine protection and management.

More specifically, the project will contribute a substantive positive impact towards achieving 10 per cent of Suriname/Guyana EEZ designated as Marine Protected Areas, which is a commitment each country has made on the Aichi Biodiversity Targets of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Additionally, Ma-

rine Spatial Planning (MSP) processes will enhance an ecosystem-based framework for managing activities in the marine environment.

Full engagement and empowerment of key ocean users – including key national agencies adopting leading roles with this project – will ensure a stakeholder led results. It is envisioned that increased marine protection and strengthened governance will safeguard marine and coastal biodiversity and economic development in Guyana and Suriname.

Kesaundra Alves heads new GPHC Board

By Ravin Singh

ARMED with a Bachelors of Law Degree, a Legal Education Certificate (LEC) and a Masters’ Degree in Law – specialising in Health, Ethics and Policy, Attorney Kesaundra Alves is the new Chairperson of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Board.

This was announced by Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, during a press conference held at the Ministry on Monday. Noting that Cabinet gave its approval for the appointment of the new Board of Directors, the Minister said that Alves was named Chairperson. She said that Alves has also been involved in interdisciplin-

ary programmes involving medicine, human rights, law and politics related to public health.

Meanwhile, Dr. Holly Alexander, who has worked several years in the public health sector, was appointed as a Board Director. Dr. Alexander is the holder of a diploma in Public Management, a diploma in necrology, another diploma in Education and Masters’ Degree in Public Health. Minister Lawrence explained that Dr. Alexander has been spearheading several aspects of public health over the years.

Dr. Ivelaw Sinclair, who is a practitioner at the Fort Wellington Regional Hospital was also announced as one of the Directors. He holds a Masters’ Degree in Medicine

Attorney Kasaundra Alves, newly appointed Chairperson of the GPHC Board

and several other health related certificates from Canada and China.

Representing the Public Health Ministry on the Board is Deputy Permanent Secretary, Collette Adams, while Finance Ministry Budget Director, Sonya Roopnauth, will represent the Ministry of Finance. Ms Roopnauth previously worked with the Health Ministry.

Ms Cleopatra Barkoye, a senior lecturer, who holds a Masters’ Degree in Nursing Education, will represent the Nursing Council, while Mr Kempton Alexander will sit as a Director on behalf of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU).

Sitting on the board as ex officio members will be Chief Executive Offi-

cer (CEO) of the GPHC, Dr. Sheik Amir and Chief Medical Officer (CMO, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud.

“I believe that these persons are well put together to address the issues which confront GPHC, from policy to standards and vacancies and assisting us to achieve that vision of having GPHC operate in the manner in which it was intended to” the Public Health Minister said.

With the absence of a Deputy CEO and the Board being empowered to appoint same, Minister Lawrence said that the Board will be expected to fulfil its mandate as prescribed by the law. She added that the matter will be raised when she meets with the newly-appointed Board.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Greenidge knocks ‘offensive’ Major marine enforcement Huffington Post article …says Guyana capable of handling emerging oil sector GUYANA’S Foreign Affair’s Ministry has refuted the recently publicised Huffington Post article, which seems to highlight Guyana as incapacitated and unprepared for its upcoming oil sector.

Speaking out on the matter for the first time, Minister Carl Greenidge described that article as an attack on the dignity of the country, and one with many “erroneous” statements. In an invited comment, Greenidge explained to the Guyana Chronicle how misleading the article by the Greenpeace USA blogger was to state that the US State Department has “oversight” of Guyana and will be writing oil and gas regulations for the country.

The US article claimed conflict of interest that the former Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mobil, the US Company drilling for oil here, Rex Tillerson, was chosen by America’s newly elected President to perform the duty of Secretary of State, with responsibility for managing US oil policies overseas. It was stated that the oil find has also railed up old land grievances with neigh-

Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge

bouring Venezuela, forcing that country to sharpen military activity on the border.

Minister Greenidge noted that the Huffington Post article claimed that Guyana has, “no real framework for regulating multinational oil companies and would thus be “pillaged” by the oil giant.

He pointed out however that, “Guyana passed legislation on oil exploration long before the Exxon discovery – as far back as 1986.” He said Guyana has received technical assistance from time to time from several countries (most notably from Canada and the

UK) in the years after independence.

“Guyana itself has also contributed in this field to many international agencies such as the Commonwealth Secretariat and the World Bank, as well as foreign Governments from Papua New Guinea to Ethiopia.”

“Guyana is hardly the country without expertise, or the country wholly dependent on the US that the author attempts to portray it as,” Greenidge insisted.

He continued that, “Guyana has a long history of dealing with multinationals.

Since the ALCOA bauxite mining operations as long ago as 1914, Guyana has dealt with many major, powerful international corporations, ranging from Reynolds Metals Company and Bookers McConnel/Booker Tate to Chase Manhattan and Jessels Holdings.”

Greenidge went on to express worry about the blog’s “…link between Venezuela’s militarisation along Guyana’s border and its incursions into Guyana’s waters as if it is somehow Guyana’s fault for having agreed to given exploration licenses to Exxon and other companies to develop its offshore resources. The false assumption in the post is that Venezuela somehow has a valid claim over Guyana’s maritime space…”

The Minister expressed his suspicion that the writer has no knowledge of the Guyana and Venezuela’s border being determined in 1899 by an arbitral award and latter occurrences to thus make certain assertions.

“To suggest that Venezuela’s baseless claim over Guyana’s offshore resources made in 2015 somehow resulted in Guyana seeking confrontation is an absurd logic and is not supported by the facts.”

Greenidge said Venezuela’s belligerent claims predate any involvement of Exxon Mobil.

It was pointed out that blogger behind the post should withdraw the allegations, while Greenpeace US would want to distance itself from such “an unfair attack on the dignity of a sovereign nation.” “It is unbecoming to make such claims without making any effort to learn about our history and our woes over the past fifty years as we have struggled to protect our sovereignty and independence.”

Greenidge charged that it is unfortunate that Guyana was depicted as a mere recipient of legal edicts from foreign countries, rather than an engaged and experienced member of the international community.

exercise soon THE Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) is collaborating with the Marine Police and Coast Guard to have joint enforcement, marine exercises conducted in the riverine areas of Guyana this month.

In a release MARAD said the exercises will see officers checking the certification and registration of vessels and boat operators, and also ensure that operators comply with all river safety rules.

Areas to be targeted include, the Pomeroon, Cuyuni/Mazaruni,Waini, and other rivers in the Re-

gion One area. MARAD, being the regulatory agency for the river laws, has the responsibility for the Registration and Licensing of vessels and operators in Guyana, under the River Navigation Chapter 50:01, while the enforcement of these laws, lie within the constabulary powers and capabilities of the Guyana Police Force and the Coast Guard.

MARAD has established centres in Mabaruma, Charity and Bartica, and boat operators are encouraged to utilise the services of these centers in an effort to improve the safe use of the rivers.

Sadam freed of attempted murder & grievous bodily harm A DEMERARA Assize Jury yesterday found that Azaad Ally’s (Sadam) private land was like his castle and as such he was entitled to defend it by all means, as he did on November 2011.

Defending Sadam on charges of intent to cause grievous bodily harm and attempted murder is retired judge, Jainarayan Singh, who had asked the jury to find that his client had acted in self defence and explained that a man’s private land was similar to his castle and as such he was entitled to defend it against any intruder.

By their verdict before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow it would appear that the jury had accepted the advice of the former judge.

Judge Barlow and jury heard from witnesses that Kenneth Bhagwanden had attended a Bar-B- Que at Goed Fortuin, W. B. D. one night in November, 2011, when ‘Sadam’ allegedly discharged a firearm at him with intent to cause him grievous bodily harm.

Bhagwanden said that he had attended the fete and was walking away in the early morning of the November 6, when he was shot and injured.

The prosecution was by Miss Shanette Austin, Miss Tamieka Clarke and Mr. Mandel Moore.

The jury by a unanimous verdict found the accused not guilty on both counts.

Sentenced to 94 yrs for killing two brothers

By George Barclay ABDUL Bacchus, 30, who killed his two brothers in 2012, was yesterday sentenced to 94 years after a mixed jury found him guilty of murder and manslaughter.

He was sentenced to 62 years for the murder of brother Imran Bacchus and 32 years for the manslaughter of Shaheed Bacchus committed on September 30, 2012.

Both sentences will run concurrently – resulting in the prisoner not serving more than 62 years.

It is said that a period of 9

months is classified as a year in prison.

The accused was found guilty some weeks ago, but sentence was postponed to yesterday to accommodate a probation report.

The sentence was passed following the production of the probation report and a plea in mitigation by attorney-at-law Mike Somersal, defence counsel.

When asked whether he had anything to say, the accused in chains, told the judge that he was sorry for what had happened.

State Counsel Mr. Dhurjon, prosected.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Aggressor in Corentyne attempted murder/suicide dies – victims coming around

By Nafeeza Yahya-Sakur NARINE Permauloo, the man who ingested a poisonous substance moments after chopping his ex-wife and her new partner on Sunday evening, has died.

Permauloo, called “Dread,” died on Monday afternoon at the New Amsterdam Hospital less than 24 hours after ingesting the toxic substance.

His death has now plunged his family into double mourning, having lost their 79-year-old mother on Sunday morning to illness.

Around 20:30hrs on Sunday, Permauloo was at his Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne home, where he and his ex-wife, 35-year-old Zabeda Permauloo, called “Nesha,” were having a few drinks.

The two were not alone, as Zabeda’s new partner, 31-year-old Mahendra

Dead: Narine Permauloo, called “Dread”

Injured: Zabeda Permauloo, called “Nesha”

Kristendatt, called “BrukUp,” was also drinking with them.

on her, Zabeda said, amidst tears, chopping her in the head, which caused her to fall to the ground.

