Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09 02 2017

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

No. 104818

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Two killed in Corentyne

Dead: Lilawattie Mohamed

…mother, phone card vendor shot dead in separate attacks See stories on pages 2 & 4

Dead: Danian Jagdeo

Parking rates to cut

Page 3

…Ramkarran calls for civil resistance

Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia Chase-Green, updating members of the media following her meeting with President David Granger and other top government officials at State House, Wednesday afternoon (Adrian Narine photo)

Energy policy soon – major works for hinterland regions P1a0ge

See story on page 8

Duo wanted UNDP assesses for murder of needs for Kaneville baby constitutional reform Page 11

Page 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Mother shot dead in front of children – during home invasion in Corentyne

By Nafeeza Yahya IT is a sight two children will never forget –- their mother being shot at pointblank range at their Lot 149 Sixth Street, Tain Settlement, Corentyne, home.

Lilawattie Mohamed, 45, a domestic worker, was at

home with her 19-year-old son and 20-year-old daughter, when two masked gunmen barged into the house at approximately 23:30hrs on Tuesday night.

They ordered the woman and her son, Ashad Ishack, to kneel on the floor, while the daughter hid under a bed. The

According to residents, the two men were seen running towards the back of the community.

men asked “where the money at?” and when Lilawattie said she did not have any, one of the bandits placed the gun to her throat and fired a shot, killing her instantly.

The still terrified young man recalled that he woke up to loud banging on the front door, which they broke

PREMEDITATED MURDER Ishack said that after the men escaped, he quickly turned on the lights in the house and called out to neighbours for help. He said his sister was too terrified to move, but held onto her mother crying and begging for her to “stay with we.”

Shortly after, a neighbour assisted in taking the woman to the Port Mourant Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Relatives are now baffled as to the motive for the incident, given the fact that nothing was stolen from the house. They believe that it was not robbery, but a premeditated act of murder.

Mohamed was described as a quiet and hardworking single parent, who provided for her children.

Dead: Lilawattie Mohamed

Commander of ‘B’ Division, Ian Amsterdam, (front row, right) and his team with the grieving family. A traumatised Ashad Ishack sits next to the commander, while his pregnant sister, who was not home during the attack, remains in a state of shock

and eventually gained entry.

According to Ishack, he and his mother tried to prevent the men from entering the bedroom by bracing the door, but they were overpowered.

“Them bruk the front door to come and then take the bar from the door and try to break the room to the bedroom. We were all in the room, so my sister hide under the bed, my mother was screaming, then we both try to brace the door so that they wouldn’t come in,” the terrified young man said.

He explained that the only words spoken by one of the intruders were, “where the money at?” after which his mother was shot dead. In tears, the young man said his mother collapsed beside him, covered in blood.

The gunmen immediately escaped by scaling the fence and firing a round in the air.

They left empty-handed.

The house which the gunmen broke into and where Mohamed was shot and killed

“She get along with everyone, just one person does trouble her and her daughter and she does get problem with him,” a relative revealed.

The relative explained that the alleged “trouble maker” owns and operates a Barber Shop in Tain and would usually torment Mohamed.

“He does go around and spread lies about her and would tell people he deh with the daughter, when it’s not true and other things.”

Meanwhile, Divisional Commander Ian Amsterdam and a team visited and sympathised with the family on Wednesday morning.

According to the commander, “Based on information the police have arrested a man who would taunt and issue threats to the woman.” The suspect remains in custody and the investigation continues. The woman leaves to mourn her three children, one of whom is pregnant, and other relatives and friends.

Parking rates to cut 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

…City Hall, SCS have 72 hours to consult with stakeholders

President David Granger and a team of ministers, including Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Basil Williams and Minister of State Joseph Harmon, discussing the parking meter project with city Mayor Patricia Chase-Green and Town Clerk, Royston King

By Svetlana Marshall WITHIN 72 hours, the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CCC) will re-open consultations on the controversial parking meter project with a high possibility that the parking fees will be lowered as against the scrapping of the entire contract.

“We will meet within the next 72 hours to discuss the way forward,” city Mayor Patricia Chase-Green told reporters shortly after exiting a meeting with President David Granger at State House on Wednesday.

‘That meeting was also attended by the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams; Minister of State, Joseph Harmon; Minister of Communities,

Ronald Bulkan; and the city’s Town Clerk, Royston King.

Chase-Green explained that the highly contentious project was discussed at the level of Cabinet, where a number of concerns were raised. Those concerns were put before the mayor and the town clerk when they met with the President and his ministerial team.

Describing the meeting as a very fruitful one, the mayor said based on the discussions, she has agreed to hold further consultations on the parking meter project. These consultations will be held with the executing agency –- Smart City Solutions, the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the business community, and the regular citizens who may have concerns.

“I will meet with the wid-

er cross-section of persons and see where it takes us,” she posited.

Questioned as to whether the Council would be willing to have the parking fees reduced following the consultations with those affected, Mayor Chase-Green said the council is open for discussions.

“I am not ruling out anything at this present time, we are opened for discussion…

We are opened for discussions on all issues, including reductions,” she said.

But when asked if the Council would be willing to scrap the parking meter contract in response to ongoing calls by the Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM), the mayor said, “no comments.”

The current parking meter

system in place stipulates that between the hours of 07:00hrs and 19:00hrs, drivers, once desirous of parking, are mandated to pay in designated areas of the city, fees ranging from $570 to $11,400, VAT inclusive. The rate for parking is $50 for every 15 minutes, plus VAT. Although VAT has been reduced from 16 to 14 per cent, the company is still charging 16 per cent.

Commenting on the issue, the attorney general said the current parking fees attached are burdensome on the regular citizenry.

“I revised… (and) there was nothing unlawful about it, but what they had to do was to rework the figures …which they apparently did, but even so, the reworking appears to be over-saddling the ordinary working-class person,” he

told reporters on the sidelines of the Anti-Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Seminar on Wednesday.

Later that day, after exiting the meeting with the President and the mayor, the attorney general said Guyanese can now expect “peace and consensus,” noting that it is possible that the parking fees will be reduced.

Amid the consultations, the parking meter project will continue to take effect.

Since becoming fully operational, citizens have rejected the metered parking system, with countless parking spots remaining vacant on a daily basis. This has even prompted the town clerk to issue a statement asking citizens to support the initiative, which he believes will benefit the city.

Simultaneously, there is a “Say no to parking meters in Georgetown” movement calling for citizens to “starve the parking meters.” Several protests by this movement have been planned.

Additionally, an online petition introduced on Thursday has already received more than 300 signatures of citizens who reject the parking meters.

The petition states that

most of the fines and measures which will be instituted, once the by-laws are approved, are “too high” in cost and have “unfair” penalties.

Should an individual fail to pay for parking while occupying a parking spot, his/her vehicle would be wheel-booted, and they will have two hours to pay a release fine of $8,000 + VAT. If the individual tries to remove or interfere with the immobilisation device, that person could be fined $100,000 or spend three months in prison. After two hours of being immobilised, the vehicle would be towed and this would attract a towing fee of $12,000.

If the vehicle is damaged during this process, the individual will not be compensated by the M&CC. The impoundment fee is $7,000, and each day the vehicle remains impounded, an additional $7,000 will be charged.

Should an individual fail to pay these fines within 90 days, the M&CC can sell the vehicle at a public auction.

Persons providing false or inaccurate names to wardens or city constables, run the risk of being placed before a magistrate and could be fined up to $50,000.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Businessman killed during daring robbery … gunmen abandon motorcycle

By Nafeeza Yahya BUSINESSMAN Danian Jagdeo, known as ‘Damion,’ was shot three times at point-blank range in Adventure Village on the Corentyne during a daring robbery on Wednesday afternoon.

The 36-year-old father of four of Lot 12 Section G, King Street, Williamsburg, Corentyne, was a phone card agent, who serviced the entire East Berbice, Corentyne area from Moleson Creek to New Amsterdam. At approximately

15:30hrs on Wednesday, he was making his rounds when he stopped at the Country Chef Food Shop and Soman’s Grocery in Adventure village.

This newspaper understands that one of the two bandits followed Jagdeo inside the shop and immediately opened fire on him. He was shot in the region of the abdomen, chest and back. He was taken to the Anamayah Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The gunman relieved Jag-

deo of a bag which contained an undisclosed sum of cash and a quantity of phone cards before escaping with his accomplice, who was waiting on a motorcycle some distance away.

The gunmen subsequently abandoned the motorcycle, which bore a fake licence plate, at Friendship, located two villages away from the crime scene and boarded a silver-coloured Toyota Allion.

Eyewitnesses described the duo as slimly built.

“I see when the bike pass, one

Dead: Danian Jagdeo known as ‘Damion’ a dem had on a helmet that cover he face and the other one…had on an army hat that fly off, but them didn’t stop to pick up the hat. I then see them stop by the street next to Anirude and jump in a silver- grey Allion wid the helmet in he hand, but I didn’t know is wah happen. I thought them getting away from the

traffic police,” an eyewitness told this newspaper.

According to the shopkeeper, Mrs Soman, the businessman had suspected something was amiss, when the bandit followed inside the shop and moments before he was shot, Jagdeo asked her if she (Mrs Soman) knew the man behind him, to which she responded “no.”

After the first shot was fired, a struggle ensued between Jagdeo and the gunman and more shots were fired, with one bullet piercing a glass case in the shop.

“When he walk in, he asked if I know the guy coming in behind him and I said no, he probably come in to buy food… when the man reach inside, he pull out a gun and fire one shot at he and them start fuh struggle. I didn’t wait, I just hook the lock on the grill and ran upstairs with my daughter-in-law,” the terrified shopkeeper said.

Mrs Soman said she called the police and waited a few minutes until she assumed it was safe and returned downstairs to find Jagdeo lying face down in the shop.

‘I WANT MY HUSBAND BACK’ Meanwhile, the dead man’s wife, Mary Jagdeo, who is a teacher at Alness Primary School, received the tragic news from her son, while she was teaching after-school classes.

“I immediately dropped what I was doing and asked the cleaner to send the children home and when I reached by the shop, I saw him lying down. He was looking pale... when I felt him, he was really cold; I said to myself he’s dead! They killed him!” the crying woman said.

According to Mrs Jagdeo,

Family members comfort the dead man’s wife, Mary Jagdeo, who broke down in tears at the crime scene

she spoke to her husband about 10 minutes before receiving the dreadful news. She described him as a hardworking man, who toiled long hours to ensure his family is taken care of .

“I want my husband back!

Why couldn’t they shoot him on his foot? Why they had to kill him? ...I don’t believe this! Please tell me this isn’t true,” Mrs Jagdeo said in tears.

Meanwhile, investigators believe that the businessman was trailed throughout the day

as the bandits waited for the right opportunity to strike. At Friendship Village, investigators were observed dusting the abandoned motorcycle for fingerprints. Commander of ‘B’ Division, Ian Amsterdam, is calling on persons who have information pertaining to the ownership of the bike to come forward.

Jagdeo’s death comes less than 24 hours after a mother of three was gunned down in her home at Tain, Corentyne, Berbice.

The motorcycle which was abandoned by the gunmen.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

UNDP assesses needs for constitutional reform A UNITED Nations Development Programme (UNDP) expert team is in Guyana to explore how constitutional reform could be realised.

