Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09 12 2016 by Guyana Chronicle

BoG halts buying TT, Barbados dollars 7 Page

No. 104760

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Budget to stand Page

–– President says budget solid enough to take country forward

Bond drama erupts again

Page

Public Health Minister, Dr. George Norton opens one of several boxes stored at the Sussex Street bond in the presence of Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings, Opposition Members of Parliament Irfaan Ali and Juan Edghill as well as the Ministry of Public Health Permanent Secretary, staff and media on Thursday night. Members of the opposition last evening claimed that the bond was not operational, among other things (Adrian Narine photo)

Gold tops 641,668 OZs Page

Bartica, Lusignan Page Massacres...

60 years for Caesar

Boy, 11, 4 killed in accident

Page

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

Gold tops 641,668 ozs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

–Trotman lauds small miners, promises govt’s continued support

By Alva Solomon SMALL and medium scale miners have been lauded for their contribution of close to 70% of the record 641,668 ounces of gold declared this year, the highest ever recorded in the history of gold mining here. The figure, which surpassed the 550,000 production target for 2015, has seen the projected target for 2017 being set at 694,000 ounces. Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, during the 2017 Budget Debate on Thursday evening told the House that the 550,000 target was calculated as

a 21.8 % increase of the previous year’s target. A buoyant Trotman told the House that small and medium scale miners contributed 429,188 ounces of total gold for 2016 while large scale mining firms, Guyana G o l d f i e l d s a n d Tr o y Resources delivered 145,236 and 67,244 ounces respectively. “Today I pause to congratulate them on behalf of His Excellency President David Granger and to assure them that the APNU+AFC government will neither abandon nor undermine their efforts”, he said of the small and medium scale miners. Regarding the new projected target for 2017,

Trotman told the National Assembly that while the target is difficult to clinch, it is not impossible to reach. “We Guyanese are a resilient people with a “can do” attitude”, he said, a phrase which he said he used recently at another forum. Trotman said that the Ministry of Natural Resources will exert all of its energies to meeting the 2017 target for several reasons, including a need for the people of the country.” I am confident that we can achieve this target as we expect that all categories of gold declarants will continue to grow.” In 2015, a total of 451,490 ounces of gold was declared at the Guy-

ana Gold Board, surpassing the target that year of 380,000 ounces. Speaking on the buying and selling of the precious metal, Trotman noted that in 2017 moves will be made to improve the monitoring and regulatory processes of the Guyana Gold Board as the method of buying gold has been discovered as being flawed. He explained that last year the government reported that the Guyana Gold Board had over a number of years amassed a deficit of more than GY$9B. He said that the figure saw the need for a “comprehensive review” of the 35-year old Gold Board, noting that the

Ministry of Natural Resources has fought tirelessly for the continued existence of the Gold Board since it is seen as a merit regarding its organizational function as a regulator to monitor gold dealers and continue to provide the service of trading gold on a profitable basis. Trotman said that the fluid functions of the Gold Board allows for manifold benefits as it provides statistics that can inform decision-making and policy, manage and monitor the trade of gold and ensure a strategic supply of gold to the Bank of Guyana. This year, he said that a complete organ-

isational review was conducted on the Gold Board and during the stocktaking process it was realized that the method of buying gold is flawed. The changes to the scenario will be made in 2017 in consultation with relevant stakeholders. He added that it was also discovered that the monitoring and compliance goes beyond that scope to include the licensed gold dealers. As a result, in 2017, legislative changes will be made to allow the Gold Board to enhance its monitoring and regulatory process and increase revenues from application fees and penalties.

Big plans ahead for the mining sector –– Minister Broomes says

By Vanessa Braithwaite JUNIOR Minister of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes has outlined several big plans for miners and the mining sector in 2017, plans that are a far cry from what had obtained under the last administration. Sporting a school girlish hairstyle, scarlet ribbons and all, Broomes had the full attention of the House as she shared with colleague parliamentarians some of the horrors miners were forced to endure in the past. Her anectdotes no doubt struck a chord with the few miners sitting patiently waiting in the public gallery, many having travelled from as far afield as Mahdia just to hear for themselves what the budget has in store for them in 2017.

Several miners and mining organisations were recently critical of the government for the removal of certain concessions previously granted the sector. It’s a decision that many feel is ill-advised, particularly the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and the Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMO). Both organisations mistakenly believe that such a decision will only result in the gold-mining sector experiencing a decline rather than growth, as it is the small and medium-scale miners that will be affected the most. As a former miner herself, Minister Broomes fully appreciates their dilemma, and at Wednesday’s meeting of the House to debate the budget, apolo-

gised to Finance Minister Mr Winston Jordan for the misconception. “Allow me to apologise for my dear friends with whom I’m associated within the GGDMA, and as a founder member of the GWMO for misleading the miners by saying that the Minister of Finance will take all tax concessions granted to them,” Minister Broomes said. Having gotten that out of the way, Minister Broomes proceeded to explain that not everything will be taken away; that pumps, four-wheeldrive vehicles and fuel are among some of the items that still will receive concessions. She said, too, that plans are afoot to give potential miners and small-scale miners; even the regular man-in-the-street, land in clusters.

Junior Natural Resources Minister Simona Broomes Noting that the issue of ‘landlordism’ will be addressed through the Special Land Use Committee, so that many Guyanese will be granted land if they so desire, Minister Broomes said: “Be you in a wheelchair; be you in the media, as long as you are a Guyanese, the natural patrimony and the wealth

of the country belongs to all of you. And so, we will be giving out lands; we will set aside lands for all Guyanese.” One of the major plans that the 2017 Budget will allow for is the complete mapping of the country by 2020. A total of $2B will be allocated for this project, which is to be spearheaded by the Geological Surveys Department of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). All six mining districts will be mapped, so as to ascertain the location of 40 minerals, mining sites, pits etc. “We will walk the walk with the miners,” Minister Broomes said, “so that when we come back, we will say to Guyana how many properties are being mined in the region, where the dredges are positioned, the condition of the water and every detail. That is the kind of management that we are talking about.” Another major break-

through for 2017 will be the increase in consultations and the enabling of a better relationship between the Ministry of Natural Resources, the GGMC and miners, especially those small-scale operators who, had been previously victimised. She said that there will be a restructuring of the GGMC Board, as priority will be given to delivery to the miners. Other plans for 2017 include the focusing on natural resources other than gold and diamonds, and the training of mining officers on the extraction of laterite and preventative measures to avoid accidents in the extractive industries. Minister Broomes reiterated that miners will enjoy a good life in 2017, as much is in store for the sector, including the removal of many of the burdens and social stereotypes that are attached to the industry.

Legal larceny –– Jagdeo reportedly hiked VAT rate from 12% to 16%, says Ramjattan By Ravin Singh

THE introduction of 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) in 2007 by then President Bharrat Jagdeo was described as “legal larceny,” after it was revealed in the National Assembly on Thursday evening that 12 per cent was the amount intended to be introduced. This disclosure was made by Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, amid heckling from the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Examining the issue of tax reform during his presentation on Budget 2017, the minister said that tax avoidance and evasion have been around since authorities began levying taxes. “It is not a Guyanese phenomenon and this requires rectification,” he said, adding that this justifies the Finance Minister’s attempt at restoration of fiscal autonomy and his call for corporations to pay their due. The august House was then reminded of the

PPP-sponsored VAT Bill, which was intended to attract a rate which was never stated. Additionally, it was intended for VAT to be applicable to all goods and services as was stated at that time by then Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industries Mansoor Nadir. “VAT was supposed to be one rate for all good and services that it is applicable to. What happened then was that the bill never stated a rate. He [Jagdeo] never wanted to put a rate on that VAT bill,” Ramjattan said. He reasoned that VAT, which at that time had replaced eight existing taxes, was intended to bring in $16B annually in revenue. As such, Minister Ramjattan deduced that the rate was therefore fixed at 12 per cent. Subsequently, he said, Jagdeo indicated that the rate would be “revenue neutral.” With impending General Elections in 2006, the minister said the PPP opted to hold off on the implementation of VAT. However, in 2007, having won the elections, the PPP

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan implemented the tax, but, interestingly, at a rate of 16 per cent. “The very next year he [Jagdeo] implemented VAT and put a rate of 16 per cent, which was four per cent more than what was expected to bring in the revenue,” he said, adding that this was legal larceny. “There are people now who are saying that what we [Government] are doing

is legal larceny. But that was legal larceny; putting a rate of 16 per cent, when it was supposed to be 12.” And with the Government reducing VAT to 14 per cent in the 2017 budget, the minister said that what the executive is doing is showing the people that it has the strength and courage to start the process of reducing VAT to 12 per cent as it had promised during the 2015 elections campaign. However, he explained that in Government’s efforts to reduce the amount citizens are paying on VAT, there will be a need for them to expand the base of zero-rated items to cushion the shortfall in revenue. “In our attempt to reduce it [VAT] to 14 per cent next year and probably 12 per cent the following year, we have to widen the tax base of goods and services. We do not want to reduce VAT and stop our spending on infrastructure and services in the country,” he said to the House, causing an uproar.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

Boy, 11, is latest accident victim SIMON Christopher Kendall, 11, of Number 46 Village, East Berbice, Corentyne, who is a first form student of Tagore Memorial School, on Thursday became the latest road fatality. He was struck down on the Number 46 Public Road around 16:30 hrs while making his way to assist on the family’s farm a few houses away. Kendal had returned from school a little earlier and was accompanying his 18- year older brother Sheldon Kendall to the farm, when motor car PVV 7617 struck him down on the northern shoulder of the Number 46 Public Road. “Me been a ride me bicycle on the other side a de road and me see the car come full Simon Christopher Kendall speed and knock down the boy, me halla pon am seh you knock down the pikney and a continue you nah stap but he drive way,” an eyewitness who gave his name as Deocharran said. According to him, the car was heading east and failed to properly manoeuvre a turn into Number 46 Village allegedly due to the speed with which it was travelling, and in the process struck down the boy, who was walking in the corner of the road. It narrowly missed Christopher’s brother Sheldon, who was by his side. According to Deocharran, the driver after hitting the boy continued on his way home in Number 46 Village, a few houses away from the scene of the accident. As people converged on the scene of the accident, the car returned a short while after from the opposite direction and stopped a few feet away from the body of the dead boy. But the eyewitness related that the driver of the car was not the man who had hit down the boy, but his brother. Police sources have confirmed that the alleged driver of the car is in hiding and his brother who returned the car to the scene is in police custody assisting with the investigation. The mother of Kendall, Monica Kendall, was inconsolable when this newspaper visited her home. Christopher was described as a very willing, kind person and quiet lad. He was a very active member of the Number 48 Full Gospel Church. He leaves to mourn his parents and older brother.

DATE: 07/12/2016 08/12/2016

N 10 11 12 20 23 25 9

13 18

08/12/2016

08/12/2016 04 05

09 12 13 19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

Bond drama erupts again By Ravin Singh

EMOTIONS gripped the National Assembly on Thursday evening after the Government and Opposition once again failed to find common ground on an investigative mission to determine whether the Sussex Street drug bond was in use. During his presentation to the august body, opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Anil Nandlall complained that Government was expending $14M a month to rent the facility which he said was not even storing “a tablet.” He was interrupted by Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton, who, on a Point of Order, immediately rejected the claim. However, Nandlall once again rose to his feet, this time saying that the bond “was not in use,” which once again was denounced by the minister. At this point, a decision was made by the Speaker of the House, Dr Barton Scotland, to have one representative from each side of the House accompany the Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly and other officials from Parliament, to investigate the claims. Upon arrival, the MPs were asked to wait for some time before the keys arrived and they were allowed in. Accompanied by the media and the Permanent Secretary

of the Ministry of Public Health, Trevor Thomas, the representatives from both sides of the House were taken inside the facility where boxes of items were stored. The items listed were IDU insertion kits, latex condoms, umbilical cord clamps and lubricants. The minister proceeded to have one of the box-

facility was ongoing. Dissatisfied, the Opposition member went back to the National Assembly and reported that he had witnessed “a lot of empty shelves and enclosed boxes.” He expressed his disapproval over the fact that he was not able to see “a tablet.” “I said we would like to

to see tablets and no tablets were shown,” Ali said, adding that when he was leaving the bond, threats were hurled at him and another PPP member by residents who had been “mobilised.” Government’s representative, Volda Lawrence, on the other hand, said that several aisles with boxes marked “medicine” on them

scription of the speeches of those who spoke about the drug bond be made, and same presented to the House today, and a decision be made. He offered that the transcription is likely to produce more clarity on what the intended purpose of the visit to the bond was.

GNNL parts ways with Sunday Editor

Minister of Public Health, Dr George Norton, explains to the Opposition MPs and media the items being stored at the facility on Thursday night es opened by the Deputy Clerk, upon request by the opposition’s representative, Irfaan Ali. A few minutes later, Ali requested visual evidence of “a tablet” which he said was the initial statement of his colleague. However, this request was not granted, as further inspection of the

see tablets. But a person said that tablets are not stored there because it is a secondary bond,” he reported. Junior Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings, who was also present at the Sussex Street location, had explained that the bond was a secondary one. “We asked specifically

were visible upon entry of the bond. She said that this was shown to both the Deputy Clerk and the PPP members. She also noted that Ali insisted that he be shown “a tablet,” but he was asked to speak to the Deputy Clerk since she was the one who decided which box should

Man shot during robbery at Pattensen ONE of two robbery victims is presently admitted a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital nursing a gunshot wound to his right thigh. Police said investigation revealed that the victims Gavin Ramlall, 22yrs, a contractor of Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara and his friend David Mangroo, 64 yrs, of Section ‘B’ Pattensen, Turkeyen ECD were in Georgetown earlier on Thursday purchasing vehicle parts. About 14:00hrs, Ramlall who was driving a Tundra stopped in front of Mangroo’s residence, parked and secured his vehicle and they went into the yard. Shortly afterwards, they were confronted by two suspects, one armed with a handgun, who demanded their valuables to which they complied and

be opened. Having not been able to come to a definitive conclusion on the matter, since there was no common ground on the intention of the visit, the Speaker was forced to adopt a proposal by Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan. He suggested that a tran-

handed over two cell phones and $16,000.00 cash. They then demanded the keys for the Tundra but Ramlall refused and was shot to the front of his right thigh. At the same time, another

suspect arrived in a gold- coloured motor car, shattered the side glasses of the Tundra with a piece of wood, entered and searched same but came out empty-handed, after which they all escaped

in the motor car. Ramlall was rushed to the GPH and admitted in a stable condition. Investigators have retrieved a spent shell at the scene. No arrests have been made.