Zabeda said that as Permauloo rained chops on her and Kristendatt, he kept shouting: “Who come interfere gon get chop up too.”

According to Zabeda, her ‘ex’ suddenly got up, went inside and returned with a cutlass and started to chop Kristendatt about the head and back.

He valiantly tried blocking the chops with his hand, she said, but the wounds were so severe, he eventually lost consciousness.

That’s when Permauloo decided to turn the blade

SATISFIED HIS MIND Then, having satisfied his mind, he put the one-litre bottle of weedicide to his head and drank about three-quarters of the liquid in a bid to end his life.

All the while, the cou-

Pres Granger in Haiti for inauguration of new president PRESIDENT David Granger and a delegation from Guyana have landed in Port-au- Prince to attend the inauguration ceremony of the President-elect of the Republic of Haiti, Mr Jocelerme Privert.

The President, who is

accompanied by Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Carl Greenidge and Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms Audrey Waddell, among others, is attending in his capacity not only as Head of State of Guyana, but also as Chairman of the Caribbean

Community (CARICOM).

In addition to the main inauguration ceremony, President Granger will also be attending several other activities organised to mark the occasion, including a dinner hosted

by President-elect, Mr Jocelerme Privert.

President Granger is greeted at Haiti’s airport by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Haiti, Mr Pierrot Delienne (MOTP photo)

ple’s 19-year-old daughter, Kastury, was at home upstairs, hearing everything that transpired, but was too afraid to intervene.

“I was upstairs, and I heard mommy screaming,” Kastury said. “And when I come down, I see she on the ground with a chop to she head and bleeding; she was crying out. And then I see daddy drink the poison and throw down the cutlass in the bush.”

The injured trio was rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital, but Permauloo and Kristendatt were subsequently transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital.

Zabeeda told this publication that Permauloo had a history of being abusive whenever he drinks; and that is the reason she had left him approximately two months ago after 17 years and three children together.

“He uses to beat me up and threaten meh, especially when he drink,” she said, “so meh decide fuh lef am fuh “Bruk-Up.” She further related that Permauloo had a history of suicidal behaviour, having made several attempts on his life in the 17 years they’d been together.

Injured and still hospitalised: Mahendra Krisendatt, called “Bruk-Up”

She said he had three wives before her, one of whom he drove to committing suicide. He had also fathered three other children.

TOOK IT HARD A relative of his, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said since Zabeda left him, Permauloo was not himself as he took her leaving hard. As a matter of fact, the entire family suffered, due to the embarrassment it had caused them.

“Since she lef’, everybody get shame; two ah de chil’ren try fuh kill demself wid poison, plus he try fuh kill he self plenty time... He even try fuh bun down de house,” the relative said.

The relative said he be-

lieves Permauloo’s actions were pre-meditated, since he wrote on a Facebook post that was shared on Sunday morning following the death of his mother: “Me too is going to be ready to go with my mom.”

Permauloo, a carpenter and farmer, was had been discharged from the hospital only on Friday last, after overdosing on tablets in a failed suicide attempt.

He leaves to mourn his six children and siblings.

Meanwhile, Kristendatt remains hospitalised at the New Amsterdam Hospital, where his condition is listed as stable.

Zabeda was discharged from the Port Mourant Hospital on Monday afternoon, and is said to be recovering.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

AG slams Ramotar for ‘misleading’ letter

ATTORNEY General, Basil Williams has corrected several inaccuracies contained in a letter to the press by former President Donald Ramotar and also accused him of playing the race card.

In a release issued by his chambers, Williams made reference to Ramotar’s letter in the February 4th, 2017 publication of the Guyana Times. Ramotar had stated in the letter that the Attorney General had “fired, harassed and forced to resign” many persons since taking office.

However, Williams has hit back detailing the circumstances under which the persons Ramotar referenced parted with the chambers. ● Indira Anandjit (Former Permanent Secretary, Legal Affairs Ministry)- She was sent on administrative leave following the discovery of millions of dollars’ worth of law books and computer parts authorised by her for purchase but not being found in the Ministry. Her contract was not renewed.

● Sita Ramlall (Solicitor General, Legal Affairs Ministry) -retired at age 65.

Hon. Attorney General, Basil Williams and resigned for medical reasons.

● Prithima Kissoon (Deputy Solicitor General) - Currently on Administrative Leave pending investigations in relation to matters she was dealing with in which she allegedly acted inimically to the interest of the State.

● Further, His wife Mrs Ananda Dhurjohn, who retired at age 55 from the Ministry of Legal Affairs was subsequently re-contracted as a Consultant to the Parliamentary Division by the Hon. Attorney General, Basil Williams.

● Cecil Durjohn (Former Chief Parliamentary Counsel, Legal Affairs Ministry)Mr Cecil Dhujohn was given a three-year contract by the

● Sasha Mahadeo (State Counsel) - She resigned after accepting the opportunity to further her legal education in Canada. ● Rajendra Jaigobin (State Counsel) –He resigned and went to work with Mr Anil Nandlall.

•Fareeda Baksh - Ms Baksh was found unlawfully giving out files and documents to Anil Nandlall and his driver.

Contract not renewed. ● Dwajendra Rooplall (Personal Assistant) He Campaigned with Mr.Anil Nandall at the last National and Regional Elections and was a member of his personal staff. His contract was not renewed. ● Kemraj Mangroo- Resigned to undertake full-time studies at the University of Guyana. ● Deborah Chan (Clerk) This individual was never employed at the Ministry of

Legal Affairs.

● Chandradat Mangroo (Mr Nandlall’s personal driver) He Resigned and is now employed at Freedom House. ● Adrian Smith - His contract was not renewed, while Stephen Roberts resigned to further his studies. Beulah Williams retired at age 55 and had no interest in renewing her contract. Finally, Ms Vonetta Atwell is currently on six months Maternity Leave.

“The foregoing puts to rest the lie of Donald Ramotar and his attempt to deceive the Guyanese people and play the race card,” the AG's Chambers stated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

‘Break that glass ceiling’ – First Lady urges army women at 50th Anniversary service FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, feels the time has come for women in the army to do more; for adequate measures to be put in place so they can reach their highest potential and not be limited by convention.

“I believe that the time has long passed for women to be equipped to break that glass ceiling beyond which their professional progress is denied,” Mrs Granger said.

“I believe that the hierarchy of the Guyana Defence Force is aware of the fact that more than half of our population are women.

“I believe that they would not wish to ignore

the valuable resources at their disposal as they plan and promote the development of a modern army,” she said Monday at a function at the National Cultural Centre to mark the Women’s Army Corps’ 50th Anniversary.

Noting that 50 years ago, the thought of having a women’s army corps was unheard of and met with strong resistance, Mrs Granger said that thankfully, that perception has been slowly changing, in that for some time now, women have been pursuing careers that have proven that they are capable of thinking and acting tactically, if not better, than their male coun-

terparts in several areas of their lives.

She bolstered her argument by referring to the late 1960s and early 1970s, which saw the emergence of feminism, which led to 1975 being declared International Women’s Year.

This was sharply followed by the United Nations declaring the period 1976-1985 as the International Decade for Women, and much later, in 1979 to be precise, the adoption of the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), of which Guyana is a signatory.

She summed it all up by saying: “After 50 years

of service to our nation, we can envision professionally-trained and equipped women participating in, and commanding, Infantry and Special Forces battalions; heading branches of the Service, and one day becoming Chief-of-Staff of our Defence Force. This, I believe, is how we can best fulfil the theme of these 50th Anniversary celebrations, ‘Celebrating our Woman: Empowering them for National Defence.’”

TREMENDOUS CONTRIBUTIONS And, in a message read

by Lieutenant Colonel Natasha Stanford, Chief of Staff, Brigadier Patrick West

Women soldiers carrying GDF flag in honour of the 50th Anniversary of the Army’s Women Corps.

(Photos courtesy Ministry of the Presidency)

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger delivering her address at the Women’s Army Corps’ 50th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service on Monday

touched on the Women’s Army Corps’ tremendous contributions to Guyana’s development over the years.

“We should, just as we have done over the past 50 years, continue to embrace women in uniform as our equals,” Brigadier West said in his message, adding: “There was once a time when it was unfathomable for the woman to spend time at border locations; for the woman to climb Mount Ayanganna; for the woman to fly an army aircraft; for the woman to spend time at sea aboard Military Ships; for the woman to lead tactical patrols; for the woman to jump from an Army aircraft just like her male counterparts.

“You women in uniform have achieved all this with-

in 50 years; we must have a heart of love for the audacious missions our female counterparts perform daily, and this love ought to be expressed in us allowing them to soar like eagles.”

Besides Prime Minister Mr. Moses Nagamootoo, in his capacity as Acting President, and his wife, Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, among other functionaries in attendance at the service were Minister of State, Joseph Harmon; Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Ms Annette Ferguson; Minister within the Ministry of Education, Ms Nicolette Henry; Minister within the Ministry of Health, Dr. Karen Cummings; and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force.

Samuels leads Guyana Prison Service list of promotions SENIOR Superintendent of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels has been confirmed to the substantive position of Deputy Director of Prisons, with

the recent release of the approved promotions list for the Guyana Prison Service.

Prison Director, Carl Graham, proceeded last month on

pre-retirement leave leaving Samuels acting in his capacity. All 115 promotions are effective Wednesday, February 1, 2017.

