Guyana Chronicle E paper 16 01 2016

MORE LANDS SATURDAY JANUARY 16, 2016 Price: $80

No. 104433

(VAT Inclusive)

Small-scale miners to benefit over next 3 months

CAL branded 5 with Jubilee Logo P.

Onboard! The 50th Independence Anniversary Logo mounted on one of the Caribbean Airlines aircraft. In photo are from left: Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry; Caribbean Airlines Chairman, Phillip Marshall; pilot of the aircraft, Andrew Wood; Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe; First Lady Sandra Granger; and Ministers of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson and David Patterson (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo)

Do nothing, 2 Teleperformance fear nothing 9 P.

– says President on SOCU probe

creates jobs for 600

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

Do nothing, fear nothing – says President on SOCU probe

By Tajeram Mohabir THE interviewing of several senior members of the PPP on alleged fraud at the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has attracted some criticism of harassment, but President David Granger has said: “If there is nothing to hide”, then “there is nothing to fear”.

Recently, several high-level officials of the PPP, namely former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds; former Advisor on Governance, Gail Teixeira; former Housing and Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali, and Member of Parliament (MP) Nigel Dharamlall were called in for questioning by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

The allegations of fraud stem from an audit report conducted by former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran, which has resulted in the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NICIL, Winston Brassington, and his deputy being sent on leave.

Yesterday, former Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, was also

interviewed by SOCU. This interviewing of the PPP top guns has been frowned upon by current party Chief Whip Gail Teixeira, who on Wednesday told reporters that, on separate occasions, her comrades were approached by ranks of SOCU, and “summoned on separate occasions to be questioned on issues surrounding the audit”.

Ms Teixeira did not disclose details of the interview, but said: “They (SOCU) said it’s the first phase of looking at the statements and issues raised in Mr Goolsarran’s report that relate to criminal activity.”

Mr Goolsarran, in his report, said numerous discrepancies were unearthed during the audit.

President Granger, on his weekly television programme “The Public Interest”, on Thursday told the Guyana Chronicle that there were problems with the holding company, and matters that require criminal investigations are determined by the Guyana Police Force.

SOCU is part of the Police Force. The claim of harassment is therefore groundless, but those with clean hands have nothing to fear, he told this publication.

“I don’t stop and start these investigations. Well, if they have nothing to hide, why should they complain?

If they are interviewed, they should simply say what they know. Everyone knows that there were problems with the company in question, NICIL, and if they have done no wrong they have nothing to fear,” he said as he dismissed the claim of harassment.

NO POLITICAL DIRECTION “There has been no political direction, and I don’t get the impression that they have been called more than once. It is not that they have been frequently called (or that) the interviews have been stressful. I don’t see that there are grounds for [such] complaints,” he said.

Government, back in December, 2015, had turned over Mr Goolsarran’s report to the Guyana Police Force to facilitate its investigation.

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, in announcing the criminal probe, said Cabinet had deliberated on the report, submitted to it, and made several directives despite the fact that the Board of Directors of NICIL has not yet deliberated on the report.

President David Granger

The President said there were suggestions that the report, accompanying notes of the consultant and advice of the minister be surrendered to the Commissioner of Police and the Special Organised Crime Unit for investigation.

As to whether there were any acts of criminality committed by those concerned, and the procedure to take the process forward, it was suggested that the said reports be submitted to the Auditor General for a more precise audit of its issues. It was also suggested that the Minister of Finance give instructions for a transaction audit of NICIL to be conducted and to facilitate all of these things; that the CEO and the deputy CEO of NICIL be sent on admin-

Fugitive charged for Bath murder FUGITIVE Bath Settlement murder accused Rooplall Abrahim, 24, of Murphy Dam, Rosignol Village, West Bank Berbice made his first appearance in court on Friday, jointly charged with Gocoul Madanpaul of Bath Settlement for the murder of Ms Anita Bachan at Bath Settlement, WCB, between January 3 and 4.

The police informed the court that he would also be charged with the murders at Bush Lot less than a week after.

Magistrate Rhondell

Weaver gave the police up to February 3 to institute this charge against Abrahim.

She remanded both men to prison pending this report.

The charge against Abrahim and Madanpaul, who had appeared in court earlier this week, was that they murdered Anita Baichan between January 3 and 4 last in furtherance of an act of arson in relation to a dwelling house.

Abrahim had been on the run after police had expressed an interest in him as a suspect shortly after.

He was arrested while hiding out in a secluded sec-

tion of the foreshore of No. 4 Village, West Coast Berbice earlier this week.

Police say he has confessed to the murders at both Bath Settlement and Bush Lot. Madanlall had appeared

in court on Wednesday, jointly charged with Nazamadeen Raffick in relation to the double murders at Bush Lot between January 8 and 9.

This charge will also be reviewed on February 3.

In Picture: Abrahim (in blue T Shirt) and Madanpaul left (in white T shirt) on their way to prison after court on Friday

PPP Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

istrative leave immediately, pending the outcome of the actions that have to be taken, he added.

Brassington had denied any illicit actions, stating, “As far as I know, I have not broken any laws; and if Mr Goolsarran is suggesting it, then I believe I have a clear defence on why what we did was properly done, and we should not be held responsible. I am willing to testify, but you can’t bring a charge

up on the basis of a law that has been clearly contradicted by all the lawyers, and there is no evidence of it being broken,” he said.

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo, in October last year, had advised swift action against corrupt persons under his watch.

Mr Jagdeo, who is now Opposition Leader, had told reporters that Government should “find” them “and lock them up”.

MEET Athalyah Yisrael, a 27-year-old bombshell who is single and loves dancing, spending time with children, and reading poetry. The manager of Fun Park Rentals, Athalya believes that a person’s attitude determines his/her altitude.

“Greatness isn’t your destiny, it is a CHOICE. You decide daily by choosing your thoughts, words and actions,” she told the Guyana Chronicle.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

MORE LANDS Small-scale miners to benefit over next three months

By Ariana Gordon OVER the next three months, small-scale miners will benefit from the release of mineral lands, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, announced at the inaugural Small Miners’ Conference held at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre yesterday.

But even as the minister instructed the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Closed Areas Committee (CAC) to urgently release the lands to the miners, Trotman warned that the GGMC may see yet another “wash down”, given the number of complaints received from miners.

Trotman said it is critical that broken systems are fixed, so that the agencies and organisations put in place to serve must serve.

“Late last year, we did a ‘wash down’ at GGMC…and I am prepared to do another ‘wash down’,” he said to unanimous cheers.

The Natural Resources Minister explained that, since he took office, many miners have complained bitterly about the treatment meted out to them by representatives of the GGMC. He said there are too many complaints, and his ministry will not tolerate unprofessional and improper behaviour.

Trotman noted that it is not the role of the subject ministers to solve the problems facing those in the industry, but the role of the GGMC. He said because “the system is broken” it is felt that recourse can only

be gotten from the ministers. “People believe that the minister should take care of every problem. In fact, it is the opposite,” the Natural Resources Minister said, explaining that ministers are appointed to oversee policies, but instead are forced to deal with the day-to-day problems facing miners.

MALPRACTICES “It means we can’t move forward unless we fix this problem,” the minister added, while stressing that there are too many complaints about malpractices within the industry.

Accepting that the problems facing the industry are not going to be fixed overnight, Minister Trotman assured the gathering of small miners that his ministry would be examining responsible mining to ensure that, over time, the problems facing the industry are minimised.

Trotman told miners that the conference was aimed at providing a forum for small miners to speak with officials about their many challenges, with a view to crafting policies and legislation to address the issues. He noted that the industry has received much publicity recently, but for all the wrong reasons.

“It is for these reasons that the Government of Guyana is committed to working closely with all stakeholders in the mining sector to ensure that its continued contribution to the local economy is sustained. In this regard, government intends to fulfil its mandate in ensuring that

miners -- small-, mediumand large-scale -- can ply their trade to maintain their livelihoods and secure their fair share of Guyana’s national patrimony,” he said.

RELEASE LANDS As a result, the minister instructed the GGMC and the CAC to urgently release lands that are mineral-rich to small-scale miners in the six mining districts.

“The new administration is cognizant that many persons can acquire lands that are without any minerals, or with occurrences too low to ensure viability. We are also aware of the significant amount of lands abandoned by medium-scale miners alone over the last year; for one reason or another, these lands are ideal for small-scale miners who are more likely to bear fruitful prospects. I, therefore, want to ensure that access to these lands is given to genuine small-scale miners who can…make effective use of [them] and more importantly, that this process be completed within three months,” Minister Trotman said.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT He noted the need for there to be transparent and equitable distribution of lands, and the agency will also be required to provide infrastructural development, make mineral data available to the miners, provide technical support in recovery methods, provide support to ensure mine safety and occupational health, establish demonstration sites to train

miners in best practices, provide geotechnical services, and provide resolutions to land-tenure disputes within the areas allocated.

WOMEN IN MINING “In the past, miners were primarily male, but this is now changing. Today we can find many women actively engaged in mining activities.

In the past, the pork-knocker, as the itinerant miner was called, has been the pioneer to most major mineral finds.

However, he has not had access to land and resources to develop the finds on a fair and transparent basis. In fact, whenever a significant find is made, the land was generally taken away and given to persons with resources to develop the mineral potential, and the pork-knocker would then have to begin the cycle all over again,” the minister related.

Given the challenges facing the industry, the minister commended miners for making their declarations at the Guyana Gold Board. He said while large-scale mining companies became present in Guyana last year, small and medium-scale miners accounted for approximately 411,000 ounces of the 451,490 ounces of gold recorded.

DECLARATIONS TO CONCESSIONS At the end of the conference, Trotman questioned whether miners were entitled to receive certain concessions when they declare low amounts of gold, fail to pay workers, and are negligent,

resulting in poor mining practices.

“We are not going to just grant concessions if you are not being responsible,” he said. He added that fuel concessions could be twinned to gold declarations.

“I will be recommending to the Minister of Finance that you tie fuel to declarations….You have got to tie your declarations to your concessions. Too much is being lost from smuggling,” he said.

Recently, government announced that some 15,000 ounces of gold are being smuggled out of Guyana each week.

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY Meanwhile, Minister Trotman said the administration remains concerned about key occupational, health and safety issues, including the incidence of mining pit caveins. He reminded of the various incidents, placing specific reference to the tragedy at Mowasie, Region Eight, that claimed the lives of 11 miners.

“The Government of Guyana will not condone haphazard mining practices that put people’s lives at risk. One life (lost) is one too many, negligence is like suicide,” he said.

H e s a i d t h a t M i n i ster within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, has been tasked with the specific responsibilities to oversee aspects of the occupational health, safety and protection of the rights of miners, workers and practitioners within the mining and forestry sectors; to ensure compliance by min-

ing workers and practitioners of the laws and regulations within the mining and forestry sectors.

Additionally, he said, mining safety and environmental sustainability are priority areas for the regulatory agencies and his ministry.

“The mining industry therefore needs to adhere to proper mining practices, which must be based on knowledge of what is in the ground. Systematic exploration allows us to determine the quantity of minerals available for exploitation and gives us a good idea as to what level of investment will allow us to make a profit after mining and reclamation work is done. This must become the standard by which the industry operates,” Trotman said.

He also urged the miners to explore for other minerals and stones that are unpopular, given the low cost for gold on the world market. (agordon@ guyanachronicle.com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

Toy gun bandits rob Foulis family A FOULIS family of three was on Friday night beaten and robbed of approximately $100,000 as they were preparing to go to church for a prayer session.

Pastor Rohit Deonarine, his wife Nirmala and their 12-year-old daughter were at their lot 481 Twelfth Street, Foulis, East Coast Demerara home, when the incident occurred. According to Pastor Rohit, he was preparing for a prayer session at the Enmore Baptist Church.

“I was preparing

to go to church prayer meeting at approximately 7:30pm. We have a vehicle parked on the road so I was taking that vehicle into the yard and whilst parking it, this guy shouted: “Come out of the car or i shoot you.”

“I had the door already open, and so I came out,” the injured man recounted.

Both Pastor Rohit and his wife were beaten to their heads by the robbers, but were not seriously injured.

The pastor explained that three men who ap-

peared to be in their early 20s carried out the attack on his family. The men entered the two-storey house from the lower flat, which also houses a grocery shop. Deonarine’s wife had left the grilled door open for him to retrieve his Bible and other materials.

“Eventually, the guy hit me in my head and said: “Give me the money” and the other one hit my wife and asked her, “Where is the money, where is the money?’”

According to the 60-year-old pastor, the ordeal lasted approximately five minutes. “They were lashing her in her head,” he recounted.

The Guyana Chronicle was informed by members of the Community Policing Group present at the Deonarines’ home, that a hammer belonging to the family was used by the bandits during the attack. A cutlass was also used by the bandits.

Foulis Robbery: A police vehicle parked outside of the Deonarines’ Foulis home on Friday night The retrieved items were

“I turned to the guy and asked, “Why you hitting her, you’ll get the money” and he gave me another lash on my head… eventually, she said the money was on the chair. One of them ran in, grabbed the money, showed the guy and they left.”

Meanwhile, the police combed the area in search of the bandits. It was believed that one of the bandits was trapped in the

Mechanic ordered to pay $150,000 fine FIFTY-ONE-year-old Collin Boston, a mechanic of 75 Wismar Housing Scheme, Linden, yesterday pleaded guilty to the charge detailing that between January 10 and 11 at Mackenzie Market, Republic Avenue, Linden, he broke and entered the shop of Dominic Blair and stole $150,000 in cash.

The prosecution’s facts stated that Blair secured his shop at the market, leaving the money behind. On the following day, he went to his shop and discovered that the money was missing. Reviewing his surveillance footage, he identified the defendant using a piece of wire to get the money.

Police prosecutor Neville Jeffers indicated that the money was not recovered.

Boston, unrepresented by a lawyer, told the court that two days prior to stealing the money, he and another man worked with Blair and he did not pay them. He further stated that they decided to take the money, and he took the blame for it.

Boston was ordered by Magistrate Ann McLennon to pay a fine of $150,000 on or before February 5,failing which he will have to serve 12 months in prison.

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upper flat of the house, but the police’s search came up empty-handed. However, two black toy guns were found in the house by the law- enforcement ranks.

taken away by the police for tests.

Pastor Rohit and his wife were taken to the Wo o d l a n d s H o s p i t a l where they were treated.