THE Guyana National Newspapers Limited on Thursday parted ways with Sunday Editor, Neil Marks. While this decision is regretted, the Management as guided by the Board of Directors found it necessary in order to protect the newspaper. Despite the obligations and responsibilities assigned to him in a senior position, Mr. Marks’ actions on more than one occasion seriously compromised the production of the newspaper. It is imperative that GNNL, at all times, guard against the impairing of the critical service it provides as a public service media house, the GNNL said in a release. “Additionally, a dediNeil Marks cated team of persons work beyond the call of duty to ensure the Guyana Chronicle is on the newsstand every morning. It is untenable that their work and that service are jeopardised by the actions of one individual in a senior position,” the release noted. Editor-in-Chief Mr. Nigel Williams will oversee the editorial responsibilities for the Sunday edition until a substantive Sunday editor is named. GNNL wishes Mr. Marks well in his future endeavours.

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

UNASUR indifference to Guyana GUYANA ratified its membership in the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) on 12th February 2010. This organisation’s objective is “To create in a participatory and consensual manner an open space for integration and unity in the cultural, social, economic, and political affairs among its participant States.” It believes that achieving this requires granting priority to, among other issues, “political dialogue…with a view to reducing asymmetries in the strengthening of each Member State’s sovereignty and independence.” The benefits of being in this body include that of trade, cultural development, education, and technical assistance. Where the territorial integrity of any member-state is threatened, in keeping with the body’s principles, it is reasonable to expect that efforts will be made to resolve it. Our border issue with Venezuela, since 1962 when it informed the United Nations (UN) that it no longer respects the 1899 Arbitral Award, is not a matter of dispute but that of a controversy, since the matter was settled. UNASUR would have been aware of this. Last year when Venezuela started acting up again with the change of administration in the Government of Guyana, a clear message was sent that Guyanese remain steadfast in refusing to give up anything that belongs to us. In November 2015, retired diplomat and former Guyana Ambassador to Venezuela Odeen Ishmael flayed UNASUR’s South American Defence Council, which comprised member ministers responsible for defence and security matters, to at least call for peaceful solutions, the easing of tensions, and the safeguarding of the territorial integrity of aggrieved member states. In the same month Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge expressed his concern about the organisation’s lukewarm approach in dealing with the controversy. Since then Guyana has mounted an aggressive strategy to have the controversy resolved. The Foreign Affairs Minister in his journeys abroad highlighted this matter at various fora, making the case for Guyana, and asking for support in having it resolved. A delegation led by President David Granger that included Sir Shridath Ramphal and Minister Greenidge went to the UN General Assembly and made the case, calling for swift resolution. President Granger in his address the UN Assembly on 20th September said: “Guyana stands ready to have the International Court of Justice determine the matter with finality. We will work resolutely with the secretary-general in his final months in office, and his successor, to free Guyana from this surreal burden.” It is a commitment that has not changed! None of these actions would be unknown to members of UNASUR and its Secretariat. Consistent with professed

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9,2016

Sexual harassment policies needed

Dear Editor

THIS is the fourth and final of our letters to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Despite the APNU + AFC manifesto promise, so far as we are aware, no code of conduct for the public service relating to sexual harassment, gender discrimination, sexual violence and other forms of discrimination against women has been put into effect. Sexual harassment prevention policies for all public and private sector entities including ministries, security agencies, schools, businesses and other education institutions should be introduced and made enforceable with penalties for those who transgress. Similarly, the introduction of tax credits for companies providing in-house day-care facilities for their employees promised in the APNU + AFC manifesto has, so far as we are aware, not materialised or even been discussed in the private sector, nor has the government increased funding for childcare centres to support women, especially estranged mothers, single mothers, and victims of various forms of abuse,

apart from a Georgetown Public Hospital day-care centre, which, according to the 2017 budget, is to be established. The continuing use of corporal punishment in schools and the unbelievable stripping and caning of students at an interior school highlight the need for the abolition of corporal punishment in schools, as corporal punishment teaches and mainstreams the use of violence as an acceptable means of solving and resolving problems. We welcome the calls by top officials in the APNU + AFC government, such as the president and the minister of education, for the ending of corporal punishment in schools. But this is not enough and must be followed by accepting the recommendation of the Guyana Teachers Union, NGOs and Civil Society Organisations and individuals to replace the use of corporal punishment with training programmes for teachers on new disciplinary measures and classroom management techniques that do not violate the rights of children. This is an achievable goal, but lack of political will seems to be allowing the status quo to continue.

We acknowledge that it is the responsibility of all Guyanese to ensure that women, girls, men, boys and members of the LGBT community live lives free from all forms of gender-based violence, discrimination and abuse. But multi-sectoral and representative responses that involve collaboration among all sectors of society must be fashioned in order to achieve this and the government is crucial for effecting this goal. We salute all social service providers who work tirelessly and often above the call of duty to offer help, protection, support and services for the many victims and survivors of gender-based violence and their families. We know that this valuable and at times transformative work is often not acknowledged and that confidentiality often does not permit it to be accorded the appreciation it deserves. We recognise the genuine attempts on the part of sections of the APNU + AFC government to improve the conditions of women and girls, especially through expansion of skills training programmes. But this in itself is not enough to transform the structural and

ideological barriers to gender inequality. We also recognise the work done by all NGOs, civil society organisations and Constitutional Commissions towards the elimination and reduction of gender-based violence. In particular, we salute all those women and girls who have had the strength to overcome their experiences of abuse and violence by transforming their lives and the lives of their children. Their struggles are a testimony to resilience and offer hope to all others still struggling to free themselves from gender-based violence. In ending, we call on the APNU + AFC government to ensure that another year will not pass with little or no progress made in the realisation of the human rights of women and girls to live lives free from violence and the threat of violence. Regards Danuta Radzik Kevin Massiah Karen Shaw Petal Baboolall Carol Inis-Baptiste For Help & Shelter

GuySuCo responds to GAWU accusations

Dear Editor

THE Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) hereby responds to articles which were published in Stabroek News online on 6 December,2016 and was titled ‘GAWU accuses GuySuCo of stalling on wages talks’, and in the Kaieteur News on December 7, 2016 and titled, ‘GuySuCo wants salary negotiations delayed amidst budget de-

bate – union says’. On December 6, 2016, GuySuCo dispatched a correspondence to the Chief Labour Officer at the Ministry of Social Protection. The letter was in response to an earlier communication inviting the corporation to attend a meeting on December 7, 2016, as a part of the conciliation process for GuySuCo/ GAWU Annual Production Incentive (API), 2016. The corporation’s letter

respect to reducing asymmetries in the strengthening of each member state’s sovereignty and independence via political dialogue, ipso facto, Guyana’s approach to the UN would be supported. The UN is the world’s highest decision-making forum. Lo and behold, Guyana sees UNASUR allowing Venezuela to post its malicious claim to Essequibo on its website. This misinformation had the joint support of the Venezuela political opposition and the Nicolás Maduro government. This act is not only a departure from the organisation’s principles, but facilitates Venezuela publicising its illegitimate claim on a legitimate website of an organisation that Guyana is a member of. This is clearly aimed at provocation, which UNASUR should not have countenanced through its facilitation. This is total disregard for the role of the UN in bringing a peaceful resolution to this controversy where it now resides for attention. Minister Greenidge vehemently condemned what has happened and said he would communicate Guyana’s position to the hemispheric body. The

stated as follows: ‘With GuySuCo’s future direction being debated in our Parliament, the corporation respectfully requests that discussions surrounding matters of the industry (Annual Productive Incentive – API) be put on hold during those discussions.’ The letter further stated that: ‘It is critical that all concerned obtain a better appreciation of the way forward as envisaged by the

corporation’s shareholders.’ Based on the current circumstances stated in the letter and which is known to the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), GuySuCo is of the view that this is a reasonable request. Regards Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc

lesson for us as Guyanese is that we must stand together as one in the face of threats to our sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Guyana Constitution, which is the supreme legal instrument, that depicts our borders as a country, who we are as a nation, and the laws that will govern our affairs, must not be trifled with. Externally, Venezuela and UNASUR have attempted to. Internally, Russia Aluminium (RUSAL) -which manages the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) has by similar act been challenging our sovereignty in disrespecting our laws and citizens. As Guyanese we must remain vigilant and collectively stand against aggression by foreign forces, be they internal or external. UNASUR and Venezuela must be told that Guyanese, irrespective of political loyalty, shall not cede an inch of what belongs to us. BCGI must equally be told that doing business in Guyana is contingent on respecting our laws and sovereignty.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

Bartica, Lusignan Massacres...

60 years for Caesar

By Michel Outridge

MICHAEL Caesar, called ‘Mikey’, who pleaded not guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter for both the Lusignan and Bartica Massacres, was on Thursday sentenced to a total of 60 years imprisonment. Addressing the court before his sentences, which will run concurrently, Caesar said: “With all due respect your honour, I come in town at a young age and followed the wrong company. “I would like the families of the deceased to show mercy, and I would like to change my life to become a better person.” In response, Justice George told him that it was too late for mercy; that he should have asked a long time ago; and that he would have time enough while in jail to turn his life around. According to the indictment, Caesar pleaded not guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter

for eight of 11 counts of murder in the January 26, 2008 Lusignan Massacre. Caesar was indicted for the murders of Shazam Mohamed, 22; Vanessa Thomas, 12; Ron Thomas, 11; Clarence Thomas, 48; Seegopaul Harilall, 10; Seegobin Harilall, four; Mohandai Goordat, 32; and Shaleem Baksh, 52. Before the sentence was passed, the court heard from State Prosecutor Diana Kaulesar, how the murder came about, from the time Caesar received a call saying he had “a big wuk” to go on, right down to his meeting up on the ‘Buxton Linetop’ with ‘Fine-man’, ‘Chung Boy’, ‘Mud Up’, ‘Small Friend’, ‘John I’ and two other men, where they learnt that the target was a house in Lusignan Pasture with two barrels of money, which, apparently, was a hoax. Kaulesar quoted Caesar as saying that search as he and his cohorts might, they didn’t find what they’d expected, and perforce left empty-handed.

PROBATION REPORT They also heard from Senior Probation and Social Services Officer, Mr. Aggrey Azore, who spoke about how Caesar’s un-

Sentenced to 60 years in jail: Michael Caesar

fortunate upbringing at Fyrish, on the Corentyne; his not having a formal education; and not having any intimate relationship to speak of all helped him turn to a life of crime. Azore said while some in his community of origin spoke highly of Caesar, others said they feared him as his name

was synonymous with criminal activities. His mother, on the other hand, couldn’t understand how he came to such a pass, as he’d always been “a very willing and generous child growing up,” sentiments that were expressed by many in his Fyrish hometown. Azore said where the Bartica Massacre was concerned, which took place on February 17, 2008, he learnt from Caesar that he did it because of peer pressure; that he dared not show fear, lest he be branded a coward. The court also heard from Caesar’s lawyer, Maxwell McKay, who asked for leniency since his client had accepted responsibility for his actions and did not waste the court’s time with a trial. McKay further contended that his client was led astray by ‘Fine-Man’ and his gang, and asked that he not be given consecutive sentences. JUDGE’S PRONOUNCEMENT Justice George, who was not to be persuad-

ed, reminded the court that within the space of one month, Caesar was involved in two serious crimes in which 20 persons, including children, were killed. Admitting that the case was not as open and shut as one might have come to expect, given Caesar’s involvement in a ‘joint criminal enterprise’ which resulted in the tragic loss of lives, Justice George said that granted some had painted a rosy picture of the accused before he turned to a life of crime, he has to bear the consequences of his actions. Among some of the factors she took into consideration before handing down sentence were the fact that the crimes were highly organised and unprovoked, and the prevalence of the mass killings, whereby the victims were going about their normal lives and did not have an inkling of what was going to happen to them when the gang descended on them. In the circumstances, the judge said, she considers Caesar to be a danger

to society.

