Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 18 05 2016

Cops fan out WEDNESDAY MAY 18, 2016

No. 104555

Price: $80

(Vat Inclusive)

… to bolster security for Independence celebrations

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Mega cultural show to usher 14 in jubilee Page

Let there be light! Main Street Avenue is a picturesque scene at nights thanks to Courts Guyana Limited that has lit up the area as part of the 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations (Samuel Maughn photo)

D’Urban Park 22 will be ready in good time P.

- Chief Works Officer

Lands set aside Five teens for Brazilian charged with 17 firm to plant 25 professor’s murder soya, corn Page

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Rooting for -Brazil’s Michel Temer all the way in Lebanon

By Tariq Saleh

THOUSANDS of miles from Brazil, a small village in northern Lebanon is celebrating the South American country's new president.

Btaaboura is a typical Lebanese village, where olive groves are the most common sight, and the days go by very slowly.

But it has recently attracted much attention, due to one curious fact: It is the ancestral home of Michel Temer.

Mr Temer, a 75-year-old law professor, became Brazil's interim president last Thursday after Brazil's Senate voted in favour of launching impeachment proceedings against President Dilma Rousseff, and suspended her from office for the duration of the trial.

"Now that he has become president, I wish that he unites the people in Brazil, and fol-

lows in the footsteps of his ancestral hometown of Btaaboura, where the population is united, and its sons always seek the best," says Btaaboura's mayor, Bassam Barbar.

"I hope he solves the problems facing Brazilians, who are much divided and need someone to bring them together," he adds.

Mr Temer's family lived in Btaaboura until 1925, and his sister and two brothers were born there.

And Mr Barbar is keen to welcome the leader of South America's most populous nation back to Btaaboura.

"I will send him a message saying how proud we are of him, and how we're looking forward to his third visit, now as president," Mr Barbar told the BBC. Mr Temer, who was born in Sao Paulo in 1940, has already visited the village of his ancestors twice: In 1997

and 2011.

He may not be overly popular in Brazil, where a recent poll suggested that 58% reject him as president, but according to Mr Barbar, in Btaaboura, all 700 inhabitants support him.

One of the streets there was named after him when he last visited in 2011.

A plaque proudly proclaims, in both Portuguese and Arabic: "Michel Temer Street, Vice-President of Brazil".

And just a week before Mr Temer became interim president, a garden built in his honour, at a cost of $100,000 (ÂŁ70,000), was inaugurated in Btaaboura.

On the day after Mr Temer took over Brazil's top job, Mayor Barbar organised a village fete, complete with traditional Lebanese musicians and a belly dancer.

After the fireworks, a

TEMER in a meeting under the street sign named after him the last he went home to Btaaboura smiling Mr Barbar went to Michel Temer Street and, spray can in hand, sprayed over the word "vice".

'UNCONDITIONAL SUPPORT' Mr Temer's unpopularity back in Brazil stems partly from how he has been named as part of Operation Car Wash, a massive corruption investigation into State oil company, Petrobras. Mr Temer has denied any wrongdoing.

But in Btaaboura, interest in the allegations against Mr Temer seems to be minimal.

"I am not following the accusations against him, and do not know much about his political career. I support him only for the fact he is of Lebanese origin," explains local businessman, Michel El Mir. Electrician Elias Soueid is a Brazilian-Lebanese, who comes from Mr Temer's birthplace of Tiete.

He moved back to Lebanon 50 years ago, married a Lebanese woman, and had three children.

He says Mr Temer's family often visited his family when he still lived in Brazil.

"When he came to Btaa-

boura in 1997, he recognised me, and we exchanged some words. I like him, despite what they say about him in Brazil," he told the BBC. The 200-year-old house that belonged to Mr Temer's family is partially destroyed, and has been abandoned for over 70 years.

But his Lebanese cousin, Nizar Temer, a civil engineer, lives just next door, and is planning on turning it into a museum.

"It is a symbol for us in Btaaboura, that someone from this village can be successful abroad," he says.

Mr Temer is by no means the first Brazilian of Lebanese origin to succeed.

The mayor of Brazil's biggest city, and the country's financial hub, Sao Paulo, is Fernando Haddad, who also has Lebanese roots.

Mr Haddad's predecessor in the post, Gilberto Kassab, and Sao Paulo state governor, Geraldo Alckmin, are also of Lebanese origin.

Mr Temer's cousin, Nizar, thinks this link can only lead to good things. "Many villages in Lebanon have their sons around the world doing amazing things," he says, adding: "I believe Michel Temer can do a lot for Brazil, and maybe Lebanon, forging greater ties between the two countries." (BBC)

Cops fan out

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

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…to bolster security for Jubilee

By Rabindra Rooplall THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has seen a 26 percent reduction in serious crimes, and preparations for Guyana’s Golden Jubilee celebrations are on track, according to Commander of ‘A’ Division, Clifton Hicken.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, the commander pointed to a few recent activities that were incident-free, noting that the GPF will just be making adjustments as time goes by.

According to Commander Hicken, the reduction in serious crimes is an indication that preparations for the 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations are coming along well and Guyana will be fully ready on May 26.

The GPF will continue to work along with members of the public in solving and preventing crime, Hicken said. He disclosed that over the past few months, citizens have been providing useful information, which has led to a number of crimes being solved.

And since commencement of the Jubilee celebrations and the flag-raising at Jubilee Park, the commander said, these events have been incident-free; so the security protocol is being followed stage by stage, as was executed for the recent GuyExpo.

“Prior to the event, we had a security walk through the ground, and we look at the security posture that we need to raise, and the traffic flow… In fact, our security arrangement was one that covered the perimeter and patrols on the outskirts, and members of the public acknowledged our presence and even interacted with us,” the Assistant Commissioner said.

He explained that the GPF jelled well with the public,

which is commendable in light of the large events coming up from May 19-22, which will be kept at various venues, including the National Stadium.

“We will concentrate our forces within the periphery, and our planning will be done in three phases, mainly leading to the event, the event, and the aftermath. We will be three hours in advance leading up to the event, and the route will be cleared for them to move to the location, as police will do the final touches that are needed,” he explained.

Commander of ‘A’ After these events, police Division, Clifton Hicken will be visible to ensure that there are no robberies, Commander Hicken said, and all senior officers within ‘A’ Division will be in the fields to provide adequate leadership.

In addition, there will be supervisors for junior ranks, so the likelihood of misconduct will be eliminated.

“We are doing that to ensure that we don’t undo what we are fighting so much to do with the members of the public,” he noted.

The traffic advisory will soon be released, Commander Hicken said, and this will assist in preventing any inconvenience to members of the public.

In giving a sneak peak of the operations in the city, he said

Hadfield Street will be closed, parking will be done for VVIP in close proximity to the VVIP Stage, and nearby there will also be parking for others. The security posture will ensure a problem-free event at the Jubilee Stadium.

He said the attitude and focus on security is winning the support of the public in ‘A’ Division. Anti-crime patrols will be out in the various housing areas, and these will be boosted

by Community Policing Groups which will act as a relay system with the police to prevent unlawful activities.

He said the business community and other stakeholders were informed of the police operations pertaining to heightened security for the celebrations in and around Georgetown and its environs.

CYCLING TEAMS, FOOT PATROLS The commander also noted that police cycling teams and foot patrols will be deployed where tourists and members of the diaspora will be visiting. Certain areas of the East Bank Demerara route will be patrolled by motor vehicles, cycle and foot patrol.

NOTHING TO FEAR Commander Hicken noted that visitors entering the country have nothing to fear, since patrols will be operating in dual carriageways along the East Bank, to monitor any risk whatsoever of robberies.

“We are asking members of the public to continue to support us. We are always open to information-sharing because all our successes have not only come from police but from the overwhelming support of the public,” the commander emphasized.

Celebrating 100 years of bauxite A CENTENNIAL committee, called the Bauxite Century, chaired by Officer-in-Charge of NICIL, former CEO of the Linmine Secretariat and history enthusiast, Horace James has a lot in store for the upcoming celebrations of 100 years of bauxite mining in Linden.

The climax of the events will be in October, and will see in many ways the reflection on what was said to be the lone sustainability of the town’s economy during the era of its discovery.

The committee is made up of local and diaspora participants and aims to organize and plan centennial events that will educate the younger population of the importance of bauxite

mining to the development of Linden.

Bauxite mining saw its formal start in October 1916, and according to Horace James “the bauxite industry has sustained Guyana for 100 years and I’m pleased to announce the formation of a planning committee, whose charge is to appropriately commemorate this significant

milestone.”

Most of the committee members served the bauxite industry under Demba, Guybau or one of its subsequent iterations, Guymine and Linmine, will volunteer their time to formulate and plan activities that would appropriately commemorate a century of bauxite mining and processing in Guyana.

“Collectively, these in-

dividuals represent hundreds of years of combined management, engineering and leadership expertise invested in Guyana’s bauxite operations and it is appropriate that they have a seat at the table to commemorate this milestone,” said Mr. James.

He also thanked the Linden Fund USA (LFU) for its role in securing the involve-

ment of former bauxite industry officials and staffers in the North American diaspora, to be a part of this comprehensive programme.

Some of the plans were unveiled at Linden Town Week’s opening and include the establishment of an Industrial museum that will complement the Linden Heritage Museum, the constructing of an

arch and the renovating of edifices that are synonymous to bauxite mining in Linden. The current bauxite mining company Bosai is expected to fully support these plans.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

US 9/11 bill passes despite Saudi threats A bill that would allow the families of 9/11 victims to sue the Saudi Government has passed a key hurdle in the US Senate.

The Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA) now moves to the House of Representatives.

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign minister warned that the move could cause his government to withdraw US investments.

President Barack Obama said he will veto the bill, but a Democratic senator is “confident” he’d be overruled.

If it became law the legislation would allow victims’ families to sue any member of the Government of Saudi Arabia thought to have played a role in any element of the attack.

Saudi Arabia denies any involvement in the 2001 attack on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, which killed nearly 3,000 people.

Fifteen out of the 19 hijackers in 2001 were Saudi citizens.

In 2004 the 9/11 Commission Report found “no evidence that the Saudi Government as an institution or senior Saudi officials individually funded the organisation”.

A White House spokes-

man said President Obama had serious concerns about the bill, and it was difficult to imagine he would sign it into law.

It was sponsored by Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer of New York and Republican Senator John Cornyn of Texas and is expected to be passed by the House of Representatives as well.

Senator Schumer said: “Today the Senate has spoken loudly and unanimously that the families of the victims of terror attacks should be able to hold the perpetrators even if it’s a country a nation accountable.

“It will serve as a deterrent and warning to any other nation who assists in terror attacks against American.”

He said he was confident the bill would be passed by a large margin in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives.

On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia denied it had threatened to sell its US bonds, which would pull billions of dollars from the US economy.

“We said that a law like this is going to cause investor confidence to shrink,” Foreign Minister Ahmed AlJubeir said while attending a conference in Geneva. “Not

Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the attacks just for Saudi Arabia, but for everybody.”

Last year an inmate in US custody, Zacarias Moussaoui, claimed that a Saudi prince had helped finance the attack that flew passenger planes into the World Trade Centre in New York and the Pentagon in Virginia.

A fourth plane crashed into an empty field in western Pennsylvania.

Saudi Arabia had rejected the accusation from a “deranged criminal” with no credibility. (BBC)

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Five die seeking water in parched India FIVE villagers in a droughthit part of northern India have died while trying to restore a disused drinking well.

The men died after inhal-

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ing poisonous gases that had collected in the well in Haryana state, a local official said.

Much of India is in the grip of a severe drought, which has killed at least 300 people.

Haryana and two other states were last week criticised

by India’s Supreme Court for failing to acknowledge the water shortage problem.

Some local reports said the men, from the Jind district of Haryana, had decided to try to get the well working again to alleviate an acute shortage of drinking water in the area.

But local deputy police chief Virender Singh denied that they needed drinking water, saying the men had been hoping to use the well for

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bathing and washing purposes.

“The well had not been in use for about five to six years and a poisonous gas had formed in its depths,” he told the AFP news agency. “The five men inhaled that and died”.

Haryana, along with Gujarat and Bihar, was heavily criticised last week by the Supreme Court for failing to declare a drought in their regions, while a significant number of their people were suffering from a lack of water.

At least 330 million people are affected by drought in India, which is taking place as a heat wave with temperatures in excess of 40C extends across much of the country.

(BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Venezuela opposition appeals to army VENEZUELAN opposition leader Henrique Capriles has urged the army to choose whether it is “with the Constitution or with (President Nicolas) Maduro”, after a state of emergency was declared.

President Maduro has announced a 60-day emergency, giving soldiers and police wider powers to deal with the country’s spiralling economic crisis.

Capriles said the decree gave the President unconstitutional powers.

He called on Venezuelans to ignore it and take to the streets on Wednesday.

“We, Venezuelans, will

not accept this decree. This is Maduro putting himself above the Constitution,” Capriles told journalists.

“To impose this, he’d better start preparing to deploy the war tanks and military jets,” he added.

“And I tell the armed forces: The hour of truth is coming, to decide whether you are with the Constitution or with Maduro,” he said.

Capriles said the opposition was not calling for a military coup, but instead seeking a legal and constitutional way of ousting Maduro through a recall referendum.

The state of emergency is

in place for 60 days and can be renewed for another 60.

Hours after Capriles’s press conference, Maduro spoke to foreign journalists.

He said the opposition had missed the deadline for the referendum and falsified signatures.

Opposition politicians began the process two weeks ago by handing in a petition signed by 1.85 million people, well above the one per cent of voters on the electoral roll needed to kick-start the process.

The Constitution says that a referendum will be called to decide if the President remains in power if a

Dominican president claims poll victory

THE Dominican Republic’s President Danilo Medina has claimed victory in Sunday’s election as partial results show him ahead by a wide margin.

With 67 per cent of votes counted, Medina had 62 per cent, well ahead of his rival Luis Abinader on 35 per cent.

Abinader admitted defeat but accused the President of misusing state resources to win re-election.

Medina’s Dominican Revolutionary Party

public sector jobs.

“You should be aware that there were many Dominicans who did not vote for you,” he said in a remark aimed at Medina.

Electoral rules were changed to allow the president to run for a second consecutive term.

Voting on Sunday was extended for an extra hour after delays caused by technical problems at some polling stations.

The Democratic Liberation Party has been

President Danilo Medina celebrated with supporters outside his campaign headquarters also looked to have kept control of the Senate and Chamber of Deputies.