According to a release, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Coordinator of Governance, Tamara Khan, met with the United Nations delegation, which is in Guyana until February 10 to meet various stakeholders.

The current UNDP mission comprises Gerardo Noto, Rohan Edrisinha and Jason Gluck, all of whom are UN constitutional consultants.

The release noted that UN Resident Coordinator, Mikiko Tanaka, and Deputy Resident Coordinator Shabnam Mallick, are also working with the mission team.

The terms of reference (ToR) between the Government of Guyana, the United Nations Development Programme and the United

Nations Department of Political Affairs (UNDPA), has outlined the scope of the constitutional reform needs assessment mission.

It covers assessment of the political environment in Guyana and the legal and institutional framework governing the constitutional reform process; review past reform processes; evaluate the interest, capacity and roles of the various civil and political stakeholders in engaging in the constitutional reform process; and assess the potential role of UNDP-UNDPA in assisting this process and resources required.

The UNDP-UNDPA team will sit with a broad base of stakeholders to gain pertinent feedback for the needs of the various civil society actors in the process of constitutional reform.

The team has requested meetings with the Leader of the Opposition and the People’s Progressive Party; the

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo flanked by Deputy UN Resident Coodinator Shabnam Mallick (left) and UN Resident Coordinator Mikiko Tanaka (right) with (at left) Fabio Oliva, Rohan Edrisinha, Gerardo Noto and Jason Gluck of the UNDP delegation. At extreme right is Coordinator of Governance, Tamara Khan

Speaker of the National Assembly; the National Toshaos Council Chairman; trade unions; the Rights Commissions; Private Sector Commission; religious bodies; the Guyana Bar Association; international partners and several other civil society bodies.

During consideration of the 2016 budget, the Prime Minister disclosed that the process of constitutional re-

form must forge ahead in 2017 and that various partners, including the UNDP and UNICEF, have assured assistance.

As a preparatory step, a Steering Committee on Constitutional Reform (SCCR) headed by Attorney Nigel Hughes was set up on September 1, 2015. The committee’s report was submitted to the Prime Minister on April 30, 2016 and subsequently

Court action against parking meters looms … protest planned for today

By Vishani Ragobeer DESCRIBING the implementation of the parking meter project as a “catastrophe,” The Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM) has called for the revocation of this project, citing lack of transparency and consultations.

At a press conference on Wednesday at the George-

town Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Waterloo Street, Attorney-at-law Nadia Sagar said that while the MAPM would not be taking any legal action against the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) and Smart City Solutions (SCS), she reassured that legal action will definitely be taken.

“Legal action is going to be taken. Things don’t hap-

pen overnight,” Sagar said, while adding, “There are several entities pursing action through different attorneys.”

When asked why only now action is being taken against the project, Sagar contended that since there has been no public disclosure of the contract between M&CC and SCS, the group was unable to make total pronouncements.

She questioned, “How can we pronounce on something we have not seen?” but added that the group intends to approach the Commissioner of Information to see if a copy of this contract can be obtained.

The group of supporters present expressed dissatisfaction with the M&CC and highlighted that there was an

Turn to page 9 ►

Thursday, February 9, 2017 - 04:00 hrs | 14:30 hrs Friday, February 10, 2017 - 05:00 hrs | 14:30 hrs Saturday, February 11, 2017 - 05:30 hrs

laid before Cabinet for studied discussions.

A Constitutional Reform Consultative Commission Bill was drafted and is now the subject of further Cabinet deliberations.

The release also noted that subsequently, the Carter Center came on board as a partner in the constitutional reform process.

Prime Minister Naga-

mootoo has started talks on programme support in general, and constitutional reform in particular with the UNDP as far back as July 23, 2015, when he met with UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Latin America, Jessica Faieta, and then UNDP Resident Representative Khadija Musa.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

I advocated a reduction of parking fees Dear Editor,

THIS communication is informed by the publication in the national news media of two letters pertaining to the Parking Meter issue – one by Raquel Thomas-Caesar on the 24th January, 2017 and a response

by Mark Benschop (team Benschop) on the 26th January, 2017.

In particular, I wish to focus on Thomas-Caesar’s statements that only Councillor Sherod Duncan has voiced his objections to the Parking Meter Project in contrast to the passive acceptance by the other Coun-

cillors.

Mr Editor, a cursory perusal of the Council meetings and minutes of both August 31, 2016 and September 13, 2016 will capture the pro-active participation and myriad interventions of Councillor Alfred Mentore. (The minutes of these meetings are available to the public and for public consumption and further, these discussions were not held in-camera).

Therefore, to contend that all Councillors allowed the project to proceed unchallenged is far from the facts.

Ms Thomas-Caesar further questioned the motive of Councillors as to their

commitment, loyalty and duty of care to their respective constituents. Suffice it to say, this is not the case. For my part, Mr Editor, permit me to chronicle some of the interactions of Councillor Mentore with reference to his pivotal involvement and responsibility for intervening as a Councillor in the Container Fee issue between Crown Mining and the City Administration of Council.

This intervention role by me caused a lot of friction at the then time, but benefited the Council thereafter with us moving from a collection rate of $500,000.00/ monthly to a quantum in-

really is this management team doing? We have moved from a low of 183,615tonnes in 2016 to another low of 198,458tonnes for 2017.This team is convincing everyone that they can deliver poor performances consistently over time. GuySuCo also has a history of not achieving targets, which brings into focus whether 198,458t will be delivered at the end of 2017.

I will not address the second crop estimate as it is too early, but will examine the first crop estimate. GuySuCo projects 74,172tonnes for first crop 2017 which, incidentally, is now scheduled to start in early/ mid-February instead of late February after my letter “This decision by GuySuCo boggles the mind.” With

the incompetence and track record of poor performances, will GuySuCo achieve 74,172tonnes in first crop 2017? I will share with readers some past performances and allow them to make their own deductions.

See table below: It may be just coincidence, but a current IMC member was CEO of GuySuCo in 2013. Do we have a situation in 2017 where GuySuCo deliberately lowered the target to achieve it, or did management facilitate accelerated deterioration of fields and factories in 2015/2016 to justify its “shut-down & sell-out” vision?

Nation awaits sugar production target for 2017 Dear Editor,

GuySuCo in typical style is releasing selective information to the public.

Despite paying a millstone management team, G$14.1M/month, the nation does not have the sugar projection for this year, although it is February 2017. I have learnt that GuySuCo projects 198,458tonnes of sugar for this year. It is divided into 74,172t and 124,286t for first and second crops.

I did suggest in one of my letters that a depressed estimate may be forthcoming.

Editor, this is the lowest projection ever in recent memory and an embarrassment to the Board of Directors and Government. What 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

1st Crop Sugar Projection (t) 100,634 71,666 74,617 86,201 80,270 74,172

1st Sugar Production (t) 71,146 48,038 79,995 81,143 56,645 ??

Regards SOOKRAM PERSAUD % Achievement on Projection 71 67 107 94 71 ??

crease of $12,000,000.00 $15,000,000.00/monthly.

Coupled with this singular turn of events, Councillor Mentore also spoke extensively and provided inputs on the following matter inter-alia:- Booting fee, storage fee, towing fees, parking fees/tariff - Councillor Mentore advocated the reduction of these fees and the need for legislation and the necessary by-laws governing the introduction and implementation of these new laws.

Duration of Smart City Solution’s contract with the view that the Mayor & City Council (M&CC) “owns” the Venture on the expiration

of the agreed contract term of 20 (Twenty) years; · The removal of any exclusivity granted to Smart City Solutions vis-à-vis garage parking spaces -whereas the Mayor & City Council (M&CC) is the only authority for approving such garage parking with no consent needed from Smart City Solutions; · And many other conditionalities and ramifications of breach of contract.

Mr Editor, having regard to the constraints of the foregoing, it is rather unfortunate that Ms Thomas –Caesar, someone for whom I hold the

greatest of respect and a friend within my constituency, did not first give me an opportunity to clear up any uncertainty, but rather paint the entire council’s membership with a broad brush . This is while not recognising nor acknowledging the sterling contributions o f C o u n c i l l o r s A l f re d Mentore, Ron Persaud Noelle Chowchee and others .

Regards COUNCILLOR ALFRED MENTORE Constituency – 4 City of Georgetown

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Parking meter saga…

Ramkarran calls for civil resistance -if parking meter zones are expanded A POSSIBLE extension of the metered parking zone by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown has prompted political and social commentator, Ralph Ramkarran to issue a call for “civil resistance.”

Referencing a full page advertisement carried in Wednesday’s edition of Kaieteur News, which shows the area targeted for a possible extension of the metered parking system, Ramkarran said this offers a “frightening prospect”. If pursued, 1200 parking meters will be installed in the targeted area.

The commentator, who once served as Speaker of the National Assembly, expressed this view in a post made on popular social media site, Facebook on Wednesday.

“The advertisement in Kaieteur News… offers a frightening prospect,” he said adding that if push comes to shove, and the extension policy is adopted, the stalwart citizens who have initiated a citizens’ campaign against the meters

Former Speaker of the National Assembly, Ralph Ramkarran

should think of an alternative strategy which he proposes.

This strategy, he said, is that “a campaign of civil resistance should be immediately launched”.

“All private, taxi and mini bus drivers should be mobilised to park in any place in the city and decline to pay for parking. Some will be clamped but SCS and the City Council cannot clamp all the vehicles,” Ramkarran wrote.

He said that simulta-

neously, a fund should be launched to pay the charges for any person whose parked vehicle has been clamped upon production of the necessary receipt, and that he is prepared to start the fund with a contribution of $100,000.

In speaking to the approach by the M&CC, he noted that a divide and rule tactic would be to offer a modest reduction in the charges for parking, followed by an expansion of parking meters in a larger portion of the Red Zone.

He said that such a development would make it difficult for persons working in the heart of Georgetown, where meters have been installed, to park outside it and walk to their place of work or to do business.

According to him, the reality is that the charges for parking are simply unaffordable to most people and that the M&CC and Smart City Solution (SCS) – the company contracted to manage and operate the meters – do not seem to understand this.

The rates currently be-

An aerial shot which shows the extended area where M&CC intends to install 1200 more parking meters

ing charged for parking is $50+$8 Value Added Tax (VAT) for 15 minutes.

“Regular workers in the City who own cars simply cannot afford another expenditure of $32,000 a month,” Ramkarran opined.

He added that taxi and mini bus passengers will not be able to afford the additional charges as a result of the vehicles having to pay parking fees.

“If they have to pay it or anything other than a

reduction to $40 an hour, they will have to abandon their motor vehicles. SCS and the City Council will eventually realise that insults cannot change this reality,” the political commentator said.

Guyana to write Curacao over Insel Air dilemma

By Zena Henry AVIATION authorities here are to write Curacao for clarifications on the dilemma that country’s national carrier, Insel Air, is facing.

Several reports from overseas media houses have shown that the Curacao carrier is facing deep financial difficulties as well as safety issues with its fleet. Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Captain Egbert Field, said that the agency was given no formal information by Insel and a meeting had been scheduled with the airline on Tuesday, but it did not come off. He said the information coming out of Curacao suggests that Insel is unable to efficiently service its destinations and Guyana is seeking clear information on this position.