As Senior Superintendent of Prisons 1. Alexander Hopkinson 2. Nicklon Elliot 3. Kevin Pilgrim 4. Alston Scott

5. June Frank 6. Oldfield Romulus 7. Gornall David 8. David Shepherd 9. Roddy Denhart 10. Seon Charles

12. William Roopwah 13. Ricardo Da Silva 14. Gordon Daniels 15. Claude Skeete

As Superintendent of Prisons 1. Paul James 2. Dawn Jordan 3. Olivia Cox 4. Carlton Cameron 5. Deoraj Gyandat 6. Kofi David 7. Mark Smith

As Plant Maintenance Supervisor 1. Gregory Trapp

17. Vanessa Primo 18. Roxanne Nelson 19. Colleen Daniels 20. Anne Thomas 21. Cleveland Denhart 22. June Lewis 23. Gillian Seaforth 24. Marcia Collier 25. Michelle Eversley 26. Dazley Grandison 27. Ronda Graham/Dayman 28. Towana Wilson

Prison Director (ag), Gladwin Samuels

As Assistant Superintendent of Prisons 1. Udistair Holligan 2. Amias Benjamin 3. Loraine Archibald 4. Steve Baker

As Chief Prison Officer 1. Wendy Bradshaw 2. Debra Smart 3. Frankie Hunte 4. Debra Clarke 5. Stuart Lewis 6. Virgil Richmond 7. Roxanne Stephenson 8. Beverley Ogleton 9. Elizabeth Mickle 10. Mark Edwards 11. Hubert Trim

As Principal Prison Officer II 1. Sherlon Marks 2. Simone Sandiford 3. Roger Dublin 4. Jennifer Downer 5. Yvonne Booker 6. Lorette Mc Allister/Mc Koy 7. Medina Hopkinson 8. Fay Marslow 9. Gershwyn Gordon 10. Shelly Oxford 11. Debra Felix 12. Charian Campbell 13. Jacklyn Hawker 14. Joel Campbell 15. Shellon Nero 16. Michelle Johnson

As Prison Trade Instructor 1. Colin Pratt 2. Ashanti Mc Allister 3. Arnaldo Cort 4. Cleave Martin As Principal Officer I 1. Roxanne Brummel/Wills 2. Guennet Noble 3. Claudette Richards

The Director (ag) said he expressed congratulations to all promoted officers and ranks. “Higher level of service and professionalism is 4. Esther Charles 5. Terrence Ogleton 6. Denise Cuffy 7. Audrea Mc Pherson 8. Gen Carrol 9. George Adonis 10. Sylvia Trim 11. Dianna Park 12. Paul English 13. Andrea Greenidge 14. Shane James 15. Felicia Tyndell 16. Jollene Alphonso 17. Huburn Clarke 18. Martin Rajmangal 19. Helen Douglas 20. Brandon Niles 21. Kevaughn Thuesday 22. Romona Reynolds 23. Lavern Hector/Smith 24. Dionne Pearson/Benjamin 25. Debra John

required for us to move this organisation forward, let us apply our Motto “Together in Service” to achieve our objectives.”

26. Oswin Savory 27. Winston Benn 28. Bevis Douglas 29. Deslyn Gilbert 30. Mickey Prass 31. Anthony Henry 32. Brian Manget 33. Nigel Nurse 34. Yeoland Richards 35. Neil Wickham 36. Ken Prescott 37. Tamila Jackman 38. Kurwin Gritten 39. Bryan Kirton 40. Nekisha La Rose 41. Carlos Matthews 42. Joel Jasper 43. Glexroy Thomas 44. Tyrone Stuart 45. Antonia Charles

Life in Baramita 15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

– where blood and gore is fast becoming a norm

By Shauna Jemmott BLOOD and gore is fast becoming a way of life at Baramita as young female rape victims traverse the Region One (Barima-Waini) community, armed to the teeth in order to protect and defend themselves.

This and other heartbreaking stories of real life in Baramita are among the findings of a report by the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), highlighting the struggles of interior communities in Guyana which are under the influence of mining.

A case study of the community of Baramita, tucked neatly away in the report, titled ‘Impact of Mining: Survival Strategies for Interior Communities in Guyana’ and published November last, exposes the works of darkness and the illicit sex trade among other revelations.

According to the GHRA, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse within Baramita and other mining communities’ present avenues which exalt the sickening problem of exploitation as a way of life.

PREDOMINANTLY CARIB Baramita is a predominantly Carib community, which, according to the GHRA, “represents the most advanced case of disintegration of an Indigenous community for which the principle cause is mining.”

The religion and language of Baramita’s citizens have prevented opportunities for much intervention, even as residents live partially isolated and endure horrific troubles silently.

With some 30 dredges operating in the area, residents complain that the construction of a road linking Baramita to Matthews Ridge, with the intent or encouraging economic development, has led to an invasion of coastlanders, and the community being transformed into a haunted town.

And with sexual abuse

and exploitation on the rise, young girls are now known to be the perpetrators of physically violent crimes in order to protect themselves from being raped time and again, the GHRA reports states.

“Sexual abuse of young girls and women is rampant, beyond anything the Guyana Human Rights Association has learnt about in other parts of the interior,” the report

Again, because the perpetrators include police officers, some of the victims are forced to turn for help to the male elders in the sole religious organisation in the community, the Jehovah’s Witnesses, but without much success, as they too are reluctant to engage the police.

NOWHERE TO TURN The report says that

of their engagement with social issues,” the GHRA says in the report, adding: “When asked how they address sexual harassment of young women and girls in families, Elders responded that they visit and pray.

“Pointed questions of whether they would accompany people to complain to the police, or they themselves register complaints with the

‘Impact of Mining: Survival Strategies for Interior Communities in Guyana’ was compiled by the Guyana Human Rights Association

states.

According to the GHRA, because it is difficult for the victims to find someone they could trust to report such matters, some teenage girls have resorted to arming themselves with broken bottles as a means of protection whenever they must go anywhere.

though the church appears to be genuinely concerned about social disorder in the community, it has a severely limited response to issues contributing to such matters.

“The church has a severely limited response. Educational materials on nutrition, sexual harassment and other issues represent the boundary

police, produced a sense of discomfort.”

For greater action to be taken means that such matters will have to be referred to a ‘higher level’; an all-male national church committee in Georgetown, the report goes on to say.

With an average of one every two weeks, the shock-

ingly high rate of suicide in the Indigenous community is said to be symptomatic of the widespread alienation it suffers. Between 2005 and 2016, more than 73 persons committed suicide in Baramita, most of them by hanging with a rope.

According to the case study, it is common for parents to become drunk while their daughters are being taken into the bush and raped.

“Sexual abuse of young girls,” the report says, “is also widespread in the community, with reports of girls as young as 14 being raped.

Girls have been known to walk with the top of broken bottles in their ‘bras’, which they pull out to defend themselves. It is estimated that 70% of the community (men and women) have marks of violence on them as a result of the fighting which accompanies drunkenness.”

STATE OF HOPELESSNESS The study also documents the testimonies of some concerned residents, highlighting what happens and how they happen. Residents of the community say some miners had taken over land, even those belonging to persons indigenous to the community, infringing on their rights and leaving them in a state of hopelessness.

As one resident explained: “The men who come in to work with these miners usually work for big money, so they have cash to splurge, and would tempt the wives or tempt the family; drunk the men; drunk the wives; abuse them; abuse the children them...”

Without showing any mercy, the resident is quoted as saying; the men would abuse little girls. Some even attack the vulnerable children unexpectedly, while others lure them into having an affair, or bribe irresponsible parents.

According to the report, “Alcohol abuse is widespread. People, including women and teenagers, are drunk in the middle of the day. Sexual abuse of teenage girls, both by adult

miners, police and others, is rampant, with parents permitting sexual abuse of their daughters in exchange for liquor… “Sometimes they would give these little girls biscuit and drink; give them money; drunk the parents and carry these little girls in the bush and rape them.”

Most of these incidents take place in the backdam area of the community, and many residents considered decent are totally unaware of what happens.

Residents, however, told the GHRA that sexual harassment is not as prevalent in schools, since students are under the watchful eyes of teachers, and among their peers.

The GHRA says government workers in the area have also observed the sad state of affairs there as a result of miners’ insensitive behaviour, and one government worker described Baramita as “the worst community he has ever worked in.” Institutional protection is particularly needed for women and girls in Baramita before the situation becomes uncontrollable.

“The absence of institutional protection for women and girls, particularly from the police, is a major contributing factor to the crisis in Baramita. Reports of police taking bribes from miners, exploiting women sexually and failing to intervene are widespread,” the GHRA says in the report.

Although government took steps to address the multi-dimensional crisis in Baramita through the creation of an Inter-Ministerial Task Force, and police personnel have been replaced in the community, the GHRA has expressed concern that systematic steps have not been taken to address the issue of suicide, which was revealed since July 2015.

The organisation also says that even though the Indigenous Peoples’ Commission (IPC) has visited the community on several occasions, reports of the concerns of citizens of Baramita have not been made publicly available.

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Banks DIH sees significant sales increase in Linden

By Vanessa Braithwaite

THE Banks DIH Linden branch has raked in a whopping $1.52B in sales

for the fiscal year ending 2016.

This handsome profit was revealed to be a one-third increase on the previous year’s

performance.

Branch Manager Shondell Easton proudly announced the sales at the annual shareholders meeting held last Friday in Linden.

She described the sales as creditable, and promised to continue collaborating with the communities in Linden in the area of sports, education and entertainment.

Company Managing Director, Mr Clifford Reis congratulated the branch’s employees for their continuous successes over the years, and their noteworthy contributions to the company’s overall profits, which amounted to some $42B for the fiscal year of 2016.

He said that despite Linden’s struggling economy, he is cognisant of the hard work the branch manager and staff would have put out to meet and surpass $1B sales mark.

Said he: “That comes about by dedication; and last year, we spoke about the journey and how we build this journey and where we are going to go...

“All of this is because of her relationship with the community and how we work and operate in Linden. Shondell, you did well!”

He also commended the Branch for selling over 712 000 cases for the year.

“It is a lot of stuff; you’re talking about 60, 000 cases per month. And if you break it down, it’s about 3000 per day,” Reis said, reiterating

A West Watooka Nursery School pupil receiving a cheque from a company executive at the Banks DIH shareholders meeting last Friday

that the branch had a very successful year.