At a rally for supporters, President Medina said the people had voted to “continue on the path that we started”.

“We have received the support of the majority of the Dominican people,” Medina told cheering supporters at his campaign headquarters in the capital Santo Domingo.

Abinader, addressing his supporters, listed a series of alleged abuses.

He accused Medina’s party of paying people not to vote to reduce the opposition and said the governing party had swayed the electorate by being able to grant or remove

in power for 12 years and the economy has been booming, largely thanks to tourism.

But about 40 per cent of the nation’s 10 million people are estimated to live in poverty and the unemployment rate is about 14 per cent, according to Government figures.

Abinader, a wealthy businessman of Lebanese ancestry, has blamed Medina for Government corruption and the country’s high crime rate.

Medina, a left-of-centre economist, has overseen the repatriation of tens of thousands of people with roots in neighbouring Haiti.

The policy has popular support but has been condemned by human rights groups.

(BBC)

Mr Maduro accused foreign media of taking part in an aggressive campaign against him second petition is signed by at least 20 per cent of the electorate, or nearly four million people.

But the Government has already made it clear that the referendum will not go ahead.

Maduro accused the United States of leading a plot to deploy foreign troops in his country, and force him from office.

He told foreign journalists that an American military plane entered Venezuelan airspace twice last week without authorisation.

Politicians and media from outside the country have been trying to sow

chaos in Venezuela to justify intervention, he said.

“This whole campaign has a centre. There is an axis: Madrid, Miami and Washington.

“But there is a centre of planning, of direction, lobbying, strength and funding.

That centre is located in Washington, said Maduro.

He promised to fight back and to do everything in his power “to continue winning the battle for internal peace”.

Maduro also made reference to the recent suspension of Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff to face an impeachment trial.

He described the process

as a coup, backed by foreign powers: “Wherever you can’t govern, divide. They created chaos. Now they are coming after Venezuela.”

Venezuela is facing a serious economic crisis, with high inflation and shortage of many basic goods.

Maduro accuses the country’s elite of boycotting the economy to achieve its political goals.

The opposition blames the mistaken policies of Maduro and his predecessor, Hugo Chavez, for the crisis.

Maduro was elected in 2013 for a six-year term, following the death of Chavez. (BBC)

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

The Guyana National Service

THE act of dismantling the Guyana National Service (GNS) in 2000 was akin to throwing out the baby with the bathwater.

No one denies this institution attracted condemnations -- political and cultural -- and allegations of sexual misconduct among ranks and by the authorities. That being said, the time may be now to revisit the utility of resuscitating the GNS, of which an immediate benefit would be the creation of employment.

President Granger, in his address to Parliament last Thursday, reminded the nation that in 1964, two years before Independence, unemployment was at 22 per cent.

It meant that with the establishment of new government institutions, inclusive of the GNS, the unemployed had opportunities for employment. Direct employment would have also created economic opportunities and employment for others, to satisfy increasing disposable income and the providence of goods and services. A 2015 Caribbean Development Bank Report advised that youth unemployment in Guyana is hovering around 40 percent.

It is no secret that persons are graduating from various institutions of learning and cannot find jobs. The truth also is not everyone can be self-employed, so there is still a demographic whose need for work has to be met.

The recent crimes in which young people are allegedly involved have created outcries from various quarters.

Though some saw these to be ashamed of country, seek political mileage, or as evidence that Guyana has no hope, while understandable in moments of grief, desire for power, or in the presence of pessimism, the fact remains that lives are being lost in ways that can be avoided. In April, the Police’s Report showed violent crimes down by 19 per cent, compared to the same time last year. But this statistic is meaningless to those who cry shame on Guyana, see political opportunities, and the anxious among us. This, too, is understandable. Every man, woman and child wants to live to a ripe old age, even though, unfortunately within these said groups, some will take the life of another.

The youth are the leaders of today and tomorrow.

They are the ones who will build on the present foundation and hand over to future generations. Given this reality, ways and means have to be found to channel their energies in avenues that will redound to productivity for themselves and country. At this impressionable stage of life, guidance and positive role models are needed.

Where persons have erred or fallen short, they need opportunities for rehabilitation and second chances. Where forces serve as role models, it should be recognized that not at all times are their pursuits legitimate and socially acceptable.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

The Bible says: ‘A light on a hill cannot be hid’

Dear Editor SO a decent, successful gold miner for over quarter of a century decides to take up the cause of the abused and oppressed women in the mining industry. For this she was ostracised and arrested in this our country of Guyana. She came to prominence through the diligence of the United States of America. She joined forces with the then opposition and campaigned for a change in Government, promising the people of Guyana that they would work to make a different and better Guyana.

She was appointed minister within the Labour Department, and in six months the poor and the needy and the oppressed workers found no better advocate; no, not for the past 23 years, if not longer. They rejoiced for the change in government, and for this minister whom God had sent to help them.

Many a testimony was made by these grateful citizens of Guyana at the Ministry of Labour, as we witnessed daily in the papers. And so,

powerful people in powerful places with powerful interests, who could no longer treat the Guyanese workers with contempt, if not as slaves, conspired to have her removed from Labour. This Labour Ministry has now returned to hibernation since her departure, but I digress.

Nevertheless, the President, trying to appease the powerful and not offend the populace, transferred her to the Ministry of Natural Resources, where her experience, he said, would be an asset to the Government.

It is this experience that is now to be the source of controversy, this huge conflict of interest. As we are now told, because she was a gold miner all her adult life, she should not be the minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, which is in charge of gold mining.

And the heart surgeon for 25 years should no longer perform heart surgery, while the musician all his life should stop singing his tune.

Ha! Ha! What nonsense!

Laughable! Ohh what tangled web we weave, when

we plot deceive. And yet, she has been quietly toiling within the Ministry of Natural Resources, correcting the injustices suffered by many small miners who had, and continue to have, their rights and properties taken from them by the well-connected and the wealthy through the corrupt at GGMC, especially in the Land Management Unit.

And so, my fellow Guyanese, here we are. Should the Minister, who abides by the law, helps the poor and needy, and does not take a reward to pervert justice, be sidelined? Yes, this is the Guyana that was ruled by one party for 23 years, including 10 years by a quasi-dictator; who did as they pleased and abused whom they pleased, and destroyed whom they pleased, and took what they pleased, and nobody dared say a word; who are now the righteous judges.

They are now leading the charge with their comrades with whom they shared the assets of Guyana exclusively.

But again, I digress.

How can this minister, who defends the cause of the poor and needy against the rich and powerful, be forced to defend herself from these vultures?

Again she is cast into the spotlight. They will not cease trying to have her removed from office. She went as far as giving up her assets to her kids, but it is not enough.

What must she do next? Let the people of Guyana answer that one.

But, my fellow Guyanese, they will yet fail, because she shall not be moved. They will still have to contend with her, because whom Jehovah blesses let no Man curse. And if she chooses to leave the Government, then they and the Government will have to contend with her, because “she stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy,” and that pleases the Almighty Father. So to God be the Glory in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Regards, M. BLAIR

In support of Broomes Dear Editor, IT fascinates me, the hearts of men, when within them ‘cynicism’ exits to berate and torture the very people who upon them show only wondrous munificence and love. I am talking about the recent articles against Minister Broomes and her character.

Note: I am not writing to bash the writers, but instead wish to highlight their inaccuracy and vindictive approach towards such a truly god-sent and blessing of a woman.

Although I have not yet been given the pleasure of meeting Minister Broomes, her pure and transparent work within

the fields of human trafficking and social issues altogether precede her. Let us take a moment to reflect upon the humble beginnings of this one woman. An entrepreneur, she bought and sold gold before acquiring enough money to begin mining. Unlike the thousands who would have traversed the interiors of Guyana, witness human injustices and deem them normal, Minister Broomes saw inhumanity and her heart ached. Establishing the Guyana Women Miners Organization, she was recognised by a foreign people before she was bestowed any honour from here at home. Now blessed in the position where she can help

Where instant gratification is admired, crime is glamourised, the corrupt is perceived to be allowed to walk free, intolerance for the other earns kudos, leaders fail to deliver leadership, and parents/authority treated with contempt, such means that discipline, law and order will be tested and disregarded. This is not to say these negative have consumed all, but it needs to be recognised that it takes a village to raise a child, borrowing from the African proverb.

The concern is real that young people are not being allowed to channel their energies and unleash potentials to the fullest and for the common good. In this instance, even the employed and law-abiding are affected. National Service can fill a gap here. In addition to creating employment, new skills can be acquired, creating a new cadre of workers to satisfy the green collar job market, given the Green Economy focus.

even more people, she, in six months of government, has touched the lives of a number of Guyanese.

William Shakespeare enlightened: “How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world.”

She must have shone too brightly for the present Government, so they tried to dim her light by transferring her to another ministry.

Dare I say that even this worked not against her?

Consequently, evil tries another method of debasement: to produce frivolous inaccuracies.

Fact: A doctor who later becomes a minister can never stop his family from practising medicine. Minis-

ter Broomes, a former miner, cannot stop her family from mining. And this is the issue at hand today! A minister and mother with children invested in mining.

Shall I say it, or is Guyana at least competent enough to decipher that this is not a matter worth writing about, much less publishing.

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that,” preached Martin Luther King Jr. Brothers and sisters, be wise. Remember these words, and let us not crucify another good person.

Regards, JOSEPH HARDATT

With border conflicts with Venezuela and Suriname, the practicality of having those environs peopled was aided by GNS centres. Allegations of sexual misconduct or disregard for cultural diversity can be addressed through policies, laws and best practices of institutions and societies. The GNS can be resuscitated consistent with modernity and the nation’s focus, four of which are employment, crime reduction, sustainable development, and safeguarding sovereignty.

Finally, outstanding citizens have served in the GNS, and some are Major General Joe Singh, its Director General (DG), who went on to be Chief of Staff of the GDF; Captain Gerry Gouveia, CEO of Roraima Holdings; Colonel Desmond Roberts, the young officer who hoisted the Golden Arrowhead on 25th May 1966 and went on to be a DG; and Second Lady Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Rohee accuses President Granger of revising history Dear Editor, PRESIDENT David Granger fired the first salvo in pursuit of his historical mission to misinterpret and revise Guyana’s contemporary political history.

In the course of a lecture delivered at the Parliament Building on July 6, 2012, he declared: “There is no Father of the Nation; Independence cannot be attributed to a single person or to a single party.”

With this single sentence Granger dismissed out of hand any role for both Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham.

By the same token, he distanced himself from Burnham, his benefactor, “the Kabaka” and Founder Leader of the party he now heads.

A mere three years later, Amna Ally, speaking at a ceremony hosted by the Women’s arm of the PNC on August 7, 2015, contradicted Granger. She publicly hailed Burnham as “the Father of the Nation”.

It was the politics of deception at work.

In the same month and year, to mark the same occasion but at a different venue,

Granger made a ninety degree about turn, probably to appease the Nortons and other hardline Burnhamites who had expressed publicly their disagreement with Granger’s earlier “Father of the Nation” statement.

Praising Burnham, this is what Granger had to say: “Guyanese are heirs of a rich legacy bequeathed by Forbes Burnham… We draw strength from our former leader’s exemplary record, and renew our collective effort to continue his life’s work and to create a good life for all Guyanese.”

Continuing his historical mission to dictate the course of history and to provide his own interpretation of Guyana’s political history, speaking at a President’s College Graduation ceremony in November 2015, Granger declared that Guyana needs a “second Independence”. He stated: “The independence movement was “incomplete”; it left many citizens languishing in the shadow of dependency with its poverty, prejudices, and political partisanship.”

Granger completely and

consciously side-stepped the programme and policies implemented by the PPP from 1957 to 1964; but, more importantly, those implemented from 1992 to 2015. Granger now sees himself cast in the role of Sir Galahad, who has taken on the “mantle” of saving Guyana from the “four horsemen” which he so fondly keeps reminding his audiences about. Further, he assumed another mantle, beginning from 1966, since, as far as he is concerned, neither Jagan nor Burnham played any significant role whatsoever during the period of 1957 to 1964, and from 1964 to 1992, and later from 1992 to 2015, while the PPP was in office.

At the ceremony marking the 49th Anniversary of Guyana’s Independence, held at the Independence Arch at Brickdam, Granger praised to the skies one Theopholus Lee whom he claimed played a major role in the Guyanese people’s struggle for Universal Adult Suffrage - a rather far-fetched and obscurantist approach to Guyanese political history. It was a falsehood which could not survive a test

Correia out of line Dear Editor, I RETURNED to Guyana just in time to join our nation’s Jubilee celebrations, after having had a busy business trip negotiating for the expanding of the Dynamic flights between New York and Guyana.

On my return I was astonished to learn of the verbal abuse unleashed on me by Mike Correia in the presence of President Granger, senior members of the Cabinet, members of the diplomatic corps and the media, at the renaming of the Ogle International Airport, primarily because I dared to represent the views of the nine dissatisfied aircraft operators at the Ogle Airport.

It is said that Mike Correia rules his family business with an iron fist, the same way he attempts to run the airport management and his competitors. It is not unusual to watch him shout at Malcom Chan-A-Sue and Kit

Nascimento into silence during board meetings, this being one of the very reasons I deliberately stayed away -- because of the hostility that predominate meetings chaired by him.

Mike Correia is not an aviation professional of any sort, and his embarrassing attempt at trying to drive a wedge between professional aviators such as Captain Chan-A-Sue, Captain Tony Mekdeci and me is a cheap shot. It is my hope that even though both of them work for him, that does not spoil the mutually respectful professional relationship we shared over the past four decades.

Mike Correia is extremely intolerant of opinions that are opposed to his own, and it is obvious that he is possessed of an extreme sense of false supremacy, driven by his family’s money, which had driven him into believing that his family’s money could indeed buy the Ogle Airport (a public utility)

and transform it into a department of the CORREIA GROUP. (Just look at the Correia Group website) It is important to note that I represent NATA, as its Vice President, (an organisation that represents nine of the 10 local aircraft operators) a responsibility I take very seriously, and therefore I view Mike Correia’s outrageous outburst as a clear demonstration of the disrespect he harbours personally for all the other nine local operators at Ogle, as well as an opportunity for all the persons who were sitting in the audience to truly, once and for all, see his true arrogant colours.

On a personal note, my wife and I are particularly saddened by his public demeaning of the little fortune which we have struggled to consolidate to invest in OAI while we were also struggling to build our company (Roraima Airways), which is a first generation family

of a Guyanese history lesson, nor scrutiny of British Guiana’s historical records.