SENTENCING For the Lusignan Massacre, Caesar was sentenced to 65 years in jail, but Justice George deducted seven years for time served, and 11 for his guilty plea and mitigating factors and remorse shown. Justice George said he will have to serve 40 years before he could become eligible for parole on each count of the eight murders, and that his sentence will run concurrently. For the Bartica Massacre, he was sentenced to 75 years in jail, but because 15 were deducted, he will now have to serve 60 years on each count of 12 murders to run concurrently. He will also have to serve 40 calendar years, before he is eligible for parole. His partner in crime, Clebert Reece, called ‘Chi-Chi’, was sentenced to 35 years in jail last month. He, too,had pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

BoG temporarily halts buying TT, Barbados dollars By Ravin Singh

A SUDDEN increase in local demand for United States (U.S.) dollars has caused the Bank of Guyana (BoG) to temporarily stop buying Trinidad and Tobago (TT) and Barbados dollars from cambios. This is according to BoG Governor, Dr. Gobind Ganga, speaking at a press conference on Thursday. “We have temporarily stopped buying TT and Barbadian currency from cambios,” he said, adding that a market analysis has found that demand for U.S. dollars stands at about $6M. The BoG Governor related that there is evidence that suggests that persons were travelling from Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados, were buying U.S. dollars and this has resulted in an increase in those dollars locally and

a greater demand for U.S. currency He indicated that there

BoG Governor, Dr. Gobind Ganga

is approximately BDS$13M currently circulating in Guyana; an increase from BDS$8M in 2014. Similarly, there has been an increase from TT$9.1M in 2014 to TT$38M at pres-

ent. According to Dr. Ganga, the economic downturns in Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Suriname have led to severe foreign currency shortages in those countries. On Monday, the BoG recorded a working bank balance, excluding commitment, of about US$10.7M, while request for foreign currency at that time was nothing. At that time, there was a surplus of about US$8.3M, Dr Ganga said. However, a news report carried in Kaieteur News on Monday, which suggested that there was a shortage of foreign currency, was also responsible for this shift in demand. “After this [news] report, there were a number of requests [for foreign currency] and we found that not all of these requests were legit-

imate. We have requested from commercial banks, invoices to substantiate some of these requests. All that we have received were some letters,” the governor said. He noted that some of these requests could and will be denied, once it is discovered that they are not legitimate, or in keeping with the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. He pointed out though, that commercial banks nevertheless, have made great strides in satisfying those legitimate demands. Further, he noted that at present, there is a legitimate demand for about US$6M, and that the news report was largely responsible for this. As such, Dr. Ganga said that he has spoken to the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of some of these commercial banks and they are working to address this

issue. “We don’t expect a continuation of sensationalisation that there is a chronic problem. It is not so,” he added. The governor also cautioned against media speculation, which he contended

could affect an otherwise “healthy and strong” economy compared to any of the Caribbean countries, based on “soundness indicators.” “We do have the wherewithal to ensure our financial system continues to be sound,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

Electronic OAP payment system next year - Lawrence announces

NEXT year pensioners across the country would benefit from the implementation of an electronic pension payment system for Old Age Pension (OAP), Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence announced on Wednesday during budget debates. According to the minister, the new system is expected to improve the management and administration of the system that currently obtains. She said the new measure is geared at easing the burden on the elderly and improving the efficiency of the OAP payment system, as well as oversight

of Senior Citizens Homes. “Mr. Speaker, the Ministry in collaboration with the E-Government Agency, the Ministry of Public Telecommunications has commenced testing an Electronic Pension Payment System (EPPS). In 2017, there will be full implementation and operationalisation of the EPPS, which upon completion, is expected to improve the management and administration of the old age pension payments.” The Minister said that since taking office the OAP reflects a 45 per cent increase and noted that pension now stands at $19,000 with more than 53,000 persons to ben-

efit. She said too that Public Assistance will increase to $7, 500 from January 1, 2017. Moreover, the Social Protection Minister noted the move by her administration to remove fees for the elderly who require for drivers’ licences, travel tax and passport fee and said that these are aimed at providing support to the country’s seniors. “Mr. Speaker, I wish to state that the incentive that the opposition implemented for the elderly to exempt them from the payment of electricity and water lacked transparency and did not benefit all the elderly consumers. This is a caring government, Sir, there is no disparity in the

distribution of the pension; all are entitled to the same equitable increase without exception,” said Lawrence. Additionally, Minister Lawrence disclosed that her Ministry would be reviewing the existing Poor Law Act of 1942 to address the several issues which plague the safety network. She noted that senior citizens who do not have birth certificates, those without Identification cards and also those who set out to abuse the system will be addressed in the revision of the legislation. Additionally, the review will also address persons who seek to encash vouchers that were issued months prior to the existing date. Lawrence

Budget serves up many positives - Young lawyer

AT T O R N E Y- AT- L AW Darren Wade has said that he has done a critical assessment of the Budget 2017 presentation presented by Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan and found several positives. The young attorney said that after much discussion ensued on social media following Minister Jordan’s presentation he decided to take a deeper look in order to better understand budget

2017 from the perspective of a young professional. “As a concerned citizen, after the budget was read, after all the posts on facebook about the doom and the disaster it will bring to this country, I decided to go to Parliament and sit and listen to the budget debate. I am very impressed with the programmes that the government has put forward in the budget,” Mr. Wade explained, while speaking at

Attorney-at-law Darren Wade an interview at on the sidelines of Parliament Buildings yesterday. T h e H u g h Wo o d i n g Law School graduate said that the Coalition Government’s (Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) programme was one which offers new opportunities for young persons who are business-minded. “In this programme $100,000,000 will be put aside as a grant for young people who are interested in starting a business. In addition, they will also be mentored so this is an excellent opportunity for young people all across Guyana who are interested in business to come on board,” Wade said. The SLED initiative, he said “will allow them (young people) to become their own bosses instead of looking for a job. I must commend the government on this wonderful initiative.” Wade was also pleased that the Juvenile Justice

Bill will seek to modernise how the judiciary treats with young people who run afoul of the law. “The Ministry of Social Protection will be bringing the Juvenile Justice Bill. In this bill several offences will be repealed. One such offence is wandering. This law causes young people to be put before the court, criminalised and embarrassed. Instead of this, probation will be in place to take care of them and reintegrate them into society. Instead of incarceration there are alternative measures in dealing with young people. Many young people come from disadvantaged homes and very sad situations,” Wade said. Mr. Wade also noted that Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes reported that on her recent trip to Bolivia she was able to gain support from a renowned geologist, who will visit Guyana in order to review the University of Guyana geology programme. “The extractive sector is a very important sector and in order to give young people an opportunity to earn from this sector they need to be properly equipped and one of the ways this can be achieved is to have a strengthened geology programme at UG,” Wade, a University of Guyana graduate said. “There are opportunities now for us young professionals and for young people on a whole, these are opportunities which were not there before,” Wade signed off.

said too that her Ministry has developed and finalized Minimum Standards for elderly residential facilities in line with international best practices and Guyana’s obligations under international treaties and agreements. In 2017, the Ministry of Social Protection will establish a Senior Citizen’s Homes Oversight Committee, which will provide the guidance and support to bring all senior citizens homes in compliance with the minimum standard, the Social Protection Minister stated. “Also an additional $500,000 is provided in the 2017 budget for one of our oldest private homes for the elderly, the Dharm Shala,”

she stated. Meanwhile, the Minister highlighted the success of the Hugo Chavez Home which accommodates homeless persons. She said the Home has capitalised on skills-training with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Ministry of Education and as a result, ducks, sheep, and poultry are being reared, in addition to having a vegetable farm. “The climate at that Institution is motivational and it is the Ministry’s hope that other homes will emulate the residents of the Hugo Chavez Home and transform their lives through similar initiatives,” Lawrence stated.

Corporal dies after crashing into cow CORPORAL Satesh Narine, who had been hospitalised after his motor car collided with a cow along the Suzanna Public Road, East Coast Berbice on November 21, last, died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation on Monday. He passed away with his wife Sharon and parents at his bedside. The 28-year-old cop was the Subordinate Officer-in-Charge of the Albion Station, Corentyne, and the only child for his parents Vishnu and Maureen Narine, of Good Hope, East Coast Demerara. At his residence, at Lot 58 Azzim Street, Cumberland Village, East Canje, his mother-in-law Doodranie Paltoo called Dolly, was overwhelmed with grief after learning that her ‘son’ had died at 15:00hrs. “I spoke to him this morning, and he requested that that I pray to the Hindi deities for his recovery. He came into our home and brought much ‘Light’ into our lives and home. I do not know what our life will be without him,” she lamented, as she hugs the policeman’s lone offspring, nine-year-old Trevan. The child is yet to grasp the fact that his father has died as he recalled that his father told him to study to pass the end of term examinations after which he [‘Narine] would return home. “Daddy is in Georgetown Hospital, and he will be coming home soon,” he told the Guyana Chronicle. Meanwhile, acting Commander Senior Superintendent, Kevin Adonis described the deceased as a disciplined individual, who was respectful to his superiors. Narine, who has over six years of service in the Guyana Police Force, was the coordinator of many community projects organised by the division. He also coordinated the fortnightly road safety telecast. President of the New Amsterdam Road Safety Association, Leon Faria during a visit to the bereaved family, urged for stricter penalties be imposed on owners whose animals are found on the roadways. The body of Corporal Satesh Narine is currently at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation mortuary awaiting post-mortem examination.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

Greenidge raps PPP for half-truths -says opposition diverting attention from substance of budget

By Svetlana Marshall VICE-PRESIDENT and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, said the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has been telling “halftruths” to divert the public’s attention from the “substance” of the 2017 budget. Minister Greenidge took to the floor of the National Assembly by lashing out at the parliamentary Opposition in the presence of the President of the Caribbean Court of Justice, Sir Dennis Byron, who was observing the debate along with his team from the CCJ. Sir Byron was accompanied by the Registrar, Jacqueline Graham; the Chairman of CCJ Trust Fund, Dr. Linton Lewis; Vice-Chairman of the Trust Fund, Christine Sahadeo; Executive Officer of the Trust Fund Glenn Cheong; and CCJ Trustees Oswald Barnes and Ramesh Dookhoo. Minister Greenidge, said the Opposition has been relentlessly repeating tales of alleged misbehaviour on the part of the Government. “Nobody could miss the charges of malfeasance, inefficiency, irrational decision-making

and burdensome fiscal imposition,” the Foreign Affairs Minister posited, as he alluded to the contentions being levelled by the PPP. However, he said while criticisms of budgets are nothing strange to the system, the Opposition has preoccupied itself in what he calls “national deconstruction.” “We have been fed on a diet of half-truths,” Minister Greenidge told the National Assembly on Thursday. Citing an example, the Foreign Minister referenced a statement made earlier that day by a PPP Member of Parliament who had claimed that there was no young person within the Foreign Service. “Astonishing,” Minister Greenidge said, as he shook his head in disbelief. “I want to say that the crocodile tears that are raised in relation to the indigenous communities are just that, but we have seen the croc in action. The tears fool no one; they don’t achieve the necessary racial division and bitterness at this point in time,” he emphasised. Repeatedly, since demitting office, the PPP, he said, has been boasting of the positive growth which the economy experienced under its

Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs,Carl Greenidge, making his case in Parliament watch, but Greenidge, a former Finance Minister, said the party, for 23 years, had been bludgeoning the public with selective economic indicators. Singling out the PPP’s Chief Whip Gail Teixeira, the Foreign Affairs Minister said he was “moved to tears” when the PPP frontbencher bemoaned the fact that no credit was given to the PPP Administration for the positive economic growth on which

Top Caribbean jurists here for seminar

Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Basil Williams, (extreme left)and President of the Caribbean Court of Justice Sir Dennis Byron (second, right) along with his team TOP judicial officers in the Caribbean, including the President of the Caribbean Court of Justice are here for a seminar with local state attorneys on the new civil procedure rules recently laid in the National Assembly. The seminar will be held by the Attorney-General Chambers and Ministry of

Legal Affairs on Saturday at the Georgetown Club, Camp Street. This sensitising training will be conducted by Legal Consultant Mr. Anthony Ross QC and Mr. Justice Courtney Abel from the Belize High Court. President of the CCJ, Sir Dennis Byron will also be there.

Also here for the training are: Registrar, Jacqueline Graham; the Chairman of CCJ Trust Fund, Dr. Linton Lewis; Vice-Chairman of the Trust Fund, Christine Sahadeo; Executive Officer of the Trust Fund, Glenn Cheong; and CCJ Trustees, Oswald Barnes and Ramesh Dookhoo.

they ended their term in office. “You know that is very strange – because they inherited a rate of economic growth of 6.7 per cent, which continued for seven

years and never once gave credit for that, taking all of the credit. Anything good, was the result of their work and anything bad was the result of the other side,” Minister Greenidge posited. He further stated that,that thesis being peddled by the Opposition that real economic growth occurred only under the PPP “is of course a complete fabrication.” What the PPP Chief Whip had failed to mention, Minister Greenidge said, were the many infractions made by the PPP. “In the distinguished member’s statement, there was no mention of the illegal expenditures of the PPP; the constitutional breaches that sent the PPP Government before the courts in 2013 and 2014 or of the no-confidence vote or the constitutional action that led President

Ramotar to prorogue the house,” he pointed out. Additionally, he said it was under the PPP that the President was advised by the Attorney-General and Legal Affairs Minister to withhold his assent from bills approved in the House. This statement appeared to have angered the former Attorney-General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall, who shouted from across the room: “You are the most disgraced minister of economics this country has ever had!” In expressing his dissatisfaction with the stand the PPP has taken in the debate, the Foreign Affairs Minister contended that the discussion of the budget is “couched and surrounded by a set of largely irrelevant issues,” – attempts to divert attention from the substance of the budget.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

China Railway awarded East Coast highway project By Alva Solomon

CHINESE construction firm China Railway First Group Limited has been awarded the contract for widening of the East Coast Demerara highway,which project has been stalled for some time. The firm which was previously linked to the Amaila Falls hydropower project was awarded the contract to complete the project between Better Hope and Belfield on the East Coast of Demerara. Speaking on Thursday during the Budget Debate in Parliament, Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson told the House that after considerable delays, the framework agreement with the People’s Republic of China for the US$45.5M concessional loan for the completion of the widening and improvement of the

highway has been signed. The agreement was signed on November 23 will complete the entire stretch of road from Better Hope to Belfield. According to Patterson, a sum of $1.4B has been set aside in the 2017 budget for the project which commenced in October 2011. The project had stalled several years after its commencement and both firms which were tasked with carrying out works on the project have since wound up their operations here. Falcon Engineering and Dipcon Construction were awarded the contracts to execute the project under a two-lot system. However, substandard work among other defects had resulted in the project stalling. Meanwhile, the East Coast of Demerara will also see additional features to the

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson roadway as an arch is slated for erection at Cummings Lodge to mark the eastern entrance to the capital city of Georgetown. Patterson said that the project will be funded by Ansa McAL Limited. The privately funded project is being linked with the arch which was unveiled at Ag-

ricola earlier in 2016. That project was funded by beverage giant Banks DIH Limited. Patterson said that lighting for the arches will be complemented by solar LED lights and bus sheds which will be powered also by solar LED lights. “Discussions are currently ongoing to supply free wi fi in the bus sheds,” he said. In May, the Agricola Arch was unveiled by President David Granger to mark the southern boundary of the city of Georgetown in commemoration of Guyana’s 50th Independence anniversary.

“The Government welcomes this venture and will continue to partner with the private [sector] to execute projects which can benefit the people of our dear land of Guyana,” Patterson said. Meanwhile, the construction of vehicle and pedestrian overpasses on the East Bank of Demerara is nearing fruition. Patterson said that on December 20, tenders in response to public advertisements placed in the print medium, will be opened. Speaking on the East Bank of Demerara FourLane project, he said the

initiative, which is funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and which commenced in the latter part of 2011, was completed in September this year at a total cost of US$17.171M. According to Patterson, additional works such as drains and traffic signals were funded under another loan head. He added that the entire expansion project which stretches for some 5.4km from Providence to Diamond is currently under the Defects Liability period, which will conclude in September 2017.