CITIZENS BANK Reis also revealed to the shareholders and the audience present that Citizens Bank Linden Branch, which is a subsidiary of Banks DIH, also had a relatively good year. He revealed that the total revenue for the bank increased by $5M, which amounted to $93.1M. The customer deposit for the branch increased to $84.3M or by 15%. In terms of deposits, that now stands at $650M, and loans at $720M.

Said Reis: “Here, I want to offer congratulations to the manager and staff of Citizens bank for a job well done.”

Reis said that Banks DIH does not intend to leave Linden, even if challenges present itself in the future.

“I know there are certain economic conditions in the town... Banks DIH has said it once: We don’t intend to leave Linden; this company will stay in Linden forever; it is not only profit and loss and sales, but it is a community which worked with us over the many years...

“Linden is a part of this family; we will be with you forever, and we thank you for your support,” Reis promised.

SHAREHOLDER BENEFITS The shareholders were told that the net asset value of their shares has increased from $28.60 to $31.70 per share. On the stock exchange market, the Managing Director said that shares are now being sold for $30.00.

The Board of Directors has declared an interim dividend of $25 cents per share which a second payment was paid to shareholders on October 17, 2016. “Last Saturday, the shareholders approved a final payment of $38 cents which costs your company $880M,” Reis said, adding that the company paid a special dividend in February of 2016, while the total dividend for last year

amounted to $1.4B. Reis said that the company has been pursuing continuous efforts to increase shareholders dividend which was achieved by investing savings and reducing tax. He revealed that the company is currently in court with the Guyana Revenue Authority for overpayment of consumption taxes. If the company wins the case, the money Reis said will be paid to the shareholders.

Reis also told shareholders of the many other achievements of the company during 2016, which include winning prestigious international awards such as the World Coca Cola Award, achieving the Number 2 sellers in the Americas of the Guinness Stout, revealing that the company sold 100, 000 cases of Guinness in December 2016 alone, the extension of sales in the North America Market, completion of the construction of a state of the art Citizen Bank main branch, the construction of the Agricola Independence Arch, the release of a Jubilee beer and 50-year-old rum, the renovating of Stabroek’s Demico House and several renovations to Thirst Park’s brewery.

The shareholders were also privy to a plethora of the company’s future plans, which include the production of sugar-free cakes and ice-cream, since the company is looking towards providing their customers with healthier options for novelties.

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

After paper leak…

Nurses exam rescheduled for Feb 21 – as police investigations continue

By Ravin Singh NURSING students, some 150 of them from all across Guyana, will be re-sitting the 2016 Professional Nurses State Final Examination on February 21, 2017, following a leak of the initial exam paper last October.

This is according to newly appointed Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, on Monday at her maiden press conference at the Ministry of Public Health on Brickdam.

Conducted on October 19 and 20, 2016, the exam was rendered null and void after it was discovered that there was an alleged breach in the Clinical and Functional aspects of it. The breach was announced by then Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton, who had said that the students who wrote the examination at the time would not be held culpable.

The examination is administered to nursing students from the Georgetown School of Nursing, the Charles Roza School of Nursing, the New Amsterdam School of Nursing, and the St Joseph Mercy Hospital.

And according to Minister Lawrence, students have been in “limbo” for several months now due to this al-

legation of the exam paper being leaked.

The minister noted that upon assuming office, she was approached by several students who expressed concern about the matter.

“I was visited by several students who laid their concerns, and I was privy to some documents which were sent to Dr George Norton,” Minister Lawrence said, adding that she listened to the students and subsequently met with the Nursing Council.

SEEK ASSISTANCE During the latter meeting, the minister said that she examined the process for the preparation of exams, and it was agreed that one of the ways of resolving the issue was to seek assistance from the Ministry of Education.

This has resulted in the Ministry of Education now being tasked with acting on behalf of the Public Health Ministry, to: engage its personnel to prepare new multiple-choice questions; to administer those questions on February 21; and to have a group of persons recruited to mark the essay-type questions.

The results of the exam, according to the minister, are expected to be presented to the Public Health Ministry on February 28, while the declaration of those results

will be relayed to the students no later than March 2.

In preparation for the exam, Minister Lawrence said that the Nursing Council has agreed to provide tutoring to students involved, since not all of them who wrote the exam did both the multiple-choice and essay-type sections.

She said that only students who wrote the multiple choice will benefit from the tutoring, and that it will be all students from all nursing schools across the country.

The minister was keen

to note that these measures which seek to remedy and rectify the situation were all agreed upon by the Nursing Council.

NO COMMENT In relation to the ongoing investigation regarding the alleged breach, however, Minister Lawrence was reluctant to make a pronouncement, noting that the police are still conducting their investigations.

“I do not want to say much about that matter, but police investigations are continuing,” she said.

Having said that, she did let on that an official who is believed to be involved in

the matter is “not someone engaged by the Nursing Council, nor the Ministry of Public Health.”

Last December, then Public Health Minister George Norton had said that internal investigations had yielded information which might not be too flattering to the Guyana Nursing Council.

It was suggested that one of the officials of the Council was the person who allegedly leaked the exam paper, but that person was out of the country at the time, and their absence was stalling the investigation.

But according to Minister Lawrence, that official

is neither engaged by the Council nor the minister; that the person in question is someone assumed to be associated with law enforcement, and is still abroad.

Meanwhile, student nurses’ representative, Mr Vibert Forde, said the situation has left his colleagues “in a disturbed emotional state.”

Forde explained that the students have been advised to work on clinical areas, and while it has been stressful and disturbing, the recommendations put forward to resolve the matter “seem fair.”

“This will benefit us the students and nursing professionals,” he said.

At Monday’s press conference,seated from left, are: Chief Nursing Officer, Ms Tarmattie Barker; Public Health Minister, Ms Volda Lawrence; and student representative, Ms Jeanel Lewis. With them are some of the nursing students affected by the leak (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

U.S. Navy Rear Admiral visits Guyana REAR Admiral, Martha Herb of the United States Navy, on Monday called upon Prime Minister Nagamootoo as part of her tour here to celebrate the Women’s Army Corps 50th Anniversary.

RDML Herb will be in Guyana throughout the week-long celebration. In a release by the US Embassy the Rear Admiral is expected to deliver lectures on “the role of women in an evolving armed forces” and “the effects of violence against women on the whole of society.”

The US Embassy said that the GDF had invited RDML Herb by name to the 50th Anniversary of the Women’s Army Corps for her continued work in women’s integration in armed forces throughout the Americas, including the Caribbean. The Rear Admiral is originally from Atlanta, Georgia. She was one of the first women officers to graduate from the Naval School of Diving and Salvage in Washington, D.C., and was selected to the Women Diver’s Hall of Fame. She is the recipient of numerous personal decorations and campaign medals.

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo and Rear Admiral, Martha Herb of the United States Navy during her courtesy visit (OPM photo)

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

New Drop-in Centre to be built at Sophia MINISTER of Social Protection, Amna Ally, said that land has been acquired for the construction of a new Drop-in Centre at Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Minister Ally told the Government Information Agency (GINA), that since her assumption to office, she has been working to move ahead with the construction of the new Dropin Centre to properly cater for vulnerable children.

“Since I’ve come to this

Ministry I have been able to secure a piece of land where we are going to build the Drop-in Centre. We are currently awaiting the paper work to be done so that we can go ahead with the construction,” Minister Ally explained.

The Minister of Social Protection explained that the current building has been proven inadequate to house vulnerable children; it lacked the required facilities and space. Ally said once completed, the new

building will accommodate children, as well as three families and will have all the necessary facilities and safety features.

In July 2016, the Dropin Centre at Hadfield Street, was destroyed by a fire which claimed the lives of two brothers: six year old Joshua George and two year old Antonio George. The preliminary report on the fire found that the centre had systematic problems and bad policy arrangements for fire.

Meanwhile, plans are also moving apace for the construction of a shelter for victims of Domestic and Sexual abuse. The shelter will be constructed in the compound of the Mahaica Hospital.

Minister Ally explained that the design has been completed and the ministry is currently awaiting approval from the Islamic Development Bank for the project to commence. Ally said the shelter will be able to accommodate 20 families

or about 100 persons; mainly survivors of domestic violence. “At the end of the day when you’re finished doing all the different things what next? What do you do with the survivors? There must be a place to shelter them and that is what we’re working towards,” Minister Ally underlined.

The minister said her Ministry is also working on several rolled-over projects, including the rehabilitation on the Palms and the Ministry’s Corn-

hill Street location among others. Additionally, the Ministry is constructing sidewalks at probation officers offices in Regions Five and Six so as to allow for easier access to their offices. From the $16.6B allocated for the Social Protection Ministry in the 2017 National Budget, $20M will be used for preliminary works on the Sophia Drop-in Centre and $4M for the construction of the domestic violence centre.

Barticians complain about poor Internet, landline services BUSINESSPERSONS and residents of the mining town, Bartica, are beginning to question and complain about the internet and landline services offered to them by the local telecommunication companies.

The town’s Deputy Mayor, Kamal Persaud during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Saturday disclosed that, businesspersons in particular, are beginning to “lose patience” with the quality of internet services offered by both Digicel and

the GTT+.

“I have received a number of complaints from individuals who claim that of recent, they are paying increased rates and have neither been able to access proper internet on their phones through a data plan nor on their computers with the use of a router,” lamented Persaud.

This brings to the fore the fact that both internet providers added 14 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) to the cost of most or all of their services

Deputy Mayor of Bartica, Kamal Persaud

yet, as alleged by the Deputy Mayor the services offered reflect no improvement.

GTT had pointed out last week that, DSL customers will not be required to pay the additional costs at this time however the company will apply the VAT to mobile data and dedicated internet business services.