Insel Air began operating in Guyana in 2014, offering two weekly flights from Guyana to Miami,

Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Captain Egbert Fields

Venezuela and the Caribbean, among other destinations. It was described as a new dispensation, opening up new routes for locals and foreigners to get to and from Guyana or to connect with other countries. The airline also offered special packages to destinations such as Aruba for vacationers.

However, the airline has been experiencing some difficulties with its oper-

ations. Curacao authorities have grounded most of the airline’s planes over safety concerns. Reports out of Suriname said that Curaçao’s Civil Aviation Authority held almost all of Insel’s planes to the ground, claiming that a number of incidents on flights resulted in this move.

It was noted that during a flight from Curacao to Miami more than a week ago, a precautionary landing was made due to irregularities in the cabin, causing passengers to sometimes use their oxygen masks. Another incident saw a pilot refusing to fly one of the airline’s planes from Saint Martin, claiming that the plane’s cabin was not in good condition. At least 80 percent of Insel’s planes remained out of the sky, with almost all international flights deleted from its flight destinations.

Some 100 million euros is said to be tied up in neighbouring Venezuela, which is going through an extremely

Insel Air has been facing serious financial difficulties

rough financial period.

However, to add to the airline’s troubles, Suriname and the United States recently gave out warnings about travelling with Insel, because it was not using its own equipment. That country’s Association of Travel Agents advised its members not to book Surinamese who want to travel to the Region on Insel, or should they, they would be doing it at their own risk.

It was said that Insel Air operates at least sev-

en weekly flights from Suriname to the Region, “but now they [Insel] do not fly with its own equipment to and from Suriname. As far as we know, the flights at most run with hired equipment from other companies,” Suriname’s Civil Aviation Authority said. Local company, Roraima Airways, is the ground handler for Insel Air. When an update on the airline was sought from the company’s public re-

lations arm, the publication was directed the airline’s office. The Chronicle was told that the airline was awaiting word on the next Insel flight, since it had not come when it was scheduled to.

Some airline ticket agents said that they were not selling tickets for Insel Air, since they were told that the planes have been grounded. The agents said they are awaiting further instructions from the company.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Collaboration key in dismantling corruption – Attorney General tells Anti-Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering Seminar

By Svetlana Marshall A STRONG legislative framework is not enough to successfully combat corruption, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams said, while underscoring the importance of collaboration in the fight against this scourge.

Such collaboration, he said, will lead to effective detection, investigation and analysis of evidence.

The Attorney General was at the time, delivering remarks during the opening ceremony of an Anti-Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering Seminar at the Police Officers’ Training Centre on Wednesday.

Quoting the former Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), Kofi Annan, the Attorney General said “corruption is an insidious plague that has a wide range of corrosive effects on societies.”

It was further pointed out that illicit activities such as money-laundering, misappropriation of public property, bribery, embezzlement and misuse of public office are all by-products of corruption –- an act which involves the misuse of powers by Government officials for illegitimate private gain.

“They hinder economic growth as a corrupted society deters investors, both local and foreign. Corruption affects the integrity of

British High Commissioner Greg Quinn

financial institutions, and undermines public confidence in the financial system as criminals will use these institutions to process their ill-gotten gains,” the Attorney General told those present.

However, it was noted that a strong legislative framework promotes prevention, detection and prosecution, while upholding the ideals of good governance.

LEGISLATIONS Here in Guyana, the Integrity Commission Act, the Access to Information Act and the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act are strategically in place to guard against acts of corruption, and money-laundering, and for the institutionalisation of punitive measures against those who dare to

act in breach of the legislation.

Soon these legislations will be complemented by the State Asset Recovery Act, the Witness Protection Act and the Protected Disclosures (Whistleblower) Act. Currently, these bills are before the National Assembly.

According to the Attorney General, the State Asset Recovery Bill, which is currently before the National Assembly, demonstrates Guyana’s commitment to its international obligations under the UN Convention against Corruption.

However, he emphasised that a strong legislative framework is not sufficient to successfully fight against corruption. As such, the Government has appointed a special prosecutorial team, comprising six competent and experienced Attorneys-at-Law to prosecute high-profile cases, with the hope of successful convictions.

“The appointment of the special prosecutors will enhance the Government’s capacity to secure successful convictions. The prosecutors will be tasked with prosecuting high-profile corruption cases, including recovery of state assets required by public officials or by money-laundering,” Minister Williams explained.

At the time, he was speaking in the presence

Court action against... outright lack of transparency throughout the entire process, including the ambiguous bidding and tendering process prior to implementing the meters. This was coupled with the lack of consultations with stakeholders and a lack of feasibility studies.

Due to the lack of these fundamental aspects, the supporters expressed that the movement will remain insatiable unless the entire project is revoked, regardless of any adjustments made to the project, including lowering of the rates.

According to MAPM member, Christopher Chapwanya, the actions that have been taken by the M&CC are reflective of a “shady and sinister” project.

Member of the private

sector and supporter of the movement, Komal Ramnauth , explained too that the implementation of the parking meters with the exorbitant rates, has resulted in a domino effect where commercial activity around the affected areas in the capital has decreased due to persons seeking to avoid paying to park.

This results in a loss of commercial activity which incurs losses to businesses who are still paying taxes as per normal, which will eventually lead to a loss of employment.

Another supporter of the movement, Andrew McBean, asserted, “We are not opposed to the idea of paid parking. We are all in agreement with a sustainable city… a sustainable country.”

From page 5

The Guyana Chronicle recently reported that with the parking meter system, drivers could lose big monthly in a number of ways. In addition to the rates charged being higher than those recorded in New York City, (a city in a first world country), drivers also are paying VAT on the parking meter cards when they should not be and there is always a remaining balance which is non-transferrable.

Members of the MAPM highlighted too that this is a “people’s movement” unaffiliated with any political, religious or racial groups.

These supporters highlighted that the MAPM will be protesting these parking meters outside City Hall at 12:00 hrs Thursday.

kerk, among other officials.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Basil Williams

of the British High Commissioner, Greg Quinn; Financial Investigation Expert, Dr Sam Sittlington; SARU’s CEO, Major (Rtd) Aubrey Heath-Retemyer; International Financial Investigation Advisor, Ian McDonald; FIU Director, Matthew Langevine; and Special Advisor to the Attorney General, Tessa Oud-

CANCERS For the British High Commissioner, corruption and money-laundering are cancers. Both acts, he emphasised, have direct impacts on citizens and undermine the people’s trust in Governments and businesses.

In Guyana, corruption and money-laundering remain a problem, Commissioner Quinn said. He said although the Transparency International Perception Index Score for Guyana in 2016 improved when compared to 2015, the country has a far way to go.

It was explained that from a total of 176 countries assessed for perceptions of corruption in 2016, Guyana came in at 108th position with a score of 34 out of 100 with the average score being 43. In 2015, the country had scored 29.

“Too many people still think that they could get away with corruption and with financial abuse. If Guy-

ana is to continue to grow and use future resources for the betterment of all, It will be necessary to address both of these issues,” the British High Commissioner said. However, he took note of the steps being taken by the Government to stamp out corruption and acts of money-laundering and the financing of terrorists.

In his final remarks, he made it clear that corruption should be exposed, and the corrupted pursued and punished. Additionally, he said those who would have suffered from corruption should be supported.

Dr Sittlington told reporters that the seminar was organised with the primary objective of creating a link between the agencies currently working to combat money-laundering and corruption with the asset recovery unit, noting they all interlink.

He said the seminar is a follow-up from one held last year, and though the process is a slow one, there has been progress. It is believed that once the SARU Bill is passed, greater successes will be achieved.

The Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Corruption and Asset Recovery Seminar in session

Energy policy soon 10

– major works for hinterland regions

By Ariana Gordon A NATIONAL energy policy will soon be completed, thereby paving the way for public consultations, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, said at a regional symposium on renewable energy at Regency Suites, Hadfield Street, Georgetown, on Wednesday.

While delivering the feature address at the event hosted by the University of Guyana (UG) in collaboration with Anton de Kom University of Suriname and the Catholic University of Leuven of Belgium, Minister Patterson made it clear that renewable energy is a must for Guyana.

“Energy-efficiency and conservation are vital to sustainability and development,” he said, noting that despite possessing considerable renewable energy potential, Guyana is heavily dependent on the import of fossil fuels for energy use.

Patterson told the gathering of UG students, professors and other stakeholders, that the forum provides a valuable opportunity to engage in information- sharing on avenues which exist to progress towards renewable energy.

He said given global concerns about climate change and its effects, it is becoming even more necessary to explore innovative and sustainable solutions to the country’s energy needs.

Government is working assiduously to ensure the appropriate framework is in place to facilitate the transition.

In order to support the transition from the use of imported fossil fuels towards indigenous and renewable energy sources, the Government is working to ensure that the appropriate frameworks are in place.

“As such, we are currently in the process of completing

an updated national energy policy,” he said, noting that a draft has been completed and Government will soon be engaging stakeholders through public consultation and public feedback.

The Public Infrastructure Minister said consideration is being given to suitable supporting institutional, legal and investment structures and stated that the overall goals of the policy are to provide a stable, reliable, and economic supply of energy; reduce dependency on imported fuels; promote -- where possible -- the increased utilisation

en to further solar photovoltaic and wind- resource development across Guyana, using grid-tie and off-grid applications. Focus will also be placed on harnessing hydropower and biomass. The development of solar and wind farms are currently being considered as viable options for the reduction of Guyana’s dependence on fossil fuels for electricity supply and the integration of renewable energy in the short to medium term.

Of note is the “Green Bartica Initiative” to accommodate the Government’s plans for Guyana’s first “Green Town”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Bartica.

HINTERLAND “It must be noted that, in the coming years, greater interest will also be directed to the hinterland regions, particularly for the utilities in the recently designated towns of Bartica, Lethem, Mahdia, Mabaruma and the principal community of Port Kaituma.

Emphasis will also be placed on delivering electricity to remote riverine villages, while advancing socio-economic benefits through small-business development and improved operations at health facilities and educational institutions at the least cost to consumers.”

network and streamline feedin mechanisms.

“Additionally, with the establishment of the country’s first bioethanol demonstration plant at the Albion Estate in Region Six, the E-10 formulation – a blend of 90 per cent and 10 per cent ethanol – offers an opportunity for new commercial- scale enterprises that would transform the transport sector and reduce gasoline consumption. The Government plans to support the development of industrial-scale ethanol production to enable alternative transportation fuels to gasoline. There are also options to consider for promoting the production of crops for commercial-level

(L to R) Dr Michael Scott, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Engagement, University of Guyana; Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson; Professor Dr Radjiskumar Mohan, of Anton de Kom University of Suriname and Professor Dr Johan Drisen at the opening of the Regional Symposium on Renewable Energy held at Regency Suites, Hadfield Street, on Wednesday

of domestic resources; and ensure that energy is used in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner.

“The policy will therefore form the bedrock for addressing issues on energy access, energy security, climate change mitigation and climate change adaptation,” he added.

The role of energy- efficiency should be greatly emphasised and the national energy policy Patterson posited seeks to establish energyefficiency and conservation as a sub-sector in its own right.

The minister disclosed too that soon, an energy- transition roadmap for Guyana would be finalised.

“Support will also be giv-

and the proposed wind farm at Hope Beach.”

The symposium held under the theme, “The emerging role of renewable energy in small developing nations,” reflects Guyana’s approach to realising a green economy and country.