Holland returns with little challenge LINDEN Mayor Carwyn Holland and his Deputy, Ms Wanika Arrindel were on Thursday morning re-elected for a second term following elections in the Chamber of the Linden Mayor and Town Council. Presiding over the elections was Town Clerk (Ag.) Ms Orleena Obermuller, who, after the meeting was called to order at 10.34hrs, cautioned those in attendance that persons will not be allowed to interfere nor participate in the elections, and should remain silent so that the process could proceed smoothly. Among those present were 13 of the 16 councillors, as well as administrative staff and members of the public. The Town Clerk’s statements came amidst notable police presence outside of the Linden Town Council, as interest in the election was at an all-time high, given the comments that it had engendered leading up to it. For that matter, word going the rounds is that Councillor Devin Sears, who was nominated by Councillor Fern McCoy and seconded by Councillor Lennox Gasper, was deliberately groomed to oppose Holland for the position of

Mayor. LACKED DEMOCRACY Both McCoy and Gasper opposed Holland on the grounds that he was not democratic in the way he dealt with certain matters

CARWYN HOLLAND during his previous term in office. However, Holland, who was nominated by Councillor Elise Benjamin and seconded by Councillor Derron John, prevailed after nominations were closed, winning 6-2. Notably absent were three councillors, two of whom are currently out of the

country. The other, Councillor Rawle Friday, was a ‘No show’. Sources close to the elections say that Councillor Friday was initially favoured by McCoy and Gasper for the post of mayor, but seeing that he absented himself from the process, they chose Sears instead. Interestingly enough, the Guyana Chronicle subsequently learnt that Sears did not vote for himself. Meanwhile, before the voting, there was some objection as to the modus operandi, whether it would be by a show of hands or secret ballot. Upon the intervention of the Town Clerk, it was agreed that in accordance with the law, the matter should be put to the vote. In the end, a show of hands won out 7-6. Mayor Holland, in what could only be regarded as his victory speech, said when the dust had settled: “To God be the glory! I wish to thank all councillors sitting at the table; I see the support of Council returning me to office, and for them showing confidence in me. “Thanks to all members of the public for attending this process.” Deputy Mayor Arrindel was returned unopposed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

U.S., GDF Coast Guards in joint training

THE United States Embassy’s Security Cooperation Office (SCO) concluded the first in a two-part Military Training Team event involving members of the United States Coast Guard and officers and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard. The six-man team arrived in Guyana November 5 and instructed on a range of topics, from basic seamanship to queries, approaches and visits-boarding-searchand-seizure, the U.S. embassy said in a release. The group trained on the water for 40 hours before the graduation ceremony held at the Coast Guard Training Centre, Kingston, last week. According to the release, as part of the SCO’s

capacity-building efforts in Guyana, the second phase of the event will occur in July 2017. The recently trained GDF officers and ranks will be the instructors with the U.S. Coast Guard team as observers, as well as conducting training-the-trainer exercises. These events will identify and qualify instructors who can return to their units with increased knowledge and ability, serving the goal of greater general readiness in Guyana’s inland and littoral maritime environment. This training reaffirms the United States government’s commitment to working closely with the Government of Guyana on issues of security and professionalisation. The embassy hopes to continue these activities in the future.

The officers and trainers of the course pose for a photograph following their graduation ceremony

Curative, not punitive

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

––President says of VAT on water, electricity

PRESIDENT David Granger has thrown his support behind the implementation of VAT on water and electricity, contending that the purpose of taxation is to get money to execute Government services. Speaking to journalists on his weekly programme “The

Public Interest” on Thursday, the President said the measures being implemented by Government should be seen as beneficial and not as a punishment. “Where does the money come from to provide services? Through taxation, and VAT is part of the taxation

system of the country. It is not just to earn revenue; this is also intended to guide people’s choices. In the case of water and electricity, it is not punitive, it is curative in the sense that persons who waste water would now be more careful in their use of water, so it’s not just a tax on water,

President David Granger it’s a tax on excessive use of water,” the Head of State explained. He said the tax must be interpreted through the mea-

sures and policies the Government intends to achieve and implement. “It’s not taxes for the sake of taxes; it’s a tax to modify public behaviour,” the President said. When questioned if a monthly bill of over $1,500 is excessive use of water, the President said the majority of persons who are poor or earning low incomes do not use that amount of water. “I would consider it average and persons who use excessive amounts of water should pay the full VAT, but then again the VAT has been reduced to 14 per cent.” Meanwhile, the President commended the work of his ministers who are drawn from six different parties. “This is the best Cabinet possible, they work very hard

and I’m very happy to work with them into the new year,” Mr Granger said. In 2016, the Ministry of Public Telecommunications was created and Mrs Catherine Hughes was assigned the portfolio of Minister of Public Telecommunications. Minister Raphael Trotman who was previously Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment is now Minister of Natural Resources, while a department has been created for the protection of the environment. “Those are the two main ministerial changes that have taken place… the team has remained intact although some functions have been modified and I feel very confident in going into 2017 with the same team,” President Granger said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

505 graduate from GTI

VA L E D I C T O R I A N Richard Kinsanally challenged his fellow graduates to develop confidence, while esteemed accountant, Christopher Ram charged the audience of graduates to reach for the stars. They made these charges at the Guyana Technical Institute graduating class of 2016 last Wednesday at the National Cultural Centre. A total of 505 students graduated from the institution, while several were bestowed with varying awards and accolades for outstanding performances. Graduating with a Diploma in Land Surveying (distinction), Kansinally, who was unable to attend last Wednesday’s ceremony, delivered his speech by pre-recorded video. He noted the need for his colleagues to always remember to push themselves in what they do. “I wish to emphasise the importance of developing confidence, and pushing yourself that extra mile when you feel like giving up, keeps you self-motivated,” Kansinally said. He also spoke of how team work played a large role in getting all the students to successfully graduate. “I think the most important thing that we have learned over the years here at GTI is how much we need each other to succeed. Team sport is better than spoil sport,” Kansinally said. He back up his testimony by giving a few witty recollection of instances when students, and even the teachers came together and looked out for each other to ensure that tasks were completed. “ T h e e ff e c t i v e n e s s of cooperation came out

Some of the best graduating students, with officials of the Government Technical Institute (photo by Cullen Bess-Nelson) during our preparation for the GTI examinations, where our strengths were truly tried and tested. Seeing the other members of the team determined to press on, I was motivated to follow the multitude in pressing on,” he said. “Set your goals high, reach for the stars, even if you do not reach them you will still be soaring out there. Work smarter not harder. It’s not how many hours you put into your work but how much work you put into those hours,” Ram told the graduating class. After many of the students agreed with chairperson, Troy Wishart, that GTI is not commonly considered a place for high achievers, Ram in his speech told the graduates that they should be proud of being GTI alumni. “You must not feel that as a student of the Government Technical Institute that you are inferior in any shape or form, in anyway. The future of this country, the future

of the economy across the region, if not around the world, lies as much if not more in what you do in the field of technology than happens in the academic environment. Technical education can fetch good rewards, status, money, satisfaction and contribution to your own country,” Ram said. The feature address at the ceremony was delivered by author and workshop facilitator, Dr Joy Wilson, a GTI alumni. GTI Chairman, Vincent Alexander, and Principal (ag) Renita Crandon Duncan, both former GTI students, also made remarks. A number of trophies and prizes were presented to the high-achieving students, made possible through the donations of several corporate sponsors, including Gafoors L i m i t e d , M A C O R P, John Fernandes Limited, GBTI, GDF, NBS, GWI, Silvie’s General Store, Republic Bank and NT Computeac.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

‘I never benefited in cash or kind’ –– Dr Roopnaraine responds to claims on Durban Park Project

By Ariana Gordon EDUCATION Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, on Thursday told the National Assembly that he never benefited personally, in cash or in kind, while serving on the board of directors of the Homestretch Development Inc. (HDI) tasked with putting together the country’s 50th Independence celebrations. In his presentation to the House, Dr. Roopnaraine said that in over 40 years of political activism, “I have never hidden behind anyone. In over 40 years of political activism, I have never engaged in any acts giving off even a whiff of malfeasance and I deeply resent any whisperings or hints in the media to that effect.” Over the past few weeks, the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), along with executive member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr. David

Hinds,has called on the Minister of Education to state his role in the HDI. Following a motion laid by the PPP in the National Assembly, the party had called on the Government to make a full disclosure of the cost, individuals and businesses that were involved in the project before it was taken over by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. Initially, Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson had told the House that the first phase of the project was funded and managed by HDI, which was owned by Larry London, Bobita Ram, Victor Wilson and Gentian Miller. However, on Thursday, Dr. Roopnaraine sought to set the record straight after weeks of silence, while warning that he will not allow persons to accuse him of malfeasance. He said he has nothing to hide and noted that in July 2015, the National Commem-

oration Commission (NCC) was established when the APNU+AFC coalition Government made a decision to commemorate its 50th Independence Anniversary. At that time, he was appointed chairman of the proceedings, in which the Opposition was invited to participate, but never attended. “The decision was made to develop the D’urban Park site when it was determined that the traditional venue for Independence celebrations, the National Park, would have required extensive repairs as well as the appropriation of the rugby field to accommodate the several thousand persons expected to participate.” Additionally, the Education Minister said the D’urban Park Development Project (DPDP) was authorised by Cabinet and works began during the last quarter of 2015. “In January 2016, I was asked by the President to sit

Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine as a director on the Board of the Homestretch Development Inc. Although not my direct responsibility, the DPDP team, with no budget, was given the task of preparing the site for the 50th anniversary,” he noted. Describing the assignment as “no small task,” Dr. Roopnaraine said the team relied on donations and works began in full view of the public. In April, Larry London, the Chief Executive Officer of HDI, also a member of the National Commemoration

Commission, informed the Government that the donations and credit arrangements it had relied on to fund the D’urban Park project had been exhausted, said the Education Minister. “It was then decided by Cabinet to have the Ministry of Public Infrastructure take over the responsibility for the works to bring the project to completion in time for the 50th anniversary.” Following that Cabinet decision, London handed over the project to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure as mandated by Cabinet and according to Dr. Roopnaraine, records of monies and in-kind donations were also handed over. “I anticipate that there will be a full and proper accounting from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. It is my understanding that many of the persons who had made contributions to the D’urban Park Development Project did not want to be publicly identified or thanked, presumably for fear of condemnation or worse, from persons who were hostile to the project.” Additionally, the Education Minister said those

involved in the project up to the time of handing over to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure had not been remunerated. Meanwhile, in what appears to be a response to the opposition on the issue, Dr Roopnaraine said he finds it distressing that acknowledgement of the efforts of those who contributed to the development of D’urban Park go unrecognised. Meanwhile, President David Granger on a recent edition of his weekly television programme, “The Public Interest,” had cleared Dr Roopnaraine of any wrongdoing. “Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine has not committed any error. In fact, he was a representative on the company that was formerly established. We have not concealed the company. He represented the Government’s interest because the celebrations which we had aimed at, at that time of the establishment of the company, concerned largely the 50th anniversary celebrations. So please don’t attach any blame or any fault to him,” the President had said.

GBTI funds nine NGOs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

THE Guyana Bank for Tr a d e a n d I n d u s t r y (GBTI) Limited Wednesday made monetary donations to nine Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and presented cheques to six secondary school students whose works of art were used for the bank’s 2017 almanac. Held under the theme, “Ensuring Environmental Sustainability,” the launch of the 2017 Almanac came immediately following the presentation of donations to the NGOs – both taking place at the Bank’s Young Street, Kingston, headquarters. The organisations receiving donations were: Uncle Eddie’s Home; The Salvation Army; Help and Shelter Crisis Service; Dharm Shala Home for the Poor of all Races; the Guyana Red Cross Society; the Guyana Society for the Blind; Artistes in Direct Support; the Guyana Relief Council and the Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSP-

CA). Meanwhile, the nine winners awarded for outstanding art work used to design the almanacs were: Aaron Gangadeen, 12, of Line Path Skeldon, Corentyne; Mya Hall, 13, of Bishop’s High School; Haymesha Persaud, 14, of Marian’s Academy; Poonraj Lall, 14, of Anna Regina Secondary School; Somita Paul, 16, of School of the Nations and Renatta Nickram, 13, of Bishop’s High School. Manager (Administration) Mr. Seon Noel said that the donations are done every year as GBTI believes that Christmas is a season of sharing and caring, noting that “that’s what we are doing here, and starting off our season in the right way.” Other speakers at the ceremony were GBTI’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John Tracey; Guest Speaker, Ms. Shevon Wood, Head of the Energy Statistics Division of the Guyana Energy Agency and Ms. Pamela Binda, who gave an overview of the calendar competition and launch.