The reduced VAT amount will also be applied to landline services which previously attracted 16 percent VAT, the telephone company said in a statement on Tuesday, January 31, 2017.

And, in a mass text to its customers on Monday, Digicel Guyana also advised that

“effective February 01, all data related services will now incur similar VAT.” As such, Persaud used these additions as an example to denote the “very high rates” paid for the services which are allegedly getting worse in the area.

Residents of Bartica, like any place in the 21st century, are highly dependent on the internet to receive and send information to colleagues in their district and other parts of the country. As such, with this problem, businesses as well as schools she said, are restricted to some extent from conducting their daily routines.

Digicel had launched their 4G service in Bartica last year and noted that it will be available to Digicel’s customers in Georgetown, Berbice, Essequibo, Linden and out-of-town areas such as Port Kaituma, Kwakwani and Mahdia. A release following the ceremony last year quoted Digicel Guyana’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kevin Kelly as saying, “with our bigger 4G mobile network, customers throughout Guyana will be able to enjoy a completely upgraded mobile experience with reliable, high-speed internet. Customers can get access to their favourite social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, stream YouTube videos and share messages and photos at much faster speeds. On our Bigger 4G Network, Digicel is now offering a number of options that combine value offers of data, texts and talk time to any local number, all for one low price to meet our valued customers’ needs.”

Persaud said poor internet access is not the only obstruction to communication within the town because other complaints revealed that residents are still having problems accessing landline services from GTT+. “Persons applied and have still not received a landline phone…this is a service which has been in existence for years and to

know persons are still facing problems getting a landline phone is a pity,” stressed the town’s Deputy Mayor.

Only on Friday last Chief Executive Officer of GTT announced that over the next two years it plans to invest US$30M to bridge the digital divide. According to Nedd, GTT has in store several guarantees for 2017, and one of the pillars lies in provision of high speed Internet to homes and businesses.

Since the landing of its $30M cable in 2010, Nedd said Internet services have improved and demands for the service jumped significantly. And by June this year, he said, Internet services will get even better. Consumers, he said will experience Internet speed that is “the fastest and most affordable Guyana has ever seen.”

Noting that the company is well- positioned to support Guyana’s drive to bridge the digital divide, he said as a second guarantee, the company plans to provide faster Internet on the Essequibo Coast, “10 times faster” than what currently obtains. He said prices for such services are competitive and more affordable when compared to other competitors. Customer service is also another area the company plans to improve this year.

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

In the time that it takes one to book a flight, pack his/her suitcase (if you’re organised of course) and board a plane to a vacation spot, I was already there.

Waking up from an unknown journey to an even more unknown destination,my eyes slowly adjusted from the nothingness that existed just a few hours before,to the stark white lights of the recovery room I had just been wheeled into.

Immediately I looked down at my body, I knew what I was waking up from but what was I waking up to?

I felt nothing on my upper right side, even my arm was numb. The horror movie was real. I had become a mummy.The right side of my chest was swathed in white.

White gauze, white cotton.

I prodded at the bandage,

nothing moved, I felt nothing. It was as if the right side of my chest and my right arm were divorced from my body. Yes! I rejoiced in my mind, I definitely lucked out on the good drugs- this local anesthesia stuff was the bomb. As I floated off on the morphine family tree, the sound of someone in pain threatened my impending nirvana.

I remember seeing my parents in my hospital room when I woke up again or was when I opened my eyes? It was hard to tell, I was in and out of many realities before I settled on the present. Upon hearing I was out of surgery and well, my grandmother comforted herself by mentally preparing all the different kinds of curry she would make for me. Yes,I love curry. Curry everything! but I

was ordered to spend a curry free night in the Kingston hospital.

The surgical team visited me very early the next morning. My surgeon informed me that I had lost more tissue than we had discussed due to the nature of what they saw when they removed my tumour. I wasn’t fazed. “so you got it all then?” I asked.

Pause. “From what we saw I would say we got most of it,” my surgeon responded.

Oh great! Was all I could think – the whole point was getting rid of that monster – never once did I think it was cancerous. Then the blow “ I’m sorry but from what we saw..and in my experience”, my surgeon went on “I would say the tumour was at a grade three.It doesn’t look great but I believe we managed to get all of it, the

biopsy results will confirm whether it has spread to your body but we also removed some of the affected lymph nodes- so it may be in your lymphatic system.”

Suddenly there was a dementor sucking all the life out of my room like a vacuum. I looked at the doctor, he was just mouthing words now. I couldn’t hear anymore. My ears rang as though they had been exposed to some serious soca all night. I looked around the room at the medical team, my eyes fixated on a young female doctor- she was crying. I was not. And I would not. But as soon as they all left the room and my best friend came back in I did. I cried for about thirty minutes that day . I would go on to cry a little bit less every day after that until I decided

to accept what I could not change.

As it turned out, I discovered the surgeon’s premature diagnosis wasn’t the only thing I couldn’t change. I couldn’t change the fact that after two days in this private Kingston hospital there was no soap or toilet paper in my room;luckily I had brought my own toiletries but a broken TV and no bath supplies warranted a better explanation than “ it’s on its way with the next nurse”.

No TV, no toilet paper,no soap,no towels?

Ok cool,No food? “How can there be no food?”

The nurse insisted that my doctor ordered no food for me but yet when he visited with me a few hours earlier he mentioned somewhere in the ‘you might have cancer’ conversation that

there would be breakfast.

I wasn’t taking this nurse at her word where my belly was involved. I called my doctor’s cell, it took him less than two minutes to confirm that I should be having a solid breakfast.

Ten minutes and a million hunger pangs later she apologized for the chart not being checked for the morning. That’s crazy, how does one forget to check the doctor’s’ patient charts? The funny thing is breakfast never did come, nor did lunch. My family and two friends brought lunch for me before the hospital did. I hope for the sake of future patients,the board of the aforementioned private Kingston Hospital has reviewed the evaluation slip I filled out upon leaving.

Guyana, PAHO ink new country strategy MINISTER of Pubmust also interact and lic Health, Volda be responsive to what Lawrence, on Monare this administraday signed Guytion’s priorities; so ana’s third Country this is a strategy that Cooperation Strateis embedded in many gy (CCS) with Pan other processes, but American Health fortunately in health Organisation / the priorities are the World Health Orpriorities.” ganisation (PAHO/ Dr Etienne added WHO) Director, Dr that, “This document Carissa Etienne. is going to be very The CCS reflects important when we a medium-term vido the planning, the sion of PAHO/WHO programme planning and defines a straevery two years betegic framework for cause the Ministry of the organisation’s co(Public) Health and operation with Guyyour officials are inana. PAHO/WHO, timately involved in through the implewhat we call the bienmentation of this nial work-plan, where Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, and Pan American Health strategy, will provide Organisation/World Health organisation Director, Dr Carissa Etienne, we decide with you technical coopera- exchange the signed Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS) 2016-2020 what are the priorities tion with Guyana to that the work is going communicable diseases. plan, our strategic plan for address five priorities in the to entail and that is the work This strategy highlights PAHO 2014 – 2019, which health sector. These priorithat is guided by the Country areas of focus that require guides the technical coopties are the strengthening of Cooperation Strategy.” special attention as Guyana eration of the organisation. health systems for universal PAHO/WHO country moves towards achieving its (It is) a strategic plan that health; achieving health and representative, Dr William health vision 2020. There is based in the sustainable well-being through the life Adu-Krow, also regarded have been significant strides development agenda and that course; the promotion of the CCS as a blueprint for in the health sector over the has at its core equity, the fact safe, resilient and healthy PAHO/WHO, which will years with PAHO/WHO’s that we want to leave no one environments; reduction help the organisation to continued support and com- behind. That therefore priorof the burden of Non-Combetter collaborate with the mitment. itises vulnerable populations municable Diseases (NCDs) Ministry of Public Health Dr Carissa Etienne said and marginalised populaand the reduction of morto meet the Health Vision that the CCS is “Related to tions. It also must be responbidity and mortality due to 2020 goal. our (PAHO/WHO) strategic sive to your 2020 vision. It

The strategy will be governed by a four-year period, giving Guyana an adequate opportunity to access support in achieving all goals set for the health sector. Minister Lawrence said, “This pact that you

have just witnessed being ratified here will put the health sector and Guyana on a firmer footing to address the social, economic and environmental determinants of health.”

(GINA)

Tuesday, January 7, 2017 - 02:30 hrs | 14:30 hrs Wednesday, January 8, 2017 - 03:00 hrs | 14:30 hrs Thursday, January 9, 2017 - 04:00 hrs | 14:30 hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Western Tigers lift $2M...

From Back page

WESTERN Tigers have ended as the only unbeaten team and their reward was a whopping $2M as the top prize for the just ended STAG Nations Cup knock-out football championship, which attracted teams from five associations and was sanctioned by the Guyana Football Federation( GFF).

While both teams showed good organisation in offence and defence, it was the Western unit who looked the better oiled side with more punchy plays and

a desire to win. The Tigers were also effective in shutting out Santos’ main weapon, the diminutive Caesar, whose mental fortitude eventually waned as he was evicted from the match when his presence would have mattered.

It was always going to be an uphill task for Santos to to erase a 2-0 deficit let alone win the match. Any thoughts of mounting a comeback were effectively dispelled when Western scored their third goal in the 78th minute, thanks to Shane Morris’ effort.

But even before the third goal, Santos found themselves a man short when Caesar was sent off. It did not help their cause in crunch time when yet another player, Vashile Cantzlaar, was sent packing by referee Gladwyn Johnson in the 81st minute.

It was all over for Santos with 9 minutes to full time; Western earning the top prize of $2M while Santos, despite the loss, pocketed $1M. Earlier, the thirdplace match-up between the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Riddim Squad

saw the Police arrest the Mocha-based Riddm Squad 2-1 to take home the third-place prize of $500 000 with $300 000 going to the losers.