Pastor Deonarine shows the Guyana Chronicle the injury he received to his head

Pastor Rohit Deonarine in his blood-stained jersey at Woodlands Hospital

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

CAL branded with Jubilee logo

By Ravin Singh

AS Guyana’s 50th Independence celebrations slowly intensifies, in a year which is seemingly promising for tourism, Caribbean Airlines on Friday unveiled one of three aircraft branded with the 50th Independence Anniversary logo.

The early morning ceremony, which was held at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), was complemented with melodious renditions by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) band, which was led by Major Burns.

Having the highly anticipated independence celebrations ushered in at the break of 2016, Friday’s branding of the first aircraft set the patriotic tone which was echoed regionally by the supporting airline, which has served Guyana’s aviation industry with distinction since its induction in 2007.

And present at the event to witness this historic moment was Guyana’s First Lady, Sandra Granger, who stood in place of her husband and delivered what was considered a soft-toned but impacting speech, which touted the recognition of “oneness” as Guyana celebrates this achievement.

Referring to the fact that the aviation industry celebrated 100 years of service in Guyana just last year, Mthe First Lady underscored the role of Caribbean Airlines, which she contends has served and continues to serve the Guyanese people faithfully.

To this end, she thanked the airline for recognising the value of the partnership between itself and the Government of Guyana, and of Caribbean patrimony, while lauding its efforts to join with the people of Guyana

The Timehri Primary School Choir performing My Guyana El Dorado at the function

to commemorate this monumental achievement.

Also recognising the role young people play in development, the First Lady charged young people, upon whose shoulders the mantle of development will fall, to seize career opportunities and brave challenges in the airline and other industries in Guyana.

KEY DESTINATION Chairman of Caribbean Airlines, Phillip Marshall, also delivered remarks at the short ceremony, offering that Guyana is a key and growing destination for the airline, which serves over 350,000 passengers travelling to and from Guyana annually.

He further revealed that the airline, which currently offers six daily flights into Guyana, will this year be embarking on a major overhaul which is also celebratory.

“These improvements have already begun with the completion of phase one of our Passenger Service System upgrade to Amadeus on December 9 last year. The second phase of the Amadeus migration, which involves our Airport check-in system, will be completed by March

this year,” Marshall said.

The chairman noted that “Amadeus” next-generation technology will enable Caribbean Airlines to deliver its vision for an improved customer-centric travel experience to better serve its valued customers, of which Guyana is a major part.

Quoting President David Granger extensively when he addressed Parliament on Thursday last, Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, highlighted that, 50 years ago, Guyanese were inspired by the motto ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’; and as the President has said, they are encouraged to make the motto a reality.

She echoed the Head of State’s call to make Guyana a place of unity, purity, security and prosperity, while fostering an environment which improves citizens’ quality of life and facilitates a path of progress.

She further added that

2016 is not only a time for reflection and celebration, as the theme of the anniversary celebration suggests, but it is also a golden opportunity to inspire Guyanese, particularly young people, to dream bigger and reach higher in the next 20 years and beyond.

Punctuated by national songs emanating from musical instruments controlled by the GDF band, the ceremony was also graced by a musical performance from the Timehri Primary School Choir, which sang My Guyana El Dorado beautifully. Presentations of framed drone shots of the CJIA were given to several special invitees, compliments of Caribbean Airlines.

Two additional aircraft attached to Caribbean Airlines are also expected to be branded soon with the logo, which was designed by local artists Chris Taylor and Compton Bobb.

The logo bears the image

Chairman of Caribbean Airlines, Phillip Marshall, addressing the gathering on Friday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport

of Guyana’s jaguar (Felis Pantera), the country’s national animal, superimposed on the number 50. The logo also utilises the five colours of the Golden Arrowhead -- red, black, gold, white and green.

Also Present at the event were Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, and Minister within the same Ministry, Anette Ferguson; Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe; the Prime Minister’s wife, Seeta Nagamootoo; Head

of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Indranauth Haralsingh; Director of Sport, Christopher Jones; and three Vice- Presidents of Caribbean Airlines.

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams

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

Editorial

CSME and its own challenges

CARIBBEAN integration (CARICOM 1973) was conceptualised and developed primarily on the region’s historical political, social, economic and cultural experiences, which shouldered the necessity of ensuring the collective survival and development of its peoples.

Given that change is inevitable and that challenges are presented therefrom, for the region and its peoples to avoid extinction or new form(s) of colonization, we have to ensure our relevance and independence by strengthening linkages through development of a common programme geared at safeguarding and enhancing our wellbeing.

The decision in 1989 to establish the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) emerged from a desire to provide more and better opportunities among participating member states and their peoples to produce and sell our goods and services and to attract investment through one large market. During 13th and 14th January, leaders from the trade union, business and civil society communities met in Georgetown to discuss and sensitise themselves on CARICOM’s instruments governing free movement of skills -- a component within CSME that is aimed towards ensuring clarity in regard to responsibility and impact.

It should be said that where development is now not determined by a nation’s Gross Domestic Product, but other measurements -- such as poverty reduction and respect for human rights -- the conceptualising, developing and successful implementation of programmes cannot lose sight of these realities. Today’s development requires input/feedback from those who would be affected by the decision.

Consequently the greater utility in this approach to the success of CSME, as against calling leaders together and engaging in talk, needs to be examined.

At a people-centred level, ours is a culture that respects engagement such as community/town hall meetings and call-in-programmes, where feedback/ input can be derived from those most required for its success -- the masses. It should be said, too, that such is not dissimilar to the universal principle of the right to involvement.

To this end, the developing and drafting of the CSME/ free movement of skills, which were done in offices and boardrooms by technicians without engagement/input from the masses, ought to be examined. And this is in light of evidence where protocols on these issues, while

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

Jagdeo’s call for VAT reduction is duplicitous

Dear Editor, PERMIT me to register my unreserved shock and skepticism about a call made by the now Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, in the January 13, 2016 edition of a Kaieteur News article titled “We will support govt. in implementing its manifesto promises – PPP…But Jagdeo expresses disappointment on sloth to reduce VAT.” Those of us who followed the debate on VAT from its design stage until it became embedded in the nation’s revenue-collection system are very knowledgeable about the numerous cases made to the architect of this supposed “revenue-neutral tax” -- the PPP -- for a reduction of the rate of 16%, which remains the highest in the Caribbean today.

It was the PPP administration who, despite many reasonable pleas sprung from different facets of society, including the Private Sector Commission (PSC), refused

to bat an eyelid. The argument it used was that any attempt to reduce the set rate would result in loss of needed revenue and become a deterrent to national development.

After the 2011 General and Regional Elections, when the PPP lost the majority in the National Assembly to the combined opposition, President Donald Ramotar promised to appoint a tribunal to review VAT and present recommendations with a view to reducing same. This did not happen. All this happened whilst Bharrat Jagdeo was wielding power over his subjects, manipulating the administration of Donald Ramotar.

And as VAT continued to burden the meagre incomes of struggling public servants and poor families, the PPP continued to resist any effort to adjust VAT, since 2012.

Worse though, The PPP has placed further burden on the backs of generations through cavalier machinations that augmented the na-

tional debt by US$1.2 billion at the time of leaving office in 2015. In addition to lost revenue owing to falling prices on the global market, Bharrat Jagdeo is aware that VAT is a means of making up for those losses. This is another one of Jagdeo’s two-faced grandstanding that was duly slammed by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Vice-President Carl Greenidge at the last sitting of Parliament.

The coalition government remains committed to easing the burdensome rate of 16 % VAT off the backs of hardworking Guyanese in pursuit of that “good life” for all.

This commitment is demonstrated in the establishment of a committee to offer advice on the way forward.

This double-standard of Jagdeo is also tantamount to the PPP position held on maintaining grip on vital constitutional agencies, pivotal to the efficacy of a democratic society, which they denied independent budget alloca-

tions to function effectively.

The combined opposition in 2013 allowed passage of a constitutional amendment which liberated constitutional agencies from the “hangouts” of central government. This angered the PPP administration, who attempted to contest the constitutionality.

President Ramotar was guided against assenting to the Amendment Bill. The Bill was brought back to the National Assembly and received approval, and this time assented to by H.E David Granger.

Recently in the National Assembly, the passage of $8 billion estimates received approval. Amongst the estimates, were allocations for constitutional agencies, including the Parliament Office, whose estimate stands at $1.3 billion; including $20 million for Jagdeo’s office as Leader of the Opposition.

Sincerely, ANTHONY WILSON

Our human rights are being trampled upon Dear Editor,

I REFER to the Stabroek News article of January 14, with the headline “NICIL’s Deputy head complaints to cops of being shadowed by unknown persons.”

I am appalled and concerned that this is the state of my beloved Guyana.

Is Mrs. Nadir-Sharma a risk to national security,

or a criminal whose activities need close monitoring?

Guyana is a signatory to the International Declaration on Human Rights, which subscribes to the belief that a person is innocent until proven guilty. As a citizen of Guyana, I join the call of the Guyana Bar Association and civil society for government to offer an explanation for these recent activities.

embraced by member states, still see the awareness of the applications remaining among a privileged few.

And even where there exists the notion that CSME is about trade, it ought to be said that for trade to be successful, the people must be depended on, be they the worker/citizens from the productive, distributive or consumptive levels.

With the absence of the people’s input and understanding, an environment has been created in which citizens of member states feel threatened or less welcoming to the movement of other citizens into their territory and their being given equal access to employment/economic opportunities.

There are instances in which migrant worker/business would secure employment/opportunities under conditions locals would not accept. These scenarios create potential for friction among the peoples, and inequitable development among participating states.

It also ought not to be lost sight of that, in developing a

Why is Mrs. Nadir-Sharma being shadowed, and Mr. Brassington’s family being surveyed? The days for secret police and the use of the army to conduct sinister activities can no longer be condoned. Too many have died fighting for democracy for Guyana.

Let us not allow a few, blinded by power and malice, to take it from us under the

cloak of “security”.

All law-abiding citizens who believe in the spirit of democracy and the development of our beloved Guyana must demand that our government explain its actions NOW, should they seek our support again in 2020.

Sincerely, CAROL GREEN

single market and economy, success is reliant on a single development plan that factors in the provision of goods and services to meet not only the needs of the indigenous population, but also those of the importing population. For instance, in planning for education and housing, a country should not confine its decisions to the indigenous population’s growth, but should also factor in migrant influx. Failure to do so can result in shocks to systems/infrastructures that can create upheavals, inner city slums, compromised healthcare, and functional illiteracy, among other ills.

These are factors that regional development must consider important in moving forward, as against the current approach.

For while leaders are cocooned in boardrooms and conference centres deliberating, the peoples have already designed ways and means of moving which are not necessarily consistent with universal principles and laws. These pose threats to the well-intentioned objective of the CSME, the region’s growth, and its peoples’ development.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

Region One outreach…

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Region 5 children get big buses

By Clifford Stanley

PRESIDENT David Granger yesterday commissioned two 24-seater buses which will be used to transport children in Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) to and from school free of charge.

The President said he saw the vehicles as essential links between qualifications for employment, economic advancement, and a good life for beneficiaries.

At a well-attended commissioning ceremony at the Headquarters of the Regional Development Council (RDC) at Fort Wellington, President Granger said he was disappointed that the Chairman of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region 5, which is controlled by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), had been instructed to boycott the ceremony.

“I heard that the Regional Chairman was not permitted to come. He is not here. Some people in this country don’t seem to realize that the traffic lights have changed from red to green.

I am not President of Region 4 or President of Region 5, I am President of Guyana.”

He said the Minister of Communities should chide the Regional Chairman who did not have the common courtesy to be present when the President of the country is officiating at a function within his Region.

The two 24-seater buses, David G1 and David G2, were handed over to the Regional Education Department of the RDC. This Department will work out the modalities of the use of the buses, which are expected to start picking up school children and taking them to and from school free of charge from early next week.

Initial information suggests that the buses will play a major role in getting school children who attend school on the other side of the Berbice River to the water boats in the mornings and back home in the evenings.

The buses were gifted to the Regional Administration via the

President, who also was gifted the buses from businesses and from prominent members of the corporate community.

Minister of Social Cohesion, Ms Amna Ally, said that those who contributed included Mr. Brian Tiwari of BK International, who coordinated the monetary supply group; Mr. Nasrudeen Mohamed, known as ‘Jumbo Jet’; Mr. Eddie Boyer, National Hardware Limited; and individuals: Mr. Eton Chester of Georgetown and Mr Gordon Winter and Mr R.B. Ricknauth of Canada.

SCHOOL DROPOUT In a half-hour-long address before the commissioning, President Granger said statistics showed that 400 students dropped out of school every month, mainly due to the inability of their parents to find money to meet their transportation costs to and from school.

He stressed: “Education is the key to development of a community and of a country, and no child should be deprived of an education because he or she lives far away from school and parents cannot afford travelling expenses. Every child must go to school.”

He noted that the Government had, between July last and the present time, provided school children in riverine areas with six boats, which were now taking them to school and back without any charge.

He said that Government appreciated that Region 5 had the potential to become an economic powerhouse.

NO EXCURSION He said: “These buses are not here for excursion. We want these children who will be using these buses to become scientists, to become engineers who can help us to generate cheap energy and help us to deal with the challenges of climate change.

We are looking for education; for employment; we are looking for enterprise and cheap energy.”

He said it was his view that

--under President Granger’s 3Bs Initiative the buses were the first event in a chain reaction leading to improved access to education, leading to qualifications for employment, and ending with enterprise, economic independence and a good life for all.

The President also urged residents of the villages in Region 5 to stop using their villages as dormitories - as places where they just come home and sleep after a hard day’s work elsewhere.”

“Do something; plant something; process something, so that your villages can become economic powerhouses in their own right,” he admonished his audience.

He pledged that his administration would support micro loans for productive activities.

The programme, chaired by Region 5 Councillor Ms. Carol Joseph, included presentations by school children and cultural artistes, and a stirring presentation by Ms. Amna Ally, Minister of Social Cohesion.

Minister Ally, who hails from Region 5, reminded the gathering that President Granger had promised support for school children to get to and from school, and by this means benefit from a level playing field in pursuit of their dreams.

She said: “Therefore, today is a red letter day for Region 5, since this is the first Region to receive buses for free transportation for school children. You are the first Region to receive this very tangible and meaningful support for education.”