Meanwhile, Patterson said this year a renewable energy programme will be implemented for the installation of approximately 1.36 megawatts of solar PV systems on the rooftops of 64 Government buildings, including a 400 kW solar farm in Mabaruma.

Additionally, efforts are being made to pursue the setting up of additional solar farms in Lethem, Mahdia and

Minister Patterson noted that the location of hinterland communities and boundaries of the national grid, make improving energy access in remote communities challenging, while areas that have access to electricity have lost many opportunities for large-scale agricultural and industrial development due to the “extremely high cost of electricity.”

He spoke of the Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL) efforts to establish a National Grid Code for the integration of distributed generation, which will provide for commercial and technical frameworks to accept electricity from renewable energy sources into its distribution

Stakeholders gather at the opening of the Regional Symposium on Renewable Energy at Regency Suites

biodiesel production and facilitating markets for the sale of biodiesel to the power producers in remote locations,” he stated.

The minister said Guyana will continue to examine opportunities for higher pressure bagasse-fuelled cogeneration to augment power- generation capacity, where feasible, to cater to higher demand over time. Power-generation options, from rice husk and wood-waste, will also be reviewed.

This year, budgetary allocations have been made for the implementation of energy- efficient measures entailing 100 per cent changeouts of inefficient lights with LED lamps, as well as the installation of occupancy sensors in Government buildings and energy-efficient outdoor lights, the minister said, while committing to ensuring additional measures to secure efficient management of energy is done.

IMPORTANT PARTNER “The university, as a member of civil society, is an important partner in the drive for sustainable energy development in Guyana,” Patterson said, while crediting the consultative engagements for the formulation of policies, plans

and projects, discovering innovative solutions for energy needs, combating climate change and addressing the impacts of climate change; and capacity-building through research and demonstration projects.

Meanwhile, Calvin Bernard, Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, UG, spoke of the importance of renewable energy in small countries such as Guyana and like him, Dr Michael Scott, Deputy Chancellor, Academic Engagement at UG, said the symposium occurred at an appropriate time in Guyana’s history and development.

“Energy is known as a defining factor in the capacity of nations… it is one with which nations develop their capabilities to respond to their challenges in a very effective manner. There is no doubt that the issue of energy will dominate both intellectual and policy space in Guyana within the immediate coming years.”

As such, Dr Scott believes that focus must be placed on renewable energy as an institution, as it is critical that the minds of students be transformed.

Professor Dr Radjiskumar Mohan of the Anton de Kom University of Suriname, spoke of the aim of the collaboration. He said the project aims to improve the universities capacity to deliver programmes to enhance the social and economic development of Guyana and Suriname.

In the meantime, Professor Dr Johan Drisen of Catholic University of Leuven, elaborated on Belgium’s collaboration with South America over the years. He said collaboration had begun with Suriname and given the renewed collaboration, information-sharing has expanded.

Professor Drisen also spoke of the “significant potential” of renewable energy and spoke of distance learning techniques students of the two universities use.

“We have made a good start… there are opportunities… you have the potential to become small giants,” he stated.

Several plenary sessions followed the opening of the symposium on topics relative to renewable energy, namely, renewable energy technologies, transition from petroleum to renewables, the role of the university in the promotion of the use of renewable energy in small, developing economies, scope of bioenergy in Guyana and the developments in wind- energy systems to name a few.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

NGOs to tackle suicide – receive $87.9M in funding from EU

By Alva Solomon YOUTH Challenge Guyana (YCG) will spearhead a civil society effort targeting the subject of suicide with the aim of raising awareness of protective services available to address the issue.

At the same time the European Union, which is funding the initiative, is calling for enhanced dialogue between civil society and the government. This came to the fore on Wednesday at the Promenade Gardens in Georgetown, where the EU Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videtic, inked agreements with the YCG and its partners to the tune of $87.9M in funding.

The monies will be utilsied by three entities, YCG, Merundoi and Family Awareness Consciousness Togetherness (FACT) with the aim of increasing the supply of protective services for people at risk of suicide through a collaborative network, which will be connected to several communities across the country.

Speaking about the project to representatives of several NGOs, civil society and members of the diplomatic corps , Dmitri Nicholson, Executive Director of YCG, said that the three entities will work along with NGOs to raise awareness of the protective services available , including counselling .

Nicholson said that many persons are familiar with the frequency of reports on

European Union Ambassador, Jernej Videtic (left), exchanges a handshake with Executive Director of Youth Challenge Guyana, Dimitri Nicholson, following inking of the funding agreements

suicide cases. “Unfortunately, many are not aware of what triggers such actions and what powers we have to intervene,” he added.

He said the group will venture into Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six and 10 and will work along with organisations there. This, he noted, is to ensure that the services are closest to the most vulnerable populations and communities. They will receive capacity-building to strengthen and enhance their existing efforts.

The project will target 3000 persons in the age range of 14 to 45 years over a period of three years.

“We are looking at ensuring partners who offer services in the area[of] counseling, receive further strength to enhance a bit more what they are doing,” he added.

Nicholson expressed the belief that many persons are suffering in silence and are

unsure of where to turn for assistance.

“One reason is that many people in difficult circumstances often do not know what services are available and don’t know how to access those,” he noted, adding that via the initiative he expected the scenario will change.

Nicholson noted that the group intends to work with the Ministry of Education

and by extension the schools to ensure that children who have experienced or are experiencing traumatic situations receive assistance.

During his address, the EU Ambassador said that through the projects, which it sponsors, the aim is to enhance the dialogue process between civil society and the government. Against this backdrop, he said that political decisions should include consultations with civil society, “preferably even in a structured way.” He said this ensures that the voices of all are heard before a decision is finally taken.

Environmentalist, Dr Raquel Thomas, who noted that she has had personal experiences on the subject of suicide, told the gathering that depression is a state which cannot be changed easily.

She called for the raising of awareness on the issue and other social concerns within the school system. Dr Thomas commended efforts which the Education Ministry has implemented, by placing counsellors within the nation’s schools. She also called for more action beyond the speeches.

This duo performed a spoken-word poetry piece during the forum at the Promenade Gardens

Duo wanted for murder of Kaneville baby THE Guyana Police Force has issued a wanted bulletin for Keon Ashby and ‘Waynie’ also known as ‘Shark’ who are wanted in connection with the murder of eight-monthold Romain Seth, who was killed when a house at Lot 462 Kaneville, East Bank

Dead: Romain Seth

Demerara, was torched last month.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of these two men are asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 227-2128, 226-1389, 226-7065, 2256411, 225-2227, 225-0575, 911 or the nearest police station.

Ashby’s last known address is Kaneville, EBD, while ‘Waynie’ resides at Diamond, EBD. Reports indicate that the fire started around 02:30 hrs on January, 23, 2017, after a teenager in the neighbourhood and his friends threw “fire balls” into the house in which the infant and his family were sleeping.

According to information, a gang which includes a teenager, reportedly accused the toddler’s grandmother of

‘Waynie’ also known as ‘Shark’

‘snitching’ on him and his gang to the cops, resulting in the lawmen raiding the neighbourhood frequently for guns and drugs.

The baby’s grandmother, Michelle Menezes, believes that the fire was retaliation for a report she had made to the police, after finding a gun stashed in a tree in her

Wanted: Keon Ashby

backyard, allegedly by the youth. The suspect, along with other villagers, used her yard as a short cut to get to another street.

Menezes said after she had reported the matter, the police started raiding the place and eventually she started getting threats from the young man and his gang.

GRA approves VAT exemption to 60 hinterland airstrips THE Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has cleared the way for a number of hinterland airstrips to be exempted from applying the 14 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT).

Domestic carriers can now apply to the GRA to effect the exemption for persons living in the identified areas. Commissioner General of the GRA, Godfrey Statia, during an outreach with miners in Bartica on February 4, pointed out that some 60 airstrips have been identified for VAT exemption.

“It is too hard to administer and I would not be going to the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs to find out who is living in certain areas and to give them specific charges,” Statia told the Government Information Agency.

The identification of the airstrips is intended to simplify the application of the VAT exemption. This new

measure is still to be formalised. Domestic carriers have raised concerns about VAT on domestic travel, particularly into the hinterland.

Statia said that the decision was reached after meeting with domestic air travel operators.

“I have exempted about 60 (domestic airstrips) after discussion with the aircraft association and the rest, once you do not show you live there you will have to pay the tax,” Statia said.

The application of the reduced VAT took effect on February 1, 2017. According to the list of exemptions published on the GRA’s website, “services of transporting passengers or goods by air from one place in Guyana to another place in Guyana is exempted, subject to the signing of an agreement between the government and the provider of the service for persons living in rural areas.”

Minister Henry, commander inspect Mash route

Minister Henry along with other Mash officials and members of the police force inspecting the Avenue of the Republic route

WITH Mashramani 2017 a few days away, Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, Police Commander ‘A’ Division, Clifton Hickens and other officials took the opportunity yesterday to inspect the route of the float parade.

In an effort to pinpoint problems that might cause havoc on the day of the fete, the officials made it their duty to observe the possible encumbrances along the route.

Areas of concern were the vending spots; safety of patrons viewing the parade along Brickdam and those seated in the bleachers in Durban Park. The entrance and exit for the floats, revellers and parking were also taken into consideration.

It was reported that the route for the February 23 Mashramani float parade was recently extended and now begins at the corners of

Church Street and Avenue of the Republic and ends at Durban Park, with a total 200 vending spots available along the route.

The decision followed calls that the previous route, which started at Stabroek Square and proceeded down Brickdam, was too small and would not give companies enough mileage for their investments.

As such, after starting off, the floats will proceed south on the western carriageway of the Avenue of the Republic, then east into Brickdam, proceeding to Square of the Revolution and then into Durban Park, entering from the south-western entrance.

However, this route will not apply to the children’s segment of the parade, which will commence at the Stabroek Market Square, and then proceed down Brickdam into Durban Park.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Indigenous body receives EU funding – capacity-building among projects targeted

By Alva Solomon CAPACITY-BUILDING for indigenous village leaders is expected to be one of several initiatives which the Amerindian People’s Association (APA) plans to undertake with the aim of improving self-governance within the villages.

This is one of a list of components of the APA programme agenda, which was mentioned on Wednesday at

the Promenade Gardens when the APA and its partner, the Forest People’s Programme (FPP), signed onto an agreement with the European Union (EU).

The EU has committed to funding a G$94.5M project in which the APA and the FPP will undertake initiatives aimed at promoting equal rights and the fight against discrimination, as well as the protection of indigenous people’s rights in Guyana.

At the forum, EU Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videtic, stressed the importance which the body places on its support for civil society here.

Speaking at the forum, APA leader, Mario Hastings, told the gathering, which included civil society representatives and members of the diplomatic corps, that the funding will be utilised to cover a range of project components.

These include amend-

EU Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videtic (right), exchanges a handshake with APA leader, Mario Hastings, following the signing of the agreement at the Promenade Gardens on Wednesday

ments to the contentious Amerindian Act of 2006; inputs of indigenous peoples into policies and programmes affecting them, such as land-titling matters and the implementation of “Green” initiatives. In addition, an-

other project which will be covered by the funding is the negotiation of settlements in several cases, such as the matter which involves the Mazaruni village of Isseneru.