GBTI staff members join representatives of NGOs who received donations on Wednesday Ms. Lynette Carter of the Guyana Relief Council, on behalf of the other NGOs, expressed gratitude to the GBTI for its humanitarian gesture. Meanwhile, the GBTI officials said that the bank recognises the work of the recipient donor organisations and extends best wishes to them in the upcoming year.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

Comfort Sleep to fete 500 children this Christmas By Shirley Thomas

COMFORT Sleep, Guyana’s leading producers of foam mattresses and pillows will this year be hosting two Christmas parties for more than 500 children who are beneficiaries of the company’s school feeding programmes at West De-

merara and Berbice. As usual, Santa Claus will be in attendance distributing toys to the children, while members of the monastery will join teachers in serving lunch and goodies and takeaway bags. Throughout the school year, with supplies provided by Comfort Sleep, the

sole donor, hot, nutritious meals are prepared by the Malgre Tout Roman Catholic Church and distributed to these schools with the help of retired teachers. On Sunday, December 11, at New Amsterdam, Berbice, there will be a Christmas party beginning at 10:00 hrs. At Berbice,

the feeding programme is overseen by the Church of the Ascension in New Amsterdam and caters for the needs of Edinburgh Primary School and Friends Primary School, East Bank Berbice. Comfort Sleep provides cooking materials, while the church oversees the preparation of meals for the children throughout the year and at year-end, they are treated to a gala Christmas party. Meanwhile, the party usually held at the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre for children there, will not be held this year, due to logistical issues. Instead, Comfort Sleep

will be making a monetary donation to the centre. The mattress company has had a longstanding and ongoing relationship with the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre and makes generous contributions towards the humanitarian cause. Comfort Sleep, a good corporate citizen has been hosting such parties in the respective regions for the last 10 years, bringing joy to the hearts of little children who would otherwise probably not have a fun time to look forward to for the Christmas holidays. The feeding programmes and the Christmas parties are the brain-

child of Comfort Sleep’s Managing Director, Mr. Dennis Charran. The Managing Director said that he derives an inner peace and gratification from these initiatives. A father of three, with a close affinity for little children, he has been singlehandedly and cheerfully financing these projects each year. Mr. Charran would like to extend gratitude to customers for supporting the establishment over the last 10 years, and to wish them peace, joy and happiness each day of the year, but particularly at Christmas time.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

No change to ‘solid’ 2017 budget ––President David Granger

BUDGET 2017 is a bold, sound and solid initiative that can move the country forward in achieving its goals, said President David Granger as he reiterated that Government will not be persuaded to change proposed measures therein. “I would say that it’s a sound budget and the Government has not been persuaded that any of its measures are unlikely to meet the objective we set ourselves in 2017… the budget is part of a whole five-year programme and this is one phase of our mission to achieve the Green State,” the President said on his weekly

television programme the “Public Interest” on Thursday. He also noted that the comments and criticisms of the budget have been noted, but stressed that the budget is in the best interest of the country. “So far we have not seen any of the measures that have been recommended are unlikely to do anything but help the Government and the country to move forward in becoming a Green State,” the President asserted. He also noted the PPP’s criticism of Budget 2017, and pointed out that a budget is not something that happens

suddenly. “A budget is a continuous process and that process is triggered officially by the Ministry of Finance in July every year, the Ministry of Finance has methodically and systematically invited civil society, the ministries, public sector agencies to make presentations, the Cabinet itself has had several consultations, the Opposition was also called in by the Ministry of Finance.” Mr Granger contended that the budget was the product of wide consultation, and it is not a matter of a battle between who shouts the loudest or who grabs headlines.

“I think it’s a question of sober reflection and I would say the Government is doing a good job in putting its case out there.” Underscoring that Budget 2017 is the largest budget, the President said the Government would like to do many more things, but due to limited resources, this cannot be done. “I wish we could build a bridge over the Demerara River by next December, I wish I could build a highway, I wish I could give UG $10B, but it’s just happens I have to

give GuySuCo $10B, so there are limited resources and I can’t change that,” the President explained. He said Guyana has to be prepared for change and for that reason, the population should look at the budget holistically and not just in bits and pieces. “It is not standing still, it has taken some bold initiatives, and those initiatives will pay dividends,” he said, adding that: “We have to take cognisance of the resources we have. And of course, the objective that

we are aiming at, and the means to get where we want to go with the existing resources, so unless we are going to stand still or fall backwards as a country we have to have a forward looking budget.” Any citizen reading the budget can see for themselves what is going to happen in all the sectors, Mr Granger said. He said, “My overview is that it’s a budget that is easy for citizens to follow and come to conclusions themselves about where we want to go.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

Pact signed to set up di THE long-awaited project, which will see the creation of a training centre for children and youths with disabilities, will soon come on stream with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Guyana and Cuba signing a tripartite agreement to initiate the process. The agreement was signed on Thursday by CARICOM’s Secretary-General, Irwin

LaRocque, Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge and Cuba’s Ambassador, Julio Cesar Gonzalez Marchante at the CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown. Putting the project into context, Minister Greenidge recalled that it was in December, 2011, during the Fourth CARICOM-Cuba Summit in Trinidad and Tobago that

the Government of Cuba had proposed, for joint execution with the region, a number of projects aimed at strengthening the CARICOM-Cuba programme of cooperation. The following year, Guyana at the Fifteenth Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) had agreed to take up the lead role in the execution of the project for the creation of the

training centre. “This project is sustained by innovative thinking and valuable support that has characterised cooperation between Cuba and the Region,” Minister Greenidge posited minutes before signing the agreement. With a tripartite agreement now in place, the Foreign Affairs Minister expressed the view that the work of the oversight committee, which

was established, will now be accelerated. “It is expected that the work of that committee will now intensify as we move towards implementation of the project,” Minister Greenidge posited. The oversight committee comprises representatives of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs; Public Health, Education, Human Services and Social Security, the National Commission on

mitment to assist developing countries through the sharing of his country’s skills and expertise made him such a treasured ally of our Region, that he is the only non-CARICOM recipient of our highest award, the Order of the Caribbean Community. Thousands of our citizens have benefitted in many ways from his dedicated friendship and that of the Cuban people

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge, CARICOM Secr Julio Cesar Gonzalez Marchante sharing hands as they h Maughn) Disability, and CARICOM. It was established to examine, monitor and make recommendations for the execution of this project for the creation of the training centre. C A R I C O M ’s S e c r e tary-General, delivering brief remarks, said the agreement was being signed on a day set aside to celebrate the relations shared between the Region and Cuba – CARICOM-Cuba Day. The Caribbean Community, he said, has lost a true friend, making reference to the recent passing of former president of Cuba, Fidel Castro Ruz. “President Castro’s com-

to our Community. His friendship with the Community was rooted in his appreciation for the courage of the then four independent member states of CARICOM in breaking the hemispheric diplomatic isolation of his country in 1972,” Ambassador LaRocque said. He too recalled that it was two years ago, that during the Fifth CARICOM-Cuba Summit in Havana, it was proposed that Cuba would co-operate with CARICOM in nine specific areas, including the creation of the Training Centre for the Treatment of Physical Disabilities to assist physically challenged children and youths.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

isability training centre More than two years after, the Secretary-General said he is satisfied that the agreement will now pave the way for this “most desirable project” to be implemented here in Guyana. “This project emphasises the interest of all parties to address a very important social and humanitarian challenge facing the Region. It aims to use Cuba’s extensive experience in this area to assist

being signed on the 44th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between CARICOM and Cuba, of which Castro was and will continue to be the architect of its unity. “We recall with gratitude on December 8, 1972, when four Caribbean nations – Barbados, Guyana , Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago – simultaneously decided to establish

retary-General Irwin LaRocque and Cuban Ambassador hold copies of the tripartite agreement (Photo by Samuel

CARICOM member states in improving the lives of a vulnerable sector of our population,”the Ambassador said. On behalf of the Community, Ambassador LaRocque expressed heart-felt gratitude to the Government and the People of Cuba for their generosity. Guyana was also applauded for taking up the challenge to spearhead the project. Still shocked over the recent passing of the Commander-in-Chief and leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro Ruz, the Cuban Ambassador also took stock of the fact that the agreement was

full diplomatic relations with Cuba. On that occasion of the First CARICOM-Cuba Summit held in Havana in 2002, Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro said that ‘this decision, of unquestionable political courage, adopted by newly independent small countries in a hostile environment and under great pressure, was a fundamental step towards breaking the diplomatic and commercial blockade against Cuba in the Region and a breach against the isolation they had subjected us though the OAS. Cuba will never forget the noble gesture of its Caribbean brothers,” Ambas-

sador Gonzalez Marchante. Turning his attention to the project, the Cuban Ambassador said Guyana’s decision to accommodate the regional project here, is an indication of its commitment not only to the local disability sector, but also to all the countries of the Region. While the centre will be located in Guyana, Cuba will provide the technical assis-

tance needed. “We want, in this way, to contribute to the right of all to receive the education and preparation necessary for life and to the principles of solidarity and internationalism that guide the daily actions of Cubans, notwithstanding the difficulties and policies to which [we] are subjected as the unjust blockade that has been imposed on us for decades and

that the world and the Caribbean community have firmly denounced and called for its end,” he said. The centre, when established, will provide for the Psycho-educational treatment for children, adolescents and youths with disabilities and will fortify the pedagogic preparation and didactic skills of the teachers. Additionally, it will serve

to empower families, specialists and the Community to improve prevention, rehabilitation and socio-professional integration of the disabled population. Here in Guyana, the Public Health Ministry will be taking the lead role in management of the centre, which will be located at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

Friday December 9th, 2016 - 13:00 hrs Saturday December 10th, 14:00 - 1:30 hrs Sunday December 11th, 14:30 - 2:30 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

‘Flawless!’ ‒ Homegrown and good by TGB TENISHA Garnett-Billington is best known for her awe-inJUST GLITTER ducing special effects The ‘Flawless’ line has bemakeup, but her work gun with just glitter pallettes, as a professional makebut Tenisha is currently up artist (MUA) is no working on introducing a less popular. lipstick line and a contour In fact, Tenisha has pallette in the near future. been ranked as one of the “I have been working most well known MUAs to come up with colours, in Guyana whose makeup concepts and names, and classes, held at her David I want to also do some Street location, is oftenitems with the colours times packed with eager of the Guyana Flag,” clients ready to learn. she said, adding: But now, this talented “I have some of the samartist has taken a step furples, and hopefully will have ther by launching her very them in stock soon.” own makeup line, ‘FlawIn addition to retailing the less’. line at her store, Tenisha said “My husband, who she is also working to have it works in a lab, came up with sold via Amazon and eBay as the formula; so he contacted well to facilitate customers in some persons to have it made. other countries. He’s good with that kind of Though modest, Tenisha stuff,” Tenisha said about is still quite proud of the her line. things she has achieved, and Guyana has a wide array says that she remains quite p line eu ak of MUAs, all of whom dabble committed to her business, m ’ ss le law Tenisha’s ‘F es glitter pallettes in the use of popular brands which is still located in Guyud cl currently in of makeup, but Tenisha is the ana, though she lives abroad. first local MUA to start her “My business is very profitable; makes no sense to own line.

Fiano Spencer IF DANCE has been a part of the programme of any local event you have attended, then surely you must have seen Fiano Spencer demonstrating her talent on stage. Dancing professionally for the last eight years, 27-year-old Fiano has performed on some of Guyana’s most prestigious platforms as part of the Classique Dance Company for several years. Today, she forms part of the Free Souls Dance Theatre, and continues to pursue her dream of eventually dancing for Soca sensation, Machel Montano. In an interview with The Buzz, Fiano reminisced on her beginnings as a dancer, stating that she grew up watching her mother and sister dance, and learned from them.

Simply Fiano

Tenisha Garnett-Billington

shut everything down. I love my studio; I can’t stay away,” she said. IN FUTURE As such, the young businesswoman ensures that she returns to continue classes with her clients, and conduct business in Guyana. Meanwhile, she continues in her aspirations to advance her fantasy makeup skills, and hopes to train academically by attending conferences and other forums on special- effects makeup. For small business owners, Tenisha encourages them to stay focused, stating that success can be achieved, but that a good support system is needed. “The makeup line especially is all because of my husband; I don’t think I would have been able to get it done so easily by myself. People definitely need someone there helping and supprting them in everything,” she said.

‒ Dancer, fitness enthusiast, artist

“I started dancing since Nursery School all the way into Secondary School, but my mom didn’t sign me up for any official classes, because, you know, in Guyana people don’t see it as a profession,” Fiano said. RHYTHM AND FLOW It wasn’t until she attended Rhythm and Flow, a production by the Classique Dance Company in 2008, that she decided to finally make dancing a steady part of her life. “I was amazed, because I had never seen that kind of talent and that kind of dance. From then on, I made up my mind that I was joining Classique, and nothing and no one could stop me,” Fiano said.

Her years of dance have since seen her participating on many stages, including while touring with the group to several countries and here in Guyana for a meeting of UNASUR heads in 2011. Nowadays, Fiano’s portfolio has also expanded to include fitness and exercise activities as well. In the last two years, she has been the recipient of several awards at events such as the Fitness Paradise Gym Show and the Flex Night Fitness Competition. She also currently teaches Zumba and Dance workouts at the Fitness Paradise Gym and for individual companies through her business, ‘Fire Feelinz’ Dance workout. She says that even though dancing is not seen as a profession in Guyana, it remains her passion, and she is glad to have built her life around it.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

Marijuana Vs The Law APART from alcohol and cigarettes, no other addic-

tive substance is higher up the down ladder like

‘ganja’. Though it came here

through the indentureship period with indentured immigrants from India, the onslaught that prevails today came over three decades ago in the 1970s through the incredible revolutionary music of Reggae artistes the likes of Bob Marley, Jacob Miller and Culture. It invaded this country as a disorderly cultural expression simmered down, and its ambassadors launched its gospel, and thousands heeded its summons. The State was dumbstruck then, and is the same today. The main concern and contention rests with the philosophy that has been allowed to blossom; its uncontained logic and pseudo-mysticism against the law enforcers of the courts. Marijuana usage has not

benefitted from any positive counter-gospel; small groups like RESCU (an anti-substance data group) visit some schools and have a Facebook presence, but have been unable to reach the populations most needed because of support. But this small but effective group will extend its hand of friendship into new directions in the near future. THE VULNERABLE The very populations that are most vulnerable, because of years of indoctrination by hyper-fictional chants and preaching about the virtues of marijuana usage, constitute mainly underprivileged, semi-literate young populations. The imprisonment of marijuana addicts and users outside of the rehab-info

skills training atmosphere will create a worst-case scenario. That the recent attempted jail-break fire that killed 17 inmates can be linked to, in part, a marijuana craving outrage. This alone should have prompted the conversion of an existing facility to accommodate new ‘ganja’ law-breakers. To do nothing and apply prison sentences as a deterrent is short-sighted, and reveals a half-hearted reflection on the ‘question’. Review the courts and marijuana; earn revenue from would-be traffickers. Why am I saying this? I had good reason a few years ago, with the help of two law enforcement colleagues, to storm a drug yard. We were not Turn to page 25 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

Bey & Ri-Ri in the lead Kimye divorce rumours ‘completely false’

THE queen is leading the pack. Beyoncé is going into the 59th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony with nine nominations, including some in top categories like Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year. Beyoncé leads Rihanna by one nomination. The Bajan pop princess received eight nods for her critically acclaimed album, “ANTI”. RiRi is not the only artiste to receive eight nominations; her boyfriend, Drake, and Kanye West also have eight nods going into music’s biggest night. In the Album of the Year category, we see some expected names who released massive projects this year. The nominees include Adele (25); Drake (VIEWS); Sturgill Simpson (A Sailor’s Guide to Earth);