She promised that the two buses were just the beginning of gifts for Region 5, and disclosed that the Government would, in keeping with its commitment, provide free riverine transportation for the children of Moraikobai in the upper reaches of the Mahaicony River before the end of this month.

President David Granger takes the wheel of one of the newly commissioned buses

One of the two big buses commissioned on Friday

East St residents against paying for parking space

Dear Editor,

THIS letter is addressed to His Excellency President David Granger: YOUR Excellency, we, the residents and occupants of East Street, herein appeal to your esteemed office, the President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, to discontinue the implementation of a paid parking area along East Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown, and the removal of steel barricades.

The Government of Guyana, in collaboration with the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), had spread over the surface of the lawns and pedestrian footpath between the eastern and western halves of northern East Street and paved the entire area with concrete asphalt with the intention of providing improved parking facilities for doctors, nurses, students, all employees of the GPHC, and visitors to the institution and neighbouring establishments.

Moreover, the paved area serves as an aid for residents who live in back houses without driveway along East Street to park their motor vehicles off the streets. Today, in our society, motor vehicles are not a luxury but a necessity for single-parent families and extended families, as we are striving to fulfil rental obligations, mortgages, utility bills and motor vehicle hire-purchase payment instalments.

The additional tax of ‘pay for parking’ in Guyana is overwhelming as we continue to work tirelessly for

the development of Guyana by paying property rates and taxes, Value Added Tax, payments to the National Insurance Scheme and Pay As You Earn tax scheme.

Further, the barricaded area encroaches on the shoulders of the road, is poorly designed for easy ingress and egress, is grossly inadequate for easy navigation within, and is another avenue for gross financial corruption among officials of the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown and the City Constabulary. We, the undersigned, loyal supporters

of the Government of Guyana, echo our call to Your Excellency, Honourable President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, for your compassion and righteous judgement in issuing the command to disassemble the East Street Paid Parking Area.

We appeal and beseech your forthwith attention, since this infrastructure is an additional hardship and a gigantic burden in numerous ways on our citizenry, commuters and individuals seeking economic livelihoods, medical and social care and assistance.

By disassembling the East Street Paid Parking Area, thousands of Guyanese will once again benefit from the generosity of the Government of Guyana, as we live in an environment of peace and justice, with adequate security and freedom, as we seek free medical care from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the opportunity to enjoy a better life for all Guyanese.

Regards RESIDENTS OF EAST STREET

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

Comforting Hearts recommits GUYANA …despite drying up of funds to HIV/AIDS fight THE CRIME OF

By Ariana Gordon

IN keeping with its mandate to educate, counsel, care and support persons infected with and affected

by HIV/AIDS in Regions Five and Six, Comforting Hearts, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) in New Amsterdam, remains committed to this task despite the many challenges facing the organisation.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle yesterday, Denzil Crawford, a counsellor attached to the organisation, said that despite having financial challenges, the NGO is very active, and has been so since 1998, when it was founded.

He explained that many persons seek the services provided by Comforting Hearts.

Approximately 15 persons are counselled by the organisation before and after being tested for HIV. The hardest part as a counsellor, he said, is informing persons that they are HIV positive, referring them to other organisations or institutions that can provide them with help, knowing that the chances of them going to the referred places for treatment and care are extremely slim.

PROMISCUOUS Crawford said, “It is challenging, but we are here to help the people who need help.” He told the Guyana Chronicle that it is not at all easy to inform persons of their HIV status.

The counsellor noted that there are persons who are not cautious but are often promiscuous, and they present a risk of spreading HIV to

other persons.

“Despite counselling some persons, it becomes quite difficult to sit around, knowing that the likelihood of them spreading the virus is high. But, of course, disclosing another person’s HIV status is a breach of confidence,” he explained.

DISCRIMINATION Comforting Hearts, he said, operates with high morals and standards. As such, the organization will not betray the confidence of those who visit it for help. Asked about stigma and discrimination in the areas which the organisation targets, Crawford said, “Stigma is prevalent… but the truth is there has been a reduction in stigma… but there are high levels of discrimination.”

Acts of discrimination, he said, make it continuously difficult for those in need to disclose their HIV status and seek the necessary treatment.

“We try our best at Comforting Hearts,” Crawford assured.

He noted that the services provided are not limited to HIV and AIDS. The NGO also pays special attention to victims of gender-based violence, as well as conducts an after-school programme for orphans and vulnerable children.

“Some children may be living with HIV, or one or both of their parents (may have) died from HIV. Those children are part of an after-school programme that assists them with school work and counselling. As you may be aware, living with HIV, or losing a parent, or worse, both parents to AIDS is not

funding it receives, though it’s not sufficient” to address all the challenges the organization faces.

Denzil Crawford, HIV counsellor, Comforting Hearts

easy for an adult, moreover children.”

The counsellor said that while the NGO has its hands full, it does not receive funding for many of the projects or activities conducted.

“Sometimes, many times, money is used from out of our pockets to facilitate many projects. We are getting funding, but the money we receive is for specific projects; and, of course, in many instances, (it) is not enough to carry out the mandates.”

According to Crawford, the “limitation of funds” is a major bugbear to its operation, as the organisation wants to do much more for the poor and vulnerable of Regions Five and Six. “Sometimes we may have several things in mind that we feel may be effective, but our funding partner may not want us to execute in a particular manner…it means we have to shift the work to satisfy the funding agent,” he said.

Nevertheless, the counsellor said, Comforting Hearts is “grateful for the

Must keep the peace for two years A HUSBAND standing in court on Thursday to answer two assault charges was given a chance after no evidence was offered against him by his wife and daughter.

Sidney London appeared before city magistrate Faith Mc Gusty to answer to a charge that, on January 12, 2016, at Meadowbrook, Georgetown, he unlawfully assaulted his wife Wendy London, causing

her actual bodily harm.

He was also charged with assaulting his daughter, Elisabeth London, at the same time and place as the assault on his wife was carried out.

Both his wife and daughter declined to offer evidence against him, and the charges were dismissed. He was, however, placed on a bond to keep the peace for a period of two years.

VEHICLE NEEDED He explained that the organisation is in need of a vehicle, so that follow-up work could be done to those who are poor and vulnerable and are not in a position to visit the office or referral sites often.

“We want to continue working with our clients, but many of them live in remote areas and we don’t always have the finance to get to them. We don’t have a vehicle,” he explained.

The NGO is also desirous of visiting schools and youth groups to educate young people about HIV/AIDS. From time to time, the organisation would distribute pamphlets and condoms to target groups, but because of lack of funds, it has become increasingly difficult to maintain the distribution process.

“Some of the programmes had to be discontinued due to the cost. We simply do not have sufficient finances,” Crawford explained.

The NGO wants to commence a “hot meals” programme for its “clients,” as “most of the clients are poverty stricken and live in depressed areas.”

“Hot meals will go a far way. We appeal to all public-spirited persons to assist us in whatever way they can, so that we can continue to educate the people of Regions Five and Six about HIV/ AIDS, counsel them and the like,” he said.

The objectives of Comforting Hearts are to strengthen the capacity of families to protect and care for children; empower children to make healthy life choices; provide access to essential services for the most vulnerable children; and raise awareness through social mobilisation to create a supportive environment for children affected

by HIV/AIDS. The organisation is funded by Advancing Partners and Communities (APC) through the USAID, and partners with several other governmental and non-governmental organisations. (agordon@guyanachronicle.com)

RAPE (PT 2)

AFTER THE CRIME (After the police Have Taken Your Statement, they may arrest and charge the attacker).

WHEN the attacker is charged, he (or she) will be taken before a magistrate.

The accused and the victim are entitled to be represented by lawyers. (There could be “confrontations”) ● Indictable Offences – very serious crimes, to be tried before a judge and jury in the High Court – like Rape OR Attempted Rape, mean a first or Preliminary Inquiry in the Magistrates Court , to be followed by a second (main) trial in the High Court. This means that victims will have to be prepared to give evidence twice.They must remember exactly all they said the first time (in the lower Magistrates Court). ● Some rape and assault cases are tried by magistrates, however. ● In court – (1) The prosecutor will ask the victim questions, as will the lawyers for the defendant (the accused). (2) Many of the questions will be personal and embarrassing. The victim must try to answer clearly and calmly. (3) Never become too upset or annoyed with the lawyer defending the accused – and only answer questions asked.

Don’t volunteer information (4) the victim’s name is never usually published in any media, and some trials may be held in private; that is, without an audience in the courtroom. ● If the police don’t prosecute the attacker, the victim cam employ a lawyer to bring private criminal proceedings against the attacker. ● In any event, the victim can also bring a civil action and sue for damages for assault, especially if the attacker has money or other property.

The crime or rape is often difficult for the police or courts to prosecute successfully. One reason is that personal values, pride and shame prevent victims from admitting that they were attacked and assaulted. Females are usually ashamed of “talk name” and scandal, as too many communities tend NOT to believe or to sympathise with victims. And too many victims and/or their families settle for out-of-court “compensations” – many times because of poverty, or need.

Victims can help even as they experience the trauma of attack. Note features, clothing and other forms of identification for later description to the police and in court. More frequent exposure of this (hidden) crime will send rapists a strong message, especially if magistrates and judges give the convicted the maximum sentences.

We feel strongly that, despite what psychologists think of the sick minds of rapists and despite what modern-day “human rights” activists think, RAPE is one of those crimes that should attract a flogging! (In PART THREE we will quote and discuss details from the SEXUAL OFFENCES ACT 2010 (ACT 7)

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

Teleperformance creates jobs for 600

By Alva Solomon

TELEPERFORMANCE– Guyana, a multi-million-dollar call centre, was officially launched in the capital city yesterday, and some 600 persons are expected to be on the job in the coming weeks as the company sees a viable future in the local economy.

The company has been setting up its US$13M operations at its Camp and Robb Street facility over the past year, and those state-of-the art offices were officially opened yesterday in the presence of several Government officials, included Minister of Telecommunications and Tourism, Catherine Hughes; Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence; and Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott.

Guyanese Dr Dale Dan, the company’s Vice-President of operations, played a key role in realization of the company’s presence in Guyana. She told a gathering at the opening ceremony that the operation could not be made possible without her strong team. Dr Dan said that while it is her responsibility to ensure that the company enjoys a high level of profitability, sustainability and longevity, it is also her desire to see Guyana experience a high level of growth and development through the company.

Dr Dan said that Teleperformance plans to bring a new concept to the working environment. This new culture will be carved through its “joy-at-work” environment, wherein everyone feels loved, respected and support-

THE unveiling of the Golden Jubilee Logo on the Caribbean Airlines’ jets took place recently; and unfortunately, persons feel like it was a bit anticlimactic. I have to say I agree. Call me hopeful, Minister of Telecommunications and Tourism, Cathy Hughes, cutting the ribbon at the official opening of the call center

ed, and where team members leave one family and join another family at work.

In the end, the employee will look forward to being at work the next day. “It is about empowering and giving each other some level of purpose and decision-making power from any level they serve,” she said of the cultural move.

The company plans on expanding its operations to all other parts of the country, including Berbice and Essequibo, after filling its Georgetown offices.

“Teleperformance is just not an organisation, it is one of the transformational conduits through which transformation is being realised in Guyana,” Dr Dan noted.

Speaking on behalf of the Government, Minister Hughes congratulated the company on its opening and pledged Government’s support to the venture.

CLOSE TO HEART “Your vision of transforming Guyana through education and employment is

close to the heart of the Government,” Minister Hughes noted. She stressed the administration is convinced that the only effective way to realise this transformation is to ensure the creation of a fully functional information and knowledge economy.

“Our vision is to ensure all of Guyana is Internet ready, making cities and towns Internet hotspots, which we know we can achieve with collaboration with established service providers,” Minister Hughes posited.

She said she was impressed when she heard of the programmes mentioned by the company as regards upgrading their staff members’ knowledge and qualifications, and commends and encourages other companies to follow suit.

Terry Casey, President of Teleperformance USA/Guyana, said that the company is here for many reasons. These include its ability to ensure it “works” from a financial perspective to Guyana’s benefit. He said that there are

five important core values on which it operates. These are commitment, innovation, professionalism, respect and integrity. He said the company was founded on such values, and the team lives by them daily.

Following the ceremony, the Government officials and visitors were afforded a tour of the company’s facilities throughout its floors of operation.

Teleperformance will be serving its clients in five different South American languages.

The group operates approximately 135,000 workstations, with more than 175,000 employees around 270 contact centres in 62 countries serving more than 150 markets.

It manages programmes in 63 languages and dialects on behalf of major international companies operating in a wide variety of industries. Among its services are customer care, technical support, customer acquisition, and debt collection programmes.

Street lights erected at Burnham Drive RESIDENTS of Burnham Drive in Linden, Region 10, are especially grateful for the installation of street lights on the roadway, because visibility in the area has been greatly enhanced.

This project was completed by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure after Region 10 Chairman Renis Morian had engaged the responsible minister, David Patterson, on the matter.

Burnham Drive, which spans the end of the Wismar Bridge to the community of Christianburg and connects most of the streets on the Wismar Shore, has received approximately 84 street lights.

Too good to be true

It was in dire need of lights, since poor visibility was deemed a cause of several accidents.

Sergeant-in-Charge of the Police Traffic Department, Shawn Massay, had recommended better lighting along these roadways to reduce accidents.

He alluded to the fact that, with the fog system that causes poor visibility, better lighting was needed.

According to Senior Project Engineer within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Kester Hinds, the project was executed to the tune of $13M. Chairman Renis Morian is highly appreciative of the speedy response from Min-

ister Patterson on improving the region’s public infrastructure.

The minister has also provided a portable bitumen plant for the region to commence construction of roads, and has promptly and positively responded to a request by the chairman for the refurbishing of several Burnham Drive kokers and culverts that are in a state of disrepair. These kokers were meant to aid in the effective drainage of excess water into the Demerara River, but their decrepit state was responsible for soil erosion in several communities on the western side of the river.

A team of engineers

but I expected a huge emblem plastered on the aircraft’s tale or something of the sort -- something that would allow more than just the crew and passengers to see.

People seem to feel the same way, and upon seeing the grand unveiling, they more or less scoffed at what they believe is little more than a sticker on the front of the jet. Although there was no reduction in fares, people were hoping that this halfhearted move from CAL would have at least been worth it. But now it seems that, indeed, it was too good to be true.