Hastings noted that the issue is currently before the Inter-

American Commission on Human Rights.

He noted too, that capacity-building training for indigenous leaders, which is geared to ensure the village leaders have an increased understanding of human rights, norms and relations to national law and policy, will also be undertaken through the funds provided.

On this note, Hastings said that the assistance should see villages develop rules in addition to those which exist and according to him, the expected result would see communities being better positioned to utilise their “powers of self-government, addressing issues of importance or concerns.”

He said that the project comes at a very opportune time when, according to him, the APNU+AFC government has publicly committed to “correct the serious deficiency in law and practice that currently discriminate against indigenous people.”

Republic Bank gives $2.8M to Steel Band Competition REPUBLIC Bank (Guyana) Limited continues to keep steel pan alive in Guyana and on Wednesday donated $2.8M to the Education Ministry in support of the National Steel Band Competition.

Taking the name of its sponsor, the National Republic Bank Pan-O-Rama Competition 2017 has created much anticipation among participants, who eagerly await this time of the year to engage in the art.

Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, thanked the bank for its continued support to the worthwhile gesture.

“We welcome this sponsorship for yet another year, which we have come to always look forward to as a positive, tangible, continued partnership from corporate citizens like Republic Bank.”

National School of Music Administrator, Andrew Tyndall, also commended the continued partnership support.

“This partnership with the bank has led to the expansion of the art form in schools and the community over the years. It also provides a solid foundation for the continued and sustainable development of the art form,” Tyndall noted.

The Republic Bank

Junior Education Minister, Nicolette Henry receives the sponsorship cheque from Republic Bank Managing Director, Richard Sammy

Mashramani Pan-O-Rama Competition is slated for Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19 at the Theater Guild Playhouse and the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

On the first day, the National Pan Jazz / Pan Duets and pan solos will see heated competition among 24 competitors from 18:00 hrs, while day two of the competition will feature 17 large and small schools bands.

Tyndall is encouraging pan music lovers to come out and witness the “heated” Mashramani competitions that would showcase the continued progressive development of the pan art form in

Guyana.

Meanwhile, Republic Bank Managing Director, Richard Sammy in handing over the cheque, said his company remains committed to the development of the art form as it engages youth and culture which serve as the bedrock of any society.

“This amount represents sponsorship of cash prizes for the Republic Bank Panorama Steel Band Competition that spans our 10 years of continued commitment to honouring our corporate social responsibilities that contributes to the molding of the nation’s future tangibly,” Sammy said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

One step closer – Linden on verge of fostering close ties with Newark, New Jersey

THE Linden Mayor and Town Council is on the verge of twinning the township of Linden with the City of Newark in the US state of New Jersey.

The deal to foster close ties between the two municipalities was concretised last Saturday at a town hall-style meeting held in Brooklyn, New York and attended by Linden Mayor, Mr Carwyn Holland, Councillor Nikeza Noel and Chief Executive Officer of the Linden Enterprise Network, Ms. Tandika Miller.

According to Mayor Holland, his being at the meeting was at the invitation of Newark’s Mayor, Ras J. Baraka, with whom he had held previous discussions about twinning the two cities.

The meeting was held under the theme, “Creating investments for financial viability: Stimulating development, social transformation and economic prosperity for Linden”.

Holland told the Guyana Chronicle that the municipality has big

plans for rebuilding Linden, and he shared them all with Ras Baraka.

“I shared Linden’s vision and growth plan through manufacturing, education, health, sports, and tourism,” he said, adding that several other persons, among them New York’s Senator Kevin Parker, have expressed an interest in helping Linden, and invited him to take advantage of educational and other opportunities available.

WELL ATTENDED Noting that the New York meeting was well attended, and that the Diaspora was very supportive of his ideas, Holland said: “Twinning Newark with Linden is consequential for Linden’s economic renaissance and development.

“This city-to-city partnership will foster new cultural and economic cooperation; create new prospects for business investments to sustain Linden’s economic viability; help create much-needed jobs

Linden Mayor, Mr Carwyn Holland (right) and Newark’s Deputy Mayor, Mr Ugo Nwaokoro after the meeting in New York

Personality of the week...

‘AuntycallsPat’ it a day – after 31 years as a dental nurse at LHC

DENTAL Nurse, Ms Patricia Daniels, fondly known as ‘Aunty Pat’, will, in a matter of days, bid farewell to the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC), the institution to which she has given 31 years of service.

While she approaches her retirement with mixed emotions, Aunty Pat is spending her last few days reminiscing on the last three decades she gave selflessly to the hospital.

Now 61, Aunty Pat was introduced to the medical field as a Trainee Nurse, but after a while, it was a requirement that the batch be professionally trained at the newly instituted nursing school.

She proudly recalls being amongst the first batch of nurses that were recruited at the newly opened Upper Demerara Hospital.

And when the opportunity arose for her to be qualified, she accepted and registered for the two-year programme, but, unfortunately, had to re-sit medicine. Her attempt to re-sit

came with many challenges, as she had to be back in the classroom and still work a full eight-hour shift.

But even after all those sacrifices, Aunty Pat was told that she couldn’t re-sit the examinations along with 5 of her colleagues.

“We cry, we cry and we throw down we’self, and I said that was it! I’m not going to give it another try!” she said.

She continued as a bed-side nurse, which she enjoyed most of all, until a call was made for a full-time dental nurse. “They wanted someone at Dentistry, and though it was time-and-a-half on Saturdays and double on Sundays, I volunteered. I wasn’t looking for the money; I just wanted peace of mind.

“So, there I was, out of professional into dentistry.”

THE TRANSITION In 1998, Aunty Pat was now qualified as a professional dental nurse. Since then, she has worked along with Dr. Joseph Arm-

strong, who also recruited her at his private clinic. What she enjoyed most during that period, she said, is pleasing her patients and seeing them smile brightly again. She also enjoyed coordinating school programmes and educating persons on the need for dental care.

Though there were plenty of opportunities to elevate herself, Aunty Pat said that being a single-mother, she always took into consideration the safety of her two young daughters, and the benefits of maintaining a spiritual and family life.

In fact, she plans to spend her retirement getting closer to her grandchildren, and giving more in her service to God. “I don’t want to work hard; I will continue in the private clinic, but I plan to be more active church-wise, and of course care my grandchildren,” she said.

She also hopes that a short-story she put together over the years on dental health will be published as a story book for nursery and primary schoolchildren.

for young people; and engender social transformation and prosperity for Lindeners. I’m excited about this historic prospect.”

Among areas in which he feels Linden can benefit tremendously from the deal are youth empowerment, enterprising, the restructuring and enhancement of public infrastructure, developing Linden’s tourism industry, agro-processing, and economic development.

Other areas include garbage collection, the exchange of students and athletes, and inter-cultural exchange.

“I believe that the twinning with Linden and Newark will add value to our efforts to further develop Linden, and play a key role in augmenting our efforts towards all inclusive development of the people and town of Linden,” Holland said.

Newark, New Jersey has a population of close to 300, 000 residents, and is one of the main air, shipping and railway hubs in the US.

Soon to be retired dental nurse, Ms Patricia Daniels

Amelia’s Ward Primary School Choir 14

EVER since the Ministry of Education made it compulsory for all schools to include music in their curriculum, the Amelia’s Ward Primary School Choir in the mining town of Linden has been slowly gaining recognition as a force to reckon with.

For starters, the school has already racked up a cool $300,000 through competitions and gifts from having the young and vibrant choir of 30 serenade audiences all across Linden.

Just a few days ago, the choir, which comprises both male and female pupils from Grades Three to Six, was invited to perform at Banks DIH’s Annual Shareholders Meeting.

And, after lustily singing their little hearts out, proudly clad in their burgundy-andyellow choir uniforms, they

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

– the pride and joy of Linden

were gifted with $100, 000 by the company’s chairman, Mr. Clifford Reis.

HAIR-RAISING Indeed, the young innocent voices that stuck to every note raised the hairs on the backs of everyone present, including Mr. Reis.

Music Teacher, Ms Jedidah Wilkinson, whose idea it was to form the ensemble, sat down with this publication and spoke of the successes and challenges the choir has had since it was formed three years ago.

Being a musician herself, Wilkinson, who was only a trainee teacher at the time, said it was not hard for her to establish a choir at the school after learning of a choir com-

petition being hosted by a US-based non-governmental organisation (NGO).

“For the first time, they had this choir competition hosted by LIRA, and myself and two other colleagues just decided to give it a go. And we entered for the first time, and we won,” Wilkinson said.

Two years after, when she was done with teachers’ training college, Wilkinson recalled, she was permanently assigned to the choir.

“When I came back,” she said, “I was coerced into being the music teacher; so I’m not attached to a class, but I teach all the classes music.

“And one of the stipulations was that the school must have a choir; so we

went through the school, and we had auditions and almost every child auditioned, but we chose a bunch of 60 children.”

The competition, however, only allowed for 25 children, so the children had to be shortlisted. And this year, they participated again and won for the second time, carting off the first place prize of US$500.

CHALLENGES Choir practice sessions are held almost every day at 11:30hrs, but according to Wilkinson, the children are so enthusiastic that they are there by 11:15hrs.

Since the school does not have a music room, due to space constraints, the practice

sessions are currently being held in the school’s computer room.

“I am currently in the Computer Room, which has the size of a normal classroom; half of it is the computer area, and the other half is my area,” Wilkinson said, adding: “And we don’t have enough space to put all 38 children. So the children would come and sit on the ground, but they would come and have a ball, because I made it very children-friendly.

“But because it is a computer room, it gets very hot in there, since there is no AC; but we are making do.”

ACHIEVEMENTS Wilkinson expressed a little disappointment at the absence of a Folk Song competition for the

schools’ choirs to participate in during the Mashramani season. In addition to rallying for this, the young music instructor said that she sees the choir not only competing, but singing for persons who are in unfortunate circumstances.

“I would like them to sing not only for special events, but if we can get to go to the old folk’s homes probably, and orphanages or the hospital... I would like them to have those experiences,” she said.

Since the establishment of the choir, Wilkinson said that she has noticed improvement in the children’s behaviour, both academically and socially, and concludes that involvement in extra-curricular activities indeed make children well rounded.

The Amelia’s Ward Primary School Choir in action at a recent competition at Linden’s Lichas Hall. Taking them through their paces, in the foreground, is Ms Jedidah Wilkinson

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Labastide completes, launches fourth novel RENOWNED Linden novelist and poet, Leon Labastide last Saturday launched his fourth novel in Brooklyn, New York.

The launch of the book, titled ‘Pink Cover: Things are Important’, came after months of promotion and preparation.

The 31-year-old author, who hails from Wisroc, Linden, was pleased to have Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland as a guest at his grand launch that was held at 3 Black Cats Café’ in Brooklyn, New York, and had over 100 persons in attendance.

According to Labastide, his team actually ran out of books, even though there were over 40 copies available.

The enthusiastic poet also performed some of the spoken-word pieces featured in the book for his audience.

He will be preparing to go on tour to the Netherlands, Curaçao and Guyana this year. The team will also be touring the United Kingdom, Dubai and Aruba, where the Guyana flag will be proudly represented.

The book focuses on the many struggles faced by Mankind, and how they are often overlooked by those who may not be experiencing the same struggles.