Justin Bieber (Purpose); and Beyoncé (Lemonade). The Record of the Year category also features some notable names like Rihanna and Drake song, “Work”, “Beyoncé’s “Formation”; “Adele’s “Hello”; Twenty One Pilots’ “Stressed Out”; and Lukas Graham’s “7 Years”. One notable name that deserves some mention is Chance The Rapper who received seven nominations, including Best New Artist, and the covetous category for Best Rap Album. Adele, who had the top album last year, received five nominations. The 59th Annual Grammy Awards will be held on February 12, 2017, and broadcast live on CBS at 8 PM EST from the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Marijuana Vs... looking for drugs, but caught the youth manning the yard by surprise. He attempted to stash his poison, and his oversized pullover got hooked on a nail. It was comical, in an absolute non-humorous atmosphere. We questioned him; he said, “Buddy, I fresh.” He was from the lower East Coast; this was his “third night on de job.” The fact is, throwing people in prison will not affect the trade; there is a long line of broke, wouldbe replacements “ready fuh tek a chance.” But if enough finance is earned through the courts, it can help to facilitate educating fourth and sixth formers who are eager, from

past RESCU experience, to debate and learn the eager way some young minds are wont to; for they are the substance trade’s next line of customers. While the courts jail more people, and hope that the scourge will go away, without a justifiable philosophy, so will mind and spirit transform the entrenched falsifications. NO ALTERNATIVE Guyana is hardly a nation that offers its population swift alternatives to their grievances; it has just experienced the parallel of an 18th Century Tortuga Buccaneer, where-anything-goes type of

From page 24

government. A fitting example is what happened to a friend of many years from Lodge with whom I had worked at the ‘Rice Board’. He had his motorcycle stolen. This stressful situation accelerated his health downwards; he had a slight stroke. Over the years when we worked at GRB, I knew him as hardworking; not criminally inclined or even to entertain such conversations. In 2015, he hooked up, through desperation, with a character he would not have stood at a corner with back in the day. Naïve to that kind of world, they went to conduct a ‘weed’ hustle. No doubt, the ‘mook’,

RUMOURS have been swirling that Kim Kardashian is planning to divorce Kanye West. With Kim’s Paris robbery and the rapper’s hospitalisation, it’s been a tough few months for the power pair. However, the reality star reportedly has no plans to leave the rapper despite a massive strain being put on their marriage. Shutting down reports, the Keeping Up With The Kardashians official Twitter handle declared that the rumours simply aren’t true. “Calm down everyone; Kim and Kanye are NOT divorcing,” the tweet read, while a source told People magazine, “This divorce stuff is completely false. “Kim does not have any plans to divorce Kanye; she’s told me it’s false. The picture that’s being painted is that she is planning on leaving him because of the robbery and this [hospitalisation] incident.” And a family source previously told E! “Kim still seems concerned, but is supportive; they don’t know for how long Kanye will need outpatient care.” They added: “She wants to get Kanye back on his feet. She is not leaving him; she loves him. “She has many things on her plate, so being overwhelmed is expected.” When Kim’s BBF, Jonathan Cheban caught wind of the rumours, he called them my friend, was put to sit in the back seat with the stuff. He might have even been politely asked to pack the packages, thereby getting his finger prints on the bundles and creating the perfect legal fall- guy. The police stopped them, because, unknown to my friend, his new ‘con’ friend had previously paid the suppliers with counterfeit US$, and this was payback time for them. My friend is still in prison, last time I heard. But the career con-man is free; in his defence, all he did was give a friend and his packages a drop to town. So the scenario was outlined. From junior footballers to sheltered students wanting to be tough, where is the alternative data to help them

“hysterical”. He told E! News: “They’re in good spirits. I don’t want to talk much about them, because it’s not my business, but I do have to say that the divorcing is kind of hysterical; that I will mention, because I just spoke to both of them on FaceTime literally before I was coming here, and when I heard that, I literally burst out laughing.”

make sensible choices! They should be our concern! A NEW HEIGHTS The fact is that some Rastafarians of many years have confided that they have stopped using herbs, giving reasons that collaborate with standard medical reports that researchers have compiled. Marijuana usage has moved to other spheres; claim owners in the interior lament the lack of energy of their smoking local crews, forcing them to recruit much more energetic Brazilians. Also, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) should pay attention to some of its field folk. A pusher complained that his clients are less favourable to his home-grown natural stash, but are hooked on the instant growth, ‘Frankenstein Herb’

with its dangerous fertilizers and growth chemicals. Official lassitudo is not going to help this problem; and neither is jail time without financial consequences. Information must come as a discourse; bullying just creates the exotic. For a human being unable to nourish itself properly, any abused, mind-altering substance is dangerous. Without a solid childhood foundation, a fall-back return to normalcy is much more difficult. Tax marijuana through the courts; let its revenue help finance both education and detoxification, and provide needed life skills to its most needed victims. To repair the damage of the past 30, but worse 20 years will require much more method than brawn.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

Johnny Depp Is Hollywood's Most Overpaid Actor For The Second Year In A Row

CHRISTMAS is almost here, and you know what that means! Every party will be geared to put you in the Chsirtmas mood! So, Here’s what’s buzzing this weekend. TODAY They say it’s not a GT Christmas unless you have the pepperpot and a good party! The Ministry of Sound brings you its “Pepper Pot” Party at Palm Court. It will be the hottest Christmas Party of the season with a powerful line-up of Djs. The Skyy Vodka Ladies will be mixing a variety of Skyy shots to the pepperpot mixes. But what’s a pepperpot event without the real pepperpot? Palm court will surely hook you up with your serving at this party, so don’t miss it! Everyone free before 21:30hrs. Admission $2,000 before 23:00hrs. TOMORROW Calling all poetry fans! The Jazz and Poetry on a Stool community will host a Christmas Special at the Courtyard Mall, Robb Street from Noon ‘til 18:00hrs. Tots and teens can enjoy face painting, story reading, craft making, and a talent showcase of live poetry, music and beat boxing. There will also be a live talent showcase of miming, poetry, steel pan, saxophone, flowetry, song and dance by a long list of talented artists. Open mic will be in effect. Feeling for some Karaoke? Then visit the Sticky Wicket, on Carmichal Street, for the final round of their Karaoke Competition. Come and hear the best-of-the-best carry their own keys to see who will win the grand prize. Event starts at 19:00hrs. This season, Palm Court has got Christmas Soca Sweetness with its “Wasted Soca Glow” Christmas Edition, featuring King Bubba. Get free glow accessories on entry, and fete along with King Bubba all Night! This is too much Vibes to Miss! Admission $3,000. Everyone Free before 22:00hrs. SUNDAY If you haven’t been able to Hash for the year, then this is your chance. The Guyana Hash House Harriers will have its pre-Christmas Hash, which will be the last one of the year. Bring your swimwear and be ready for anything! Meet up in front of the Plaza Hotel, Main Street at 10:30hrs. $3,000 per person. If you’re a fan of Soca and EDM, you’ll have to choose a side at the SOAKA Rave at the Pegasus Poolside. Join DJ Monst3r and DJ Energy in a sound- off of EDM Vs Soca, and make your choice of which tunes you jam to. Free Monster Army Gear Giveaways and Glow Accessories! Don’t miss it! Swimwear advisable. Event starts at 21:00hrs. Admission $2,000.

Just as Alice Through the Looking Glass hit theatres in May, a judge issued a restraining order against its star, Johnny Depp, after his wife, Amber Heard, alleged he physically and verbally abused her. The couple reached a $7 million divorce settlement in August, but not before the $190 million sequel to Alice in Wonderland crashed at the box office. Thanks to recent ticket booth disappointments, Depp is this year's most overpaid actor: His last three movies returned just $2.80 at the box office for every $1 he was paid on them. While the damning accusations did not impact his earnings during our scoring period, they look set

to damage his box office prospects for months to come. It's the latest bad career news for Depp, who has suffered some high-profile misses including last year's Mortdecai and 2014's Transcendence. Will Smith, who ranks second, has had a similarly poor run at the box office: He returned a dismal $5 at the ticket booth for every $1 he earned from his recent films. With Concussion, an Oscar nod evaded him and the movie barely met its $34 million production costs; Focus was a little better. Smith's outsized paydays, coupled with box office disappointments, translate to poor returns.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 9, 2016

$210M budgeted for synthetic tracks in five regions A BUDGETED $210M for proposed synthetic track facilities to be laid in Regions 2, 4, 6, 7 and 10 was the highlight that came out of Minister within the Ministry of Education responsible for Culture, Youth and Sport, Nicolette Henry’s budget debate speech when she addressed the

National Assembly yesterday morning. The minister’s overall 28-minute speech included deliberations about sports, culture and youth policies. The Minister opened by saying that her presen-

ENGLISH RACING TIPS Doncaster 08:00 hrs Foundation Man 08:30 hrs Desaray 09:05 hrs Might Bite 09:40 hrs Big Chief Benny 10:15 hrs Velator 10:50 hrs Italian Riviera 11:25 hrs Magic Money BANGOR 08:10 hrs A Hare Breath 08:40 hrs Winged Crusader 09:15 hrs Waldorf Salad 09:50 hrs Vinegar Hill 10:25 hrs Kayf Grace 11:00 hrs Tobacco Road 11:35 hrs Cesar Collonges CHELTENHAM 08:20 hrs Arpege D’Alene 08:55 hrs Yes I Did 09:30 hrs Sausalito Sunrise 10:05 hrs Cantlow 10:40 hrs Call To Order 11:15 hrs Whatduhavtoget 11:45 hrs Sumkindofking ARAB EMIRATES RACING TIPS Jebel Ali 08:15 hrs Secret Ambition 08:45 hrs Pictograph AMERICAN RACING TIPS Aqueduct Race 1 It Must Be Nice Race 2 Morethanjusthello Race 3 Storm Pursuit Race 4 Bow Town Cat Race 5 Chilly Bon Bon Race 6 Ice Palace Race 7 Voluntario Race 8 Kaharamani IRISH RACING TIPS Dundalk 13:35 hrs Go Kart 14:05 hrs Midsomer 14:35 hrs Red Avenger 15:05 hrs Richard Strauss 15:35 hrs Royal Roslea 16:05 hrs Asian Wing 16:35 hrs Lucca 17:05 hrs Palavincini Run SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Greyville 11:35 hrs Raes’ Dyna Jet 12:15 hrs Cabinda 12:45 hrs Gusheshe 13:15 hrs Gondwana 13:45 hrs Sun Dynasty 14:15 hrs Stockade 14:45 hrs Bizjet 15:15 hrs Selvan’s Jet 15:45 hrs Pure Logic

tation “will focus on the achievements in 2016, as well as the measures and plans contained in this budget, intended to positively impact the areas of culture, youth and sport.” As it pertains to sports, Henry made the promise that the government will “work assiduously to prepare our athletes, and 2020 Olympics should see Guyanese athletes more than just participating, but rather they will be given the requisite support and tools to compete”. Following up, the Minister stated that the 2017 budget “makes provision for support to our athletes to benefit from training and development exposure”. The minister did not elaborate or mention the specific programmes or initiatives that will be imple-

mented towards achieving this end or say what direct support will be given to the athletes, or say what was allocated towards achieving this goal. On a mini report on achievements made for this year, the realisation of the National Sports Commission (NSC) electronic national database for athletes was cited. She did, however, hint at realisation of the long-awaited National Sports Policy in 2017, which will “guide” the NSC in its move to “strengthen sport-related services”. She also spoke of the continuation of the training and accreditation of coaches in 2017 through bilateral agreements with Brazil, Cuba, Mexico and Germany, which will provide training in athletics, rugby, football, swimming

and any other sporting discipline which needs technical assistance and support.” The provision of up to $10M was mentioned for the continued enhancement and upgrade of identified facilities in the community ground enhancement initiative. Also towards the facilities, Henry says sports facilities can look forward to wifi in 2017, which will aid in the streaming of sports events across the internet. After that the Minister moved on to culture. When the APNU/AFC government took over the reins in 2015 the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport was absorbed as a department under the Ministry of Education so that culture, youth and sport initiatives could better be integrated into the school system.

Griffith urges Jaguars to lift game against Pride today GUYANA Jaguars assistant coach Rayon Griffith wants improvement in all areas when his top-of-the-table side face a dangerous Barbados Pride unit in the fourth round of the Regional Four-Day Championship today at the Providence Stadium. Jaguars hold the slimmest of leads heading into the day/nighter at the National Stadium here, sitting on 33.6 with Pride lying second on 33.4. Griffith, a former first class player, said Jaguars had made crucial mistakes over the first three rounds which he hoped could be rectified against Pride. “I agree that if a few of the fifties were converted into centuries we could have gotten some 300 plus totals,” said Griffith. “But what I am more disappointed with is the manner in which the lower order batsmen got out with less than 10 runs needed to reach 300 in two matches to give away what could be important batting points.” Jaguars opened the tournament with an emphatic 181-run victory over Jamaica Scorpions at home but then suffered a shock defeat to Leeward Is-

lands Hurricanes when they went down by four wickets at Warner Park in the second round. Their third round game against Windward Islands Volcanoes finished in a draw after rain ruined the contest in St Lucia. Griffith said the fielding had been a disappointment in all three games and this was an area which needed a lift. “A concern to us has been our catching this season,” he lamented. “We have dropped catches in all three games we have played and that is an area that we must improve in moving forward in the competition.” One encouraging area for Jaguars have been their bowling. Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul lies second in the aggregates with 14 wickets while seamer Keon Joseph and Gudakesh Motie, also a left-arm spinner, both have 11 scalps. “I think our bowling is our strength. Generally our spinners have taken the wickets in past years but this year our pacers have done really well,” Griffith noted. The pink ball contest bowls off at 15.00hrs.(CMC)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

Jennings lifts England with debut ton as Ashwin fights back

By Sudipto Ganguly

MUMBAI, India (Reuters) - England opener Keaton Jennings struck a century on debut before off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin led an Indian fightback with late wickets to leave the visitors 288 for five on the first day of the fourth Test at the Wankhede Stadium yesterday. The touring side, trailing

up from the England Lions squad in the United Arab Emirates. After skipper Alastair Cook won the toss and opted to bat, the 24-year-old Jennings was dropped by Karun Nair at gully off paceman Umesh Yadav. India also wasted a review after Jennings was given not out to an appeal for leg-before off Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who came into the side

handsome drives against the pacemen and some fine sweep shots to the spinners. He reverse-swept off-spinner Jayant Yadav for a boundary to bring up his hundred. England lost Joe Root for 21 after lunch when the right-hander edged Ashwin to India captain Virat Kohli at slip. But Jennings and Moeen Ali kept England on course

Keaton Jennings celebrates his hundred on Test debut. 2-0 in the five-match series, had been cruising on 230-2 thanks largely to left-handed opener Jennings who made 112 after being dropped on nought. But Ashwin, the worldâ€™s top-ranked Test bowler, picked up four wickets to peg back England who had been eyeing a large first-innings total on a track already assisting the spinners. At stumps honours were even with Ben Stokes unbeaten on 25 and Jos Buttler on 18. Jennings, the son of South African former wicketkeeper and coach Ray, only arrived in India on Monday after being called

for the injured Mohammed Shami. He settled down though and grew in confidence as he shared in an opening stand of 99 with Cook, who looked solid during his 60ball 46. Cook hit five bound-

by stitching together a stand of 94 for the third wicket. Kohli made a valiant effort and got his fingertips to an edge from Moeen, then on 13, off Umesh, but failed to hang on. Kohli then turned to Ashwin to break the stand

SCOREBOARD

ENGLAND 1st innings A. Cook stp. P. Patel b Jadeja 46 K. Jennings c Pujara b R. Ashwin 112 J. Root c Kohli b R. Ashwin 21 M. Ali c Nair b R. Ashwin 50 J. Bairstow c U. Yadav b R. Ashwin 14 B. Stokes not out 25 J. Buttler not out 18 Extras: (lb-1, nb-1) 2 Total: (for 5 wickets, 94 overs) 288 Fall of wickets: 1-99, 2-136, 3-230, 4-230, 5-249. Bowling: B. Kumar 11-0-38-0, U. Yadav 10-2-36-0, R. Ashwin 30-375-4, J. Yadav 22-3-78-0 (nb-1), R. Jadeja 21-3-60-1.