Fine change News of the cold blooded murder of the British teen continues to be a hot topic, as three more persons were arrested for being involved in the act. So far, five persons have been charged with the murder, and it’s amazing to even think that this much effort was put into murdering a man who was barely an adult. The fact that five people -– including a pregnant young woman and her mother -- allegedly took part in the murder of this young man is somewhat awe-inducing. The question on everyone’s mind is: All this for what?

Some fine change? Disgraceful!

#yestolife It’s good to see even the youth coming forward and using social media as a catalyst to help combat the rising instances of suicide that have been plaguing our country. Hashtags like #project592hope and #yestolife have become trending topics, as messages are being shared across Facebook to encourage those who may be contemplating the act.

Groups like Youth for Local have stepped up in creating memes and posters to spread the message of hope. Others have taken to sharing the

Region 10 Chairman, Renis Morian

numbers for the SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE:

from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure was in Linden on Tuesday to ensure these projects are carried out correctly.

In this time of political discord, it is good that

(+592) 223-0001, 223-0009, 600-7896, 623-4444. at least we can come together and agree on one thing.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

President opens Land, Commercial registries PRESIDENT David Granger has said that the thrust to develop greater economic independence demands investments and an increase in the volume and rate of business transactions.

This, he said, can only be achieved if “the impediments to investment and other forms of economic exchange are removed”.

The President expressed these sentiments yesterday in his feature address at the commissioning of the Lands and Commercial Registries.

The two registries are now housed in the former New Building Society (NBS) building on Avenue of the Republic.

The delinking of the two registries and relocation to the NBS building is part of a wider project to ensure a modern legal administrative system that is being funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

President Granger said that these two registries, as constituent elements of the national legal administrative architecture, support an essential economic function. He noted that they

create, preserve, and aid in the enforcement of property rights.

The Commercial Registry is an important office that is responsible for the registration of business names, trademarks, patents and bills of sale, all supporting the creation and protection of property rights, including intellectual property rights.

With regard to property rights, the Head of State said the defining features of market economies are the right to own property; to have exclusive use of said property; and the right to transfer, trade or sell the property.

Commercial and Land Registries play an important role in the smooth functioning of markets by ensuring formal legal ownership, transfer, and enforceability of property rights.

The absence of formal property rights, on the other hand, distorts the efficient functioning of markets and serves as a disincentive to production and consumption and exchange, the essential func-

tions of market economies.

“The success of our thrust towards greater economic independence will depend on our ability to compete with the rest of the Caribbean, the continent and the world in the goods we produce and the services we provide. Our competiveness will be enhanced by a legal administrative system dedicated to facilitating the creation, protection and enforcement of property rights,” President Granger promised.

He further said that property rights must be supported by an administrative system that is characterised by trained, competent and ‘unbribable’ staff, efficient and friendly services, and a highly computerised system.

REFORM “Our land and commercial laws must be updated to take account of new forms of property. Our copyright laws must be modernised to provide protection to our producers, artists and artistes. We must not fall further behind the rest of the world,” the President said.

Attorney General and Min-

Registrar of Commerce (ag), Nicole Prince, shows off the spanking new offices to President Granger. Also looking on are Attorney General Basil Williams and Minister of State Joseph Harmon

President Granger greets the staff of the Land Registry ister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, in his remarks, said that this development will facilitate business and encourage investments, which are key to the Government’s overall development thrust.

He explained that Government wants to ensure that business owners are not strained or hamstrung by processes that frustrate efforts and cause them to take their investments elsewhere.

“I am very confident that these two registries would benefit the people of Guyana and contribute to the welfare, wellbeing, and the good life for the Guyanese people,” the Attorney General said.

IDB Representative Sophie Makonnen conveyed that the opening of this facility would serve as impetus for higher levels of investment, and would generate employment.

She also said that this

move is in keeping with the changing demands of the commercial architecture across Guyana.

“The centralised facility will make the work of the registry more manageable, both for the general public and the staff. It illustrates Guyana’s commitment to promote commerce, trade and employment…it will make the work of Guyana as an investment destination easier,” Makonnen said.

Speaking on behalf of the Guyana Bar Association, Attorney-at-Law Christopher Ram reminded the gathering that registries perform a vital role in the legal life of a society, as they are the repositories and guardians of legal documents, and are the facilitators and protectors of the public interest. “…matters of property titles are protected in our Constitution and are very important

to…the rule of law,” Ram said.

He also challenged the Attorney General and the registrars of the two registries to ensure that the operations of these offices are computerised and made accessible online. He added that today, old ledgers and their portfolios are only good for museums of antiquity.

In addition, Head of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Norman McLean, said that with the growth of businesses in Guyana, there is need to make this unit more sustainable and efficient in the way it provides its legal obligations.

“The Private Sector Commission therefore lauds the efforts made by the establishment of these registries, so that our business sector can enjoy more modern facilities…. We welcome this initiative being rolled out in other regions as well,” McLean said.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

Advance Security presents motorcycles to GPF ADVANCE Security, an arm of the Continental Agencies Limited, yesterday contributed to enhancement of the mobility of the Guyana Police Force with the donation of three spanking new motorcycles to that organisation.

The donation, the police said, came in a timely manner, will help to complement its fleet of transportation, and will

help the GPF to discharge its mandate.

The donation was made yesterday at Police Headquarters at Eve Leary.

A representative of Advance Security, in a few remarks, disclosed: “We are happy to be associated with the GPF, and we will continue to offer our support in many ways, so that they could continue with their good work”.

Members of the GPF test the new motorcycles

Major emphasis on maternal health in 2016

By Navendra Seoraj

AFTER reviewing the level of maternal health in Guyana and the number of problems which the sector has faced, Public Health Minister Dr George Norton pledged to place more emphasis on achieving significant improvements in the public health sector this year.

Making institutions baby-friendly and training more midwives and other health professionals are aspects of a new outlook for maternal health, given the cases of maternal and infant mortality that were recorded last year.

Minister Norton disclosed that “quite a lot of work has to be done as it relates to maternal and child health”.

He stressed that the main objectives of the maternal and child health/expanded programme on immunisation are to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity; reduce childhood mortality and morbidity; prevent vaccine preventable diseases; provide updated training

for health workers on making pregnancy safer; reduce mother-to-child transmission in order to promote survival of the child; and improve the quality of care by implementing new measures to assess the services.

With rising concerns relating to maternal mortality, the minister stands committed towards enhancing the sector and facilities. He declared that the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Maternity Ward Expansion Project should be completed in April, so the space issue at the hospital would be somewhat mitigated.

Moreover, the Leonora Hospital maternity section has also figuratively been up and running, and therefore overcrowding should be a thing of the past.

The minister disclosed that a grossly unacceptable number of babies died in the public health system last year, and it is his view that as facilities at the healthcare institutions develop, attention must also be paid to the wel-

Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton

fare of mothers, “because a lot of babies die from sepsis.”

He explained that the development of the hospitals will be beneficial to the Public Health Ministry.

The Ministry is looking to boost maternity leave by six months, given that a mother must breast feed their infant for at least that period of time. And fathers could also look forward to paternal leave in the near future, he disclosed.

Emphasis will be placed also on getting fathers in delivery rooms so they can experience the actual birthing process.

Assistant Police Commissioner, Administration, Balram Persaud, in expressing thanks, told members of the media that Advance Security has been providing assistance to the Force for a while now.

“This donation is timely, and will provide for the efficient and effective performance of the Police Force,” Persaud said.

Mr Persaud (left) collecting the keys from the Marketing and Sales Manager of Continental Agencies Limited, Avalon Jagnandan

12

Three more charged with Briton’s murder

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

By Clestine Juan

TWENTY-YEAR-OLD Krystol Thomas, the pregnant girlfriend of murder accused Staymon George; her mother, 39-year-old Sinfine Henry, also known as “Coreen”; and Jahmil Sinclair,19, also known as “Frass” and ‘Bacchus”, were all brought before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan yesterday, charged with murder.

The trio was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which detailed that on October 14, at Kildonan Village, Corentyne, East Berbice, they murdered British teen Dominic Bernard.

The number one accused, Aaron Hing, 22, and number two accused Staymon George, 23, had appeared before the chief magistrate on Thursday and were remanded to prison until yesterday, when they made their appearance before the chief magistrate for assigning.

All five accused were remanded to prison, and the matter has been transferred to the Whim Magistrate’s Court for January 21.

Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes, representing the three accused, yesterday made an application to the

Murder accused Krystol Thomas

court concerning the particulars of the offence. The lawyer stated that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had instituted a charge wherein the principle of the offence had not been committed by the clients.

According to Hughes, last Wednesday, when his clients were in custody at the Whim Police Station, they were informed by an officer that a charge of obstruction of justice would soon be laid against them.

He pointed out that the DPP should have instituted a charge of accessory to the crime, rather than charging the trio for the capital offence of murder.

Jahmil Sinclair

Accused Sinfine Henry

The lawyer opted to take the matter to the High Court to be legally sorted out, since he said the police “were abusing their power.”

The British teenager reportedly arrived in Guyana on the evening of October 14, 2015 and has since not been seen. His father, during his visit to Guyana for news on his son, met with Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, who promised that the police would do everything in their power to solve the mystery.

The teen’s godbrother, Aaron Hing, became a person of interest after he disappeared when the police attempted to contact him.

As law-enforcement officers continued to dig for informa-

tion, George was added to the list of suspects.

Wanted bulletins were issued for the two men as suspicion grew about their involvement in the teen’s disappearance.

Police later captured them both -- Hing at a city hotel and George at a house in Tucville, Georgetown. They were arrested after the decomposed body of a male, believed to be that of the missing teenager, was discovered a few villages from Kildonan, the village where the teen was expected to spend his time during his visit to Guyana.

The two later admitted that they had collected the teen from the Cheddi Jagan

Alleged accomplice Staymon ‘Sherwin’ George

International Airport on October 14, 2015 and, on their way to Berbice, they stopped along Sheriff Street, where they ate and drank a few beers.

The latest development in the case was the discovery of the teen’s camera and its components. These were dug up after a third suspect, Jahmil Sinclair, took law enforcement officers to an area behind Nurney Village and pointed out where he had hidden the equipment.

Sinclair admitted that he was promised payment to hide the teen’s belongings on the night he was fatally beaten. Later on Sunday evening, the said suspect led ranks to

God-brother of British murdered teen, Aaron Wilfred Hing

another area where the laptop that belonged to the teenager was reportedly hidden.

To date, they have not confirmed when they actually murdered the teen, since one suspect claimed it was done on the night he arrived in Guyana, while the other claimed it was a week after.

It was reported that the two suspects had dug the grave two days in advance.

A post-mortem performed at the area where the corpse had been left overnight revealed that the British teen was struck at the back of the head. He sustained a fractured skull and a broken neck.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

88 years for killing girlfriend

By George Barclay CARLISA Matthews, 20, was shot and killed in 2014 by Jermaine Maynard, 42, and became the second girlfriend to be murdered by the same killer.

On the first occasion, he had pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter, and was jailed for 14 years; but at this current trial, he refused the DPP’s offer of manslaughter, and the mixed jury did the rest by returning a unanimous verdict of guilty of murder, after receiving evidence which was described by the presiding judge as “overwhelming”.

Justice Navindra Singh, who later imposed an 88year prison sentence on the convicted man, was asked by prosecutor Michael Shahoud (member of the prosecuting team) to ensure that

Jermaine Maynard yesterday convicted for the murder of Carlisa Matthews

the prisoner got the same type of sympathy that his girlfriend Carlisa Matthews had received.

The judge did not reply to Shahoud, but the registrar enquired from the prisoner whether he had anything to say why the Court should not proceed to pass sentence against him according to law. The prisoner remained

unremorseful, but declared that he was sorry for the deceased’s relatives, many of whom were in court.

Pointing out that the evidence against the prisoner was overwhelming, the judge went on to pass sentence.

Witnesses had told the court and the mixed jury at the Demerara Assizes how Jermaine Maynard shot girlfriend Carlisa to death on Old Year’s Night 2013.

The killing occurred outside KFC at Stabroek Market.

Shortly before, Maynard had asked the girl a question, and she had replied that she did not have time.

State Counsel Siand Dhurjon, a member of the prosecution team, had delivered the opening address to the jury.

Other members of the prosecution were Narissa Leander and Michael Shahoud.

On that Old Year’s Night, at about 21:00 hrs, Carlisa, her mother, her mother’s fiancé and others were standing outside KFC on Croal Street when Maynard came up and spoke to Carlisa a short distance away from everyone else.

According to Dhurjon, nobody could hear what they were saying, but they

were seen speaking for a few minutes.

Carlisa started to move away, but Maynard pointed a gun to her head and shot her.

She fell down, and Jermaine Maynard stood over Carlisa and pointed the gun at her, but though it clicked three times it did not fire.

Maynard walked away,

and on his way to Regent Street, he encountered a Rastaman. He drew his gun and demanded the Rastaman’s bicycle, and he rode away on it. Carlisa was taken to the hospital, where she died in the early hours of the morning of January 1, 2014. (George Barclay @ Guyana Chronicle. com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

France-bound Suspected killer of Brazilian remanded cocaine intercepted POLICE yesterday intercepted a shipment of cocaine destined for France at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

The police said in a statement that at about 13:30 hrs yesterday, ranks of the Police

Narcotics Branch at the CJIA intercepted the package containing two kilograms, 700 grams of cocaine, which was being shipped to France via a courier service.

Investigations are in progress.

THE MAIN suspect in the murder of 51-year-old Brazilian national Josimar Perrieria Silva of Boa Vista, Brazil appeared on Friday before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Joel Olayna Bedlow, a 43-year-old miner of Sophia, Georgetown, was not required to plead to the indictable offence, which alleges that between September 5 and September 6, 2015 at Mowasi Backdam, Mahdia, he murdered Silva.

The miner was remanded to prison and the matter was transferred to the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court for January 26.

According to reports, on the day in question, the miner was working at a mining

camp when the suspect held him and another Brazilian at gunpoint. A scuffle reportedly ensued, during which Silva allegedly was hit to the head with a heavy object.

Over the years, Brazilian miners have perished under different circumstances in Guyana’s hinterland, and the deaths of the two men have come amidst renewed concerns about security for miners in the hinterland regions.

Many Brazilian miners have been the subject of robberies and killings in mining communities.