Leon’s aim was to highlight the

fact that all of humanity’s struggles are important, and that we should all play a role and lend a hand in the elimination of global issues. Said he: “We have billions of people in this world, and each day they are struggling with something, so the book says that everything is important.

“From cancer, to God, to love, to relationship, to poverty, to racism, to bigotry, to hatred, to your nationality, to domestic violence, suicide... everything is important; it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, everyone is struggling with something.”

The book also urges persons to stop protecting the monsters of the world, and to be transparent.

OH BEAUTIFUL GUYANA Chapter Three of the book, titled ‘Oh Beautiful Guyana’, exclusively speaks on this native land as a means of putting Guyana out there; showing his readers where he came from, and the Guyanese upbringing he had which contributed to the respectable, goal-oriented and young achiever he is today.

One of the pieces is called ‘Moving Forward’, which aims at encouraging citizens of Guyana to look past the hate, suffering and negativities that have plagued the

Labastide and Mayor Carwyn Holland at the book launch

nation for decades and to rise up and unite to create a new Guyana in recognition of the jubilee year.

“The Golden Jubilee was far more than a spectacle; it was historical. It uplifted culture, giving us millennial; a sense of pride for our

Leon Labastide performing one of his pieces, ‘Moving Forward’ at the book launch

country,” Leon says in the poem, adding: “It was so much more than a celebration: It was a unification of all peoples from within every region, coming together for the greater good to celebrate the moving for-

ward after fifty years.

“As a community as well as a country, there is urgent need to look past 2016; we have to look and think futuristic.

“It’s all about the next step; the next journey, the next conversation between countries and civilians. It’s about uniting to keep and maintain the rhetoric of the 50th anniversary.”

He also wrote a piece on the young Guyanese olympians who represented the country at the recently held competitions in Brazil.

“Just to see the Guyana Flag being hosted at the ceremony and having all those Guyanese track stars running and representing in swimming and representing Guyana, I was so proud for the Guyanese culture,” Leon said.

A piece titled, Linden Youth Leaders also highlights the youth group in Linden of which Labastide is also a member.

This renowned writer has previously published three books, namely: ‘Breath of Life Poetry’, ‘Here Comes the Dreamers: The Journey’, and ‘Transparency’. These publications were completed within the span of five years, as Leon’s passion for art is indeed spectacular.

He has mesmerised hundreds of audiences during his career with his inspirational prose, insightful short stories, and authentic life experiences.

Many have experienced his natural talent of storytelling at poetry events, church services, college campuses, motivational conferences, and book tours in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Curaçao and in his homeland, Guyana.

He started writing at the age of 15 and is currently the CEO of SpokenWordAndCoffee organization: The organization’s tagline is “It’s bigger than poetry, it’s bigger than you and me, it’sPoVetry.) PoVentry is the combination of poetry and poverty.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Vendors and Council at odds – over unsavoury conditions at Mackenzie wharf VENDORS occupying stalls on the Mackenzie Wharf on Monday bashed the Linden Mayor and Town Council for ignoring their pleas for help.

They are of the opinion that the Council does not care about their daily struggles in grappling with the deplorable conditions of the wharf that are affecting their sales tremendously.

Doing business on a wharf that has a dump site only a few feet away from some vendors, which results in an unbearable foul smell, infestation of flies and other insects in addition to men making it a public urinal, and vagrants making it their personal toilet facility with faeces being their welcome mat on most days, are just a fraction of the complaints the vendors

vented to this publication on Monday. ** In tears, one visibly frustrated clothes vendor, whose stall is the closest to the dump site and where men and vagrants would relieve themselves, told this publication that he’s made several reports to the administrative manager at the Mayor and Town Council, but to no avail.

All he’s gotten, he says, are promises to visit the wharf to see first-hand what the vendors are experiencing.

BUSINESS SLOW Because of the stench and the state of the market, he said, business is slow; and whatever little money they manage to make all go back into buying detergents to clean up the place.

Elmo Austin who operates a pharmacy at the wharf

“I am so frustrated about the situation, is like I don’t know what more to do,” he said.

“Dozens and dozens of men does come here and pee every day, and when you talk, they not listening. In the morning when you come, yuh seeing faeces all over because here is the night toilet.

“No proper security; no lighting. Is two times they break meh shop already! This place is a mess!

“And every day Town Council sending people to collect rates.”

The dumpsite that is only a few feet away from the wharf

Elmo Austin, who operates a pharmacy there, told this newspaper that because the entire area is unhealthy, sales are not coming in.

“I don’t mind the urine,” he said, “but people would go and mess a whole lump of mess.”

Shaking his head in frustration, Elmo said: “People are wicked! There is a guy that is not too right in the head that would just come and drag himself on the ground when he messes, and we have to clean it up.

‘NOT A CENT!’ “Some days I go home, not a cent! It is very very hard!”

Desmond Richards, a ground provision and dry goods vendor who has been selling for decades, says all the Council cares about is collecting revenue and not the insanitary conditions under which the vendors operate.

Wharf vendors, he said, pay the highest rates in the entire Linden but are experiencing the worst conditions. Richards Turn to page 17 ► also spoke of the hire cars block-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Vendors and Council...

ing the entrance of the wharf, despite knowing the facility is private parking only.

“We are suffering; persons coming till from Georgetown and selling right in front of us on the road, illegally blocking our sales; constables all does buy from them,” Richard said, while cautioning that one ought to be careful when walking before falling through the rotten boards.

Similar frustrations were echoed by Shondell, a single-mother of seven, whose only means of earning a living is by selling ‘greens’.

EMPTY PROMISES She said that all the Council does is make empty promises, as she had made represen-

tation for the vendors at a market consultation early last year and in spite of the many promises, nothing was ever done. “The lights are not working, the roof leaking, the gutters falling out...

“We ain’t get proper security; we ain’t get proper drinking water... In the morning you would come and see urine, mess, vomit all things at the corner there,” Shondell said, adding: “Some days you come in and you barely sell $5000, but you can’t give up. This is my daily bread; this is how I provide for me and my seven kids.

“When rain falls, if you don’t sweep the water from the floor, it stays right there. The fencing from around the wharf? That done!

“When dem children come, yuh have to watch them all the time, because they could fall over board and nobody won’t know.”

She also spoke out on the many persons allowed to vend on the road while they were removed and are sabotaging sales of the wharf vendors who have to pay daily.

“If you don’t pay that money, it gon mount up; then they will send a receipt and put a padlock on your shop.”

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge and Minister of Communities, Valerie Patterson last February, during a ministerial outreach while campaigning for Local Government Elections in Linden met with the market vendors, who voiced these same concerns.

From page 16

Minister Greenidge told the media at the time that even though his portfolio does not include market reorganisation, he will be making recommendations on behalf of the vendors to the Minister of Local Government.

“I will call upon the Minister of Local Government to make arrangements to prepare a revised plan of the market, which will take into account the concerns of the current vendors,” posited the Minister.

A few weeks after being sworn into office, the new Council did a market consultation and also heard of the plight of the wharf vendors.

As usual, promises were made to bring relief to the vendors, but to date, their situation remains the same.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Colors/Guinness Greatest of the Streets football

Money Team, Young Ballers register handsome wins

By Stephan Sookram

FUTSAL action continued at the Pouderoyen tarmac in the West Demerara edition of the Colors/Guinness Greatest of the Streets Football with nine intense games on Tuesday evening.

In the first game of the night, Money Team were too much for their Goed Fortuin counterparts, winning by three goals to one thanks to a hat-trick from Amoniki Buntin (5th, 7th, 18th).

Game two was contrasting in nature with the eventual winners Harmony Ballers getting the better of Best Road Ballers 2-1 on penalties.

Jetty Gunners moved on to the next round after Shane Hamilton’s 12th minute strike helped his side past Police.

Game four featured a 2-0 drubbing for Bagotstown Warriors at the hands of Hustlers thanks to John Waldron (2nd) and Rastaf Oselmo (17th).

Young Ballers of Crane saw the combined efforts of Lindsay Scott (11th); Tefon Welcome (17th) and Oswin Boyce (19th) push them past the Gas Team.

It took penalties to declare Goal Getters winners after their match against

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Classic 7 ended 1-1 after regulation time.

Goal Getters’ Kevin Gordon had his fourth minute strike cancelled out by Daniel Gibson (9th) before the 2-0 penalty result.

Hustlers made the best of game seven to win 2-0 thanks to Donovan Francis (7th) and John Waldron (11th) while it took Golden Warriors’ sudden-death penalties to move past Shattaville Gunners.

Shattaville had Stephon Griffith’s 1st minute lead cancelled 13 minutes later through Akeem Houston before the latter won 3-1. Game nine featured almost a carbon copy result for Brothers United over West Side Starz.

Matches continue tomorrow with West Side Ballers playing Brothers United, Money Team against Jetty, ESPN taking on Harmony Ballers, Tajoe’s Admiral United opposing De Kinderen and Patentia Street Ballers doing battle with Agricola.

Following a break, Young Ballers will play Goal Getters, Hustlers will lace up against Golden Warriors, Showstoppers will take on Good Intent All-Stars and Hustlers will challenge Patentia Street Ballers.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Nair’s triple-ton not enough to secure his place in one-off Test … Ajinkya Rahane set to return

(REUTERS) - Karun Nair’s triple-century in his previous Test was n o t e n o u g h t o s e c u re his place in the India team for their one-off Test against Bangladesh beginning at Hyderabad today.

Replacing an injured Ajinkya Rahane, Nair smashed 303 not out in India’s last Test match in Chennai to help secure the team’s 4-0 series victory against England in December.

With Rahane having recovered from the finger injury that kept him out of the last two Tests against England, Nair will now have to wait at

Karun Nair celebrates his triple-century against England. least until the home series against Australia to play his fourth Test.

“I feel one game does not overshadow two years

of hard work from another player,” India captain Virat Kohli said yesterday.

“You need to understand what Jinks (Rahane) has done for the team over the past two years. He averages almost 50 in this format and is probably the most solid batsman in the team in the Test format.

We look at him from that point of view certainly.

“Karun was stepping into his shoes and what he did was remarkable ... but you can’t overlook two years of hard work from Ajinkya. He deserved to walk back into the team whenever he got fit.”

Currently, the top Test team with a formidable

home record, India are o v e r w h e l m i n g f a v o u rites in the one-off match against a side eight rungs lower in the official rankings.

Bangladesh are particularly handicapped by their limited Test exposure and the team managed to lose a Test match in Wellington last month despite scoring almost 600 in their first innings.

It was yet another instance of their batting inconsistency but Kohli refused to be complacent.

“It’s an equal battle, you can’t discount Bangladesh batting,” said the 28-year-old.

“They did really well in New Zealand. Scoring more than 350 runs in one day was phenomenal and

going at four-and-half throughout the day was something very special. “ We c a n ’t t a k e a n y aspect of their team lightly. We need to play the same way that we played against any other team in the world. Bangladesh do have many quality players.”

Bangladesh enjoyed an unbeaten run in six bilateral ODI series at home until England ended it last year.

With more Test exposure, they can replicate their limited-overs success in the longest format, said Kohli.

“They have the skill, it’s just that they don’t p l a y t h a t m a n y Te s t matches to gain confidence as a squad.”

Ajinka Rahane averages almost 50 in Tests.