It astounded many that Granger would scrape the barrel searching for an obscure and a non-entity as Lee, a turncoat who openly supported pro-colonial policies against the citizens of the then British Guiana.

It came as a surprise, therefore, that Granger did not use the occasion to name the Brickdam Arch after Theopholus Lee, as he is wont to do.

But this was not to be the end of the revisionist and obscurantist approach to Guyana’s contemporary political history. In fact, on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of our country’s Independence, Mr. Granger was at it again. This time he delved deep into his party’s album in search of a hero who perhaps Burnham himself never liked anyway. Thus Granger came up with the name Eugene Correia.

The question was where was the name to be placed?

A location had to be found to assign the name; and, after all, what better place can

there be than the Ogle International Airport? The President therefore took it upon himself to sell the name, and to publicly justify the name being emblazoned atop the main Terminal Building at the Ogle Airport.

In this way, Granger opened a can of worms, all hell broke loose, the proposal became mired in controversy from the very outset, but there was no turning back.

Eugene Correia belonged to the privileged and propertied class of the then British Guiana. Following the removal of the PPP government as a result of the suspension of the Constitution by the colonial powers, he was elected a Member of the 1954 Interim Government.

Correia belonged to the National Democratic Party (NDP), which fought the PPP in 1953 elections. Correia’s party was closely associated with the League of Coloured People (LCP), a party that appealed to African racism.

Correia, along with others, opposed the Rice Farmers’ Security of Tenure Ordinance.

According to Cheddi

Jagan: “The Ordinance sought to help rice farmers during droughts and floods, and to secure and protect their rights. For a landlord who did not keep drains and trenches free from bush, the penalty was again that the tenant would vacate the land.

The landlord deliberately did not uphold the rules of good estate management.

And vacating the land was the last thing the tenant wanted to do – The law was of no value to him”. So much for the “admirable role” played by Eugene Correia. Rice farmers today should take note of these historical facts as they continue to struggle for survival fifty years later. Guyana can look forward to more of these brazen and disrespectful acts as we move towards celebrating the 50th Anniversary of our country’s independence.

company being built from the ground up, while Mike Correia is managing a third generation company (the Correia Group) built by his generations grandparents.

I think it is important to highlight that the airport was leased to five aircraft operators with the clear understanding that the airport would be operated by those operators and in a fair and equitable manner, a far cry from the anti-competitive environment that exists today.

Over the past 40 years, while Mike Correia’s father was continuing the building of their family’s gold mining business in preparation to hand it over to him one day on a silver platter, I was serving in the Guyana National Service, planting cotton at Kimbia, singing national songs, while learning to build my country by living and working in harmony with my Guyanese brothers and sisters from all walks of life across Guyana.

I was also serving my country as an army officer and military pilot, flying dangerous Medivac missions both by day and by

night between the mountains of the deep Mazaruni, bringing vital supplies to our Amerindian families living in the most remote areas of our country’s hinterland, all in the interest of contributing to making my country a better place.

The fact that Mike Correia ranted and raved in his attempt to belittle me, even suggesting that I am anti-national in front of His Excellency Brigadier General David Granger, a man under whose command I had the honour and privilege of serving for more than a decade, is revealing in how far Mike Correia will go to silence the minority shareholders and his competitors at the Ogle Airport.

Even as I write this letter, there is another controversy developing at the airport, where once again Mike Corriea is attempting to heist the engineering school away from the AOAG into a private company owned by himself and Malcolm Chana-Sue, a company which was registered within the past month.

It’s important to note

that this school has been part of the AOAG over the past 20 years, even as Mike Correia manipulated the AOAG governance systems, keeping himself as president all during those 20 years, which is unprecedented in the private sector.

I have been a professional aviator for 40 years, and I have never experienced such an acrimoniously unhealthy atmosphere that exists today at Ogle. A lot was said and written publicly about the challenges we are facing at Ogle airport.

I w o u l d t h e re f o re close by saying it is my fervent hope that the Government intervenes urgently in a meaningful and even-handed way to halt and reverse the unhealthy and dangerously deteriorating inter-personal relationship between Mike Correia personally and all the other aircraft operators, which is not healthy for the airport nor for the Guyana aviation industry.

Regards, CLEMENT ROHEE General Secretary, People’s Progressive Party

Regards, CAPTAIN GERRY GOUVEIA

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Youth crime

By Akola Thompson

GUYANA, like all countries around the world, is no stranger to crime. If there is one day in which the newspapers do not have anything crime- related, it is considered a strange one. Despite our familiarity with crime, however, recent years have shown an increase in youth-based crimes which have caused many in the public to wonder about the state of the country’s future.

If one were to look at the larger picture, however, one would soon realize that the rise in youth-based crimes should not be surprising. Given Guyana’s youth unemployment rates, which hover around 40%; easy access to drugs, lack of rehabilitation facilities, unstable families, and the harsh penalties meted out to first time non-violent offenders, it is a wonder youth crimes are not of a higher number.

Unemployment has long since been linked to an increase in the likelihood of a life of poverty, and poverty has been linked to an increase in the likelihood of someone becoming a criminal. While it is understood that unemployment is a global problem and it will most likely not be fixed in our lifetime, the current administration seems to have forgotten its promise of creating jobs for the youths. In fact, since the election has been won, I cannot recall hearing much regarding the coalition’s plans on how exactly it will provide these jobs.

Then, of course, there is the easy access to drugs, which

results in a considerable amount of junkies, who would maim or kill for another ‘fix.’ Yet, in spite of the correlation between drugs and crime, there are no rehabilitation centres to help guide these persons to healthier lifestyles.

If there are any plans on a rehab centre being built, it must be a closely guarded secret.

That aside, there remains the unrelenting issue of first time non-violent offenders who receive sentences which do them more harm than good, as these offenders are often housed with hardened criminals who can negatively influence their future life choices.

There needs to be greater thought on the part of judges.

Collective efforts need to be made to ensure that punishments fit crimes, and alternatives to incarceration need to be considered, because, contrary to popular belief, Guyana can be made safer without having every non-violent offender imprisoned.

Judges who hand down sentences without impunity to first-time offenders while career criminals roam free fail to realize that they are unnecessarily tearing apart struggling family structures and communities; they are closing future job opportunities, and, in the process, they are perpetuating poverty.

Many, through fear, make calls for more stringent laws to be put in place in the hope that longer, harsher sentences will dissuade youths from participating in illegal activities.

These persons have become more concerned with correc-

tive measures than with preventative ones, in that they would rather that millions be spent on prisons than have thousands be spent on youth-based programmes.

We see this same mindset in the Government, both past and present administrations, as it was hoped that crime would be curbed through the use of punishments and rewards.

The Minister of Public Security has, in the past year, made some lovely speeches regarding the need for juvenile reforms, and is seeking to have crimes such as wandering and truancy reviewed. However, while I know the popular argument will be that it has only been a year since Government has been changed, one should wonder what exactly the Minister has done to directly impact the level of crime within Guyana. I am sure that the 2:00am curfew implemented is not responsible for the supposed decrease in crime if one is to trust the Guyana Police Force’s recent statistics.

All of that aside, one should always consider the role the family has to play in the honing of one’s character and future life choices. While the Government does have a responsibility to its people, the people have a responsibility to themselves, and should seek to educate and encourage those around them to make smart decisions. While one can understand the lure the gains from illegal activities would have on those living in poverty, one should always remember that while crime may pay temporarily, it often ends in tragedy.

Canada–Guyana partnership supports gains in local govt FARMERS from the Mara Farmers Association (MFA) in Region 6 met with representatives from Canada and the Caribbean on Monday to talk about gains in farming and community development over the last two years under the Mara Agricultural Enhancement Project (MAEP).

The MAEP, viewed as a potential model for replication of good practices towards local economic development, is one of several initiatives to strengthen local governance supported by the Caribbean Local Economic Development Project (CARILED). CARILED supports local governance bodies in order to promote job creation and increased productivity among small businesses.

Mr. Ovid Phillips, Chairman of Mara Village; and Mr Daniel Ward, Secretary of the Mara Farmers Association, spoke on behalf of the community. They outlined the type of improvements seen by the 145 households and 280 farmers in the area through CARILED’s support. Since the purchase of the excavator, the MFA has been able to plough 1000 rows for planting, clear 200 acres of farmland, set 5 plots for housing, and dig small ponds and reservoirs for local homes.

The community now experiences less flooding as a result of this infrastructural support, leading to increased crop yield and fewer losses of animals. With money generated from the renting of the excavator, the MFA built a bucket and flatbed, and is currently seeking to purchase a tractor to continue its work.

As a Government of Canada-funded project, CARILED

works with seven Caribbean countries in supporting local economies and groups. In Guyana, CARILED partners with the Ministry of Communities and directly supports dedicated local government staff in four Regions: Regions 2, 3, 4 and 6. CARILED is providing assistance in the revision of the Municipal Development Plans, Local Area Economic Profiles, and Ease of Doing Business stakeholder consultations, to promote the role of local governments as leaders in development.

Local authorities, including Regional Democratic Councils, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and Municipal Councils, will benefit from technical assistance and capacity building aimed at enhancing the local economic development process.

The delegation to Mara Village included His Excellency Pierre Giroux, High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, and Ms. Odette Gauthier, Director of Federation of Canadian Municipalities International, who both gave opening remarks. The group was reminded of the 50 years of diplomatic relations shared between Canada and Guyana, which could only lead to a future of ‘growing together.’

“We have a strong past, strong present, and now we want a strong future together,” said High Commissioner Giroux. Ms. Gauthier made similar remarks, and reiterated the commitment of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to support local governments across the globe.

After a demonstration of the excavator and site visit to a neighbouring farm, the group was thanked by Ms. Marion Villanueva, Programme Director of CARILED, for its com-

mitment and dedication to local economic development. The visit, organised by CARILED, was part of a two-day annual Project Steering Committee meeting that ended today.

The annual committee meeting is attended by members from four Caribbean, two Canadian, and one Commonwealth organisations, and was co-chaired by Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, representing the Caribbean Forum of Local Government Ministers, and Mr. Marlon Thompson of Global Affairs Canada. During the annual committee meeting, Minister Bulkan thanked the Government and people of Canada for their ongoing support of development in the Caribbean. He reiterated that the Ministry of Communities and local authorities of Guyana remain committed to partnering with regional partners, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and CARILED, to achieve local government reform and to shape strategic visions that can lead to cohesive and productive communities.

CARILED is funded by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada. The programme was launched in May 2012 with a regional Head Office in Trinidad and Tobago, and sub-offices in the Caribbean and Ottawa, Canada. It is being implemented by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, in partnership with the Caribbean Forum of Local Government Ministers (CFLGM), the Caribbean Association of Local Government Authorities (CALGA) and the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF). (GINA)

STaking it step by step GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

urviving cancer and other

potholes in Guyana

BEING diagnosed with Breast Cancer is like having tremors hit your core foundation at the most unexpected times.

The first two weeks after my diagnosis I was on an emotional rollercoaster, I would be angry then sad and felt ranges of emotions in between both spectrums. I felt like a chicken running around with its head cut off and replaced by images of the words ‘cancer’ and ‘chemo’ flashing as if they were neon signs outside of a bar.

The only thing I could do was take everything in steps. Step one- get my ct scan done, step two- get outsourced biopsy results, Step 3- Chemo (only if I really needed to!).

Step one- CT Scan A CT Scan or Computed tomography of the body uses special x-ray equipment to help detect a variety of diseases and conditions. CT scans may be done with or without "contrast." Contrast refers to a substance taken by mouth or injected into an intravenous (IV) line that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. I was having a scan done on my throat, chest and pelvic area with and without the contrast dye used which meant I had to fast for about 6-8 hours before.

On the morning of my CT Scan I drank about two litres of water that was mixed with the contrast dye- it tasted a bit metallic and was quite uncomfortable to do especially after having not eaten for about six hours. After drinking the water I was ready to

start the scan.

I changed into the dressing gown provided and laid down on the CT table, the technician then came over to me and took my hand- I hadn’t realised at that point the contrast dye would also have to be inserted via an IV into my body. Oh boy, this was only the beginning of having IV’s inserted into my hand. The invasive nature of medical exams greatly deter persons from having them done especially when ‘nothing is wrong’ but this slight discomfort may prevent one from future anguish by having issues diagnosed early, regardless of age.

The technician explained that the machine would tell me when to hold my breath and when to exhale. I laid in the machine which, due to its design, is not the best place to be for close to thirty minutes if you’re claustrophobic. Finally, it was over, the technician very gently removed the iv from my hand and was very concerned about how I was feeling – having dealt with so many callous people in the medical profession this was refreshing. I received the results from my scan the same day- it confirmed that I did have swollen lymph nodes. However, the great news was that no other areas in my body had been affected thus far.

As I continued to wait on further confirmation and a more detailed diagnosis from my outsourced biopsy, my family and I began to discuss chemotherapy options. I was very upset about this, I

was adamant that I did not want to go through chemotherapy after hearing many horror stories about cancer patients suffering more from the chemotherapy than from the disease itself. My family suggested I speak to someone who had gone through chemo and get a first hand account for myself.

It is funny indeed how people are placed in our lives from early on but their roles do not come into play until it is time. I was fortunate to have met Devika Tinsram while I was studying at the University of Guyana about eight years ago, we became friendly classmates then and the bond was further reinforced when we both worked for the same company after our graduation. About two years ago Devika was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was shocked and probably displayed the same emotions people did when they found out about me,I was an observer and supporter in her journey not knowing then I would soon share the same story as her.

Devika is indeed an inspiration to all women suffering with breast cancer or any disease for that matter. She has handled herself and her journey incredibly and has become a spokesperson for the disease in Guyana. I knew that if anyone could help me through this difficult time it was Devika, she had just completed eight cycles of chemo and her beautiful hair was just starting to grow back.

My intuition told me to

let Devika’s account of her treatment and journey be my guide on how to move forward.

(Next week- My interview with breast cancer survivor Devika Tinsram)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Local agricultural, public health officials receive international training

By Clifford Stanley PUBLIC health professionals and agricultural officials from Guyana and six other primary production countries in the Caribbean are undergoing training on Anti Microbial Resistance (AMR) in food-producing animals which occurs when harmful bacteria becomes resistant to drugs designed to cure or prevent infections in livestock.

The training occurs against a backdrop of international concern about growing levels of AMR by disease and infection-causing microorganisms in poultry and livestock which have been found to render traditional antibiotics and other treatment less effective and sometimes totally useless, the local office of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) disclosed.