Earlier this month, another Brazilian miner was stabbed to death during a robbery at Puruni Backdam, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni). The identity of the dead man was given only as “Brain”. According to in-

formation received, the now dead man was working on a mining operation at Puruni Backdam when he was confronted by an armed man, who held him at gunpoint and demanded gold.

The Brazilian national reportedly got into a scuffle with the suspect, during which he was shot to his neck. The suspect then relieved the injured man of a quantity of gold and attempted to escape.

Other persons in the mining camp, upon hearing the sound of the gunshot, reportedly ran towards the mining pit, where they saw “Brian” in a pool of blood and the alleged suspect fleeing the scene.

He was subsequently apprehended and handed over to police.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

New gold board urged to tackle smuggling MINISTER of Natural Resources, Mr. Raphael Trotman, yesterday inducted the new members of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), charging them, to the best of their ability, to fulfil their mandate for the good of the mining community and the nation.

The board members installed are: Mrs. Joycelyn Williams, an Economist, who will serve as the Chairperson; Mr. John Yates, former Banker, serving as Deputy Chairperson; Ms. Lisaveta Ramotar, General Manager, Guyana Gold Board; Ms. Joanna Homer, Legal Officer, Ministry of Natural Resources; Ms. Theresa Foster, a representative of the Bank of Guyana; Mr. Michael Somersall, Attorney-at-Law; Mr. Andron Alphonso, a representative of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners’ Association (GGDMA); and Ms. Susan Bullen, Attorney-at-Law. A representative from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) is expected to be added to the line-up.

At a meeting held in the ministry’s boardroom, Minister Trotman briefed the board

on the activities and developments which have taken place since the new administration took office. He also highlighted issues that would require immediate intervention while outlining his expectations for the agency. The minister urged the board to focus on combating gold-smuggling and increasing production and declarations, and advised them to decide whether it was necessary to set up offices in the mining districts to fulfil this mandate.

At the same time, he noted that the board must work within government’s policies and regulations.

Chair of the Board, Mrs. Joycelyn Williams, expressed gratitude to the minister and Government of Guyana for the confidence reposed in the board members, even as she pledged its commitment to ensuring that gold production and declarations are significantly increased.

The board also pledged to ensure that a stronger relationship is built with the GGMC in order to foster a strong mining sector.

Only recently, Trotman told a news conference that not only is gold being smug-

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, briefing the new members of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) in the ministry’s boardroom

gled out of Guyana, but the precious metal is also being smuggled into this country as well. He said this was disclosed to him by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the US Department for Homeland Security.

He declared that between 50 and 60 per cent of the gold produced in Guy-

ana is smuggled out of the country, and noted that of the more than 15,000 ounces of gold exported from Guyana on a weekly basis, all of it did not originate in Guyana. Trotman said that, based on what came out of the meeting with the US law- enforcement agencies at the Ministry of Pub-

lic Security, gold is being smuggled into Guyana from Colombia and Venezuela.

The systems at the border with Venezuela are weak.

The gold being smuggled into Guyana from Colombia and Venezuela, and the gold being smuggled out of Guyana, Trotman said, reach as far as the Middle East.

And gold from Guyana is being smuggled to places such as Brazil and Suriname, from where it moves on to Europe, even as there are indications that gold smuggled from Guyana is landing at the Miami International Airport and the John F. Kennedy Airport in the United States.

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GHRA wants broader discussion on GDF’s role in anti-corruption fight THE Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) has said the botched army operation that led to the tragic deaths of three people on Carifesta Avenue late last year is shocking, and raises many questions regarding the extent to which good governance principles appear to be eroding.

The body is also calling for a broader discussion on the military’s involvement in the anti-corruption fight. In a statement, the body said the existence of that operation suggests that lines between the coalition government, the army and the police force are becoming, once again, somewhat blurred.

“The goodwill that the government has enjoyed from a range of citizens, well beyond active supporters of the APNU+AFC, is being tested by a perception that the coalition is beginning to act as if the righteousness of a cause justifies disregard for established conventions and democratic procedures,” the GHRA said.

The body said it does not deem the situation reassuring that President David Granger seems to feel that once the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is satisfied concerning the surveillance operation mounted outside the home of the Director of NICIL, the many questions raised by civil society have no merit.

“In a society where incompetent implementation frequently obscures original intention, the GDF is vulnerable to having well-meaning involvement in government perceived in more sinister terms,” the GHRA has said.

Furthermore, creeping expansion of the role of the military is encouraged by enmeshing anti-corruption into the counter-terrorism rhetoric. This development, prompted from abroad, is currently driving hasty re-alignment of Guyanese laws and financial institutions that far exceed domestic requirements, the rights body said.

Moreover, the GHRA has said that, despite efforts to project the Special Organised Crimes Unit (SOCU), as required by the Anti-Money-Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism Act (AML-CFTA), this is not the case. “SOCU was set up without recourse to Parliament in order to strengthen Guyana’s capacity to “investigate suspicious financial transactions that are suggestive of money laundering,” to quote the former Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Luncheon, in 2013. SOCU was then placed under the authority of the Guyana Police Force, not the Guyana Defence Force.

Furthermore, the GHRA said, the most disturbing features of technical changes imposed in response to international pressure are the multiple opportunities they provide to suspend civil liberties and bypass democratic processes.

“The current “Operation Dragnet,” described as “a massive anti-crime and counter-terrorism operation”, is a logical progression in this disturbing sequence, despite being airily passed off as “normal for the army to support the country’s law-enforcement and regulatory agencies in operational activities.”

According to the GHRA, political surveillance by civil authorities in well-established democratic societies is always a sensitive matter. And in the Guyana context of rudimentary democratic traditions, inexperienced and zealous political leadership, surveillance by military authorities is an ominous development.

“Moreover, assurances would be welcome over the extent to which the shadowy electronic surveillance capacity established under the previous government, referred to as the Central Intelligence Agency, is being deployed in “Operation Dragnet.”

Such speculation is encouraged by the dominant priority assigned to the government’s anti-corruption campaign, which remains insulated from public scrutiny and marginalises other policy discussions.

The rights body said a broader discussion of military involvement would allay any disquiet that these activities fall within their traditional constitutional role of assisting the civil power in maintaining law and order when required to do so.

“In addition to the requirements of civil law in the cases of any untimely deaths, therefore, the multiple political and legal questions raised by the incident in question require a parliamentary statement from the Ministry of the Presidency, referencing all the legitimate questions raised. Public re-assurance would be further advanced with respect to all of the above were the coalition government to develop the practice of strengthening its capacities by engaging all sectors of civil society, rather than by turning so readily to the military sector.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

Sudoku

Yesterday’s Solution

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

25,000 awaiting house lot approval

By Svetlana Marshall

ABOUT 25,000 Guyanese are awaiting approval of their land applications, newly-appointed Minister of Communities with responsibility for Housing, Valerie Adams-Patterson, has disclosed.

“We have 25,000 active applications within the system,” she told the Guyana Chronicle during a recent interview. She explained that this batch includes new applications and those that date back to the early 2000s.

Responding to the situation, the Ministry of Communities and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) are currently assessing possible avenues that can be taken to reduce the bulk of active applications within the system.

“Whatever barriers there are, we are going to move them. Whatever policy changes need to be made, we are going to make them; because we cannot continue to have people filing applications and their applications are not being processed. The bottom line is (that) it has to be cleared, and quickly,” Minister Adams-Patterson emphasised.

One of the initiatives she has already considered is

help to fast-track the process, thereby reducing the bulk of applications within the system.

“It can fast-track that entire process when it comes to land allocation, because persons are able to do their applications, have their interviews, pay their monies, all at one location on one day; and that in itself (will) fast track the process,” she reasoned.

Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Adams-Patterson

the ‘One Stop Shop’ housing drive initiated by then Housing Minister Irfaan Ali under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration.

“I believe the ‘One Stop Shop’ benefited Guyanese across this country…. To me, the citizens of this country were pleased with it in many ways. One, it brought the ministry to the people, and that is something that I would like to see done very often,” she said.

Expressing the desire to conduct ‘One Stop Shop’ exercises in every region, Minister Adams-Patterson said this initiative would

Guyanese a fair chance to own a plot of land.

In addition to the ‘One Stop Shop’, Minister Adams-Patterson said, more and more Guyanese are making demands for the core houses. Under the stewardship of former Housing

core houses, the Minister said.

While the core houses have been favoured by the people, she said, only a particular category of Guyanese has been able to benefit from the turnkey initiative, due to the cost implication.

‘SHORT-CHANGED’ While this initiative played an integral role in transforming the housing landscape within the country, the Minister said, based on her assessment, some communities, such as Linden in Region 10, were “short-changed.”

“Linden had one, or two the most (One Stop Shop exercises), and there was a promise of another one that never came off. And I can tell you, based on what I know happening in Linden, Lindeners have been shorted-changed when it comes to land allocation,” she posited.

However, the Minister intends to reintroduce this drive before the end of the month, with the primary objective of giving every

Former Housing Minister Irfaan Ali assisting one of the applicants in selecting a lot number back in September 2013. (file photo)

Minister Irfaan Ali, approximately 400 core houses were constructed for poor families at a cost of $2.9 million each, with each family having to contribute $100,000.

SOLICITING SUPPORT In an effort to re-introduce this project, the Ministry will be soliciting international support to facilitate the construction of more

One turnkey house is valued at $4.9 million, the minister said, explaining that the financial institutions that have committed to this project lend only $4 million.

“Many people, from the time I am here, are complaining that that is so difficult for them (to source the additional funds), and it is understandable. Not many people could put their hands

in their pockets and find $900,000… So we have to definitely look at more of the core houses; and two, finding low-cost lands.”

Additionally, the Minister has pledged to remove the barriers preventing young professionals from accessing their own homes.

She also said that the majority of the working class has been unable to afford land in general, because most of them are below the poverty line, and, as such, cannot afford to pay for the lands that are within the system.

Against that background, the Ministry will be returning to the table to discuss the provision of low-cost lands but not low-quality land.

“What we have in the system is for more middle and high-income earners.

So we have to now focus on finding land so that we can make it available to the low-income people,” she explained.

Minister Adams-Patterson said that while the Ministry has fallen short in meeting the needs of the people, some Guyanese have failed to play their part, as the Ministry has approved a number of land titles, but they are still within the possession of the Ministry.

Sea Defence, Aviation boards sworn in

By Alva Solomon

NEW members of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Sea Defence Board were yesterday challenged to tackle issues facing each sector, as members of both boards were officially installed to oversee their respective mandates.

The board members received their instruments of appointment in the boardroom of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure at Oranapai Towers, Wight’s Lane, Kingston.

The new 19-member Sea Defence Board will be chaired by engineer John Cush, who is returning to the position. Other members are Kenneth Jordon, Geoffrey Vaughn, Kevin Samad, Maithland Stewart, Imole McDonald, Beni Sankar, Abena Moore, Julius Faerber, Floyd Hendy, Arnold Adams, Dennis Deoroop, Khemraj Parsram, Omadat Persaud, Heidi Gilette, Freddy Flatts and Chabilall Ramsaroop.

One member of the parliamentary Opposition is to be named.

The GCAA’s new Board will be chaired by Lieutenant Colonel (ret’d) Lawrence

Members of the new Sea Defence Board are seen with Ministers Patterson and Ferguson

“Larry” London. Other members of that board are GCAA Director General (ag) Chitrani Heeralall, Hugh Denbow, Duke Pollard, Rodwell Paul, Ramesh Ghir and Colonel Cargill Kyte.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Balram Balraj, is an ex-officio member of that board.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson, while addressing the new Board members, explained that the Sea Defence Board comprises regional representatives, persons from the Agriculture Ministry, the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Nat-

ural Resources sector, among other stakeholders. He said the parliamentary Opposition was written to name a member to sit on the Board, but that person is still to be named.

SEA DEFENCE ISSUES Patterson expressed hope that the Government’s policy of zooming-in on the focal point of sea defence issues will be achieved by the new Board. He pointed out that there are persons or entities that have breached the regulated boundaries by erecting structures and blocking access to reserved spaces.

“Purely, we think it is to the safety of our country. We have to maintain a consistent policy,” Patterson said. In

addition, he said he expected that the new Board will “state very emphatically if you agree or disagree” with proposals for erection of aspects of infrastructure encountered.

“What you find is that people are building more than 50 feet from the centre line of our structures, and there are erections -- which I’m sure everyone would know -- that are not in conformity,” he noted.

In brief remarks, Cush called for the setting up of a secretariat for the board.

He said this would ease the day-to-day activities of the body. He also asked for identification cards for the members, including those who are based in the regions.

Minister within the Min-

istry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, said it will not be business as usual over at the GCAA. As minister with responsibility for the aviation body, she said, it has been seven months since the Government took office, and it has a fair idea of the volume of work which lies ahead. She said the new Government found the GCAA to be deficient as the country’s agency for ensuring Guyana’s compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and recommended practices.

She said her vision is to see the civil aviation system modernised and transformed to match global standards, and she pledged to work closely with all stakeholders

to ensure Guyana’s standards rise to at least 60 per cent of the required minimum.

Ferguson called on the new aviation board to address several areas. These include the provision of effective leadership and guidance to the authority, and transformation of the GCAA into a high performance organisation - one that is results-oriented and people-focused. She also called on the body to develop a succession framework, and to renew and develop strategic partnerships with stakeholders.

PROACTIVE BOARD “The way I see it, with the amount of work that has to be done, it will not be business as usual. A proactive Board is needed, and so I am happy that I see people with aviation background and other skillsets on the Board to take it to another level,” Minister Ferguson added.

London expressed confidence in the new board, while Heeralall noted that the aviation industry is dynamic and has been demonstrating continued growth.

She said that it is one of the main sectors which can improve the economic development of Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

GWI, IAST sign technical agreement

By Michel Outridge

THE Guyana Water Inc (GWI) and the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST) yesterday inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for partnership in the use of technology and to resolve challenges faced by the utility company.

The MoU, signed by Chief Executive Officer of the GWI, Dr Richard VanWest Charles, and Director of IAST, Dr Suresh Narine, specifies that the IAST will act as a technology provider, advisor and implementer of technology solutions to enhance the operations and find solutions to the difficulties experienced by GWI. Dr Narine told the gathering that the MoU was long delayed, and he was pleased to see it finally come to fruition. He noted that the state-owned IAST is mandated to pursue the development of natural human resources and technology.