India's Ravichandran Ashwin celebrates the wicket of England's Jonny Bairstow. (REUTERS/Danish Siddiqui)

aries before he was out to left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadejaâ€™s third ball of the morning. Dancing down the wicket he was beaten by the spin and was stumped by wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel. Jennings played some

and the off-spinner obliged by picking up Moeen and Jennings in three balls in the first over of his new spell. Moeen fell on 50, top-edging a sweep, while Jennings got an edge to second slip to end an innings

that contained 13 fours. Ashwin also dismissed Jonny Bairstow for 14 as England stalled, losing three wickets for the addition of

19 runs. In an unfortunate incident in the second session, Australian umpire Paul Reiffel left the field after

being hit on the back of his head by a throw from the outfield but was given the all-clear after a visit to the hospital for scans.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

Busta Champion of Champions cricket bowls off on Sunday THE fourteenth edition of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club’s Busta ‘Champion of Champions’ first division tournament is set to bowl off this Sunday in the Ancient County of Berbice, with matches in Zone A. The tournament, which has developed into one of Guyana’s premier cricket tournaments, will be played this year as a T20 format, and not the usual 50-over format. Eight teams in Berbice, namely Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets, Tucber Park, West Berbice, Police, Blairmont, Albion, Young Warriors and Upper Corentyne will be involved in the tournament. Two matches will be played at one venue. The matches on Sunday at the Area ‘H’ ground

Busta Regional Manager hands over the sponsorship cheque to Hilbert Foster in presence of other members of staff.

Leeds owner Cellino gets 18-month ban and hefty fine (REUTERS) - Leeds United owner Massimo Cellino has received an 18-month ban from the Football Association and fined £250 000. The Italian was punished for breaching agent rules over the sale of striker Ross McCormack to Championship rivals Fulham in 2014. “Mr Cellino has been suspended for 18 months f ro m b e i n g a d i re c t o r or shadow director of Leeds United or any other football club or company whose activities include ownership of a football club,” the FA said in a statement yesterday. “By April 30 2017 he

is to attend and comp l e t e a n FA e d u c a t i o n programme covering the duties and responsibil ities of an owner and director of an English football club.”

It is the third time Cellino, 60, has been

banned since taking over at Leeds in April 2014. The suspension will begin in February and run until September 2018. Leeds were also fined 250,000 pounds while agent Derek Day was fined 75,000 pounds and banned for 18 months. Last week Italian businessman Andrea Radrizzani said he was in “advanced negotia tions” with Cellino over buying a 50 percent stake in the club with a view to taking complete control next year. Leeds, who are fourth in the table, travel to second-placed Brighton and Hove Albion today.

(REUTERS) - British police said they had launched an investigation into allegations of historical child sex crimes at London soccer clubs following a wave of reports from former players that they had been abused as youngsters. Last week, police said about 350 victims had come forward to report sexual abuse within soccer clubs across the country from the 1970s onwards and indicated the number was likely to rise. The revelations of the attacks suffered by former

professionals have raised fears that sexual predators had for years been using their roles at clubs to prey on young players. “We take all the allegations we receive very seriously and they will be dealt with sensitively,” Det. Chief Supt Ivan Balhatchet from London police said in a statement. “Anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse, whatever the circumstances, or has any relevant information should contact their local police or the NSPCC (charity).”The investiga-

tion will look at allegations involving London clubs although the police declined to say which ones. On Saturday, Chelsea issued a public apology to former striker Gary Johnson for the sexual abuse he suffered as a young player and said it had been wrong to insist on a confidentiality clause when paying him compensation Johnson, 57, had revealed the day before that he had been abused by former Chelsea chief scout Eddie Heath in the 1970s, receiving £50 000 from the club in settlement in 2015.

Leeds United owner Massimo Cellino

are: Young Warriors versus West Berbice from 09:30hrs, while defending champions Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets will clash with Upper Corentyne from 13:15hrs. Matches in Zone B will be contested the following Sunday at the Albion Community Centre ground. Tucber Park will play Police from 09:30hrs, while the home team Albion will face Blairmont from 13:15hrs. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the club and the Busta Company agreed to play the Zone matches on separate days so that the organisers can properly brand the venue and do other promotional work. The organisers would provide coloured Busta T-shirts for each of the eight teams. The semi-finals and

final will be played after the festive holiday season. The semi-finals will be played at the Area ‘H’ ground, while the venue for the final will be announced at a later date. The winning team will pocket $100 000, and the beautiful Busta trophy, while the second- and third-place teams will receive $50 000 and $30 000 respectively. Meanwhile, the management of the Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets cricket team has released the squad for the opening match. The squad reads: Delbert Hicks, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Jason Sinclair, Clinton Pestano, Shawn Perreira, Keith Simpson, Sylus Tyndall, Royston Crandon, Keon Sinclair, Chanderpaul Govindan, Collis Butts and Brandon Corlette.

Buxton `Carl Hooper’ Cricket Club lifts Trophy Stall Under-19 title BUXTON ‘Carl Hooper’ Cricket Club defeated Lusignan East Sports Club by two wickets to lift the East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB)-sponsored Trophy Stall Under-19 title, when the tournament concluded last Sunday at the Buxton Community Centre ground. Batting first, Lusignan

the win. Buxton eventually reached 90-8. At the presentation ceremony Nando received the Player-of-the-Match trophy. President of the ECCB, Mr Bissoondyal Singh, congratulated both teams for reaching the final, adding that the competition was extreme-

employment of several fulltime coaches and the East Coast will be divided into four sections as we seek to capture every village,” Singh said. He urged the young cricketers to continue to work hard and become role models, importantly to stay away from illicit drugs and

Police open inquiry into historical child sex abuse at London football clubs

The victorious Buxton Under-19 team pose with ECCB president Bissoondyal Singh and Club president Esse Peters. Sports Club were bowled out for 88, with pacer Nando (only name given in the press release) creating the major damage, claiming 7-14. No batsman produced an innings of substance. Buxton, in reply, were reduced to 60-7 but Nando’s arrival at the wicket eased whatever tension was there. In a no-nonsense mood, he clobbered a maximum and two fours to seal

ly competitive. He also expressed his sincere gratitude to Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall for sponsoring the tournament for the fifth consecutive year. As it relates to cricket and youth development, the ECCB president explained that the ECCB has put together a packed programme for 2017. “There will also be the

alcohol. Vice-president of the ECCB and chairman of the Competitions Committee, Raymond Barton, congratulated the Buxtonions for their well-deserved victory. He also thanked the clubs and ground staffs throughout the East Coast for their cooperation and contributions, which aided in the successful execution of the tournament.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

RFA executive member to participate in XX111 CONCACAF Extraordinary Congress THE Rupununi Football Association (RFA) through its executive committee member Rayan Farias will, for the first time, participate in the XXIII CONCACAF Extraordinary Congress scheduled for December 10, 2016 in Miami, Florida. Farias, who is also an executive committee member of the Guyana Football Federation Inc. (GFF) said he was elated at the opportunity afforded him by the GFF. “I’m happy to be participating in this Congress; it is the first time that the hinterland will be at this forum and it demonstrates that the RFA is now being recognised as a fast, steady and growing organisation; it’s history in the making.” According to a GFF release, Farias said he will use the opportunity to highlight the work of his Association while exchanging

RFA and GFF executive committee member Rayan Farias

YBG Titan Bowl cancelled for this year THE Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) annual end-of-year tournament, Titan Bowl, has been cancelled for this December according to YBG Director Chris Bowman. The statement

commission for maintenance purposes, Titan Bowl VII will not be poss i b l e t h i s y e a r, ” s t a t e d Bowman in the post. The post also said: “We regret to make this announcement since we

Last year’s tournament finished with Kwakwani coming out on top over Government Technical Institute (GTI) 75-70. This year’s tournament would have seen vast improvement and would possibly

knowledge and best practices among his CONCACAF colleagues. “Basically I would like to listen to the other members of CONCACAF, learn from their best practices and impart that knowledge to football both in the Rupununi and Guyana in general. Additionally, I would like to highlight the work of the Rupununi Football Association and football development (that is) taking place in that region.” The Executive, who has been involved in football for approximately twenty-six years, is also a football coach and schoolteacher by profession. “I’ve been involved in football as a player at St Ignatius Football Club (19852006); represented them at Kashif and Shanghai for two years (one year as a player and the other as a coach)

was made by way of post i n t h e Yo u t h B a s k e t ball Guyana Facebook group. “Due to the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) being out of

know TB (Titan Bowl) is one of the highly anticipated competition on the YBG calendar. Hopefully we could all look forward to a full and uninterrupted calendar in 2017.”

have been the best to date. Next year will see the annual Five Challenge Series as the first event o n t h e Y B G c a l e n d a r. (Daniel Haynes)

the issue of transportation so more football can be played throughout the region.” The pitches in the Rupununi leave much to be desired.” However, he is optimistic about a change and is encouraged by the positive movement in the approach of the children to football in his region. “Going back to two-and-a-half years ago, at the school level, most children appeared to have been interested in activities other than football but a few colleagues and I decided to spend some time in football to counter-attack this move and it’s working; so it’s about winning young people back through football.” The RFA has a total of fifteen clubs as members under the Association - an increase from six at its establishment. “We just want to see football grow,” Farias added.

New TT head coach focus will be on results, not style PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Newly appointed Trinidad and Tobago head coach, Tom Saintfiet, says his immediate focus will be on results, not style, as he tries to rescue the country’s fading World Cup dreams and haul them into the CONCACAF Gold Cup. The 43-year-old Belgian

Newly appointed Trinidad and Tobago head coach Tom Santfiet

Action from last year’s Titan Bowl

and have been an Executive Member of my association for about a year. I was also the coach of the St Ignatius Male Football team in the 2004 – 2016 period.” In his Association, he serves as the competitions coordinator, having managed the five (5) competitions executed by his association thus far including the RFA Tournament (February – June 2016), U-13 Male tournament (June 2016), U-15 Female tournament (October 2016), GFF-NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power U-17 tournament and GFF’s Women’s Development League. Speaking about the challenges experienced by the RFA, Farias said, “One of the biggest challenges is transportation. The geographic landscape of the Rupununi is vast. More focus should be on addressing

was Wednesday appointed to the post left vacant by last month’s sacking of Stephen Hart, and said winning upcoming Caribbean Football Union qualifiers against Suriname and Haiti would be top priority. “You may not expect from me that I will ask for tikka takka football. I am not coach of Barcelona, I am

coaching a team who at the moment are not getting the results as expected so my first aim is to get balance in the team, to get resultsoriented,” he told a media throng here. “We cannot always be attractive during a match but I prefer to laugh after the match when we have three points; that’s the first aim. “At the moment we have to get to that level where we start winning matches … then I believe also we have the quality to start playing good, nice football but this must not be the priority at the moment.” Sainfiet takes over a Trinidad side currently struggling for form. They missed out on qualification for the Caribbean Cup finals and by extension, automatic qualification for the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup. T&T also lost the two opening games of the CONCACAF World Cup qualifying final round last month when they went down 2-0 to Costa Rica and 3-1 to Honduras. First up for the twin-island republic will be Caribbean Football Union playoff against Suriname and Haiti

next month, with the winner getting a chance to meet the qualifier from Central America, for a spot in the Gold Cup. Sainfiet said Trinidad possessed quality players but tactical changes needed to be made in order to halt the losing slide. “I think there is a lot of quality. There are a lot of good players, young players but also a lot of experienced players – players who play in the local league, the CONCACAF region and who play in Europe – so it’s a quite diverse, mixed group,” he pointed out. “On the other side, you lost the game (against Honduras) 3-1 and two preparation games this season so you lost a lot of games, so there must be some things going wrong. “Now it’s on me to find out (if there are) better players available but I have seen already some tactical approaches I would like to change and I believe first of all, looking to Suriname and Haiti … we have to use the coming few weeks as a training camp to shape a team to play in a tactical discipline.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

Prime Minister Holness hails HI Stars down `global hero’ Bolt at film launch Ward Panthers 3-1 UDFA/GT BEER CUP

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Prime Minister Andrew Holness has praised Usain Bolt as a ‘global hero’ and says the sprint star has given Jamaica a new level of international visibility. Holness was speaking at the regional premiere of the film ‘I Am Bolt’ which documents Bolt’s life and rise to stardom in track and field. “Usain Bolt is now Jamaica’s biggest ambassador. His personality, his ability to draw people to him (and) his showmanship have really given a boost to Brand Jamaica,” Holness said. “His achievements on the field, tied with his personality and being able to do this while remaining clean (of performance-enhancing drugs), puts him way above the rest, and he is truly not just a Jamaican hero, but a global hero.” The 30-year-old Bolt is a multiple-time Olympic gold medallist, and is widely regarded as the greatest-ever

Usain Bolt sprinter. He has won the 100 and 200 metres at three successive Olympics and has added another three

gold medals in the sprint relay, to bring his tally to nine. He still holds the World

records in both the 100 and 200 metres. Holness said Bolt was the ideal example of what could be accomplished through hard work and commitment. “(Usain) is a national treasure, an asset for us and a great ambassador, but he is also a great representation of what we can do as humans by working very hard, being committed and maintaining principles,” the country’s leader stressed. Holness was one of several government officials, in addition to political and business figures who attended the premiere of the film at the National Indoor Sports Centre. Sports Minister Olivia Grange said Bolt remained central to Jamaica’s international marketability. “At the centre of Brand Jamaica is Usain Bolt,” she said. “Usain Bolt is a legend and it is something that we have to cherish and we have to recognise and we have to say thanks for.”