Quinsi Holder netted both goals for Police while Riddim Squad’s consolation strike came off the boot of Rawl Ramsay in the 42nd minute, the game effectively sealed in the first half. The second half of the game produced end-to-end action, with Riddim Squad creating lots of opportunities but being kept at bay by the lawmen.

Underdogs steal the show...

IT WAS a night of upsets when the 2017 Limacol round-robin knock-out football tournament rolled into Victoria on Sunday night with both underdog teams Mahaica Determinators and Ann’s Grove winning their respective games.

In the opening fixture, Delroy Dean netted the first hat-trick of the tournament, single-handedly taking his side past the Riddim Squad side who could net only one.

Following Riddim Squad’s 5th minute strike from Rolex Scott, the game seemed to be going to script with the sprinkling of chances from the opposition as the half wore on.

However, on the resumption the Mahaica side showed their determination to pursue an upset win in front of their home fans, and that they did.

It started as early as the 69th minute with Dean slamming his shot into the net before converting a

penalty to add another to the tally on the night.

He was in the money when a long-range shot was parried by the Riddim Squad goalkeeper and into his path which he carefully converted and sent the East Coast crowd into frenzy.

In the second game of the evening, Pouderoyen did not have enough in the tank to get past the Ann’s Grove side as they lost 2-1.

The East Coast side opened the scoring in the seventh minute when a beautiful ball into the area was lobbed over the goalkeeper by Maxton Adams.

The West Bank side, however, did not go down without a fight as Quessey Alleyne brought the game level in the 35th minute.

And it seemed heading for a tame draw before Ryan Sears’ whistle-beater on the 90th minute left the crowd with a night of celebration.

With the win, Ann’s Grove moved to the top of Group C with Den Amstel second, Santos third and

From Back page MONACO - The governing body of world athletics (IAAF) has put a freeze on changes of nationality by athletes, saying the system has become open to abuse and that rules are being manipulated.

IAAF president Sebastian Coe said a working group would be set up to agree new rules by the end of the year.

“It has become abundantly clear that with regular multiple transfers of allegiance, especially from Africa, the present rules are

no longer fit for purpose,” Coe told reporters yesterday.

The decision will not affect the 15 applications for transfer which are already in process, the IAAF said.

“Athletics has to be based on national teams and is particularly vulnerable,” Coe added. “The rules do not provide protection necessary for individual athletes, they are open to abuse. Many federations regularly receive reports of athletes who are available for trade.”

Resurgent Nadal returns to Queen’s Club (REUTERS)-A resurgent for Wimbledon,” the Rafael Nadal will warm up for Wimbledon by returning to The Queen’s Club for the Aegon Championships in June.

The 14-times grand slam champion missed the entire grasscourt season last year with a wrist injury but after finishing runner-up to Roger Federer at the Australian Open, he hopes a good run in west London will bode well in his pursuit of a third Wimbledon title.

“I am very happy to be coming back to Queen’s.... It is the best way for me to be ready

Spanish left-hander said in a statement.

He lifted the Wimbledon trophy for the first time in 2008 just three weeks after his maiden triumph at Queen’s Club.

Nadal’s second Wimbledon title in 2010 also followed a good run at Queen’s and he reached the Wimbledon final five times between 2006 and 2011, making the quarters or better at the London warm-up event prior to each one.

The Queen’s Club tournament will be held from June 19-25.

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From Back page

By Stephan Sookram

IAAF puts freeze on transfers of...

Pouderoyen fourth.

In the Group D, the Mahaica side have assumed the lead of Group D by virtue of a positive two-goal difference to Police’s +1 while Camptown and Riddim Squad have one point each.

Matches continue tomorrow at the GFC with Northern Rangers and Grove Hi-Tech from 18:30hrs and Western Tigers against Uitvlugt from 20:00hrs.

Hereford 10:10 hrs Late Shipment 10:40 hrs Matrow’s Lady 11:15 hrs Gayebury 11:50 hrs Sparkling River 12:20 hrs Wild West Wind 12:50 hrs Tikkanbar American Racing Tips Philadelphia Park Race 1 Late Night Kiss Race 2 Talk To Me Race 3 Kentucky Road Race 4 Because I’m Happy Race 5 Pierce’s Prize Race 6 Nice n’ Sweet Race 7 Worth His Salt Race 8 Final Forum Race 9 For Later

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Cook knew it was time to step aside - Strauss

ALASTAIR Cook’s decision to resign from the England captaincy stemmed from his reservations about “how much he had left in the tank”, according to Andrew Strauss, England’s director of cricket, who says that the ECB expects to be able to name his successor within a fortnight, ahead of the oneday squad’s departure for the Caribbean on February 22.

Speaking at Lord’s on the day it was confirmed that Cook, 32, would be standing down from the captaincy after a record 59 Tests in charge, Strauss praised the considered manner in which his former opening partner had reached his decision.

The timing of Cook’s announcement leaves his successor - almost certainly Joe Root - a full four months of preparation before England’s next Test series against South Africa in July.

“This wasn’t one of those situations when it was right for me to persuade him to carry on,” Strauss, from whom

Cook inherited the captaincy back in 2012, told Sky Sports at Lord’s. “I’ve been there myself. You either know if you got it in you to carry on, or, deep down, you know it’s time to step aside.

“He did it the right way.

He didn’t jump to conclusions; he allowed the dust to settle after the India tour, he took some time to speak to the people closest to him, whom he trusted. I support and understand that decision.”

Cook’s resignation had been on the cards ever since the tour of India in December, which finished with back-to-back innings defeat for a dispiriting 4-0 scoreline. As he had indicated at the time, Cook chose not to make a snap decision, but instead took the opportunity to take stock before informing Strauss of his intentions when the pair met up in January.

“When the India tour finished, Alastair said to everyone that he’d sit down with me and talk things through,” said Strauss, “both the learnings from the India tour and what

Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss

the England team could do to get better, also his own position.

“We met up in January and I was interested to see how he had fared in India.

I know how draining the England captaincy can be, especially on a long tour away from home when you are on the wrong end of the result.

“So we had a conversation around that, and it was

pretty clear that Alastair knew how much drive, determination and energy was going to be required of the England captain in the next 12 months or so.

“He had some thoughts and reservations about how much he had left in the tank as England’s longest serving Test captain, and it was right that we didn’t jump to conclusions, and let the dust set-

Scorpions defend 204 to beat CCC Marooners

JAMAICA Scorpions defended 204 against Combined Campuses & Colleges Marooners in Bridgetown, courtesy of a spirited bowling effort led

by Nikita Miller, who took 3 for 12 from nine overs.

Miller’s haul saw CCC slip from 124 for 5 to 130 for 8, before they folded on 160 to give Jamaica a 44-run win that took them to second place in Group B. Jamaica reached 204 after fifties from Jermaine Blackwood (51) and Andre McCarthy (51), and a late surge from Jerome Taylor (41). Between these knocks, CCC took regular wickets to keep Jamaica in check. They lost their first two wickets for 26 and then slipped from 109 for 2 to be bowled out in the 46th over. Off-spinners Mark Deyal and Vikash Mohan took three wickets each.

For CCC, their top score came from the extras conceded by Jamaica (30, of which

SCOREBOARD

Nikita Miller

24 were wides). Cassius Burton (28), Amir Jangoo (24) and Mark Deyal (21) got starts but, with regular wickets falling, Jamaica completed a win in the 42nd over.

SCORPIONS innings C. Walton c Smith b Levy 4 S. Taylor c wkp. Jangoo b Harding 21 J. Blackwood c Hinds b Deyal 51 A. McCarthy c Harding b Mohan 51 D. Thomas c Jangoo b Mohan 1 J. Campbell lbw b Mohan 4 R. Powell c & b Deyal 5 D. Jacobs c Hinds b Deyal 7 N. Miller c Hinds b Harding 10 J. Taylor c Deyal b Levy 41 R. Leveridge not out 0 Extras: (lb-3, w-4, nb-2) 9 Total:(allout, 45.2 overs) 204 Fall of wickets: 1-26, 2-26, 3-109, 4-119, 5-125, 6-133, 7-150, 8-151, 9-187.

Bowling: Harding 7-1-23-2 (w-2), Levy 6.2-1-34-2 (nb1), Hinds 8-0-37-0, Edward 4-1-22-0, Mohan 10-0-42-3 (w-1), Deyal 10-0-43-3 (w-1).

MAROONERS innings

A. Jangoo c wkp. Walton b Powell 24 V. Mohan lbw b Taylor 4 K. Corbin run-out 18 C. Burton b Miller 28 R. Hinds c Blackwood b Powell 7 A. Jones run-out 6 M. Deyal lbw b Miller 21 J. Smith c McCarthy b Miller 0 L. Edward c & b Campbell 17 K. Harding c wkp. Walton b Jacobs 1 J Levy not out 4 Extras: (lb-4, w-24, nb-2) 30 Total: (all out, 41.3 overs) 160 Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-53, 3-58, 4-71, 5-81, 6-124, 7-124, 8-130, 9-147.

Bowling: Taylor 7-3-24-1 (w-2), Leveridge 4-0-26-0 (w-6), Powell 7-1-32-2 (w4), Jacobs 9-0-44-1 (w-6), Miller 9-2-12-3, Campbell 5.3-0-18-1 (w-6).

Points:Scorpions5, Marooners 0.

tle. I allowed him to go away and think further. But, over the last ten days or so, it was clear his mind was made up.”

Despite the speculation that has surrounded the role, Strauss insisted that the search for Cook’s successor would only now begin in earnest.

“There is a process to go through,” he said. “It would have been entirely wrong for me to have spoken to other players about the captaincy before Alastair stepped down, and especially while two important white-ball series were going on in India.