GWI is focusing on providing to Guyana quality potable water, which is vital for survival; and with the IAST’s state-of-the-art laboratory, where in-depth analysis can be carried out this GWI/IAST partnership is quite unique and is one

Chief Executive Officer, GWI, Dr Richard Van-West Charles, shakes hands with IAST Director Dr Suresh Narine, yesterday at the GWI boardroom, as they exchange the signed documents of the best in the Caribbean.

Dr Narine pointed out that IAST enjoys a strong relationship with Trent University in Canada, which is among the top three universities in the world. He said this IAST/GWI MoU will bring into play fresh water science and improved water quality.

He explained that IAST is seeking to work with GWI in water quality and safety, and in auxiliary areas such

as employment of alternative green technology or energy and in studying the water systems in Guyana.

“Although we are known as the ‘Land of Many Waters,’ we have to manage our aquifers, since we are subject to changing climate,” Dr Narine said, and added that he recently visited the Rupununi area, where there is a serious drought and the savannahs are highly fragile eco-systems, and the extended dry

season has caused massive soil erosion.

He explained that having a modern laboratory to study the water system (aquifers) will assist in water management and the use of renewable energy to deliver potable water to customers.

TRAINING Dr Narine added that IAST would also provide training to GWI staffers,

since IAST would like to offer a course at UG in freshwater engineering.

The entities will also be collaborating on building the knowledge capacity of GWI. “Another important aspect of our partnership will be training,” stated Dr Narine. “IAST will be providing training to GWI employees in the use of new technology for water-quality testing.”

According to Dr VanWest Charles, “GWI will benefit tremendously from this collaboration, especially in the areas of water quality and the management of Guyana’s water resources, through analytical testing of ground and surface water sources.”

The GWI CEO further explained that the IAST will be collaborating with GWI to test aquifers (underground sources of water), and new wells, to assess the effects of ground and surface-water changes due to the large expansion of new housing schemes and climate change.

“It is absolutely imperative to monitor the level of the aquifers that we utilise to provide consumers with water,” Dr Van-West Charles said. “Knowledge of the impact of consistently expanding new housing schemes as well as the ef-

fects of the prolonged dry weather conditions is critical to the sustainable management of Guyana’s water resources. With this new partnership with the IAST, the company is in a better position to employ technology to monitor and assess the levels of the aquifers,” he disclosed.

The newly formed partnership between the two entities is part of GWI’s overarching strategic programme to significantly enhance the quality of service provided to customers countrywide.

IAST will serve as a catalyst in the licensing of GWI drillers, and the capabilities of young engineers of the water company will be further enhanced, the GWI CEO added.

There is no time frame for the inter-agency MoU, but there will be an annual assessment by both organisations and, in time, the relations will escalate, since GWI is at the end of its strategic plan and IAST will assist in renewing that as well. The cost will be jointly shared between agencies, and the MoU serves as a foundation to access international grants (funding), which will be explored in due process. (moutridge@guyanachronicle.com)

Four-vehicle smash-up at Mon Repos FOUR motor cars were badly wrecked on Wednesday outside the Mon Repos Market on the East Coast of Demerara when a lorry, allegedly attempting to overtake a motor car, ended up in the path of another car heading in the opposite direction.

Eyewitnesses said that as the lorry moved from behind the vehicle it was overtaking, it ended up in the path of a car being driven by Odinga Duncan, who was at the time transporting a female. In order to avoid a head-on collision with the oncoming lorry, Duncan apparently took evasive action by swerving to the left.

With the area being congested, Duncan’s car crashed into three stationary motor vehicles on a ‘No Stopping’ lane outside the market. Miraculously, he and the woman passenger emerged from the ordeal unhurt.

The police, when summoned, turned up and conducted investigations.

Some vendors in the market were adamant that the police have long been turning a blind eye to cars parking on the sign.

“Now that this big accident happen, we hope they do something soon, because people could have been killed here today,” one concerned vendor said.

And coming on the heels of this accident, the police have heightened their surveillance and distribution of tickets to drivers of Route Number 48 minibuses found parking on the ‘No Stopping” sign painted north-east of St Andrew’s Kirk and behind the designated bus park outside Demico House.

These cars were involved in the accident outside Mon Repos Market on Wednesday

Landlordism,corruptionandexploitation

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2016

Ramayya warns sloppy contractors CONTRACTORS in Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) have been warned to ensure that they inspect and control the quality of their work, since substandard work will no longer be tolerated.

Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region Six, Dr Veerasammy Ramayya, said he has found a number of cases wherein contractors are apparently not qualified for their task or are

not doing enough supervision to ensure desired quality.

He mentioned a recent situation at Kildonan Primary School, where substandard material was used by a contractor with the result that the work has already deteriorated.

“I had complaints from the headmistress. Myself and Mr Harbhajan of the Office of the Prime Minister went there. The contractor that the region gave the

Region Six REO, Dr Veerasammy Ramayya, and Special Assistant to the Office of the Prime Minister, Gobin Harbhajan, at the Kildonan Primary School recently

job to used inferior quality woods to build the windows; the concrete work that he did caused the drainage system to collapse, so it’s now restricting water from running out from the school…there were other defects.”

Dr Ramayya said he personally had to contact the contractor and demand that corrective works be done before he could be paid.

“I went to Skeldon Hospital; again, the same contractor. He built the septic tank of very poor quality; he left all the dirt around it. He didn’t seem to know what he was doing.”

Dr Ramayya charged that some of the contractors deliberately use cheap materials so that they can make maximum profits out of the contract.

“When they use substandard materials, in six months the work deteriorates, and then you have to go to tender for the same work all over again.”

He said he had warned

contractors not to paint any wood before it had been certified as greenheart, and they should, in certain works, tar the entire board, and not only that which is above the water.

He wondered aloud: “I don’t know how some of these works get passed for payments. I preached against this type of cheating of the government for 24 years or more on TV, and now as REO I am experiencing it firsthand. So this now has to stop.”

At Kildonan, after listening to the concerns raised by Headteacher Sonia Williams, Harbhajan contacted Regional Education Officer Volica Jaikisiun, and she assured him that the issues would be addressed.

The matters include the need for more furniture and the provision of a computer lab, as well as an upgrade of the washroom facilities at the primary school.

Burglar found sleeping in victim’s bed A BURGLAR who was allegedly found sleeping in the victim’s bed yesterday made an appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, charged with attempting to commit a felony.

Wayne Singh, 37, of 157 Sussex Street, Albouystown, Georgetown pleaded not guilty to the charge detailing that on the night of Monday, January 11, at Albouystown, he broke and entered the house of Peter McDurby with intent to commit a felony.

According to the police report, on January 11, McDurby returned home from work and found the accused on his bed asleep, and when awakened, the man pulled out a knife. The home owner managed to disarm the burglar while calling his neighbour for assistance.

Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers did not oppose bail, and the matter was transferred before Magistrate Dylon Bess for January 26.

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Host cities hit back over ...

From Page 35

scandals in the 1990s and underwent a fundamental reorganization, cited commission chairman Richard Pound as saying on Thursday he did not believe there would “an issue with the Olympics”.

The WADA IC report suggested around US$ 5 million of sponsorship money may have been a factor in swaying the vote of Diack to vote for Tokyo rather than Istanbul, which declined to pay the money.

Hikariko Ono, a spokesperson for the Tokyo 2020 Games, denied that on Friday, saying the reference in the report to the Tokyo decision was “beyond our understanding”.

“The Games were awarded to Tokyo because the city presented the best bid.”

The report concluded that the IAAF had failed to govern properly and allowed corruption to take place with cover-ups going to the very pinnacle of the sport under Diack’s presidency which ended last August. He was succeeded

by Coe who has admitted he now presides over a “failed organisation”.

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Rohit ton in vain again, as Bailey steers Aussies to victory

(REUTERS) - India’s Rohit Sharma burnished his reputation in limited-overs cricket with a second successive century but could not stop Australia from winning the second one-dayer by seven wickets yesterday to consolidate their lead in the series.

For the second time in three days, India rode Rohit’s elegant century to post a 300-plus total before watching George Bailey help the hosts mount a clinical chase to put Australia 2-0 up in the five-match series.

Rohit showed the kind of form he is in, hitting a sparkling 124 and featuring in century stands with Test skipper Virat Kohli (59) and the selfless Ajinkya Rahane (89) to help India post 308-8.

Yet, the satisfaction of a team victory eluded him as Bailey (76 not out) saw Australia home after Aaron Finch and Shaun Marsh had given the hosts a 145-run opening stand.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni opted to bat after winning his second toss of the series and opener Shikhar Dha-

wan again fell cheaply to pace with Joel Paris claiming his first ODI wicket in his second match.

Rohit and Kohli were once more left to rebuild the innings, which they did with some elegant shot-making.

The duo, who had forged a 207-run stand in India’s five-wicket defeat at the WACA, added 125 before Kohli paid the price for attempting to steal a non-existent second run.

Rohit was lucky to reach his 10th ODI century, after snickometer confirmed he, then on

Bangladesh beat Zimbabwe despite Masakadza half-century A half-century from Hamilton Masakadza was not enough for Zimbabwe to claim victory in the first Twenty20 international with Bangladesh, as the hosts sealed a four-wicket win.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Zimbabwe looked to be in an excellent position on 150-2 in the 18th over.

Masakadza had been the star of the innings, hitting nine boundaries and two maximums on his way to 79 but, after he was run-out

by Nurul Hasan - making his international debut for Bangladesh - Zimbabwe lost another four wickets and added only 13 more runs to finish on 163-7.

Bangladesh found it difficult to build meaningful partnerships in their reply but Sabbir Rahman produced a strong showing, scoring 46 off 36 balls.

His dismissal at the hands of Graeme Cremer (2-32) was quickly followed by those of Mushfiqur Rahim (26) and

Mahmudullah (7) but Shakib Al Hasan hit 20 off 13 to lead Bangladesh to victory in Khulna.

Two Shakib fours and a wide delivery from Luke Jongwe (1-45) that went to the boundary made sure of triumph in the 19th over, their highest successful run chase in T20s.

Victory gives Bangladesh a 1-0 lead in the fourmatch series, which continues at the Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium tomorrow.

(Omnisport)

Windies Under-19 lose again in warm-up CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh (CMC) – West Indies Under-19s delivered another weak batting effort to go down by 171 runs in their second one-day warm-up game against Bangladesh Under-19s here, Thursday.

In a worrying sign ahead of their campaign in the ICC Youth World Cup next week, the Caribbean side could muster only 128 all out off 49.3 overs, in pursuit of 300 for victory at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium.

Keemo Paul, batting at number seven, top-scored with 25, while opener Gidron Pope hit 23, but were the only two batsmen to pass 20.

Left-arm spinner Saleh Ahmed Shawon once again tormented the Windies Un-

der-19s, picking up three for 19 while left-arm seamer Mehedi Hasan Rana claimed three for 35.

Seamer Mohammad Saifuddin finished with two for 18.

Pope and Shahid Crooks, who made 17, shared 31 for the fourth wicket to steer their side to 74 for three but once they were separated, the last seven wickets tumbled for 54 runs.

Earlier, Bangladesh Under-19s piled up a daunting 299 for five after opting to bat first.

Left-hander Pinak Ghosh stroked 109 off 135 balls with nine fours to lead the way while Nazmul Hossain chipped in with 79 and Me-

hedi Hasan, 54.

Bangladesh were stuttering at 44 for two in the 11th when Ghosh and Nazmul came together to add 179 for the third wicket – a partnership which deflated the Windies Under-19s.

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph was the best bowler with two for 50.

On Monday, the Windies lost the opening game by eight wickets in Mirpur in another poor showing with the bat.

The final warm-up game will be played today at the same venue before West Indies Under-19s clash with Scotland in their opening game of the Youth World Cup on January 22 in Fatullah.

89, had edged Paris but Australia’s caught-behind appeal was turned down by the umpire.

Rahane proved a perfect foil for Rohit, shunning risks and still finding the ropes to bring up a runa-ball fifty in their 121run stand when boundaries flowed from both ends.

Rohit’s 127-ball knock ended in bizarre circumstances when Rahane’s straight drive brushed bowler James Faulkner’s fingers before hitting the stumps with the non-striker out of his crease.

After stemming the tourists’ run flow in the last 10 overs, Australia returned for a strong start to their chase with Finch and

Marsh denying India an early breakthrough with some fluent yet risk-free batting.

To make things worse, Ishant Sharma dropped Marsh when the batsman was 19.

Australia’s opening pair eventually fell in quick succession after identical knocks of 71, but Bailey added 78 runs with skipper Steven Smith (46) and George Maxwell (26 not out) hit the winning run to complete the chase with one over to spare.

Bailey followed his 112 in Perth with a 58-ball knock that included six boundaries and a six.

Melbourne hosts the third match tomorrow.

SCOREBOARD

INDIA innings Ro. Sharma run-out (Faulkner) 124 S. Dhawan c Wade b Paris 6 V. Kohli run-out

59 A. Rahane c Smith b Faulkner

89 M. Dhoni c Maxwell b Boland

11 M. Pandey c Paris b Faulkner

6 R. Jadeja run-out (Hastings) 5 R. Ashwin c Boland b Hastings

1 U. Yadav not out 0 Extras: (w-7) 7 Total: (for 8 wickets, 50 overs) 308 Fall of wickets: 1-9, 2-134, 3-255, 4-276, 5-298, 6-302, 7-306, 8-308.

South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:15 hrs French Navy 08:50 hrs Rocketball 09:25 hrs She’s A Dragon 10:00 hrs Vino Veritas 10:35 hrs Seize The Throne 11:10 hrs For The Lads 11:40 hrs Lock Him Up English Racing Tips Wetherby 08:25 hrs Peterthepear 09:30 hrs Nebula Storm 10:05 hrs Sir Valentino 10:40 hrs One For Harry 11:15 hrs Trust Thomas 11:50 hrs Passmore Warwick 08:40 hrs Get Ready Freddy 09:15 hrs All Together 09:50 hrs Black Hercules 10:25 hrs Artic Gold 11:00 hrs Born Survivor 11:35 hrs Midnight Prayer 12:05 hrs Opera Rock

Bowling: J. Paris 8-0-40-1 (w-1), K. Richardson 8-1-61-0 (w-1), J. Hastings 8-0-46-1 (w-2), S. Boland 10-0-64-1 (w-3), G. Maxwell 6-0-330. J. Faulkner 10-0-64-2.