IN THE latest results, schemer James Trotman netted twice and Michael Peters once to push Hi Stars to a 3-1 win over Amelia’s Ward Panthers, while Eagles United and Net Rockers played to a 0-0 stalemate when the group stage of this year’s Upper Demerara Football Association GT Beer Christmas football championship continued on Wednesday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. Playing the night cap of the double-header Trotman netted to push Hi Stars into the lead as early as the seventh minute against the Ward Panthers, and half-hour later converted a penalty after one of his teammates was brought down in the box. With this conversion Trotman gave his side a 2-0 advantage in the 37th minute and held sway at

halftime 2-0. Michael Peters then made it 3-0 after play resumed for the Stars in the 50th minute as Marley Major was able to steady his play at the back line for the Stars. However, Panthers’ Keshawn Dey reduced that lead when he made a good strike from the penalty spot in the 74th minute for the Ward team who eventually lost 3-1 in their first game. The second game was scoreless but strikers Denzil Pryce and Shane Luckie were unlucky not to score for the Net Rockers as the Eagles’ defence was held firm through Teashiki Whitehead in particular, while Allan Halley played well for them on the forward line. Tony Adams, as usual, was playing well for the Stars but could not find the back of the net.

Jacobs removed opener left-hander Isaiah Rajah to a catch at the wicket for nine and then trapped nightwatchman Marlon Richards lbw first ball, to leave Red Force tottering. Earlier, West Indies A batsman McCarthy underpinned two partnerships that proved the bedrock of the innings. The right-hander put on 61 for the third wicket with Blackwood before adding a further 139 for the fourth wicket with King.

All told, McCarthy faced 137 balls in just under 3-1/2 hours at the crease and counted five fours and six sixes in his fourth first class half-century while Blackwood struck two fours and a six in a 58ball knock. King, meanwhile, notched his second first half half-century, hammering ten fours and three sixes off just 87 balls. Primus was excellent up front, accounting for both openers, before returning to claim Blackwood to a catch at the wicket.

McCarthy, King half-centuries put Scorpions on top

SCOREBOARD SCORPIONS 1st Innings J Campbell c Hope b Primus 33 S Thomas c wkp Katwaroo b Primus 11 J Blackwood c wkpr Katwaroo b Primus 34 A McCarthy lbw b Mohammed 82 B King c Cariah b Cottrell 78 +D Thomas c Ottley b Cottrell 7 R Powell b Mohammed 1 D Jacobs lbw b Imran Khan 25 *N Miller c wkp Katwaroo b Imran Khan 11 D Green c wkp Katwaroo b Richards 9 R Leveridge not out 0 Extras: (b12, lb2, w2, nb7) 23 TOTAL: (all out, 78.4 overs) 314 Fall of wickets: 1-31, 2-56, 3-117, 4-256, 5-265, 6-268, 7-269, 8-299, 9-310, 10-314. Bowling: Cottrell 13-4-42-2 (w1, nb1), Richards 11.4-2-471, Primus 9-3-32-3 (w1, nb3), Jagessar 9-0-64-0 (nb1), Imran Khan 22-5-74-2, Ottley 6-1-25-0, Mohammed 8-2-16-2. RED FORCE 1st innings K Hope not out 15 I Rajah c wkp Thomas b Jacobs 9 M Richards lbw b Jacobs 0 Extras (b4, nb2, pen5) 11 TOTAL: (2 wkts, 5.2 overs) 35 To bat: J Mohammed, Y Cariah, *Y Ottley, +S Katwaroo, R Primus, Imran Khan, J Jagessar, S Cottrell. Fall of wickets: 1-35, 2-35. Bowling: Leveridge 2-0-4-0, Green 1-0-13-0, Jacobs 1.2-0-7-2, Miller 1-0-2-0. Position: Red Force trail by 279 runs with eight wickets intact.

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – Andre McCarthy and Brandon King stroked half-centuries while leg-spinner Damion Jacobs struck twice late to put Jamaica Scorpions in control

here yesterday. Opting to bat at Sabina Park in the fourth round contest, Scorpions rattled up 314 in their first innings with McCarthy top-scoring with 82 and King getting 78.

Fast bowler Roshon Primus bowled superbly to finish with three for 32 while leftarm seamer Sheldon Cottrell (2-42) and leg-spinner Imran Khan (2-74) picked up two wickets apiece.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday December 09, 2016) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Montcin Hodge-114 (Leeward Islands Hurricanes) (2) 13 dismissals (8 catches; 5 stumpings)

Brandon King on the opening day of their Regional Four-Day Championship game against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force

Test batsman Jermaine Blackwood chipped in with 34 while opener John Campbell scored 33.

In reply, Red Force seemed to be making a strong finish to the day at 35 without loss before they lost two wickets with no addition to the score.

Today’s Quiz: (1) Where are fourth round matches in the ongoing WICB PCL being played? (2) Who are the captains involved in the current GuyAna/Barbados game? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 9, 2016

It’s been a long ride, says Perreira

… To retire from cricket broadcasting By Rajiv Bisnauth AFTER almost 48 years as one of the most recognised voices in cricket broadcasting, Guyanese-born cricket commentator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira has decided to retire. Perreira, who announced his retirement yesterday at the Tower Hotel poolside, is set to end his career at the end of the historic Day/Night First-Class match between hosts Guyana Jaguars and Barbados Pride, which commences today at 15:00hrs at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. The late Tony Cozier will always be rated as the most famous of West Indian broadcasters, but Perreira’s contribution has been significant too. His voice, clear, loud, and with no hint of a stammer, goes on to boom through radios across the world for decades. It’s a remarkable story. Reds, who is a former adviser to ex-Sport Minister Shirley Field-Ridley, covered 147 Tests and over 200 ODIs and

Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira announces his retirement yesterday at the Tower Hotel poolside, bringing an end to almost 48 years as one of the most recognised voices in cricket broadcasting. regards himself lucky to have had the career he has had. “It’s been a long ride, a great time in my life, I was very lucky, and thanks to people, and if wasn’t

for Rafiq Khan, the GBS, Caribbean Broadcasting Union, GBC, who really made great openings for me in 1973 when Australia toured, and Jerry Richards

in Barbados, I probably wouldn’t have got the opportunity,” Perreira said. At 76, Perreira did not complete high school but he possessed infinite determination and an amazing ability to take risks, attributes that permitted him to overcome his speech impediment and become a rare Caribbean sports jewel. He did cricket commentary all over the world, expect in Bangladesh. “I saw the best, I met the best, I broadcast with the best, and maybe it’s not recorded but the World Series of 1978 was the fieriest among the cricket I have ever commentated on. You had the best players in the world brought together by the Kerry Packer organisation,” Perreira pointed out. Perreira launched his broadcasting career in 1968 with the-then Guyana Broadcasting Service. He spent four years with the station before joining the broadcast circuit full-time and becoming closely associated with the late Cozier, who was considered the

Sir Garfield Sobers

Caribbean’s foremost cricket commentator. However, when asked what prompted him to actually follow a career in cricket broadcasting, the former St Lucia Tourist Board sports consultant said, “I supposed listening to West Indies in England in 1950, listening to John Arlott, Rex Alston, and then I followed the ’51 tour in Australia, I was listening to Jonny Moyes, Michael Charlton and Alan McGilvray.” Perreira broadcast his first Test match at Bourda in 1971. Perreira mentioned that the quarter-final match between West Indies and Pakistan in 1975 and a Test match between the West Indies and Australia at Adelaide in January 1993, which West In-

dies won by one run, are the two most memorable cricket matches, where he was a part of the commentary panel. Perreira, a National Sports Council chairman acknowledged that the region has produced many great cricketers but Sir Garfield Sobers is the greatest player he has seen. Meanwhile, Perreira called on the regional commentators to unite, support, and help each other. He also advised them to pace their commentary accordingly, and at the same time to deal with off-field matters in a balanced manner. He also made an appeal to both the government and opposition to be a part of the game, which he said has held us together as a people. He suggested that a Prime Minister’s X1 versus an Opposition X1 cricket match, where all the funds generated would go to charity. This according to Perreira can further strengthen social cohesion. Finally, Perreira is urging Guyanese to come out and support the day/night fixture, which he said will be a fitting farewell for his career.

GFF-STAG Elite football

at Number 5 today

… Battle of the newcomers, Kings vs Topp XX / “… Hosts face the perfect Army” By Ras Wadada THE penultimate day of the GFF-STAG Elite League is set for the Number Five Village ground in West Berbice today and a chance for the Army to solidify their position at the top of the table. Linden’s Topp XX go in search of their first point against fellow newcomers to Guyana’s top flight football, Victoria Kings. The feature game between the GDF and home side Monedderlust FC could determine who will

lead the 6-team pack going into Monday’s final play day of round one to be staged in Buxton. After three convincing wins the Army have racked up 15 goals while conceding 2 in their unmatched perfect march towards the coveted title. Their opponents and hosts, tonight, have struggled in their 3 outings where they have picked up a solitary win while losing the other two. Despite their indifferent showing so far, coach Floyd Cadogan is confident his players are

ready to stop the seemingly unstoppable soldiers, “I think preparations for this game went well and the players and the community are really looking forward to this match. We are not too bothered about the Army’s success, we are looking forward to our own success which includes stopping them. Our home advantage will also be a factor once the fans come out in their numbers.” The last Elite League game played at the facility ended in a 2-1 win for

Monedderlust over GFC in the season one and tonight they are hopeful. Meanwhile Technical Director for the Army, Bilaal Nantambu was optimistic in looking ahead to the fixture. It would not be a walkover or a walk in the park, but we’ll be able to do what we have been doing currently and that is to win. We are definitely more organised on the pitch as a team and like I said in the preseason preview we are going to raise a few eyebrows.” The Army have been

very impressive to date and with a number of their players from West Berbice the confidence is even higher. A win will propel the GDF to the top of the table on 12 points, two more than present leaders Fruta Conquerors, whom they meet in the first of 3 matches fixed for Monday. The opening match at 18:30hrs today will feature the rookie Elite sides, Victoria Kings and Topp XX. The Kings have rebounded from their 7-1 drubbing against the GDF in their

debut game to post a draw against Conquerors and a win versus Buxton. Meantime the woes of bottom team Topp XX continued last Sunday in Linden when they were humbled 4-1 by the Army to make it 3 defeats from as many matches. A Kings’ win will assure them of a place in the top four KO set for next year February as a precursor to the restart of the League, but a defeat will ground them to 4 points and give Topp XX their first points.

GFC stay perfect in Fruta’s U-19 league … Pele FC earn another scoreless tie By Ras Wadada

Uitvlugt Warriors’ number 10 is about to make a pass in the nil-all stalemate with Pele FC last Wednesday night.

Veerasammy Permaul

Griffith urges Jaguars to lift game against Pride today

See story on page 30

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216.

THE Georgetown Football Club (GFC) registered their second win in as many outings when play in the Fruta Conquerors U-19 Academy League continued last Wednesday at the Tucville Community ground. T h e Vu r l o n M i l l s coached ‘Bourda Blues’ had to stave off the stiff challenge of Buxton United in a game that replaced the original fixture that pitted Santos against the East Coast lads. The organisers also disclosed that Linden’s Botofago FC have pulled out of the competition after playing two matches, citing the huge transportation cost as their reason for withdrawing. The closely contested Group ‘A’ affair, which was the first of the double-header, delivered its first of three classical goals seconds before halftime.

GFC goalscorers Lennox ‘Tiger’ Cort (L) and captain Curtez Kellman (R) A two-touch combination from an indirect free kick just outside the area on the attacking right stunned the Buxtonians as GFC took the lead. A deft touch on the ball by Rondell Peters was perfectly and powerfully struck with the right instep of captain Curtez Kellman, beating the Buxton custodian, low, at the near post. Buxton levelled the score 14 minutes after the break when an unmarked Paul Kingston clinically nodded home at the near post from a well-measured right side cross from Leandrea Browne. GFC regained the lead nine minutes later as diminutive midfielder Lennox ‘Tiger’ Cort caught the defence napping and broke free through the middle from just at the top of the area. His well-placed leftbooter, low, to the keeper’s left, proved to be the winner as both sides defended stoutly to the end. It was the

first loss for the United side. The second game looked like a mismatch in the beginning, but the much smaller Pele FC players nullified all efforts by the far bigger built Uitvlugt Warriors to end the game 0-0. Pele goalkeeper Kevin Crawford was a standout in goal and thwarted many attempts by the Warriors. The gutsy performance was the 2nd scoreless tie for Pele after being hammered 8-0 by the hosts in their opening Group ‘B’ match. The Warriors came into the match on a high after their 2-1 upset win over Conquerors last Saturday. The League continues today at Tucville with another double-header beginning at 17:00hrs. Pele will oppose Order and Discipline in the opener and at 19:00hrs it will be the unbeaten Black Pearl against Uitvlugt Warriors in Group ‘B’.

$210M budgeted for synthetic tracks in five regions See story on page 30

Minister with the responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Nicolette Henry FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016