India’s T20 triple centurion eyes IPL auction MOHIT Ahlawat, a little-known Indian batsman, could now be handed his chance in the IPL (Indian Premier League) after hitting record-breaking numbers in a Twenty20 match.

Ahlawat, 21, made history on Tuesday when he became the first batsman to score a triple-century in a Twenty20 match, striking his incredible 300 off just 72 balls, a first at any level in the short form of cricket.

Recording numbers even the likes of Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers or Virat Kohli have failed to get close to, his haul included a record 39 sixes and 14 fours. His remarkable feat came while playing for Maavi XI in a local T20 tournament named the Friends Premier League at Delhi’s Lalita Park, helping his side finish on a whopping 416-2 against Friend’s XI. Ahlawat’s scorecard makes for impressive reading. Batting on 250 at the end of 18 overs, his struck 50 in the remaining two, including five successive sixes off the remaining five balls of his side’s innings to write his name in the histo-

ry books.

“They invited me to play and I simply went. It is good that something like that has happened,” Ahlawat told The Times of India. “When I reached 150, I told myself 250 was there for the taking.

So I told my partner at the other end that I was going to take most of the strike.”

With the 10th edition of the IPL just around the corner, Ahlawat has one eye on the player’s auction set to begin on February 20.

“Yes, I have put my

name in IPL auction but I am not sure if this knock will help make people notice me,” he told ABPLive.

“I am eager to prove my worth,” he added.

People noticing him may be an understatement.

Dehli Daredevils CEO Hemant Dua has confirmed the franchise have brought the 21-year-old in for trials.

“Yes, Mohit has been called for trials. We keep tapping young talent and scouting future stars,” he told CricketNext.

Ahlawat played three first-class matches for Delhi in 2015, but was dropped after scores of 1, 4, 0, 0 and 0 in his five innings.

Mohit Ahlawat scored a triple-century in Twenty20 cricket on Tuesday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

Participants pose before the start of the one-day tournament.

PMTC One crowned volleyball champions PORT Mourant Training Centre One (PMTC 1) volley-ballers won the Aswell ‘Pumpkin’ Mohabir competition, organised by the Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA).

Playing in the final at the Blairmont Number Two ground, West Bank Berbice, PMTC 1 defeated their counterparts and rivals PMTC 2 in

a hard-fought four-setter 3-1.

The eventual champions claimed the opening set 25-18, before PMTC 2 won by a similar scoreline to level the scores.

H o w e v e r, P M T C 1 then drew on all their experience to win the next two sets 25-22 and 25-23.

Earlier, PMTC 1 won from (GTCPM) 25-18;

Four teams to participate in Goodwill Mash T20 Cricket Festival

FOUR teams will do battle in the Goodwill Promotions Mash T20 Cricket Festival, billed for February 19 at the D’Edward Sports Club ground, West Bank Berbice.

Defending champions East Berbice Universal DVD Titans will be battling to regain the championship against West Berbice Super Kings, Chowramootoo West Bank Berbice Blazers and a Demerara Cricket board Select XI.

Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded to the winners, runners-up, third-placers, man-of-the-series, best bowler and batsman in an innings, man-of-the-match in the final and first-round matches.

During the cricket competition there will also be a dominoes competition.

The tournament in its second year is being held in collaboration with the West Berbice Cricket Association (WBCA).

Registration for Foreign Affairs Ministry tapeball tournament closes today THE registration process for the Office Assistants of the Foreign Affairs Ministry Inter Ministry/Government Agencies six overs-aside tapeball cricket tournament closes today.

Interesting teams can make contact with coordinator James Lewis on 6281656 or 666-5857. Teams are asked to uplift entry forms from Lewis at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Registry department.

The tournament, which bowls off on Sunday at the National Cultural Centre tarmac is being held as part of Guyana’s Mashramani celebrations.

At stake are trophies, medals and cash prizes for the winning and runner-up teams, best batsman and bowler and the MVP in the final, which will be played on February 19.

PMTC 2 defeated Tain Humanitarian 25-20; PMTC 2 won from GTCPM 25-19; PMTC 1 edged past the improving Tain Humanitarian 26-24; while PMTC 2 won a close encounter against Tain Humanitarian 25-23.

In the female version, Port Mourant Females upset Corriverton Jets

25-23 and 25-21. In the junior category three teams participated, namely Kennard’s Memorial, United and Black Beatles, with Black Beatles emerging victorious.

The PMTC connection made a clean sweep of the prizes in the senior category with PMTC 1 taking home the first place

trophy, PMTC 2 the second place trophy, while close associates GTCPM carried home the third place prize.

The Individual category saw the PMTC players sweep the trophy stand – the best spiker prize went to Ronaldo Bobb (PMTC 2); the best setter on show was Jason See-

lochan (PMTC 1); and the most valuable player (MVP) trophy went to Adriel Moore (PMTC 1).

In the female department, the MVP accolade went to Candacy Mentore of Port Mourant Females. The MVP of the junior category was Hellond Singh of Black Beatles.

FA chairman Clarke to quit if government rejects reform proposals (REUTERS) - English Football Association chairman Greg Clarke will step down if the government does not support his proposals to reform the under-fire governing body, he said ahead of a parliamentary debate today.

The Culture, Media and Sport Committee will discuss a motion of no-confidence in the FA which, in October, was given six months to make changes to the governance of the world’s oldest soccer federation.

In an open letter on the FA’s website Clarke, who has only been in the job five months, admitted that the organisation needs to be more diverse. But he dismissed the notion that it is “sitting idly by” rather than making changes.

“The FA has a set of

English Football Association chairman Greg Clarke (right) proposals to improve our governance which we will ratify and then take to the Minister of Sport in order to get her approval,” he said.

Sports Minister Tracey Crouch wants the FA to be more transparent and diverse. Currently, there is only one woman on its 12-person board, while its 120-member council has been accused of being antiquated and resistant to change.

“Change won’t be easy, but I am confident it will happen -- and it will be substantial,” Clarke said in his letter.

“Delivering real change is my responsibility and I firmly believe this is critical for the future of the game. If the Government is not supportive of the changes when they are presented in the coming months, I will take personal responsibility for that. I will have failed.

“I will be accountable for that failure and would in due course step down from my role,” he said.

Today’s debate is taking place after five former FA executives said the governing body was outdated and not representative of the sport in Britain.

In December Damian Collins, chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, was deeply critical of the FA, saying promised reforms had not been delivered.

“The trouble is delivering that reform has been impossible for the FA to do itself, because there are too many vested interests within football who don’t want to see that change,” Collins said. “These forces seek to block change and reform whenever it is proposed.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

$50M upgrade for Bartica Community Centre DIRECTOR of Sport Christopher Jones last week met with Bartica Mayor Gifford Marshall and other key stakeholders to iron out the agreement for the makeover of the Bartica Community Centre (BCC) into a multipurpose sports facility.

The transformation is expected to cost some $50M. According to Jones the initial plan was to have a completely new multipurpose facility erected in Bartica. However, because of the budget the decision was made to downscale somewhat, and simply work with renovating the Community Centre.

“From the 2017 budget we have been allocated $50M to cater for a multi-purpose facility in the region. However, that is not sufficient to do a complete construction of same, so we are going to use the already existing infrastructure and build on that,” Jones said.

Once completed, the facility will still manage to cater for quite a number of

Director of Sport Christopher Jones (right), goes over plans for the Bartica Community Centre, with Mayor Gifford Marshall (centre). sporting disciplines including, athletics, football and basketball.

“We cater for as much disciplines as we possibly can. (The renovations) will include the raising of the ground, the re-surfacing of the basketball court, the laying of a volleyball court, the repositioning of bleachers,

the construction of bleachers for the basketball court, as well as the entrance area to asphalt that,” Jones said.

Jones said that the project will greatly benefit Bartica, and the larger Region 7 community, and help to reinvigorate the development of certain sports in that region.

“Over the years there has been a reduction of many of the disciplines being played in the region so we’re hoping to see a resurgence of those various disciplines in Bartica, and out of Region 7,” Jones said: “There are times during the schools athletics there are no facilities for the school

children to practise on, hindering the region from sending to nationals, persons to participate.

Over time we have not been seeing a large number or any number of basketball players coming out of the region, so the construction of that facility will enable them to improve on their game. Similarly for football, overtime we haven’t seen football teams participating in Georgetown from this region.”

An elated Mayor Marshall hailed the initiative as an end to the “dark days” of dilapidated grounds in Bartica, but noted that the works will be just the beginning of the major plans for the township.

“Of the three grounds available in central Bartica none is to an acceptable standard. However, the dark days are coming to an end. This will create the environment we have desired for decades.

“While we are elated with the news, it must be

noted that this is just the tip of the iceberg of a greater vision to create a massive sports centre in the municipality,” Marshall said.

Jones said following the agreement, between the NSC and the mayor, the next step will be for a feasibility study to confirm the BCC as the best possible location for the facility, among other assessments.

Once all assessments are completed, the project will go to the tender board for bids, and once the contract is awarded the construction can begin. Jones estimates that this should take somewhere around two to two and a half months for the process to be done.

This enhancement of the BCC is a broader extension of the ground enhancement and ‘Light It Up Campaign’ that the NSC is currently conducting, to improve grounds all across Guyana. This project will see over 40 facilities across the country benefiting.

McLean as his vice-president, Wayne Lewis as honorary secretary, Ridley Jacobs as honorary treasurer and Liam Sebastien as honorary assistant secretary, will now take on another two years at the helm of the organisation.

Hinds said that for his part he will continue to lead the WIPA in a direction that will foster development opportunities and provide welfare and other benefits for its members.

The WIPA has been mired in controversy over the last few years, with

Hinds being accused of siding with the board in creating unfair deals for West Indies players, contrary to the spirit of agreements with those players.

The biggest blow-up of those differences occurred with the West Indies players walking out on a tour of India.

WIPA has responded, by pointing out that the benefits that the organisation has tried to provide are for all its members and not just players who represent the West Indies.

(Sportsmax)

‘I was hung out to dry on Wavell Hinds in control KP sacking,’ says Cook of WIPA for a third term

FORMER England captain Alastair Cook has opened up on the controversial sacking of star batsman Kevin Pietersen, and says he felt “hung out to dry” by English authorities.

Pietersen played his last Test in Sydney in early 2014 as England slumped to a 5-0 whitewash at the hands of a rampant Mitchell Johnson and an Australian team led by Michael Clarke.

The fallout from Pietersen’s sacking dominated headlines around the England cricket team for the best part of 18 months, culminating with the batsman scoring a triple-century for county side Surrey to prove his worth in the lead-up to the 2015 Ashes, only to be told by the newly appointed director of cricket Andrew Strauss he would not be picked again.

Cook this week resigned from the England captaincy after 59 Tests in charge in a four-year span. It prompted Pietersen to take to social media where he tweeted #BringBackKP. Cook, at 32, will carry on in the England Test side as an opening batsman, but it is the

Kevin Pietersen played his last Test in Sydney in early 2014. presumption that he alone was responsible for the sacking of KP that still rankles.

But having set aside the Test leadership, Cook was keen to clear the air and set the record straight with former England captain Nasser Hussain, now a Sky Sports pundit.

“It was obviously a big part of my captaincy. I felt like it wasn’t handled particularly well from the ECB,” Cook said of the Pietersen saga.