AUSTRALIA innings A. Finch c Rahane b Jadeja 71 S. Marsh c Kohli b I. Sharma 71 S. Smith b U. Yadav 46 G. Bailey not out 76 G. Maxwell not out 26 Extras: (lb-7, nb-1, w-11) 19 Total: (for 3 wickets, 49 overs) 309 Fall of wickets: 1-145, 2-166, 3-244.

Bowling: B. Sran 9-1-51-0 (nb-1, w-1) ,I. Sharma 10-0-60-1 (w-8) U. Yadav 10-0-74-1 (w-2), R. Jadeja 9-0-50-1, R. Ashwin 10-0-60-0, V. Kohl1 1-0-7-0.

Chelmsford City 09:00 hrs Rococoa 09:35 hrs Enriching 10:10 hrs Judical 10:45 hrs Lamar 11:20 hrs Luv U Whatever 11:55 hrs Ela Goog La Mou 12:25 hrs Midnight Destiny Irish Racing Tips Naas 08:45 hrs Best Kept Secret 09:20 hrs Sempre Medici 10:30 hrs Edwulf 11:05 hrs Lake Field 11:40 HRS Mount Brandon 12:10 hrs Cappuccino Man American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Freudsalm Race 2 Attractive Ride Race 3 Royal Posse Race 4 Hard Hitter Race 5 Mister Popsicle Race 6 Black Tide Race 7 Pass the Dice Race 8 Eighty Three Race 9 Storm Pursuit

DDL outfits Pepsi Hornets for coming ...

From Backpage displayed by the team.

“We will continue to give as much support as possible to the Pepsi Hornets Rugby football team in 2016 as they strive to succeed in all competitions.”

In response, captain of the Pepsi Hornets team and much decorated National player, Ryan Gonsalves, expressed his delight and heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the sponsor DDL and pledged to continue to upkeep the strong winning tradition as well as the confidence placed in the club by the sponsors.

The rugby season commences on January 23 with the opening North vs South Fifteens match as well as two tena-side women’s teams squaring off. The GRFU Fifteens league follows on January 30.

Shepherd helps Jaguars ...

From Backpage Shane Jeffers, caught by wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble for 0 (1/8, 2.3 overs) and followed up two balls later with Montcin Hodge, bowled for a duck (2/8, 2.5 overs).

Steven Jacobs dismissed Jamaican-born Nkrumah Bonner, lbw for 14 (3/54, 15.2 overs) while left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul removed the talented Chesney Hughes, lbw for 33 (59 balls, 3x4, 1x6) (4/60, 18.5 overs) and Daron Cruickshank, caught Shepherd 14 (5/85, 29 overs).

Reifer bowled Jahmar Hamilton for 13 (1/108, 38.5 overs) while Shepherd returned to knock over Orlando Peters’ stumps for 24 (7/111, 40.1 overs).

There was some resistance from burly Rahkeem Cornwall 35 (36 balls, 1x4, 2x6s) and Jacques Taylor (18) who together fashioned an entertaining 58-run eighth-wicket partnership.

Reifer (9-0-47-2) scalped Taylor while Royston Crandon (0.4-0-1-2) picked up two wickets, those of Cornwall, stumped by wicketkeeper Bramble and Odean Brown, caught by Shepherd for zero in his unfinished one over.

33

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

Root century fuels England fightback

By Mark Gleeson

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (Reuters) - Joe Root scored an unbeaten 106 and shared a swashbuckling partnership with Ben Stokes as England put the brakes on a hostile South African attack to reach 238 for five at the close of the second day of the third Test yesterday.

Bad light and rain brought a premature end to the day’s play with England trailing the hosts’ first innings total by 75 runs, but with the momentum having swung back in their favour at the Wanderers.

Root led an England fightback and Stokes scored 58 as the tourists piled on the runs after South Africa had seized the initiative with early wickets. The pair shared a rapid-fire fifth-wicket partnership of 111 runs in just under 16 overs after England had been in trouble at 91-4 just after lunch.

Joe Root celebrates his ninth Test hundred on the second day of the third Test in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Hardus Viljoen took the wicket of England captain Alastair Cook with his first ball in Test cricket and there were two wickets each for Kagiso Rabada and Morne Morkel as South Africa unleashed a barrage of pace.

Root, however, reached his ninth Test century in just 126 balls with 16 boundaries and Stokes was equally severe on the bowling, scoring

his 58 off 54 balls before being caught and bowled by Morkel.

Jonny Bairstow was notout on four when the players were taken off with just over an hour’s play left. Rain then began to fall and play was officially called off.

Earlier, Alex Hales, who has been struggling with a stomach virus, went for one when he edged Rabada to AB de Villiers at second slip and

Cook’s poor form continued after edging Viljoen’s first ball down the leg side to be caught by wicketkeeper Dane Vilas for 18.

Nick Compton was caught in the slips by Dean Elgar off Rabada for 26 and James Taylor departed for seven, caught at short leg by Temba Bavuma off Morkel.

South Africa had resumed on 267 for seven overnight and England removed Chris Morris and Rabada for the addition of only 14 runs, both caught by wicketkeeper Bairstow off Stuart Broad and James Anderson, who claimed his first wicket after toiling for 22 overs without success.

But debutant Viljoen, who hit a boundary from the first ball he faced as a Test batsman, and Morkel frustrated the bowlers by adding 32 runs for the last wicket.

Bairstow dropped an easy catch off Anderson which denied him a chance to equal

the world record of seven dismissals in an innings.

Anderson’s follow-through after the delivery led him to encroach on the wicket and having been warned twice for running on the pitch, he was removed from the England attack by umpire Aleem Dar after an acrimonious exchange between the pair.

He had bowled just two balls of his over and Stokes was brought on to complete it, finishing off the innings with the next ball when Morkel edged to Cook at first slip to give the all-rounder his 50th Test wicket. Due to the early close, play will start 30 minutes early today.

SCOREBOARD

SOUTH AFRICA 1st innings (o/n 267-2) D. Elgar c Bairstow b Ali 46 S. van Zyl c Bairstow b Stokes

21 H. Amla c Bairstow b Finn 40 A. de Villiers c Bairstow b Stokes

36 F. du Plessis c Hales b Finn

16 T. Bavuma run-out 23 D. Vilas c Ali b Broad 26 C. Morris c Bairstow b Broad

28 K. Rabada c Bairstow b Anderson 24 H. Viljoen not out 20 M. Morkel c Cook b Stokes 12 Extras: (b-8, lb-10, nb-2, w-1)

21 Total: (all out, 99.3 overs) 313 Fall of wickets: 1-44, 2-117, 3-127, 4-161, 5-185, 6-212, 7-225, 8-281,

9-281.

Bowling: J. Anderson 25.2-5-60-1, S. Broad 22-5-82-2 (w-1), S. Finn 18-4-50-2 (nb-2) M. Ali 16-4-50-1, B. Stokes 18.1-1-53-3.

ENGLAND 1st innings A. Cook c Vilas b Viljoen 18 A. Hales c de Villiers b Rabada 1 N. Compton c Elgar b Rabada

26 J. Root not out 106 J. Taylor c Bavuma b M. Morkel

7 B. Stokes c & b M. Morkel 58 J. Bairstow not out 4 Extras: (b-1, lb-11, nb-2, w-4) 18 Total: (for 5 wickets, 52.4 overs) 238 Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-22, 3-74, 4-91, 5-202.

Bowling: C. Morris 13-1-62-0, K. Rabada 14.4-5-44-2 (w-2), M. Morkel 14-0-63-2, H. Viljoen 11-057-1 (nb-2).

Germany wants Serena faces tricky emergency IAAF meeting ascent to seventh heaven over WADA report

By Greg Stutchbury

MUNICH, Germany (Reuters) - Germany’s athletics chief has called for an extraordinary meeting of the IAAF after the second part of a World Anti-Doping Agency report heaped more pressure on the sport’s scandal-hit governing body.

WADA’s independent commission said on Thursday that the former head of world athletics, Lamine Diack, ran a clique that covered up organised doping and blackmailed athletes while senior officials looked the other way.

“The allegations of corruption against the former leadership of the IAAF are so damning, and have shaken the credibility of the world federation to such an extent, that a sign of awakening must be an extraordinary membership meeting,” said German athletics chief Clemens Prokop in a statement yesterday.

The damning report delivered by former WADA president Dick Pound added to the rapidly growing scandal involving organised doping and its concealment that has thrown world athletics into turmoil.

Pound had already rocked the sport in November with the release of the first part of his report, which led to athletics superpower Russia being banned from competition for state-sponsored doping.

But Thursday’s report said the IAAF’s governing council “could not have been unaware of the extent of doping in athletics and the non-enforcement of applicable anti-doping rules”, piling more pressure on the governing body.

“It is increasingly clear that far more IAAF staff knew about the problems than has currently been acknowledged,” it said. “The corruption was embedded in the organisation.

“It cannot be ignored or dismissed as attributable to the odd renegade acting on his own.”

The scandal has also drawn comparisons with a corruption and governance scandal at the global football federation - FIFA.

MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Ailing knees, Father Time and even a resurgent Victoria Azarenka stand in the way of Serena Williams clinching her seventh Australian Open title and giving her one more shot at an achievement that would cap her storied career.

Williams, already considered one of the all-time greats, has 21 grand slam singles titles, four Olympic gold medals and more than $74 million in career earnings but the 34-year-old is no doubt aiming to become the greatest of them all.

She had the opportunity last year to clinch the only feat missing from her resumé and become the first female player since Steffi Graf in 1988 to capture a calendar grand slam at the U.S. Open.

Vi c t o r y a t F l u s h i n g Meadows would have moved her into a tie with Graf on 22 grand slam titles, the most in the Open era, and two behind the all-time leader, Australia’s Margaret Court.

Instead, knees that were constantly causing her pain and a sore elbow that reduced the power on her serve and groundstrokes, ended her hopes in the semi-finals.

She skipped the remainder

Serena Williams of the U.S. runs to hit a ball thrown by a member of her training team during a practice session at Melbourne Park, Australia, Thursday. (Reuters/David Gray) of the year to recuperate, also indicating the mental pressure to achieve the grand slam had taken a toll as she admitted her heart had been broken by the defeat to Italy’s Roberta Vinci.

The rest, no doubt helped her refresh physically and mentally, but of greater concern is her propensity to self-destruct - as she previously has done in Melbourne - and the continued issues with her knees.

Coach Patrick Mouratoglou said last year she had ‘very little’ cartilage left in the joints and she was forced out of the Hopman Cup in Perth last week with more knee pain.

AZARENKA THREAT Williams described that withdrawal as merely ‘a hiccup’, as she completed her preparations for the season-opening grand slam under Mouratoglou’s gaze at Melbourne Park.

The Frenchman was also no doubt casting a glance towards the resurgence of Azarenka, who has had a tormented two years with foot injuries and a downward spiral in the rankings.

The Belarusian, who won successive Australian Opens in 2012 and 2013, however, stormed to victory in Brisbane last week as she dropped just

17 games over five matches to claim her first title since the Cincinnati Masters in August 2013.

She is one of the few players with the power and speed to consistently challenge world number one Williams, whom she pushed to a deciding set in each of their three matches last year while ostensibly still on the comeback trail.

The 26-year-old is drawn to meet third seed Garbine Muguruza in the fourth round, with the 22-year-old Spaniard also tipped to contend after she made her first grand slam final last year, losing to Williams at Wimbledon.

The aggressive, power-hitting Muguruza heads the swag of young pretenders looking to finally usurp Williams, with second seed Simona Halep and fourth seed Agnieszka Radwanska also in contention.

The biggest issue the Romanian and Pole face, however, is they both rely on court craft and a touch game to succeed with neither able to pull out a massive serve or blistering groundstroke to blast a winner when it is needed.

Two veterans who do have those attributes are multiple grand slam winners Maria Sharapova and Serena’s older sister Venus, though the Russian has an arm injury and is drawn to face the world number one in the quarter-finals.

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

Farfan and Mendes renews RHTY&SC U-15 sponsorship for another year THE long-standing cricket sponsorship relationship between the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) and agricultural tools giant, Farfan and Mendes Limited, was extended for another year, following a simple ceremony recently.

For the 19th year in succession, the company has injected funds into the club’s Under-15 team totalling $240 000 for 2016.

RHTY&SC official Mark Papannah, who received the sponsorship, stated that the company has been sponsoring the RHT Farfan and Mendes team since 1997, and over that period the club have won four tournaments and are waiting to play another final in the 2015 Tenelec tournament versus Blairmont.

The club has produced over 20 national junior

cricketers for Guyana, including Assad and Abdel Fudadin, Royston Crandon, Shawn Pereira, Murphy LaRose, Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair and Plaffina Millington and a total of 72 for Berbice.

The RHTY&SC, Papannah stated, also won four Guyana Club-of-theYear awards over the 19 years, while the members of the Farfan and Mendes Under-15 team have also completed over 600 personal/community outreach programmes under the name of the sponsorship since 1997.

Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster, in an invited comment, noted that the relationship between the RHTY&SC and Farfan and Mendes Limited is a unique and special one as it is on the verge of 20 years.

The RHTY&SC’s long-serving Secretary/CEO

Golf season opens today THE 2016 golf season will tee off at noon today when the country’s top players congregate at the Lusignan Golf Course for the sponsored Safeway Security tournament.

The tournament will be played in the Medal Play format.

Managing Director of Safeway Security, Eon Caesar, expressed his delight at sponsoring another tournament. He further indicated that his business entity will continue to support golf in Guyana.

Safeway designs and installs security systems inclusive of state-of-the-art equipment to suit the needs, comfort and spending power of customers, whether it’s for their home or business.

Arvind Kishore, Mike Mangal and Bholawram Deo won in that order last year.

Novella Pereira of Farfan and Mendes Limited hands over the donation to Mark Papannah of RHTY&SC. stated that the club has an esty, hard work, visionary unmatched record of gainleadership and remarkable ing the trust and support record of fulfilling its comof sponsors based on its acmitments to sponsors. tivities, achievements, honHe specially mentioned

THE Upper Corentyne Cricket Association (UCCA) recently launched its inaugural Mashramani Cup. The one-day tournament is billed for February 21 at the No. 69

Vikings ground, featuring ten teams from the Upper Corentyne area.