“Now’s the chance for myself and selectors, and the coach, to have conversations amongst ourselves and some players in the England environment, to get an understanding of who the right person is, what their philosophy is, and how they intend to take the team forward, so that when we come to announce the new captain, we are sure he’s the right man.”

For the time being, how-

ever, Strauss preferred to focus on Cook’s own contribution as England captain, which included 24 Test wins, two Ashes victories, and memorable series wins in India and South Africa.

“It’s important I say a huge thank you for all he’s done for England cricket,” said Strauss. “He led the team with drive, determination and passion, and you only have to speak to the people under him to know what a huge impact he’s had on them.

“His record speaks for itself. He’s been England’s longest-serving captain at a time when the scrutiny has never been greater. If you speak to the people who played under him, you’ll learn that he had that touch with people. He had some tough times and so he could appreciate when others had tough times.

“He really cared about English cricket, he cared about his team-mates and about the support staff, and that’s why he’ll be remembered so fondly.”

Everest Masters to play Dutch team on Wednesday EVEREST Masters will host Cricket Club Holland Touring Friends tomorrow in a 35 overs-a-side match from 11:00hrs.

The Dutch team is on a three-nation tour of the Caribbean. They have already played two games in Trinidad and Tobago. After their stop here, the team will head to Suriname to complete the tour.

The touring team, which is made up mainly of past cricketers includes Bijai Jawala, Soechit Bhanpersad, Jawalapersad Monie, Misier Baidjnath Deo, Changoer Bhoepin, Jiawon Anil, Beta Chaturi Pannalall, Moor Jani Manish, Rooij Martin, Mans Prescod, W.E. Walter, Mohamed Farouk Ayube, Jagesar Devanand Bhaijen, Harkisoen Dewdath Karan,

Lakhai Anand, Nathie Ram Jainarain Betlall and Mohamed Ali. The very active Everest Masters team are currently preparing for their weeklong tour of Trinidad and Tobago in March, and will use the game as a warm-up.

Everest masters will come from: Rajesh Singh, Johnny Azeez, Rohan Sarjoo, Ramotar Bissoon, Sahadeo Hardaiow, Satyendra Khemraj, Richard Sukhdeo, Ronald Jaisingh, Rakesh Gangaram, Saeed Khan, Prakash Balgobin, Hubert Wright, Latchman Persaud, Saheed Mohamed and Kalyan Tiwarie.

Trophies and plaques for the game are sponsored

by Trophy Stall of City Mall and South Road, Bourda. There will be live entertainment throughout the day’s activity.

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Cameroon coach Hugo Broos pays tribute to ‘23 friends’ CAMEROON coach Hugo Broos revealed he felt his squad were “becoming a family” as they progressed on route to winning the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.

The Indomitable Lions fought back to beat Egypt 2-1 in the final and win the title for the first time in 15 years.

“I don’t have 23 players, I have 23 friends,” Broos told BBC Sport.

“Over the weeks we went from being a squad to becoming a family. It’s unbelievable what all the guys did. It is tremendous.”

Mohamed Elneny put Egypt ahead in the final on Sunday but two Cameroon substitutes turned the game around - Nicolas Nkoulou equalised and Vincent Aboubakar struck the winner.

“This was the reason we

Cameroon boss Hugo Broos is lifted aloft by his players.

won the cup, because of the spirit in our camp,” Broos added. “The guys who were on the bench were happy - and the players who came off the bench decided the game.”

Cameroon’s success was achieved despite seven players refusing the call-up to play at the tournament, with the likes

of Liverpool centre-back Joel Matip and West Brom full-back Allan Nyom opting to stay with their clubs.

It was suggested by defender Ambroise Oyongo that it served to strengthen the ties between the players who did go to Gabon.

But before the tournament,

Four schools to participate in Andrew Juman Memorial T20 tournament

expectations that Cameroon could win a fifth Nations Cup title were low.

“Our ambition was to finish in the top two in our group, get to the knockout round and see what happened from there,” Broos said.

“Then we said to ourselves, ‘ok, let’s see what we can do in the quarter-finals’.”

After Cameroon won a penalty shootout to eliminate heavy favourites Senegal in their lasteight match, Broos and his men started to believe they could go all the way.

“We got a real boost of confidence when we beat Senegal,” Broos admitted.

“Our confidence showed against Egypt. We were dominated at first but in the second half what my team did to come back from 1-0 down, it was tremendous.” (BBC Sport)

Russia unlikely to be re-admitted before November: IAAF

(REUTERS) Russia will remain suspended from international athletics and is unlikely to be reinstated before November, the sport’s governing body (IAAF) said yesterday.

Rune Anderson, head of an IAAF task force, said Russia had been presented with a list of demands before it could be allowed to compete again.

He told reporters he did not expect Russia to be re-admitted before November this year,

meaning its athletes will not be able to compete in the world championships in August.

Russia’s athletics federation (RUSAF) was banned in November 2015 after an independent World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) probe exposed state-sponsored doping on a massive scale.

The suspension was upheld last year, ruling almost all Russian track and field athletes out of the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

South African World Cup winner Joost van der Westhuizen dies at 45

By Nick Said

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Reuters) - Joost van der Westhuizen, the scrumhalf for the South African side that triumphed at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, died yesterday at age 45 after a long battle with motor neurone disease, his charitable foundation said.

Chandrawattie Juman of Andrew Arts hands over the donation to Mark Papannah of the RHTY&SC, in the presence of members of the club and business entity.

FOUR secondary schools in the Lower Corentyne area in the Ancient County will participate in a T20 tournament, organised by the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club.

The four schools are the Lower Corentyne, J.C. Chandisingh, Port Mourant and Corentyne Comprehensive.

Each school will be permitted to play a total of seven Under-19 students, along with four teachers.

J.C. Chandisingh will clash with Port Mourant Secondary, while Corentyne Comprehensive and Lower

Corentyne will match skills.

The respective winners will clash for championship honours, while the two losing teams will meet in the third-place playoff.

The tournament, which is part-sponsored by Andrew Arts, is being held in memory of the late Andrew Juman, founder of Andrew Arts.

The business entity just recently donated 24 trophies, which will be used towards the tournament.

Managing Director of the Ogle East Coast Demerara business entity, Chan-

drawattie Juman, made the donation and in her in brief remarks stated that Andrew Arts is proud to be associated with the club.

Her late husband, she stated, was very delighted when he was inducted as a honorary member of the club in 2006, and it was only fitting that she should continue the relationship with the club.

Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster expressed gratitude to the business entity, adding that the late Juman was always closely associated with the club.

Hailed as one of South Africa’s greatest, van der Westhuizen played 89 tests between 1993 and 2003 and scored 38 test tries for the Springboks, a record at the time. He captained the team to the bronze medal at the 1999 World Cup. “Joost will be remembered as one of the greatest Springboks – not only of his generation, but of alltime,” SA Rugby president Mark Alexander said in a statement, calling him “one of the best scrumhalves world rugby has ever seen”.

“He also became an inspiration and hero to many fellow sufferers of this terrible disease as well as to those unaffected. We all marvelled at his bravery, his fortitude and his uncomplaining acceptance of this

South Africa’s Joost van der Westhuizen trains in a Melbourne gym during the 2003 Rugby World Cup, November 3, 2003. (REUTERS/MikeHutchings)

terrible burden.” van der Westhuizen was given two-and-a-half years to live when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a form of motor neurone disease, in 2011.

He put his energy into the J9 Foundation, which seeks to help other sufferers cope with the disease.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing

of Joost,” the foundation said. “He passed away in his home surrounded by his loved ones.”

His death comes 15 months after that of All Black great Jonah Lomu, who battled against van der Westhuizen in the 1995 World Cup, but became a good friend off the pitch in later years. Lomu died at 40 due to complications related to a kidney disorder.

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

‘Beckileaks’ email furore puts brand Beckham on the back foot

(REUTERS) David Beckham, the former England football captain turned international celebrity, was hit by a media onslaught yesterday after a series of hacked emails raised questions over his charity work after being made public.

A staple of British gossip and style columns, Beckham, 41, came under attack from newspapers after emails he allegedly sent were disclosed by the website “Football Leaks”. A spokeswoman for Beckham said the emails had been taken out of context and doctored.

Among them were his foul-mouthed reaction when he found out he was not going to be knighted and his reluctance to donate his own money to a charity project.

The leaks fly in the face

of his ‘man of the people’ public image.

Known by the nickname ‘Golden Balls’, the east-London born midfielder shot to fame with Manchester United thanks to his expert free-kick taking and crossing ability.

He won six Premier League titles and one Champions League, when Manchester United won the ‘treble’ in 1999.

He is the third mostcapped England international, and has global appeal having played for Spain’s Real Madrid and U.S. team L.A. Galaxy. He became as famous off the pitch as he was on it, marrying ‘Posh Spice’ singer Victoria Adams in 1999.

Beckham told the BBC in a special radio appearance last month that he stayed with Victoria for love rather than

Former England football captain David Beckham

England Under-19s crash to huge defeat as India clinch series MUMBAI, India (CMC) – Bermudan all-rounder Delray Rawlins’ sparkling run of form with the bat ended yesterday as England Under-19s crashed to a huge 230-run defeat at the hands of their Indian counterparts in the fourth one-dayer at the Wankhede Stadium.

Rawlins made only nine – following scores of 107 not out, 46 and 96 – as England were bundled out for 152 off 37.2 overs in reply to the hosts’ imposing 382 for nine off their 50 overs.

The left-handed Rawlins, England’s best batsman on tour, came unstuck when he mistimed a pull and was caught at mid-off leaving his side 41 for four.

Ollie Pope (59) and Will Jacks (44) offered some resis-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

COMPLIMENTS OF: THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE 176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)Kraig Braithwaite-101 (Barbados Pride) (2)Jerome Taylor-5/40 (Jamaica Scorpions) Today’s Quiz: (1)What was the result of the Guyana Jaguars first game in this year’s CWI Nagicor Super 50 Tournament?