“I was kind of that lightning rod for it. Every person

thought it was my decision, and I felt I bore the brunt of that unfairly in my personal opinion.

“Because as much power as you have as the England captain, you don’t get the ultimate decision on that sort of thing.

Yes, I was part of the decision making – as six or seven others were – but I didn’t have the final trigger.

“I felt as if I was the only person who made the decision. I felt a little bit let down by the ECB in that one period, where they let me out to dry a little bit.

“But that’s all gone now.

It’s part and parcel of the challenges of being captain.

“I can’t say now I have any regrets. I’ve tried – whether I’ve got it right or wrong – I’ve tried to do what’s best for English cricket at that time.

“In every decision, whether it’s to have another slip or short leg or something behind the scenes, I’ve always gone back to what I think is best for English cricket.

That was how I lived my 59 English caps.”

PRESIDENT of the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) Wavell Hinds will continue to lead the organisation after an Annual General Meeting in Antigua yesterday returned his entire administration for a third term.

The AGM, held at the Halcyon Cove by Rez Resorts in Antigua, included accorded to reports healthy debates on a number of issues. However, none of those dimmed the organisation’s trust in its leadership.

The result means Hinds, who leads a slate of Nixon

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday February 09, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 2259230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Nikita Miller (Jam) (2) Jamal Smith (CCC) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who recorded the first duck in this year’s CWI Nagicor Super 50 Tournament?

(2) Who recorded the first ‘golden duck’?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 9, 2017

GMR&SC to elect office-bearers tonight

By Stephan Sookram

THE Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) will this evening elect office-bearers for the 2017/2018 year at its annual general meeting b i l l e d f o r t h e C l u b ’s headquarters at Albert Street, Thomas Lands.

Incumbent president Mahendra Bhoodoo will contest the position with a slate which features Johnny Carpenter as vicepresident, John Bennett as secretary, Hansraj Singh

Current president Mahendra Bhoodoo will be looking to win re-election.

as treasurer and Noel Shewjattan as assistant secretary/treasurer.

Club captain will be Azim Jaffar with the technical adviser Brian Ten Pow, and committee members Mark Vieira, Doana D’Ornellas, Paul Jiwanram, Harold Hopkinson, Azaad Hassan and Mark Vieira.

Slate two will feature Rameez Mohammed as president with Hansraj Singh as his deputy, Azim Jaffar as secretary, Rupie Shewjattan as treasurer and John Bennett as as-

sistant secretary/treasurer.

On that slate, Sunil

Mohamad Roshandin Persaud is running for club captain while Brian

Ten Pow is the technical adviser and committee members are Mark Vieira, Joel Evans, Kamal Seebarran, Paul Jiwanram and Azaad Hassan.

Slate three will feature Mohamad Roshandin running alongside Jad Rahaman with Sunil Persaud as club captain, Graham Ally as treasurer, Malcom Harrripaul as secretary and Bruce Pestano as assistant secretary/treasurer.

Ten Pow is the proposed technical adviser with Marcel Proffit,

Rameez Mohammed

Carlos Rodrigues, Paul Fraser, Wayne Vieira and Johnny Carpenter as the committee members.

AGM begins at 19:00hrs.

Mohammed, Ramdin fire Red Force into semis NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) – Jason Mohammed struck his first half-century of the Regional Super50 as reigning champions Trinidad and Tobago Red Force confirmed their spot in the semi-finals with an uncomplicated five-wicket victory over Kent Spitfires

here yesterday.

Playing at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, Red Force easily chased down a target of 195 with right-hander Mohammed spearheading the run chase with an unbeaten 78 off 88 deliveries.

He was supported by captain Denesh Ramdin

who also notched his first half-century of the tournament with 56.

Veteran seamer Darren Stevens was the chief wicket-taker with three for 34.

Sent in earlier, the English County once again struggled and could muster only 194 all out off 46 overs, as the Red Force seamers

Tiger says he will ‘never feel great’ again

(REUTERS) - Former world number one Tiger Woods has accepted that he will “never feel great” again after suffering a number of back and knee injuries in recent years.

The 14-time major champion returned to action in December following a 15-month layoff but was forced to pull out of the Dubai Desert Classic last week after the first round due to a back spasm.

“There were a lot of times I didn’t think I was going to make it back. It was tough, it was more than brutal,” Woods told Dubai magazine Vision.

The 41-year-old American has racked up 79 PGA Tour victories in his career but has not won a major championship since 2008.

“There have been plenty of times when I thought I

would never play the game again at the elite level,” Woods, ranked 674th in the world, said.

“It was tough, it was more than brutal. There were times I needed help just to get out of bed.

“I feel good, not great. I don’t think I will ever feel

great because it’s three back surgeries, four knee operations,” he added.

Woods is hoping to play in the U.S. Masters in April, the first major of the year.

“I’m always going to be a little bit sore. As long as I can function, I’m fine with that,” he said.

Former world number one Tiger Woods

got stuck into innings.

Experienced former West Indies seamer Ravi Rampaul claimed four for 37 while rookie pacer Roshon Primus picked up two for 35. Windies speedster Shannon Gabriel was once again effective, taking one for 25 from eight stingy overs.

Will Gidman led Kent’s fight with a top score of 50 while Stevens got 38 and Alex Blake, 30.

They were 173 for four in the 41st over but collapsed to lose their last six wickets for just 21 runs in quick time.

Red Force earned four points from the outing to move to 22 points while Kent remained third on nine points.

Kent failed to get the good start they hoped for when they lost three quick wickets to slump to 40 for three in the 14th over, H o w e v e r, G i d m a n then helped restart the innings, anchoring successive half-century partnerships with Stevens and Blake.

The left-hander faced 77 deliveries and counted two fours, posting 58 for the fourth wicket with Stevens and another 75 for the fifth wicket with Blake.

Stevens produced a breezy knock, facing 47 balls and blasting one four and three sixes while Blake

struck a four and a six in a busy 45-ball innings.

Once seamer Rayad Emrit bowled Gidman in the 41st over, the Kent challenge withered quickly.

In reply, Red Force got off to a flier with Kjorn Ottley hammering five fours and a six in a fluent 32 as he put on 49 for the first wicket with Imran Khan (20).

However, once they were separated three wickets fell for 16 runs to leave Red Force stumbling, but Mohammed and Ramdin then came together to ease any worries over the result in a 127-run, fourth-wicket partnership.

Mohammed struck nine fours and two sixes in registering his seventh List A half-century while Ramdin belted three fours and three sixes in a rapid 59-ball cam-

eo.

By the time Ramdin and Primus (0) were dismissed without a run added at 192, Red Force were already assured of victory and Mohammed formalised the result in the 42nd over with a boundary.

Middle-order batsman Jason Mohammed leads Red Force to victory with an unbeaten 78.

SCOREBOARD

KENT innings D. Bell-Drummond c wkp.

Ramdin b Primus 10 S. Dickson c Pierre b Gabriel 6 S. Northeast lbw b Pierre 23 D. Stevens c Lewis b Primus 38 W. Gidman b Emrit 50 A. Blake c wkp. Ramdin b Rampaul 36 A. Rouse not out 7 M. Coles c wkp. Ramdin b Rampaul 6 J. Tredwell run-out 2 A. Riley b Rampaul 1 M. Hunn b Rampaul 0 Extras: (lb-3, nb-1, w-11) 15 Total: (all out, 46 overs) 194 Fall of wickets: 1-8, 2-38, 3-40, 4-98, 5-173, 6-176, 7-184, 8-189, 9-194, 10-194.

Bowling: Gabriel 8-2-25-1 (w-2), Rampaul 10-1-37-4 (w-1), Pierre 6-0-36-1, Primus 10-0-35-2 (w-6,

nb-1), Emrit 8-0-35-1 (w-2), Mohammed 4-0-23-0.

RED FORCE innings K. Ottley c Coles b Stevens 32 Imran Khan c and b Stevens 20 N. Alexis c Tredwell b Stevens 4 J. Mohammed not out 78 D. Ramdin c Rouse b Coles 56 R. Primus run-out 0 K. Pierre not out 0 Extras: (lb-3, w-4, nb-1) 8 Total: (5 wkts, 41.2 overs) 198 Fall of wickets: 1-49, 2-58, 3-65, 4-192, 5-192.

Bowling: Coles 9.2-2-52-1 (w2, nb-1), Hunn 5-0-29-0 (w-1), Tredwell 10-1-37-0, Stevens 100-34-3 (w-1), Gidman 2-0-7-0, Riley 5-1-36-0.

Points: Red Force 4, Kent 0.

GMR&SC to elect office-bearers tonight

age 27

See P

Colors/Guinness Greatest of the Streets football

Money Team, Young Ballers register handsome wins

on See story 3 2 Page

Part of the action during Tuesday evening’s Colors/Guinness Greatest of the Streets football tournament at Pouderoyen.

(Delano Williams photo)

Jaguars Super50 performances ‘simply the worst’ … Batsmen should take full responsibility, says Grimmond

By Rajiv Bisnauth THE Guyana Jaguars 20-run defeat at the hands of Jamaica Scorpions in the Super50 match on Tuesday evening in Barbados is their fourth defeat in seven matches and they are now effectively out of the competition. Their final game against ICC Americas today is merely a formality.

The performances from the

Shivnarine Chanderpaul

Jaguars are simple the worst in a long time, and definitely an explanation is needed from head coach Esaun Crandon, assistant coach Rayon Griffith and skipper Leon Johnson when the team returns home.

The blame game has been going on in full force, but much of the wrath has been directed at some of the Jaguars’ wretched batsmen, who have looked incompetent.

However, in an invited comment yesterday, coach Clive Grimmond, who worked with all the players prior to their departure for Barbados, blamed the batsmen’s lack of consistency as the chief reason for the team’s failure.

“Our batting let us down.

We all know the strength of the batting department, but some of them failed to come to grips and be consistent,” Grimmond said.

He added, “Once we put runs on the board, we have a bowling unit who can defend the

totals, but our batsmen, especially at the top failed us.”.

Grimmond strongly feels that the batsmen should take full responsibility for the Jaguars’ poor showing.

When questioned if preparations leading up to the tournament could have had some effect for such poor performances Grimmond said, “No way, I think the preparation was spot on.

“I don’t think the preparation could have been any better. We focused immensely on our strength and conditioning prior to the tournament, so I don’t think preparation was an issue, as I said before our batting let us down.”

The team failed to muster 250 runs in any single innings during the seven matches, with only Shivnarine Chanderpaul managing a century.

Barring the top order failure, Chanderpaul has been the backbone of the Jaguars’ batting line-up. Always reli-

able, throughout most of his illustrious career, the 42-yearold is the second top Jaguars batsman with an aggregate of 199 runs at an average of 66.33.

Skipper Leon Johnson is the highest runs scorer, with 230, followed by Raymon Reifer 189, Assad Fudadin 183, Rajendra Chandrika 107 and Anthony Bramble 105 - the other batsmen with more than a hundred runs.

Eight half-centuries have been scored to date, with Johnson scoring three, two apiece to Reifer and Fudadin while Chanderpaul scored the other.

Just recently an official from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) hinted that careers could be on the line at the conclusion of the tournament.

With such performances Guyana needs fresher players now.

Drastic changes must be made now!

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

Flashback! Clive Grimmond assists Leon Johnson during one of the Jaguars’ training session.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017