With AMR, resistant microorganisms (including bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites) are able to withstand attack by antibiotics, so that standard treatments become ineffective and infections persist, increasing the risk of spread to others.

A few infections in food-producing animals become completely untreatable due to AMR. From an animal-production perspective, the undesir-

able outcomes of AMR are the failure of disease control programmes or clinical recovery for food producing animals, increased severity of diseases, prolonged morbidity, increased mortality, reduced productivity, higher risks of disease spread in animal populations, and increased costs to society as a whole, an official explained.

As a result of this, AMR has, in recent years, become a major global public health concern and food safety issue, with serious implications for international trade and commerce.

The training on AMR is being executed by IICA, and is being funded by the European Union 10th EDF Sanitary Phyto-Sanitary (SPS) Project.

Phase I of the Capacity Building of Public Sector Professionals on the threat of AMR was done during the months of July and December, 2015 by experts at the Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Public health and agricul-

tural officials from Guyana and six primary production countries in the Caribbean, namely, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Barbados, The Dominican Republic and, Jamaica participated.

This training was specially designed and customized for official veterinarians, diagnosticians, epidemiologists and other public health professionals from different countries in the Caribbean.

A main objective was to help these professionals to understand the emergence and epidemiology of AMR in food producing animals and agriculture in general and its impact on the health of humans, animals and the environment, as well as on international trade and commerce.: An imminent phase of the project, Phase II, will comprise Pilot Studies on Pre-Harvest and Retail Poultry to determine baseline Salmonella bacteria prevalence and the AMR resistance profile of this disease in primary poultry production countries in the Caribbean.

The overall purpose will

be to establish a baseline in regards to the salmonella pathogen and its related AMR while expanding the laboratory capacity and expertise in each respective country.

Another main goal is to develop a multi-country pilot project as the first step to contribute to the establishment of a Regional AMR surveillance system in Agriculture for the Caribbean.

It has been noted also that inappropriate use of antibiotics for treatment and prevention of diseases in food production animals can lead to the emergence and spread of drug resistant microorganisms.

There will also be a focus on appropriate policies and strategies to regulate the authorization of antimicrobial drugs, to control the quality and usage of antimicrobials, to monitor quantities of veterinary drugs used, and to regulate the manufacture, importation, and distribution of drugs with the aim of lessening the risk of AMR, the local IICA office disclosed.

National Museum to celebrate ‘The Good Ol' Days’ - in month-long exhibition THE Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport will be hosting a month-long exhibition, beginning today at 09:00hrs, at the Guyana National Museum. The exhibition, titled “Celebrating Our Rich Legacy, Guyanese Culture and Identity, A Look Back at the Good Ol' Days”, is being organised by the Guyana National Museum, the Museum of African Heritage and the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology in commemoration of International Museum Day 2016.

International Museum Day is celebrated worldwide annually on or around May 18, and supported by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), in recognition of the roles and responsibilities of museums the world over.

ICOM's theme for 2016 is “Museums and Cultural Landscapes.”

In an examination of Guyanese culture, one would recognise a legacy of resourcefulness and innovative creativity in adapting to the challenges that life presented.

These days, with ready access to technology, many of these innovative and creative skills are disappearing.

The exhibition attempts to look back at the creative and innovative aspects of Guyanese culture and tradition, and recognise their value to the Guyanese identity.

This creative, innovative energy was prevalent in the arts and crafts, food production, childhood games and pastimes, in architecture, creole enterprises and entertainment.

The exhibition will close on June 18, 2016.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

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The effect of inadequate parenting on children Hi there, You are reading 4 minutes 4 change, where you are being urged to take four minutes out of your schedule to relax while reading this article that aims to heighten your awareness. The awareness that, hopefully, will be heightened on this occasion is the effect that inadequate parenting can have on our children.

When parents fail to care for their children properly, they leave them exposed to the ills of our society. Even in the womb, children are vulnerable; the unborn child is only as safe as the ‘mother-to-be’ is considerate. Drinking excessive alcohol, smoking, and taking drugs can damage the unborn child.

It is hard for the layperson to imagine the magnitude of the impact that negative parenting can have on a child, but the damage can be irrevocable.

Take a look of the diagram below. The brain on the right is that of a child who has been extremely neglected, while the one on the left shows a child who has received the love, attention and care that he needs.

Children have no say in their conception and ultimate birth; they are simply born into a setting where they are either cared for adequately, or, due to ineffective parenting, they learn to strive, against all odds. In some cases, there is a ‘minimum standard’ of care given to children that, with some adjustments, can be improved, because the children are not in any immediate danger or ‘at risk’.

There is also a standard that falls, disappointingly, below what is considered ‘reasonable childcare’. Here are some examples: • Children who are consistently beaten or physically abused, with belts, sticks, hose pipes, wire etc.

• Parents who sexually abuse their children, or parents who know their child was sexually abused, but fail to report it, therefore protecting the perpetrator.

• Parents who encourage their under-age children to engage in sex for money (sex trafficking).

• Children who are left alone for long periods of time without parental supervision, and/or food and water.

Those are just four examples of bad parenting, which are, in actual fact, CHILD ABUSE; and child abuse is AGAINST THE LAW. Because children are unable to protect themselves, and they are unaware of what is best for their development, when parents fail to provide reasonable care, the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) is left no other alternative but to intervene on behalf of the child.

A recent case saw a young child (2 years old) left for 2-3 years in the care of a dysfunctional caregiver, who severely neglected the child.

When the child was eventually rescued by CPA officers, she couldn’t talk; she only made grunting sounds. Due to malnourishment, she had a few twisted teeth and no social skills whatsoever. One year later, the child, who’s now in foster care, still cannot talk, and although trying, can only ‘grunt’ a few words. Her few teeth bleed occasionally when brushed, and no doubt need extraction. Her social skills have however developed, because she now shows care and affection; she loves hugs and kisses too. But, for her, it’s a long road. It took three years for her to be damaged to this extent; and she may never be whole again. There is saying that says, ‘You could spend a lifetime trying to forget a few minutes of your childhood.

Damaged children act out their ‘pain’ of abandonment, rejection, frustration, and the psychological effect of physical and sexual abuse in a variety of ways. Who cares? We care! EVERY ADULT SHOULD CARE, because adults have a duty to either intervene or prevent our children from abuse in any way, shape or form. By addressing child-protective issues today, we are seeking to ensure well rounded adults of tomorrow.

If you are concerned about a child, you can ring the CPA hotline: 227 0979 or email chilcaregy@gmail.com

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Water security: An important economic development – GWP

WATER security is a stronger function of economic development of a country than many other variables, such as absolute water availability, according to a Global Water Partnership (GWP) paper released recently.

The title of the paper is “Increasing water security: The key to implementing the Sustainable Development Goals”.

According to the GWP paper, as governments begin to implement the United Nation’s new development agenda up to 2030, and recognise the importance of water security in sustainable development, it is timely to critically review the key role that integrated water resourc-

es management (IWRM) can play in increasing water security.

The paper offers a timely and critical review of the IWRM approach; how it has developed over the past 25 years; its successes and disappointments as countries put it into practice, and provides indicative guidelines for the types of interventions that may help to improve the allround working of a country’s water economy.

In September 2015, Guyana was amongst 193 member states of the UN General Assembly to sign on to a new development agenda that will drive sustainable development actions up to 2030.

Building on the successes, gaps, and lessons from

the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), this new agenda sets out 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 Targets.

The GWP report notes that the IWRM concept has gradually gained prominence over the past 25 years, as the demand and competition for limited water resources has increased.

“Our knowledge of water’s impact on the environment has grown, and more complex institutions have developed to negotiate and coordinate water allocations among different users,” the report says, adding: “The quality of water governance in a country depends on the quality and size of human and other resources

available, including public water institutions, their rule-enforcement capacity, and the ability of the poorest sections of society to pay for a minimum acceptable level of public water service. All this determines the potential

to build a viable, modern water industry. All these drivers are weak in poor countries and strong in wealthy ones.”

In summary, the most powerful beneficial impact of IWRM has been to transform the global discourse on how

governments and communities can best manage their water resources. It offered a sharply different view, compared with earlier thinking, on what, where, who, why, and how to intervene in the water sector from the micro to meso to macro levels. So different was this view that it was often considered theoretical, idealistic, aspirational, and far removed from the prevailing reality in many countries.

Two important lessons emerge from this report.

The first is that implementation must be gradual and nuanced. Forcing the pace on developing countries has so far proved counterproductive. The second is that countries at different stages of socio-economic evolution have different needs and capabilities and it is essential to reflect this in the approach taken.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

City Hall engaging schools in solid waste management

By Shauna Jemmott AIMING to maintain a healthy environment and reduce spending on its Solid Waste Management (SWM) programme, the Georgetown City Council (M&CC) is now engaging schools in the proper management of solid waste.

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of M&CC, Debra Lewis, told the Guyana Chronicle in a recent interview that the council has already introduced a programme titled ‘3Rs’ in primary schools in Georgetown, teaching pupils to ‘reduce, recycle and reuse’ solid waste.

“If they understand how to manage solid waste at the

Debra Lewis school level, or even at the level of the household, the council will have less refuse to collect. This achievement will cause our solid waste bill to be significantly reduced, and we will also have a healthy environment,” Lewis posited.

S h e s a i d t h re e c o lour-coded bins have already been placed in the compounds of St. Sidwell’s and St. Pius Primary schools in Georgetown.

These schools have already benefited from the programme, and the council will continue that pattern at other schools.

Meanwhile, the programme will continue in the South Georgetown area before it is expanded; and according to Lewis, the council is willing to extend its wings countrywide if the need arises.

COLOUR-CODED BINS Each bin has a different colour, coded according

to the category of waste.

One is specifically placed to store plastic bottles, one for paper, and the other for food materials. The M&CC will do a second phase of the SWM programme which will educate and involve the schoolchildren in composting and using composting as fertilizers for kitchen gardens.

Students are also being taught to shop wisely, avoiding the use of Styrofoam boxes and plastic bags; and they have received gifts of environmentally friendly shopping bags donated by ‘Survival’ and ‘Bounty’ su-

permarkets.

Lewis said the programme will go to greater levels after Guyana’s major Jubilee celebrations this month, with the involvement of secondary schools in debating and essay competitions, with solid waste management being their main focus.

There will also be ‘Best Kept School’ and ‘Most Improved School’ competitions, as schools strive to create an environmentally friendly atmosphere - planting trees, disposing of garbage correctly, and maintaining

drains.

Visual aids will also be posted in classrooms, in keeping with the M&CC’s policy on reducing, recycling and reusing as a means of properly managing solid waste. Lectures and school inspections will also be carried out, and the private sector will be involved in sponsorship of prizes to be awarded to the tidy schools.

The programme is being managed by the council’s Solid Waste Management, Health Education, and Public Relations departments.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Mega cultural show to usher in Jubilee THE Ministry of Education is promising a colourful, artistic display of dances and songs on the evening of May 25 at the Durban Park, to usher in Guyana’s Golden Jubilee.

At the stroke of midnight on May 25th, 2016, the Golden Arrowhead will be hoisted for the fiftieth time.

It will then be to celebrate Guyana’s Golden Jubilee of Independence anniversary.

For many Guyanese, at home and abroad, this event will no doubt bring to remembrance the joy and gladness they felt when the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted for the very first time on May 26th, 1966.

Each year, on the eve of Guyana’s Independence, a flag-raising ceremony is usually held at the National Park; however, this year’s ceremony will take place at Durban Park on Homestretch Avenue.

The event has a two-part programme that will commence at 20:00hrs. The cultural part of the programme, titled “A Patriotic Tribute”, is a colourful, artistic mass display of dances to patriotic and national songs, performed by 1000 young Guyanese. These participants represent the National School of Dance, religious groups, schools, regional choirs, steelbands, and those doing callisthenics.

with utility companies such as the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, E-Networks, and the Guyana Power and Light Inc., and has rectified the issue of low-hanging utility wires, while the streets for the float parade route, including Brickdam, have been resurfaced by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

VENDORS TO BE ACCREDITED

Coordinator for the Jubilee Independence Float Parade, Lennox Canterbury The joint steel band will feature 100 players from the Buxton Pride steel band, the National Steel Orchestra, Pan Wave steel band, the Bishops’ High School Steel Band and the North Ruimveldt Multilateral Steel Band. The joint choir will comprise 130 students drawn from St. Stephen’s, St. Pius, Comenius, Sophia, East La Penitence, Winfer Gardens, Friendship, Strathsphey, and Paradise Primary schools; Woodside Choir; West Demerara Secondary, Annandale Secondary, Golden Grove Secondary, St. Stanislaus

College, St Joseph’s High, and Central High. There will also be 30 drummers from the Otishka and Dubraj tassa groups.

The ceremonial component will include a joint military band display; military parade; announcement of National Awards and citations; address by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Guyana, Brigadier David Granger; hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead, and a fireworks display by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

The flag-raising ceremony is in keeping with the theme of the Golden Jubilee of Independence celebrations: “Reflect, Celebrate, Inspire”.

FLOAT PARADE Plans for the float parade, to be held on Independence Day itself, are moving apace, according to Mr Lennox Canterbury, Special Projects Officer in the Ministry of Education’s Department of Culture, but some registration forms are still outstanding.

He said there are about 20 in hand, but before the end of the week, about 10 or 12 more are expected. Canterbury said all the ministries and all the regions are participating; and several private companies, including Digicel Guyana and a former National Service Unit, are also participating.

He explained that, so far, the Department has gone through the Jubilee Independence Float Parade Route

Canterbury said the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is solely responsible for managing the parapets along the parade route, and vending will be regulated, so he is urging interested persons to visit the Culture Department’s head office in Main Street to get registered and be accredited for vending.

Vendors not accredited will not be allowed to sell along the float parade route.

He disclosed that the official Float Parade will begin at Camp and Church streets and proceed west along Church Street, south into Avenue of the Republic, then east into Brickdam to Jubilee Stadium. Traditionally, the float parade was held on Mashramani Day, February 23, but because of the celebration of the 50th Independence Anniversary, it was shifted this year to coincide with the other special activities.

Canterbury said since the route that has been earmarked is a new one, logistics are to be put in place; but it is nothing that cannot be dealt with, and the Department has been ironing this out by ensuring safety first while involving the utility companies in securing the wires.

Canterbury thinks the change was good in terms of the new location, since the National Park could only have accommodated a limited number of persons. However, there are wide open spaces at Durban Park which can accommodate even more people this year.