(2) Against which team Guyana Jaguars recorded their first victory in this season’s Super 50 tournament?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

tance before the innings ended in the 38th over as opening bowler Kamlesh Nagarkoti claimed four for 31 and Vivekanand Tiwari, three for 20, to do the bulk of the damage.

India were earlier underpinned by belligerent centuries from opener Shubman Gill and number three Prithvi Shaw, who took the game away from the visitors with a second-wicket stand of 231.

Rawlins, who bowls leftarm spin, took two for 78 from nine overs including the wicket of Shaw, to notch his third two-wicket haul of the series.

With the victory, India took an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match ODI series which ends tomorrow.

ileaks’ in the British media, although the Daily Mirror said that Beckham had been a victim of a ‘blackmail plot to shame footie hero’.

Much of the outrage has centred on Beckham’s work with the UNICEF children’s charity. The leaked emails suggested that Beckham had billed it for a flight which he didn’t need to take, and was reluctant to contribute his own money to the charity.

UNICEF said it could not comment on the emails, but defended Beckham’s contribution.

“As well as generously giving his time, energy and support to help raise awareness and funds for UNICEF’S work for children, David has given significant funds personally,” it said in a statement.

Haiti to host Nicaragua in CONCACAF Gold Cup play-off first leg

HAITI will host Nicaragua in the first leg of the CONCACAF Gold Cup play-off following the results of the draw held at CONCACAF headquarters in Miami, Florida.

Bermudian Delray Rawlins was England’s best batsman on tour.

to protect ‘brand Beckham’.

However, the leaked emails portray a star who carefully maintained his image and who was tetchy when he did not get his way. His spokeswoman said the emails were misleading.

“This story is based on outdated material taken out of context from hacked and doctored private emails from a third party server and gives a deliberately inaccurate picture,” she said in a statement.

Reuters was not able to verify the source of the emails independently.

Many tabloid newspapers that had helped to propel his fame were unrelenting in their criticism of him yesterday.

The Daily Mail dedicated four pages to the ‘shame of Saint Becks’, and the affair has been dubbed ‘Beck-

The Grenadiers who booked a spot in the playoff after claiming the Caribbean Cup fifth spot, will kick things off on March 24, before moving to Nicaragua for the second leg of the competition.

The series will determine the 12th and last Gold Cup berth, which kicks off on July 7 at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey. The 11 qualified teams are: Canada, Mexico and the United States, Curacao, French Guiana, Jamaica and Martinique, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras and Panama.

The Haitians could be confident of their chances to progress based on recent form and record over the Central Americans.

Ahead of the qualifying match, Haiti and Nicaragua clashed four times. Three of the matches were friendly matches. It is the Grenadiers who lead the way with two victories. The first of those came on February 28, 1950, in Guatemala City, where Haiti won 4-2. The second

and last victory of the Haitian team against Nicaragua came in March 18, 1967, in Tegucigalpa, at the CONCACAF Championship.

On that occasion Haiti won the encounter 2-1. The most recent matches between the countries came in 2004.

The first of those encounters took place in January at the John Leonard Stadium in West Palm Beach, Florida (USA), and it ended in a 1-1 draw. About a month later,

at Estadio Independencia, Esteli in Nicaragua there was still no winner with the game ending in an identical scoreline.

The Grenadiers, 69th in the FIFA rankings, have won four of the last five games played, including a 5-2 win over Guyana, Jamaica 2-0, St Kitts & Nevis 2-0, Suriname 4-2 and Trinidad 4-3. Nicaragua have won one of their last five games.

Haiti will kick things off on March 24 before moving to Nicaragua for the second leg.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Eight matches carded for Pouderoyen tarmac

Action during the opening night of the tournament (Delano Williams photo) EIGHT more matches will grace the Pouderoyen tarmac this evening when the Colors/ Guinness in the Street football competition rolls into West Demerara for its second night.

In the first game of the night Goed Fortuin will play The Money team while Harmony Ballers will play Best Road Ballers in game two.

The boys in blue also known as the Police team

will take on Jetty in game three with Gas Team and Young Ballers from Crane up for action in game four which will be followed by a break.

Upon the resumption, Classic 7 will have to take on the Gold Getters to move to the next round while Hustlers will have to better the talents of Prospect Jammers in game six.

Shattaville Gunners and

Golden Warriors will do battle in game seven with Brothers United and West Side Starz set to close off the event for the evening.

The winners of the tournament will pocket $450 000, with second-place finishers 150 000, third place $100 000 and fourth place $50 000. (Stephan Sookram)

FIBA referee Sherwin Henry to meet basketball officials today

FOLLOWING a meeting between the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) on Sunday and club affiliates, it was decided that Guyana’s lone International Basketball Federation (FIBA) recognised referee Sherwin Henry will hold a special meeting today involving the referees, table officials, game commissioners, coaches and captains, ahead of the LABA 2017 which tentatively bounces off on Saturday in Linden.

Henry will brief the various officials on what is expected of them and the general rules that can influence the smooth running of matches and the roles played by these individuals.

FIBA referee Sherwin Henry

The referees will get special attention since they will be needed to conduct the games in a way that

does not impede the flow of play while maintaining discipline.

Clubs - Retrieve Raiders, Half Mile Bulls, Victory Valley Royals, Amelia’s Ward Jets, Bankers Trust Falcons, Kwakwani and Christianburg Pistons - are expected to send representatives in the different categories so that their clubs are aware of their expectations and how to conduct themselves.

The Under-23 competition is expected to be the first competition and clubs are to submit their list of players by today and these players must be born on January 1, 1994 or after to be eligible to play in this competition.

Hurricanes crush Windies U-19s to reach Regional Super50 final four NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) – Leeward Islands Hurricanes crushed luckless West Indies Under-19s by eight wickets here yesterday, to reach the final four of the Regional Super50.

Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein produced a superb spell, claiming a career-best four for eight from his 10 overs as the Under-19s, sent in at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, were bundled out for a dismal 78 off 45 overs.

Jahmar Hamilton then stroked an unbeaten 42 and opener Montcin Hodge, 31 not out, to guide Hurricanes to their fifth win in six outings in the competition.

They top Group A on 24 points, 11 clear of second-placed Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, who were taking on Windward Islands Volcanoes in the day’s second game.

With just one win to their credit in the tournament, the Under-19s were hoping to transform their fortunes but instead found themselves tottering on 48 for eight in the 35th over.

West Indies speedster Alzarri Joseph caused the havoc up front, removing opener Shian Brathwaite for three and wicketkeeper Emmanuel Stewart for four, to end with figures of two for 20 off his 10 overs.

Hosein then ran through the middle order with the only resistance coming from Kirstan Kallicharan who top-scored with 33.

He struck two fours and two sixes in a 95-ball knock and added 30 for the ninth wicket with TeShawn Alleyne (6).

Kallicharan was ninth out, one of two wickets to fall to left-arm spinner Jason Campbell, as the innings ended swiftly.

In reply, Hurricanes stuttered and stumbled to 10 for two as Jermaine Otto (1) and Jamaican Nkrumah Bonner (0) departed cheaply.

But Hamilton and

Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein destroyed the West Indies Under-19s innings with a four-wicket haul. (Photo courtesy WICB Media)

Hodge restored normalcy to the innings, posting 72 in an unbroken

third-wicket stand, to see Hurricanes home without any further hiccups.

SCOREBOARD WINDIES UNDER-19s innings S. Brathwaite c wkp.

Hamilton b Joseph 3 M. Patrick stp. Hamilton b Hosein 10 E. Stewart c wkp. Hamilton b Joseph 4 B. Yadram c Cornwall b Hosein 10 S. Springer b Hosein 0 K. Kallicharan c Tonge b Campbell 33 K. Paul lbw b Hosein 0 J. Bishop c wkp. Hamilton b Cornwall 0 M. Louis c Powell b Campbell 3 T. Alleyne c wkp. Hamilton b Tonge 6 J. Spencer not out 0 Extras: (lb-6, w-3) 9 Total: (all out, 45.3 overs) 78 Fall of wickets: 1-8, 2-13,

3-33, 4-33, 5-34, 6-34, 7-35, 8-48, 9-78.

Bowling: Tonge 7.3-2-9-1 (w-1), Joseph 10-2-29-2 (w-1), Hosein 10-5-84, Cornwall 10-6-6-1, Campbell 8-5-20-2 (w-1).

HURRICANES innings J. Otto c Paul b Spencer 1 M. Hodge not out 31 N. Bonner c wkp. Stewart b Springer 0 J. Hamilton not out 42 Extras: (b-4, w-4) 8 Total: (2 wkts, 16.5 overs) 82 Fall of wickets: 1-9, 2-10.

Bowling: Spencer 4-1-13-1 (w-1), Springer 4-0-16-1 (w-3), Bishop 4.5-0-31-0, Alleyne 1-0-9-0, Patrick 3-0-9-0.

Points: Hurricanes 5, Under-19s 0.

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Eight matches carded for Pouderoyen tarmac 27 P.

Western Tigers lift $2M top prize, STAG Cup after whipping Santos 3-0 Police edge Riddim Squad for third place

See page 23 Western Tigers captain Phillip Rowley proudly receives the winners’ trophy from Managing Director of Ansa McAl, Troy Cadogan, in the presence of jubilant teammates after their victory in the final.

IAAF Underdogs steal the show at Victoria puts freeze on transfers See page of 23 allegiance 2017 Limacol round-robin knock-out football

Hat-trick hero Delroy Dean

Delroy Dean beats the goalkeeper for a successful penalty during one of his three goals against Riddim Squad on Sunday night at the Victoria ground. (Adrian Narine photo)

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See page 23 Sebastian Coe

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY,7TH , 2017