The five-overs a-side tournament is expected to be an action packed one, with proceeds going to-

(Saturday January 16, 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) Viv Richards-208 (Melbourne, 1984-85) (2) 76 wickets

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

the company, Onai Vasconcellos, stated it was a special privilege to be associated with Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation and stated that the Farfan and Mendes Limited’s logo and brand had been well represented over the years by the Under-15 team.

He congratulated the RHTY&SC on the announcement of its National award and expressed confidence that the club would uphold the high standards it has set itself over the years. In 2016, the RHT Farfan and Mendes Under-15 team would be captained by Chanderpaul Govinda, with Vijay Gopilall as his deputy, while Collis Butts will be the coach.

The team would also be involved in 40 personal/ community programmes, including the construction of a 16’x40’ concrete cricket pitch at the Area ‘H’ ground.

UCCA launches inaugural competition

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

Today’s Quiz: (1) Who was the WI captain when Australia played a Test match at Bourda for the first time?

(2) Who bowled the final over in the last tied Test?

June Mendes, Amanda Richards, Andrew Mendes, Mrs Barker and Onai Vasconcellos of the company for their cooperation over the years.

Every year, Farfan and Mendes also co-sponsors the club’s youth review magazine, television programmes, awards ceremony, cricket academy and Christmas charity programme among others.

Foster also stated that the RHTY&SC would also like to acknowledge the contribution of the company for the role it played in ensuring the club received a Medal of Service this year from the Government of Guyana. He described Farfan and Mendes Limited’s assistance over the years as unbelievable and expressed confidence that the relationship would be expanded in the future.

Marketing Executive of

Executives pose at the launching of the UCCA Mashramani Cup 2016 at the Hotel Riverton Suites.

wards cricket development in the Upper Corentyne area.

The drawing for the first round of the competition will be done on Tuesday, January 19 at the

Riverton Suites Hotel at 17:00hrs. Tickets cost $200, while children Under-12 years will enter the venue free.

There will also be gate prizes to be won.

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 16, 2016

Guyana’s Duguid to officiate in ICC Under-19 World Cup

GUYANA’S first class umpire, Nigel Duguid, continues to make a name for himself on the international scene with the news that he has been chosen by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as one of its match officials for the upcoming ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2016, to be held from January 27 to February 14 in Bangladesh.

Duguid joins Barbadian Gregory Brathwaite as the other regional umpire on the international panel which includes Ahmad Shahab, Ahsan Raza, Anisur Rahman, Chettithody Shamshuddin, Enamul Hoque Moni, Robert Bailey, Nigel Duguid, Adrian Holdstock, Mick Martell, Jeremiah Matibiri, Phillip Jones,

Tim Robinson, Ruchira Palliyaguruge, Langton Rusere, Raveendra Wimalasiri and Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid.

The only umpire from the Associate and Affiliate panel is Ian Ramage.

The former Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) left-arm spinner who gave up playing for an umpiring career in 2010, was appointed to the ICC TV Umpires panel the following year and has been officiating in regional matches ever since. He is also among the umpires in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Duguid also had s stint in the English cricket season in 2012 after doing duties in the Bangladesh ‘A’ team tour of the Caribbean the previous year.

Andy Pycroft of the Elite

Panel of ICC Match Referees, along with Devdas Govindjee and Graeme La Brooy from the ICC Regional Referees

Umpire Nigel Panel, will be the match referees for the tournament, while the on-field umpires will be drawn from the International Panel of ICC Umpires, and

the ICC Associate and Affiliate Panel of International Umpires.

Chettithody Shamshuddin and Tim Robinson will be the on-field umpires for the tournament opener between hosts Bangladesh and defending champions South Africa, to be played at the Zohur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium (ZACS) in Chittagong on Wednesday, January 27. Phillip Jones will be the TV umpire, while Graeme La Brooy will be the match referee.

On the same day at the MA Aziz Stadium in Chittagong, England will take on Fiji. The on-field umpires for this match will be Ahsan Raza and Mick Martell with Devdas Govindjee as the match referee.

Barbadian Adrian Grif-

fith, ICC’s Senior Manager – Umpires and Referee, said: “The panel for this tournament represents an outstanding cross-section of international officials who are among the most experienced currently standing in international cricket. The players will benefit from the calibre of the match officials, with the game’s best young talent exposed to umpiring and refereeing of a high international standard.”

For all matches, two onfield umpires and a reserve official will be appointed, while for televised matches a TV umpire will also form part of the playing control team. In some of the first round matches, the fourth official will be a local appointment.

The eleventh edition of the tournament will be held across eight venues in four Bangladesh cities and will feature nine Test-playing countries as well as seven Associate and Affiliate Members, namely Afghanistan, Canada, Fiji, Ireland, Namibia, Nepal and Scotland.

The tournament will open with the match between defending champions South Africa and host-nation Bangladesh at the Zohur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium (ZACS) in Chittagong and will culminate with the final at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.

All matches will be day fixtures and will start at 09:00hrs local time. The Super League semi-finals and final will have reserve days.

Host cities hit back over T&T Red Force trounce suggestions of corruption ICC Americas by 9 wkts

By Mike Collett

LONDON, (Reuters)-Cities hosting major athletics events that bring international prestige and recognition rejected on Friday suggestions by a commission investigating graft in the sport that bidding for every major world championship since 2009 may have been corrupt.

A long-awaited report by the independent commission of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) had also raised concerns about awarding of the 2020 Olympics to Tokyo. Its findings form part of a broader scandal rocking global athletics involving athletes’ use of drugs, official graft and high-level coverups.

The report on the sport’s governing body, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), called for police to investigate the award of world championship events.

London (2017), Doha (2019) and Eugene in the United States (2021) are the next three hosts.

Report co-author Richard McLaren said on Thursday there was enough information to justify a serious investigation into bidding. “The process by which those decisions were made, who made them, why did they make them and why did other cities not get selected, needs to be investigated.”

Similar doubts have been raised in world soccer, currently hit by its own corruption scandal, over the bidding for World Cup tournaments to be held in Moscow and Qatar.

The World Championships, while not the “money-spinner” that is the Olympic Games, are a chief focus for international athletes and a showcase for track and field.

POLICE INVESTIGATION Controversy surrounds in particular the Eugene championships, awarded without any competition. IAAF president Sebastian Coe cut his ties with Nike after claims he faced a conflict of interest due to the sportswear company’s

erate with the IAAF on any actions or requests that they deem appropriate.”

The decision to award the championships to Eugene without allowing Sweden’s Goethenburg to make a bid came after a presentation to the IAAF’s Council by former president Lamine Diack, who

World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) former president, Dick Pound, who heads the commission into corruption and doping in athletics, gestures at a news conference in Unterschleissheim near Munich, Germany, Thursday. Reuters/Michael Dalder connection to Eugene.

Event organisers TrackTown USA said they were “deeply disturbed and saddened by the allegations in the independent commission report” but stood by their bid.

“We have complete confidence in the integrity of our bid for the 2021 World Championships and continue to strongly believe that the IAAF Council’s strategic decision was based on the merits of our bid,” TrackTown said in a Statement.

A statement from USA Track and Field added: “We believe that the Council’s decision on 2021 was the right one for the right reasons. We of course would fully coop-

is now being investigated by French police over corruption.

UKA, the governing body of British athletics, said its campaign to stage the world championship in London was unblemished.

Ed Warner, UKA chairman, told the Press Association: “We have nothing to hide and we would be delighted to spend any amount of time going through our processes with the investigators if that helps root out any miscreants.”

The International Olympic Committee (IOC), which suffered its own corruption

See page 31

... Barbados Pride beat Jamaica Scorpions by 73 runs

By BRIJ PARASNATH TRINIDAD and Tobago Red Force team continue their winning streak when they registered a thoroughly one-sided nine-wicket victory over newcomers ICC Americas in their NAGICO Super50 Zone A second round match at the Queen’s Park Oval yesterday.

Winning the toss and batting first, the ICC Americas were bundled out for a paltry 81 in 26 overs; their second score below 100 runs in the annual 50-overs-a-side after they were dismissed for 76 against the Jamaica Scorpions during the first round encounter on January 9.

T&T Red Force lost one wicket, that of opener Kyle Hope, bowled by Danial Ahmed for 40; with only 19 runs still required for victory.

West Indies Test wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin, in his first match since returning from the Test tour Down Under; batted at the number three position and finished the match in fine style with two consecutive fours and a massive six off left-arm spinner Danial Ahmed. He remained undefeated on 18 while opener Kjorn Ottley was also unbeaten on 24 when victory was sealed with 37.1 overs remaining.

T&T Red Force cruised to 84 for 1 off 12.5 overs and counted four victories overall plus bonus points to lead Zone A on 17 points and advance to the first semi-final carded for next week Wednesday at the same venue.

When the ICC Americas batted, skipper Jason Mohamed utilised the services of medium pacer Reyad Emrit at the Northern end in tandem with

Red Force ‘s Imran Khan collects the Man-of-theMatch prize Photo by WICB Media/Ashley Allen. off-spinning all-rounder Narsingh Deonarine at the Southern or Brian Lara Pavilion end.

Deonarine was very tight and frugal and created immense pressure on the North American batsmen who succumbed to attacking shots against Emrit, who scalped Steven Taylor, caught by wicketkeeper Steven Katwaroo for 3 (1/4, 4.3 overs) and followed up with the wicket of captain Nitish Kumar, caught

by Kjorn Ottley for two runs (2/10, 6.1 overs).

Deonarine (4-1-6-0) was replaced by another Guyana-born Marlon Richards who prised out Akeem Dodson for 8 (3/24, 9.3 overs).

Srimantha Wijeyeratne and Alex Amsterdam shared a 25run fourth-wicket partnership when Deonarine was re-introduced into the attack and he made the breakthrough by having Amsterdam adjudged lbw for five (5/49, 17.3 overs) and had analysis of 8-1-13-1.

Leg-spinner Imran Khan was introduced and he mopped up the lower order and finished

with impressive returns of 5-125-4 while left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein also shared the wickets with 3-0-6-2. Khan was voted Man-of-the-Match.

In the other Zone A match, Barbados Pride whipped Jamaica Scorpions by 73 runs at the National Cricket Centre, Couva.

Former West Indies ODI opener Dwayne Smith topscored with 86 (101 balls, 10x4) and led the charge for the Barbadians who rallied to 246 for 9 off their allotted 50 overs. Shane Dowrich 46, Jonathan Carter 16, skipper Jason Holder 19, Ashley Nurse 23 not out and Sulieman Benn 16 not out were the other contributors. Jerome Taylor (9-0-30-2) and off-spinner John Campbell (10-0-57-3) were the main wicket-takers.

The Jamaican Scorpions started encouragingly and posted 63 for the first wicket partnership. But off-spinner Ashley Nurse effected the breakthrough when wicketkeeper Dowrich stumped Campbell for 42 in the ninth over.

Guyana’s Duguid to officiate in ICC Under-19 World Cup See Story on Page 35

Shepherd helps Jaguars blow away Leewards Hurricanes …newcomer cops Man-of-the-Match award with 3 for 37

By BRIJ PARASNATH

Romario Shepherd celebrates the dismissal of Leewards Hurricanes batsman Montcin Hodge.( Photo by WICB Media/Randy Brooks of Brooks Latouche Photography).

DDL outfits Pepsi Hornets for coming rugby season AT a simple ceremony held at the headquarters of local beverage giant, Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), Pepsi Hornets Rugby Football Club (RFC) received much-needed, spanking new playing outfits under the Pepsi Brand.

Brand Manager Larry Wills in an invited comment stated, “Demerara Distill-

ers Limited under its Pepsi brand is very happy to renew our long-standing partnership with the Pepsi Hornets RFC. Pepsi has been sponsoring the Hornets rugby team for over 10 years and we really like the commitment and professionalism

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AFTER having suffered a crushing blow to their chances of claiming top spot in Zone B when they were narrowly edged out

by Windwards Volcanoes in both rounds of the NAGICO Super50 series, the Guyana Jaguars regained some momentum and their winning ways when they whipped Leewards Hurricanes by seven wickets in their crucial second round match at the St Paul’s Complex in St Kitts yesterday.

Fast bowler Romario Shepherd announced his arrival on the regional big stage and put on an impressive display in his senior debut outing for the Jaguars. He finished with outstanding analysis of 10-2-37-3 and got the nod for the Man-of-the-Match award.

The evergreen Shivnarine Chanderpaul proved his immense value to the Jaguars’

effort of vying for top honours when he rallied the team to a seven-wicket victory with 3.4 overs remaining. The margin of victory seemed big but it was a mighty battle for 46.2 overs to get the 174 runs to secure second spot in Zone B. Chanderpaul batted for 105 minutes and faced 85 deliveries for his unbeaten 57 that contained five boundaries. Raymon Reifer was the other not-out batsman on 16 (31 balls, 1x4).

Asad Fudadin 27 (60 balls, 2x4s) opened the batting with Vishaul Singh 44 (81 balls, 3x4s) and they posted 65 for the first wicket before Jamaica leg-spinner and franchise player Odean Brown removed both of

them. Skipper Leon Johnson’s miserable form continues and he made 13 (22 balls, 1x4, 1x6).

But Chanderpaul together with Reifer defied every trick that Leewards bowlers tried and rallied the Jaguars to another important victory.

Earlier, the Leewards Volcanoes elected to bat first after they won the toss. And it presented the opportunity and challenge for newcomer Shepherd to make his mark. He did not disappoint and bowled two consecutive maiden overs but crucially picked up two wickets in the second.

Shepherd removed opener

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CONCACAF Extraordinary Congress set for February 25

THE Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) yesterday announced the scheduling of its Extraordinary Congress where the Confederation’s Member Associations will vote on reforms, including revisions to CONCACAF’s statutes.

The Extraordinary Congress will be held in Zurich, Switzerland, on Thursday, February 25, 2016.

Over the past several months, a Statutes Reform Committee, comprising leaders from each CONCACAF union, has worked in coordination with the Confederation’s legal advisers to draft amendments to CONCACAF’s statutes that will bring corporate governance best practices to the organisation.

The committee has also ensured that proposed revisions to FIFA’s statutes that affect CONCACAF and Left to right: Blaise Bailey, Larry Wills, Ryan Gonsalves its Member Associations are reflected in these amendments. (Sportsmax.com) and Kenneth Grant-Stuart pose with outfits.

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2016