Participants are being urged to submit the registration forms which will indicate their participation, and by the end of the week, the Department would know how many entities would be participating in the float parade.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Grand charity fashion event billed for Sunday A GRAND fashion event is set for Sunday at the Ptolemy Reid Center, as United States-based Guyanese events producer Lloyd Guilliams takes another step towards building the lives of the differently-abled.

Guilliams is collaborating with events director Simone Dowding and some popular Guyanese fashion designers to adorn the runway at Duke Lodge, Kingston, Georgetown with colours of the Golden Arrowhead.

The show begins at 17:00 hours, and will showcase Neilson Nurse’s Independence line, a swimsuit collection from former Miss Guyana Universe Meleesa Payne, and a special piece from Simone Bazil of lLa Randa’ design company.

According to Guilliams, he has opted to promote the charity show for the differently-abled children because “they need more attention because of their disposition, and there’s where I find more energy to (support).”

He said he has been donating towards the center ten years now, after he fell in love with the resident children at the center on a visit back home.

Wednesday May 18th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Thursday May 19th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Friday May 20th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

City Council to launch parking meter system

By Telesha Ramnarine CITY Hall is finalising arrangements to implement a parking meter system which is expected to deter motorists, especially taxi drivers, from parking in spaces that store owners reserve for customers.

A source told this newspaper yesterday that the meter system is a work in progress, although it is in the final stages of becoming a reality.

The M&CC is not inclined to raise the sums for rates and taxes because they are already facing difficulty in having citizens come forward to pay. The municipality is, therefore, looking at other ways to rake in more revenue and the parking meter system is being considered.

MEETING WITH GCCI Meanwhile, the new city council met with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) yesterday for the first time and the issue of parking was the number one issue, which was raised.

Representatives of Durga Business Enterprise, Scotia Bank, Global Seafood Distribution, Eureka Laboratory, and Silvie’s Variety Store were also present at the City Hall meeting.

According to the source, the number one complaint from the business people had to do with the availability of parking space for customers.

The meeting heard how customers have to park corners away from their business establishment in order to do business.

In the case of Scotia

Bank, there is always a hassle to remove certain unauthorized vehicles and on occasion the police have had to be summoned.

City Hall has reportedly promised to look into the matter, and to work together with the GCCI on a number

Council roads in its Council area, and to regulate and control traffic thereon.”

On ‘Traffic Control’, Section 274 reads: “Without prejudice to the generality of the power to regulate and control traffic on Council roads, conferred by Section

of other issues affecting the business community.

Meanwhile, the M&CC said recently that it noted, with concern, a letter to the Editor of a local publication, in which the following contention is stated: “After disastrous past experiences, the City Council should not be allowed to preside over parking arrangements for minibus and taxi parks in the City. The Municipal and District Councils Act gives it no such power. It is a police function, which appears to have been abandoned as the City Council assumed jurisdiction.”

However, Public Relations Officer at City Hall, Debra Lewis, has debunked this contention. She cites Chapter 28:01 of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Clauses 272 and 274, which read thus: (272) “A Council shall have power, subject to the provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act, the Roads Act, and the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, to construct, maintain, repair, protect, and carry out works for the betterment of

272 but subject to the provisions thereof, the Council may: establish, maintain and control car parks; erect and maintain parking meters; regulate the standing and parking of vehicles on Council roads; erect and maintain traffic control signals and traffic signs on Council roads; regulate the speed of vehicles on Council roads; designate particular Council roads as one-way roads or oneway streets, and require all vehicles thereon to move in one specified direction; require vehicles to stop before entering or crossing any Council road, or to yield to other traffic; and restrict the use of any Council roads to vehicles of specified types or weights.”

Lewis also noted that the Council has for some time not been fulfilling this mandate and so it has now come as something relatively new and ‘not known’ to many persons.

“We would have spoken to the Traffic Chief and he also knows the laws and he has pledged to help train our ranks.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Five teens charged with professor’s murder

By Celestine Juan FIVE teens appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Tuesday, charged with the murder of 75-year-old retired professor Pairadeau Mars, who was bound, beaten and strangled last Thursday in his home.

The teenagers were charged jointly for the murder of the former University of Guyana Professor on Thursday, May 12, at his Lot 395 Bissessar Street, Prashad Nagar home, during the course of a robbery.

The matter was held ‘in

and reportedly confessed to the murder/robbery, while in police custody.

On the day in question, at about 18:30hrs, the Professor was found in his home by his wife with his hands and feet duct-taped and with injuries to his head. The house was ransacked, and a number of articles and cash were missing. He was pronounced dead on arrival at a private hospital.

According to reports, the teens were known to Professor Mars.

They were arrested after neighbours observed the group leaving the retired

The two female teenagers at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court camera’, thus reporters were not allowed inside the courtroom.

The five teens – three boys and two girls – were not required to plead to the indictable offence and were remanded to prison until June 14.

Mars was killed last Thursday by a gang of teens, who beat and bound him in his home. The teens are between the ages of 15 and 17

Professor’s residence with suitcases and entering a car, which left the scene. Subsequently, his wife returned home and found his bloodied and lifeless body in the house.

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

Mars specialised in African Studies at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, USA; having studied history at the University of

Murdered: Retired Professor Parietdeau Mars Guyana and Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada.

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

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

Meanwhile the Magistrates’ Court was in chaos at one point with families of the youths and police officers clashing.

Adding to the drama, a journalist was allegedly assaulted by police officers and forced into the prisoners’ detention area. Media operatives were later ordered out of the compound and the area was cordon off.

Two of the male teenagers arrive at the Georgetown Magistrate's Court

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Reparations Committee hails acceleration of land-titling programme THE Guyana Reparations Committee has hailed the new government’s initiative to accelerate the

land-titling programme for Indigenous peoples, but is also pressing the administration to look

into the interest of African Guyanese.

Under the auspices of UNDP, and using Nor-

way Funds, this exercise is scheduled to be completed

by October this year. It will be a welcome conclusion of the work championed

by Stephen Campbell, who had visited the Queen just prior to Independence with support and advocacy of the Catholic Church and the then business community.

Today the Amerindian Act gives our Indigenous Peoples -- the 9 Nations that exist -- 13.8% of Guyana.

The cycle is completed for our 50th Anniversary.

Noting that land is wealth, the committee said it is the basis of generational wealth-creation. “Just ask Israel.

This seems to explain why land-grabbing is the new contact sport in Guyana.

We have seen the millions of acres granted by the last Government to Chinese and Indian foreign firms at often rock bottom prices of US$.12 ½ cents per hectare (yes, per hectare) for 50 to 99 years.

Of course the new Government and various boards are investigating this incredible land grab, supported and often sponsored by the previous Government. We should soon learn more of this “festival of greed, corruption and criminality”, which in some corners continues unabated in many shapes and forms. We have found out, for example, that 30 families/individuals control 80% of our mining concessions. Landlordism is in vogue for the already rich.

This is quite extraordinary and quite wrong.

The committee, chaired

by Dr Eric Phillips, said egregious greed seemingly has no bounds, as some of these same individuals are collecting agricultural lands as if it is going out of style.

The committee had committed to providing information to the Government of Guyana (including the Opposition) for their claim of lands for reparatory justice and

social cohesion in Guyana.

The committee said there are three historical reasons why this claim has legal validity. First: history has recorded that enslaved Africans who arrived in Guyana in the mid-17th century, and were in Guyana for 100 to 200 years before the Wai-Wais and Wapishana nations, cleared 15,000 square miles, or 18% of Guyana, and lost 450,000 lives to genocide during their enslavement. “Slavery was and is a crime against humanity” (United Nations Durban Declaration) and hence reparatory justice is being sought from the Government of Guyana, the inheritors of the land from the British. Justice dictates that if Indigenous peoples in Guyana can receive land for being here “first”, then Africans, who were here before the Wai-Wais and Wapishanas, should be legally entitled to land. The Wai-Wais arrived in Guyana from Brazil in the 19th century, while the Wapishanas arrived from Brazil in the 18th century (information gathered from Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology and the Guyana Reparations Committee).

The current 300 WaiWais who populate Guyana now have one million acres under their stewardship. Recently, the Wapishanas, who comprise less than 10,000 people in Guyana, made news by claiming an additional 10% of Guyana beyond the 13.8% already in the Amerindian Act. Secondly, the committee said, enslaved Africans built Guyana. “History has also recorded and forgotten that (Guyanese) Africans had driven back the sea, and had cleared, drained and reclaimed 15,000 square miles of forest and swamps. This is equivalent to 9,000,000 acres of land. In short, all the fields on which the sugar estates are now based

were cleared, drained and irrigated by African labour forces. All the plantations, now turned villages and cities, were built by unpaid African labour. In the process of building these plantations, careful research has shown, Africans installed the following:(a) 2,580,000 miles of drainage canals, t r e n c h e s a n d i n t e r- b e d drains; (b) 3,500 miles of dams, roads and footpaths, and (c) 2,176 miles of sea and river defence.

The Venn Commission also reported that “to build the coastal plantations alone, a value of 100,000,000 tons of earth had to be moved by the hands of African slaves (without machinery).”

According to the committee, the entire economy of Guyana in 1838 was created by enslaved Africans, whereas our Indigenous brothers and sisters were living nomadic lives. “Justice dictates that Africans should be given lands for clearing 18% of Guyana and providing free labour for over 200 years, while indentured servants who came after them were paid and given lands.”

Thirdly, according to the committee, the last 25 years have seen foreign firms receiving huge swaths of land at giveaway prices, while Africans have received none. Any Government or people interested in social cohesion, equity, equal access, economic and social justice… would take immediate steps, in our 50th anniversary year, to grant lands to Africans for the massive and unparalleled contributions that have made to Guyana. To begin this process, the Government of Guyana should immediately freeze the granting of land leases to anyone, local or foreign, until the reparatory land issue is addressed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

University Campus needed in Linden

A CALL for a section of the University of Guyana campus to be set up in Linden is becoming more strident with demands being made by Regional officials and scores of current students, who on a daily basis, face the financial and mental burden of travelling to the Turkeyn Campus in an effort to achieve a tertiary education.

Newly-elected Mayor, Carwyn Holland is of the opinion that a section of the campus would be beneficial to the many students who traverse the Linden Highway every day in order to attend school and to those who desire a tertiary education but cannot afford same.

The average cost for a student to attend classes at Turkeyn is $3000 per day for

minimal expenses of transportation and snacks. In addition to the financial burden, students are complaining of the danger of travelling late at nights and having to travel with unknown drivers.

With limited opportunity of tertiary education in Linden, many young people migrate to the city after completing high school and the Mayor is of the opinion that this would change if a campus was present in Linden. One final year Communication Studies student Shanteal Alleyne who travels 3-4 times weekly to attend classes describes the ordeal as challenging and financially burdensome.

“I’ve done this for over two years and trust me, I can’t wait to finish….travel-

ling up and down that highway is not easy and it surely bleeds your pocket, so even though I’m at the end of my journey I would surely recommend a campus in Linden,” she posited. Another student speaking on the issue said that she was aware of several students wanting to pursue a degree but who cannot do so while some have started their programmes but aborted after facing many of the challenges mentioned earlier.

In consideration of these facts, the Mayor of Linden is fully in support of a section of the campus being established in Linden. Most of the students from Linden who attend the University pursue courses in the faculty of Education or Social Sciences.

Other tertiary level entities have established branches in Linden, while some are planning to do so in the near future. The ACCA and CAT

courses have commenced since last year and have seen tremendous support from students, who wanted to complete the course but could not

afford the travel costs.

The American School of Medicine in expected to commence operations in the mining town by September.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Outstanding Afro-Guyanese to be honoured at gala dinner

AN AWARD ceremony to honour outstanding Afro-Guyanese, both deceased and alive, will be held next Monday at the Pegasus Hotel.

The committee responsible for putting together the programme said the United Nations has designated 2015 to 2024 the “Decade for people of African Descent” and as such, the body will commemorate this decade by awarding outstanding Guyanese who have made significant contributions in different forms towards the

development of Guyana, with emphasis on African-Guyanese community.

This committee comprises representatives of the Burnham Foundation, Cuffy 250 Committee, Pan African Organisation, Women’s Roundtable and Miss Emancipation Committee.

The inaugural award ceremony would acknowledge African-Guyanese persons who have made significant contributions towards the development of Guyana and the African-Guyanese community over the past 50 years,

the committee said. Thirteen posthumous nominees would be recognised during this historic occasion. These are: LFS Burnham, Mrs. Viola Burnham, Dr. Kenneth King, Dr. Faith Harding, Mr. Clarence Ellis, Mr. Winston Murray, Mrs. Deborah Backer, Dr. Gustav Jackson, Mr. Philip Moore, Dr. Herbert Nicholson, Mr. Ronald Waddell, Dr. Walter Rodney and Mr. Courtney Crum-Ewing.

Relatives of these posthumous awardees, including Roxanne Burnham, Pat Harding and Steve Backer, would

be in attendance to receive the awards in the honour of their loved ones.

For the following 8 years, the following awards would be presented: African Guyanese Business Awards 2017; Africa Guyanese Youths Awards 2018; African Guyanese Professionals 2019; African Guyanese Teachers 2020; African Guyanese promoting STEM 2021; African Guyanese in Media 2022; African Guyanese Village Awards 2023; African Guyanese of the Decade 2024.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge

Both local and diaspora awardees have already confirmed their attendance at the dinner and award ceremony, the committee asserted. Among the awardees are: Vincent Alexander, Pilot Beverley Drakes, Dr David Hinds, Dr. Karen Godette and Dr. Joycelynn Loncke. The Honourable Carl Greenidge, Minister of Foreign Affairs, one of the awardees, will be the keynote speaker. Tickets for the event can be uplifted at HBTV Channel 9 on Mandela Avenue.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Canadian businessman donates laminator to GPF

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) was on Monday presented with a professional document laminator by businessman Dr. Roberto Jacgobin, who is resident in Canada and has a working relationship with the police Cops and Faith Communi-

ty Network.

In brief remarks during the presentation, done at the Police Headquarters office of the Assistant Commissioner, Administration, David Ramnarine DSM, Roberto Jacgobin said it was a pleasure for him to be of some assistance

Bai Shan Lin writes UN, GRA ––to get back seized luxury vehicles

CHINESE investment company Bai Shan Lin has written the Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), requesting the release of two luxury vehicles that were seized in April.

The company, through its lawyer, has also written Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on the matter, saying that the seizure of the vehicles -Nissan minivan PRR 3888 and brand new Lexus SUV PRR 2888 -- is causing the company severe losses.

Correspondence was also copied to President David Granger.

The documents, seen by this newspaper, were penned by the company’s attorney C.V. Satram, who informed the GRA that the seizure of the vehicles on the grounds of non-payment of tax liability is a disregard of Guyana’s international obligations to China, as agreed by the two countries. Satram, through the letter dated May 16, 2016, called on the GRA to release the two vehicles within seven days of receipt of correspondence.

This particular letter was copied to Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge, as well as China’s Ambassador to Guyana, Zhang Limin.

In another lengthy letter, also addressed to Minister Greenidge, Satram notes that since the change in government, “the new administration has embarked upon a course of activities designed to cause forfeiture of the company and to cripple its investment in Guyana.” He said the new government started by imposing tax liabilities regarding duty free concessions which were granted to Bai Shan Lin under the previous administration, and that what it is doing in essence is seeking “to dismantle the concessionary structure, and has commenced to seize property which is under the ownership, management and control of the company.”

Bai Shan Lin, through its lawyer, has noted that the investment agreement under which the concessions were granted has not expired; and that the matter is of grave concern to all other investors.

This letter, too, has been copied to President Granger.

In the third letter, which has been addressed to the UN Secretary-General, the company, again through its lawyer, is calling on the official to remind the Guyana Government of its treaty obligations to China.

It said Chinese investments in Guyana are being threatened by the situation.

This newspaper reported that the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has been investigating the Chinese company for tax evasion. The matter is also being looked at by the State Asset Recovery Unit (SARU).

On April 6, this newspaper reported that GRA officers had, on the previous day, confiscated the two vehicles at the revenue body’s storage bond at Eccles on the East Bank of Demerara. It was reported that as much as $60M was owed by the Chinese company on duty for one of the vehicles in question.

to the Guyana Police Force, and he expressed readiness to assist further.

Assistant Commissioner Ramnarine, who received the laminating machine on behalf of the GPF, expressed sincere appreciation, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police and the Police Force, for the piece of equipment that will assist in the production of identification cards for members of the Force.

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Dr. Roberto Jacgobin hands over the document laminator to Assistant Commissioner David Ramnarine while Senior Superintendent Maxine Graham; Assistant Commissioner, Operations, Christopher Griffith; and Force Chaplain Pastor Patrick Doolichand (partly hidden) look on

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

‘Jubilee’ celebrations update...

D’Urban Park will be ready in good time ––Chief Works Officer

D’URBAN Park will be ready to host Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, Chief Works Officer of the Public Infrastructure Ministry, Geoffrey Vaughn has assured.

Phase One of the multi-million dollar project is expected to be completed four days ahead of the flag-raising ceremony when the country’s largest Golden Arrowhead will be hoisted for a second time, some 180 feet into the air in the presence of thousands of Guyanese and tourists.

Updating the Guyana Chronicle on the project yesterday, Vaughn confirmed that Phase One is 90% complete, with the 30 bleachers already handed over to the National Commemorative Committee.

“Right now, we are doing finishing touches,” Vaughn said, adding that the major emphasis is now being placed on the superstructure stage, which includes a VIP section, security and videographers’ rooms.

Works ongoing on the superstructure stage, which includes a VIP section At the time of the interview, a small team of workers was completing the flooring of the stage. Once the superstructure is completed, the ground will be graded and handed over to the Commemorative Committee.

“We are expecting that by weekend, we should wrap up; latest is Monday morning, which is pushing it, to me. But we hope by weekend we should be able to wrap up,” said Vaughn optimistically.

Late April, President David Granger handed over responsibility of the project to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) following several complaints about substandard work by officials who were in charge at the time.

Some 300 persons were employed to erect the 30 stands, but with the project nearly completed, the workforce has been significantly reduced.

May 12, was the initial deadline set for the completion of the project, but the date was slightly shifted, due to the current inclement weather.

Some of the 30 stands erected at D’Urban Park

Young local entrepreneur launches new lin

By Svetlana Marshall INTERNATIONALLY-recognised fashion designer Sonia Noel on Monday endorsed the CHI Miss Universe, Biosilk and Kardashian product lines even as she touted the concept of sisterhood.

The CHI Miss Universe, Biosilk and Kardashian product lines were officially launched at the Georgetown Club by the sole distributor, Robeta Sami, a young Guyanese entrepreneur.

When beauty company Avon closed its doors in Guyana last year, many persons were left without a diverse range of beauty and care products to choose from.

At the same time, the move left in the cold many persons who had traded the products to supplement their incomes.

Sami, however, had an

alternative plan. Based in Barbados, she is now capitalizing on the void left by Avon, using the CHI Miss Universe, Biosilk and Kardashian product lines. Sami created her own company,

Caribbean Premier Distributors (CPD), and subsequently obtained sole distributorship from the beauty companies last December.

According to the young entrepreneur, the CHI Miss

Universe, Biosilk and Kardashian product lines, though high-end, are made affordable in Guyana, and cater for all types of hair texture. She said these products, which include SHINE Shades Colour

Sonia Noel delivering a very inspirational speech during the product launch at the Georgetown Club

5 in 1, CHI Enviro Soothing Treatment, CHI Biosilk Styling Products, CHI Man and Kardashian Beauty, are loved by beauticians all over the world.

Colleen Reis, a beautician for many years, has echoed similar sentiments.

She pointed out that the products are not only excellent for hair use, but are environmental friendly, in particular the CHI Enviro Soothing Treatment.

These products will be sold in the Kaylan’s Mall on Lamaha Street, starting today. Persons, particularly women, have the golden opportunity to become sub-distributors of the internationally recognised products.

Guyanese fashion icon Sonia Noel has endorsed the product 100%. “I was so impressed after using it,” Noel told the scores of women and

men who participated in the launching ceremony.

Noel, a true women’s advocate, said she feels even more empowered when other women empower themselves.

“I like to see women empowering themselves; l like to see women venturing out on their own,” she said.

Quoting Maya Angelou, Noel said, “When you learn, teach; when you get, give,” as she further endorsed Sami’s decision to have sub-distributors, which will create an opportunity for other persons to create their own businesses.

“As you climb, take others with you,” she added, noting that women must be supportive of each other.

“We must go back to the days of being our brother’s keeper; we have to be beautiful on the inside, not just the outside.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Linden hailed for zero maternal deaths, keeping out zika

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings, has lauded the work of the Linden Hospital Complex in maintaining a zero maternal death record and for

Minister Cummings made the comments during a visit to Linden for one of the scheduled activities for ‘Linden Town Week’, the Annual Health Fair, which was held at the Mackenzie

health officials, as well as the United States Ambassador to Guyana, His Excellency Perry Holloway; Mayor of the mining town, Carwyn Holland; Deputy Mayor Waneka Arrindell; Regional

50’, in keeping with the Jubilee Independence celebrations, the minister applauded the Linden Hospital Complex for its record of zero maternal deaths. In addition, the control of the zika and chikungunya viruses in the region has been impressive, and health care officials in the region were encouraged to maintain this level of excellence.

“Over the last 50 years, the health sector in Guyana has worked tirelessly, with very limited resources, to ensure it delivered health care services to Guyanese. The achievements of the Guyanese health sector have been modest, but substantial,” Dr. Cummings stated.

Minister Cummings

the persons who have been diagnosed with them; hence prevention is better than cure.

The Ministry of Public Health has put in place a number of strategic initiatives to curb the increasing number of NCD cases, as well as prevent new ones from emerging.

“These initiatives will effectively address the future burden of disease, promote healthy lifestyles, and increase the potential benefit of a healthier population; thus contributing to economic development.”

One major contributor to a significant number of NCD cases is smoking. The Ministry of Public Health will be introducing in parliament stringent legislation aimed at

Some of these are 46 years as a town, 100 years of bauxite mining, and 50 years of US/ Guyana diplomatic ties. The latter has seen the building of the Linden/Soesdyke Highway, which remains the main access road to the small mining town.

Some other achievements of the entire health sector countrywide were also highlighted.

Among these are improved immunisation coverage; control of common communicable diseases, such as acute gastroenteritis, acute respiratory infection, skin infections and worm infection; reduction of severe malnutrition (under 5) to less than 0.3%; and malaria elimination from the coastal belt.

Dr. Cummings informed that the Public Health Min-

Minister in the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings, addressing attendees at the health fair at the Mackenzie car park keeping out the zika and chikungunya viruses from the region.

car park.

The minister was accompanied by a team of

Democratic Chairman Renis Morian, and other officials.

Touching on ‘Health at

nes of beauty products Youths taking part in the ‘Skip to My Lou’ competition at the health fair

Young entrepreneur Robeta Sami, flanked by local designer Sonia Noel (right) and beautician Colleen Reis (left)

touched on the issue of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that are still not receiving the attention they deserve, even though they are prevalent in Guyana. She noted that cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes are some of the main NCDs. “According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there are a number of modifiable health risk factors that are attributed to the presence and prevalence of NCDs. They are tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and the harmful use of alcohol,” she stated. She added that these NCDs carry a huge cost in terms of caring for

reducing tobacco use.

Regional Chairman Morian asserted that Linden is on its way to being a fully developed town, and can be seen as a link to all other regions and major towns. And the Regional Health Officer saluted the Public Health Ministry for its contributions made towards the growth and improvement of the health sector in Region Ten, but stressed the need for more collaborative efforts with the town council and other stakeholders, to achieve a healthier population.

Ambassador Holloway congratulated the small mining town on a number of achievements that are being celebrated in this period.

istry is making strides to modernise the health sector through expansion, with Linden being one of the channels of the modernisation process.

The health fair, which attracted a large number of residents from the mining town, focused on educating the population on moving towards a healthier lifestyle. Minister Cummings and her team then attended a scheduled activity that was showcased in line with a healthy lifestyle -- the ‘Skip to My Lou’ competition that accommodated the participation of a number of primary and secondary schools in Linden. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Cops ‘rough-up’ Newsroom reporter A POLICE constable stationed at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court is currently under investigation for assaulting Newsroom reporter, Leroy Smith.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday in the court’s compound, is being investigated by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR).

The Constable identified as Joel Semple had singled out Smith from a group of civilians, who was standing on the stairway.

Semple harassed, arrested and detained Smith upon instructions of Inspector Chaitram, both of whom are stationed at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The Senior Crime and Security reporter was reportedly shoved, chuck, and pulled into the prisoner ’s holding area by Constable Semple.

Smith, in a statement Tuesday afternoon, said that after he was placed into the prisoner’s detention area, another police verbally abused him. “I will make you an example and pass

you through the f**king court this morning if you don’t comply because y’all reporters does be-

Newsroom reporter Leroy Smith lieve that y’all get more f**king power than police,” Smith said he was told by the officer.

His comments were allegedly made in full hearing of the police Inspector, Constable Semple and prisoners.

“The same police rank chucked me into a corner in the holding area, causing my microphone to fall to the ground; then he instructed another police to pick it up and hand it to me.

I refused to collect the microphone and instead that my microphone be placed on a table, which was in the detention area at the time,” Smith said.

Shortly after, Divisional Commander Clifton Hicken arrived to deal with the issue and asserted that an investigation has been launched into the matter.

The incident has also gained the attention of the Guyana Press Association.

The allegation stemmed from instructions the police were giving to media operatives and members of the public that they needed to remove from the access areas, to the holding cell at the court so as not to be in contact with the prisoners who were arriving at the court.

However, Smith was standing on the stairway, along with several other civilians, when the police Inspector sought to instruct the Constable to go among the crowd of civilians and arrest him.

It must be noted that Smith was detained without being told why he was being held.

Divisional Commander Clifton Hicken speaking with media operatives at the court

Historic Stabroek Market lights up

The Stabroek Market on Tuesday evening (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo) DEPUTY Mayor of Georgetown, Sherod Duncan, said it is time residents and visitors rediscover Stabroek Market as the City peels back the veil.

He made the comment during lighting of the historic Stabroek Market on Tuesday. The Mayor and City Council of Georgetown switched on the lights as Guyana counts down to its Independence Jubilee celebrations.

Lighting up the site is part of City Hall’s contribu-

tion to the City for the 50th Anniversary celebrations, Duncan told the Guyana Chronicle.

“We might be refining it to show the residents of Georgetown and visitors the beauty of our iconic market.

The market’s iconic status was crowded out by the itinerant vending that was the Square,” Duncan said.

He also said the lighting up of the market is geared at moving Georgetown forward, while he pointed out that the City needs the sup-

port of all for this to happen.

“As we light our market, we ask residents to trust the leadership of the Mayor and City Council, and let’s move Georgetown forward to a place that we can all be proud of.”

The bazaar, which was formerly occupied by illegal vendors, is to be made into a civic square with the installation of a beautiful fountain, among other features, Town Clerk Royston King told the Guyana Chronicle recently.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

10,000 acres set aside for Brazilian firm to plant soya, corn GUYANA'S efforts to diversify its agricultural sector are set to receive a major boost from a Brazilian company, New Frontier Agriculture Guyana Incorporated. The company is prepared to cultivate its first crops of soya and corn on a model farm in the country’s intermediate savannahs in a matter of days.

New Frontier Agriculture Guyana Inc. has successfully conducted trial of the commodities on 25 acres of land owned by the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI). The company is currently working to develop the approximately 10,000 acres of land in the intermediate savannahs in Ebini, Berbice River. This farm will be used as a model demonstration station for the development of the entire savannahs. Improved pastures for cattle, sheep, goats and horses are also planned.

The government is currently pursuing development of the intermediate savannahs for the introduction of new crops and livestock. The country’s coastland lies approximately six feet below sea level, and with the prevailing change in weather, the country needs to move its agriculture base inward, to minimise crop loss, according to Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder.

The government’s thrust for development in the agricultural sector for the next five years is hinged on the drive to diversify and expand production in non-traditional areas. Minister Holder told GINA that, “Government’s policy is centered not only on improving the drainage system and rationalising production on the coast, but also in developing these new areas of activity."

The drive to expand and diversify the country’s agriculture is a policy direction that has gained the attention and support of Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan. “We are not going to grow seven percent if we continue to do the same things we were doing 50 years ago… It is unbelievable that 50 years ago we talked about the economy sitting on a tripod, sugar, rice and bauxite, which contributed the bulk of the productive activity of the country’s foreign exchange earnings and employment.”

Minister Jordan stated that, “ with proper maintenance, modernisation and proper use of technology and so on… these industries can still be good for a number of years in the future.

Importantly, two of them are agriculture-based and agriculture can absorb labour faster than any other industry.” Rice and sugar are Guyana’s main agricultural exports and with the decline in prices for these commodities on the world market, it is important that new foreign exchange earners be identified. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

After hospital release…

DUI cop to be charged over Sisters Village schoolboy fatal accident CHARGES are expected soon against the police constable who killed a 10-year-old schoolboy Sunday last when his allegedly speeding car smashed into the lad on the Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara (WBD) Public Road, near the area’s post office.

The police constable, of Wales Police Station, is expected to be charged after being discharged from the hospital, according to a police source.

Davin Sealey, 10, also of Sisters Village, was pronounced dead on arrival at the West Demerara Regional Hospital. A post-mortem examination is expected today.

Reports reveal that Sealey was riding a bicycle along the roadway Dead: Davin Sealey when he was struck down by a motor vehicle that was driven by the constable, who was later found by the police to be over the limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol. The vehicle only came to a stop after hitting a parked vehicle on the roadway and slamming into a utility pole before turning turtle on the roadway.

The lad’s grandfather, Titus Thomas, 57, told the Guyana Chronicle that they need justice because the policeman is supposed to set an example and cannot be drunk and driving at such a fast rate of speed to strike down a child and kill him on the spot.

He noted that it is an indication that lawlessness on the roadway is at an extreme state and the manner in which the police deals with this issue leaves much to be desired.

One of the boy’s relatives said after the accident when they showed up at the Wales Police Station they were chased out into the rain by an officer there.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

High Court trial for man charged with murder of ‘Fluffy’ THE MAN accused of killing Owen Frederick, a/k ‘Fluffy,’ has been committed to stand trial in the High Court for the capital offence of murder.

Mark Trevor Greaves (44) of Albouystown is charged with the murder of Frederick, which occurred on December 25, 2015 at James Street, Albouystown.

He appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was committed to face a judge and jury, following the conclusion of the Preliminary Inquiry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Greaves was informed that a prima facie case had been made out against him for the indictable offence.

The case was prosecuted by Inspector Neville Jeffers, while Greaves was unrepresented.

According to reports, Fredericks, who hails from Berbice, was stabbed to death during an altercation with the accused. It was reported that Fredericks was stabbed to the neck and chest with a knife. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Both men are said to be drug addicts and did odd jobs for a living.

Rape case: Six challenges made by lawyers DEFENCE Counsel Bernard De Santos, S.C., Tuesday, appeared at the Demerara Assizes in defence of rape accused Intocan Santoo.

When Judge Jo-Ann Barlow enquired from Prosecutor, Shonette Austin about the length of time the prosecution would take to complete its case, she replied, “Two days.”

When the said question was put by the judge to the defence, the Senior Counsel declared: “For me the matter ought not to be started at all.” The counsel, however thought he would complete in one and a half days.

The matter was adjourned to Wednesday morning when State Counsel is expected to deliver her opening address to the jury.

Six challenges were made by lawyers for the prosecution and the defence during the selection of the 12-member jury.

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Father of two put away for 4 years A FATHER of two was Tuesday sentenced to four years’ imprisonment and fined $30,000 by Magistrate Judy Latchman on a drug-trafficking charge.

Lloyd Sadloo of Quamina Street, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara was convicted on the charge, which read that on October 20, 2015 at Eccles, East Bank Demerara, he had 1.452 kilogrammes of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Howard Rambarose of Second Street, Meadow Bank, was also charged jointly with Sadloo, but the matter was dismissed against him earlier in trial.

At Tuesday’s decision the 35-year-old begged the magistrate to defer his sentence, since he wanted to be out to enjoy Guyana’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

“Madam, meh isn’t feeling good, I is suffer from two type of malaria,” Sadloo told the court, as he offered to supply medical certificates from doctors.

According to reports on October 20, 2015 about 13:00hrs the police intercepted a Toyota Allion motorcar, PSS 9566 in the vicinity of

Eccles, EBD during a highspeed chase.

Sadloo was found with several black bulky plastic bags between his feet in the

Convicted Lloyd Sadloo

passenger seat and told the officers, “Is three pounds of weed I just buy.”

After being questioned Sadloo, Rambarose and the driver of the car were arrested.

Magistrate Latchman, in her ruling said that she had

considered the mitigating factors in Sadloo’s favor, as well as the quantity and street value of the drug. The magistrate also considered the seriousness and prevalence of drug-trafficking in the society.

The court, she said, need-

ed to act, so as to deter others from contemplating being a part of the drug trade.

Sadloo has been in and out of court since 2008. Just recently, he was charged with three counts of robbery and refusing to cooperate with the police.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Emergency plan in place for D’Urban Park festivities THE Civil Defence Commission (CDC), in partnership with other stakeholders has developed a Mass Causality plan to respond to any emergency during the 50th Independence anniversary celebrations at D’Urban Park.

Acting Director General of CDC, Kester Craig told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that in preparation for the Jubilee celebrations, the commission has started several coordinated meetings with all stakeholders. These

are intended to identify roles, responsibilities, resources, gaps and challenges that may arise. Craig said that the Mass Causality plan is the main strategy that will be implemented in response to emergencies that may occur at D’Urban Park.

“This is nothing new; we usually ensure that there are coordinated systems among the agencies to deal with emergencies at large events,” he said.

Training and testing in search and rescue and mass casualties will be conducted on May 21 for the representatives.

Acting Director General of the Civil Defence Commission, Kester Craig This exercise will seek to enlighten the stakeholders of their roles and responsibilities, and to ensure that all equipment is functioning, “So at the end of the exercise, I think we will have a team of well-equipped persons and functioning equipment.”

On May 25 and 26, a Venue Operating Centre (VOC) will be established with stakeholder representatives to monitor the event, Craig explained. In the case of emergencies, the different representatives and their medical equipment will be in the bleachers/pavilion to transport injured persons to the advanced medical post located at Castellani House nearby, where critically injured persons will then be transported to medical institutions. Senior Superintendent of the Guyana Police Force, Whitney Bacchus, said that the Force is prepared for emergencies.

“We have arrangements in place to deal with the event and we will be having the traffic department monitoring and regulating traffic around the area, because it is important that there is no traffic congestion.”

In relation to security, Bacchus explained that there will be ranks around the perimeter of D’Urban Park and the entrances leading to the venue to ensure everyone’s safety and security. According to Bacchus, at the Park police will be in the stands and there will be barriers to ensure that persons do not encroach on the activities that will be happening on the tarmac. “Generally, the Police Force is prepared for the flag raising ceremony, and the float parade, and the ranks will receive briefing as to how to operate on the day to keep citizens safe.”

Meanwhile, Compton Sparman, Divisional Officer for Guyana Fire Service, told GINA that systems are already in place, and that, “We know exactly what must be done for this event. We will ensure that persons trained by the CDC will have refresher training.” He explained that because there are mostly wooden structures in the Park, there will be a fire service crew to deal with any fire outbreaks. There will also be a rescue crew to respond quickly to emergencies and assist the CDC and other agencies to take persons to the rescue point located at Castellani House. “We will have three alarms activated for casualties, which will aid us in our work,” Sparman said.

Help and Shelter, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital and Davis Memorial Hospital are among other stakeholders on board. The CDC’s hotline telephone numbers are 2261114, 226-1117, 600-7500, 623-1700. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

GRPA: ‘Abstinence Only’ approach to sex education not working - to launch comprehensive sexuality education toolkit today

By Telesha Ramnarine THE Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA) feels that Guyana’s ‘Abstinence Only’ approach to sex education has not been working and a deeper approach to fit today’s society is needed.

Therefore, GRPA has developed a comprehensive sexuality education toolkit, which will be launched today when the organization joins members of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) in 170 countries around the world to launch the “Know It, Own It!” campaign.

According to GRPA’s Programme Director, Renuka Anandjit, in an invited comment to this newspaper, the thrust of the campaign is to ensure that the rights of youths are upheld and to motivate government and stakeholders to design programmes to meet their needs.

GRPA is hoping that the toolkit will be a resource of the Ministry of Education, Public Health, partners and other stakeholders. The launch will be at 3:30pm at Cara Lodge, Quamina Street, Georgetown.

Executive Director, Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth gave credit to Red Thread for helping the organization to develop the toolkit, as she noted how the GRPA is joining with the global campaign to reach as many persons and communities as possible with educational and empowering messages on why their sexual rights and health matter.

Meanwhile, a release from GRPA said: “In recent years GRPA has been calling for a shift from the abstinence only approach to a comprehensive approach to sex education, taking into consideration the urgency of the current situation, where young people are becoming sexually active at a very tender age, both forced and voluntarily, and where teenage pregnancy, sexual violence and irresponsible sexual behaviour are prevalent throughout Guyana.”

Renuka Anandjit

Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth

ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY GRPA observed that in 2014, the Guyana Government endorsed the CARICOM Integrated Strategic Framework for the Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy in the Caribbean, but the implementation mechanisms are still to be established.

“We would be happy to support initiatives of the Guyana Government, partners and other stakeholders, with the hope that the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) will be widely introduced in schools,” GRPA said.

“The Association will seek to further engage the government, civil society and faith-based organisations to propel the Comprehensive Sexuality Agenda for the benefit of in-and-outof-school youth. It is our hope that under the ‘Know It, Own It Campaign’, GRPA and partners will be able to meaningfully engage stakeholders and also provide access to CSE for young people in and out of school, in an age appropriate and culturally relevant manner, and that this effort will result in a healthier youth population and a healthier nation,” GRPA said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Surinamese repelled by Guyanese dragsters

By Stephan Sookram IN front of a capacity crowd on Sunday at the South Dakota Circuit, the Guyanese dragsters showed their mettle when it mattered, as the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club held its King of Drags meet.

Coming under heavy pressure from the over 20 Surinamese competitors, the locals were able to hold their own in the fastest category of the day, the ‘A’ or 9-second and unlimited class.

That trophy belonged to Asurdin Mohammed and his Nissan GTR as he held off the challenges of the Suri-

namese old school Chevrolet Nova and their Ford Mustang Shelby Cobra.

Both wins were a blowout by the GTR as his launches and shifts were as clinical as ever on his way to the dominance of the class.

Mohammed also picked up the fastest time of the

GABF names 29 boys and 18 girls for CBC Under-16 trials THE Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) has released a provisional list of 29 boys and 18 girls who were born on January 1, 2000 or after and are eligible for a two-day trial under head coaches Lugard Mohan and Abdulla Hamid.

The aim of the trial is to make selection of Guyana’s teams that will contest the Caribbean Basketball Confederation’s (CBC) Under-16 Young Men and Women’s Championships set for July 2-17 here at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH).

The players, drawn from across the country, will be at the CASH on Saturday and Sunday. The female players will be engaged in trials from 09:00hrs to 12:00hrs on Saturday and 10:00hrs to 12:00hrs on Sunday, while the males will train from 12:00hrs to 15:00hrs both days.

The release said that the process allows for any individual not identified on the provisional list to join the mini-camp as a walk-on or on the recommendation of any affiliated club, coach or any representative of the

GABF. The players selected are, males: Yannick Tappin, Shamar Anderson, Kevlon Cadogan, Leon Benjamin, Stephon Duncan (Mackenzie High) Kevon Wiggins, Shamar France, Kelmar Carmichael (New Amsterdam Multilateral), Kwesi Roberts, Anthony Yansen (St Rose’s High) Andrew Johnson, Nigel Bowen (Plaisance Secondary) Roydon Glasgow (Bishops’ High) Kadeem Dover, Isaiah Hintzen, Isaiah David, Keith Adams, Robin Flatts (Kwakwani Secondary) Akeem Crandon, Kareem Boyle, Kenmon Roberts (President’s College), Jordan Alphonso, Jahleel Young, Josiah Daniels, Shamar Atwell, Jether Harris (Marian Academy) Zion Gray, Johnny Griffin (Tutorial High), Jamal Persaud (North Georgetown).

The females called are: Onika Rogers (Kwakwani Secondary), Daniela King, Odecia Duke (Plaisance Secondary), Jada Mohan, Jahrier Young, Kellian Savers, Georgiana Vyphuis (Marian Academy), Tandika Bouyea, Annlesa Barker, Shaiana Bart (New

Amsterdam Multilateral), Kesann Charles, Navalli Pineiro, Jayla Jones (Bishops’ High), Ashley Khan (St Rose’s), Demelza Nicholas, Annalisa Barclay, Claudia Garraway, Destiny McDonald (President’s College) They will report to the Boys’ head coach Lugard Mohan and Girls’ head coach Abdulla Hamid, along with the other coaches selected for preparation of the two squads.

The other coaches chosen are Ann Gordon, Mark Agard, Kevin Joseph, Kirk Fraser, Junior Hercules, Kevin Bonnet, Wayne Hinds, Willon Cameron, Julian Haynes and Dane Kendall.

The GABF has also enlisted USA-based Coaching Consultant, Larry Davis.

The GABF said that the process includes initial trials, training sessions, (large and small groups) and exhibition games.

The GABF and its partners are pleased to be involved with the student athletes of Guyana in preparing for the Caribbean Basketball Confederation U-16 Championships here from July 2 to 17.

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Greyville 08:10 hrs Luna Sea 08:50 hrs Shenyang 09:25 hrs Cutting Edge 10:00 hrs All Mine 10:30 hrs Roy’s Monkey

08:30 hrs Captain Hawk 09:00 hrs Sea Of Green 09:35 hrs Insolenceofoffice 10:10 hrs Hakam 10:45 hrs Nice Vintage 10:45 hrs Nice Vintage 11:20 hrs Maleficent Queen 11:55 hrs Soie D’Leau 12:25 hrs Ghostly Arc Bath 08:50 hrs Palisade 09:20 hrs Beausant 09:55 hrs Mahfooz 10:30 hrs Blenheim 11:05 hrs Alert 11:40 hrs Battaash 12:15 hrs Belledesert 12:50 hrs Swirral Edge

IRISH RACING TIPS Dundalk 13:05 hrs Yulong Baobei 13:35 hrs Aspar 14:05 hrs Ionization 14:35 hrs Strada Di Carsoli 15:05 hrs Easy Boy 15:35 hrs Poetic Choice 16:05 hrs Danequest

ENGLISH RACING TIPS Southwell 12:40 hrs Mustmeetalady 13:15 hrs Somchine 13:45 hrs Lets Hope So 14:15 hrs Boy In A Bentley 14:45 hrs What A Game 15:15 hrs Vinegar Hill 15:45 hrs Magic Bullet AYR

AMERICAN RACING TIPS Belmont Race 1 Swell Race 2 Asscher Race 3 Familyofroses Race 4 Frostie Anne Race 5 Richie’s Rich Race 6 Ack Naughty Race 7 Nuffsaid Nuffsaid Race 8 Happyness

weekend with an 8.2 secs in the quarter mile.

In the B class, Suriname’s Ryan Chakwri and his Toyota Chaser reigned supreme while his countryman Ashian Cajaram won the ‘C’ class with the same make of car The ‘D’ class was won

by Raymond John and his Chaser as well, while the ‘E’ class was picked up by Sachin

Ramotar’s Toyota Starlet.

Parmamand Ramcharan (Toyota Carina AT170) and Steve Raganauth (Toyota Sprinter AE91) were the respective winners of the ‘F’ and ‘G’ classes while Isaac Ramcharitar (Toyota Corolla NZE) won the ‘H’ Class Classes were based on the times done in the quarter mile with ‘A’ being the

fastest.

Meanwhile the bikers were steamrolled by the Surinamese, who won both the 600 and 1000cc classes through Giovanny Slagveer and Tom Gumperts.

Following Sunday’s meet, the Surinamese extended an invitation for the Guyanese to tour that country once their next drag event has been set up.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Thunder steal Game 1 from Warriors (THE Sports Xchange) Oklahoma centre Steven Adams converted an errant pass by teammate Russell Westbrook into two critical free throws with 1:01 left on Monday to short-circuit a Golden State rally and help the Thunder to a 108102 Game 1 victory in the Western Conference finals.

Westbrook overcame a slow start to score a gamehigh 27 points. Kevin Durant added 26, including a lead-extending jumper with 30.7 seconds left, as the Thunder stole home-court advantage from the top-seeded Warriors.

The Thunder overcame a 13-point halftime deficit.

Game 2 is scheduled for today in Oakland, where the Warriors absorbed their first loss of the postseason on Monday.

Adams’ free throws came after the Warriors rallied within 101-100 on an interior hoop by Harrison Barnes with 2:02 to go.

After an exchange of possessions, Thunder power forward Serge Ibaka recovered

a missed jumper by Durant, giving Oklahoma City a second crack with 1:12 to play.

Westbrook then drove towards the hoop and lobbed a pass that smacked hard off the backboard and deflected towards the freethrow line, where Adams retrieved it and took off for the hoop.

He was fouled on a shot attempt, and he made both free throws to increase Oklahoma City’s lead to 103-100.

The Thunder were able to win despite relatively poor shooting by Durant (10-for30) and Westbrook (7-for-21).

Each contributed in other areas, with Durant grabbing 10 rebounds and Westbrook dishing off 12 assists.

Adams played a key role in the win, recording a 16-point, 12-rebound double-double. Ibaka also had a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Warriors star Stephen Curry had 26 points to go with team-highs in rebounds (10) and assists (seven).

He hit six of his 14 3-point attempts, but the Warriors struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 11-for-30 and outscoring the Thunder (8-for-17) by just nine despite taking 13 more attempts.

Klay Thompson had 25 points and Draymond Green 23 for the Warriors, who lost just twice at home during the regular season.

The Thunder had not led since 10-9 midway the first quarter before Durant buried a 3-pointer and Westbrook a driving hoop in the first 90 seconds of the final period, pushing Oklahoma City into a 90-88 advantage.

The lead grew to as much as 101-93 with 4:42 to play as the Thunder defence took control of the game, limiting Golden State to just two field goals in the first 7 1/2 minutes of the fourth quarter.

A 3-pointer by Curry, the Warriors’ first of the fourth quarter after seven consecutive misses, ended the Golden State drought and got the Warriors within

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) passes the basketball against Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes (40) during the fourth quarter in game one of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena.

101-96 with 4:28 to go.

Green and Barnes converted interior hoops as a desperation Golden State surge continued, closing the gap to 101-100 with 2:02 to go.

However, Green then failed to convert on a drive to the hoop, and Adams came up with his key play for the Thunder, allowing Oklahoma City to finish off the upset victory.

The Thunder trailed by 13 at halftime and 66-52 in the third minute of the third quarter before riding a Westbrook surge to within 88-85 by period’s end.

Westbrook had missed

nine of his first 10 shots before pouring in five of seven, including a pair of 3-pointers, over the final 7:02 of the third quarter.

After a three-point first half, Westbrook had 19 in the third quarter, almost singlehandedly shooting the Thunder back into the game.

The Warriors got an unexpected boost from Barnes early on to take a lead they extended to 13-point advantage by halftime.

The teams played to an 11-all tie before Barnes’ first of two first-quarter 3-pointers capped a 9-2 run that pro-

pelled Golden State into a 20-13 lead.

The margin reached 13 on two occasions in the second quarter, including 1.5 seconds before the halftime horn when Curry buried his second 3-pointer of the night.

Curry’s first 3-pointer which came earlier in the period extended his streak of making at least one to 45 straight playoff games, breaking Reggie Miller’s record of 44.

Thompson led all scorers in the half with 19.

Westbrook meanwhile had only three points on 1-for-8 shooting.

Daredevils’ IPL play-off hopes dented RISING Pune Supergi- w h i l e C h r i s M o r r i s ants earned only their (38 not out) helped the fourth win of the sea- Daredevils finish the son to dent Delhi Dare- innings strongly. devils’ play-off hopes.

Delhi Daredevils’ hopes of qualifying for the Indian Premier League play-offs suffered a blow with a 19-run defeat to Rising Pune Supergiants by the Duckworth-Lewis Method yesterday.

Having put the Daredevils in to bat, the Supergiants, who h a v e a l re a d y b e e n eliminated from cont e n t i o n , re s t r i c t e d Delhi to 121-6, Adam Leg-spinner Adam ZamZampa taking 3-21 to pa took 3-21 to take his move his tally for the wicket tally to 11 wicktes. season to 11 wickets in 13 overs.

The Supergiants’ Karun Nair was the chase was interrupted only player in Delhi’s by rain in the ninth top order to make any o v e r w i t h A j i n k y a kind of significant im- Rahane leading the pact as he scored 41, charge on 26.

Play eventually resumed but Pune were only able to finish 11 overs of their pursuit as the rain returned again to force the match to be called off.

However, in that time Rahane added a further 16 runs to his total, taking the Supergiants to 76-1, well beyond the Duckworth-Lewis par score of 57.

Victory for Pune is just the fourth of what has been a disappointing campaign for the IPL new boys but is enough to move them off the bottom and above Kings XI Punjab.

The Daredevils remain two points behind Gujarat Lions who occupy the fourth and final play-off place - with two games still to play. (Sportsmax. com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Root, Shrubsole & Edwards win England awards ENGLAND batsman Joe Root won three awards at the England and Wales Cricket Board’s awards dinner in Leeds. The 25-year-old Yorkshire player won both Test and one-day international awards and was also voted Player-of-the-Year by England supporters.

Somerset bowler Anya Shrubsole, 24, is the England Women’s Cricketerof-the-Year for the first time.

Former women’s skipper Charlotte Edwards, who retired last week, is the fans’ Women’s Player-of-theYear.

It is the second year in succession Root has won the England men’s award.

The versatile batsman enjoyed another fruitful 12-month period, with two centuries in England’s Ashes triumph last summer and four one-day international centuries.

He was also leading run-scorer for the team in

the recent World Twenty20 tournament in India, where England were beaten in a dramatic final by West

12 months,” Root told BBC Sport. “More importantly, it is great to be involved with this group of

done some special things this winter and now it is about building on that and looking to win every series

Callum Flynn, Joe Root and Anya Shrubsole pose with their awards.

Indies.

“It is nice to get recognition for a pretty pleasing

Heavyweight champ Fury apologises for offensive remarks (REUTERS) - WORLD heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has apologised for offensive remarks he made in an online video last week, insisting he is ‘not a bigot or a racist’.

The outspoken Briton, preparing for a re-match with Wladimir Klitschko who he surprisingly dethroned in Dusseldorf in November to win the WBA, WBO and IBF belts, caused controversy with homophobic, sexist and anti-Semitic comments during an Q and A session with his uncle and trainer Peter Fury.

“I apologise to anyone who may have taken offence at any of my comments,” Fury said in a statement.

“I said some things, which may have hurt some people which, as a Christian man, is not something I would ever want to do.”

TYSON FURY “I mean no harm or disrespect to anyone and I know more is expected of me as an ambassador of British boxing and I promise in future to hold myself up to the highest possible standard.”

Fury has made almost as many headlines with his behaviour outside the ring as with his performances in it.

In January, the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC) reminded him of his responsibilities after he made derogatory remarks about women and criticised homesexuality and abortion.

Last year 130 000 signed a petition calling for the BBC to remove Fury from its shortlist for Sports Personality-of-the-Year, prompting another apology from the fighter.

Fury faces Klitschko for the WBA and WBO belts in Manchester on July 9, having rescinded the IBF belt because of a contractual dispute.

players.

“This is an exciting time for English cricket. We’ve

we play.

“As long as I can keep banging out some runs and

we keep winning, I’ll be happy.”

Swing bowler Shrubsole also enjoyed a successful year, which saw her take 32 wickets across all formats, including a spell of 4-19 in last summer’s Women’s Ashes series.

“It is the best 12 months I have put together collectively for England,” she told BBC Sport. “Hopefully I can take my game forward and kick on again next year.”

On the prospect of succeeding Edwards as England captain, she added: “If I got asked it would be an honour to captain my country, but it is not something I am overly concerned about. I’m just trying to get myself in shape for the summer.”

OTHER AWARDS Disability Cricketer-ofthe-Year: Callum Flynn Flynn needed a titanium knee replacement to contin-

ue his cricket career after being diagnosed with bone cancer when he was 14, but played a pivotal role in helping the England Physical Disabilities squad to victory in the inaugural Physical Disabilities World Cup in Bangladesh last autumn.

England Development Programme Cricketer-ofthe-Year: Dan Lawrence The 18-year-old scored 712 runs for England Under-19s and also became Essex’s youngest centurion in first-class cricket when he reached three figures against Surrey in April 2015.

Special Achievement Award: David Lloyd Lloyd was honoured for a cricket career which has spanned more than 50 years and included spells as an England Test player and coach, Lancashire captain and coach, a firstclass umpire and most recently a broadcaster.

(BBC Sport)

Marathon Walk set for Saturday THE William France Differently-Able Athletics Club has scheduled a marathon walk for Saturday from Mahaica, East Coast Demerara to the National Sports Commission (NSC), Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

The walk is open to all persons and starts at 12:00hrs on Saturday. Taking part in

the walk is a group of differently-able persons inclusive of seven amputees and 3 persons who are wheelchair-bound. Also taking part in the walk is club president William France.

The walk, according to France is a celebratory walk in honour of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

The walk will also serve as a warm-up for the Terry Fox marathon in Canada that the club will be a part of in August.

The club also hope to

take part in the New York Marathon in November.

According to France, the Director of Sport Christopher Jones will also be participating.

U.S. opens criminal probe into doping

by Russian athletes

By Nate Raymond

Club president William France is flanked by club members.

NEW YORK,(Reuters)-The U.S. Justice Department has opened an investigation into state-sponsored doping by Russian athletes, a person familiar with the matter said yesterday.

The probe is being overseen by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Brooklyn and is examining Russian officials, athletes, coaches and anyone who benefited from the doping, the person said.

A spokeswoman for Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Robert Capers said the office cannot confirm or deny the existence of an investigation.

Prosecutors are believed to be pursuing conspiracy and fraud charges, according to the New York Times, which first reported the probe.

U.S. prosecutors have been permitted by courts to bring cases against foreigners living abroad if they can show a connection to the United States, such as the use of a U.S. bank.

A World Anti-Doping Agency report in November alleging widespread state-sponsored doping in Russia led to a ban on the country competing in international athletics competitions.

42

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

President’s College duo Faf du Plessis eager for ‘shoo-in’ for CBC Under-16 team

By Daniel Haynes WITH the Under16 Caribbean Basketball Championships (CBC) being held

est talents on these shores at the Under-16 level.

The first is Kareem Boyle, an athletic combo guard who can play both the point and

Kareem Boyle with ball sizing up defender in Guyana, both male and female teams will be under pressure to make it to the finals. However, two players who have already been earmarked for the squad are among the best and bright-

shooting guard positions.

Boyle was born January 2,, 2000 in Kwakwani. The youngster, who dreams of being an engineer, was motivated by Kwakwani coach Ann Gordon.

“Miss Annie was the one who introduced me to basketball, back in Kwakwani. We normally play all the time and one time I went to the court and she told me I have the potential to be good so I kept playing,” said Boyle.

From there, when he started President’s College in first form, he decided to give it a shot scoring his way onto the team. The sixfoot multitalented Boyle is now in fifth form, pursuing 10 subjects at the CSEC examinations.

Boyle has his sights set on representing Guyana in the upcoming games and making his country proud. A bright mind full of optimism, the 16-year-old hopes to one day follow the dream of basketball into the National Basketball Association (NBA) idolising Cleveland Cavaliers LeBron James.

The second of the two players from President’s College is Demelza Nicholas, a floor general with a high basketball IQ. Nicholas, born March 22 2000 is the product of Enterprise Gardens on the East Coast of Demerara. The 16-year-old has been taking female basketball by storm at the school level. Since discovering her love for the game in Form 1 due to her P.E teacher, Demelza has always wanted to take part on

her school team. “ We d i d n ’ t h a v e a school team and when they said they wanted to start one I couldn’t wait to join,” said Demelza.

The 16-year-old is also in

Demelza Nicholas Fifth Form and is currently writing seven subjects at the CSEC level. She hopes one day to become a veterinarian.

Her goals include becoming a well-rounded sportswoman who is successful at her craft.

A fan of the all-time great Michael Jordan, Demelza says that the former Bulls shooting guard is the reason she is playing.

The President’s College duo of Kareem Boyle and Demelza Nicholas are making waves at the Under-16 levels.

Pooranmall takes double crown in Trophy Stall-sponsored Jubilee draughts THE Guyana Draughts Association (GDA) concluded its Jubilee tournament last Sunday at the National Gymnasium with the games keenly contested on both days.

In the open competition on Saturday Khemraj Pooranmall took a narrow edge over his rivals. Jiaram and Steve Bacchus had the lead going into the sixth and final round with 12 and 13 points respectively. However, an upset saw Pooranmall move from 11 points to 15 to tie with Steve Bacchus and Navin Megbarran who got the bye, earning himself 4 free points.

The trio had a tie-breaker playoff which Pooranmall won with Navin in second and Bacchus in third. Another tie-breaker for the fourth place saw Jiaram defeat both Francis and Yearwood who all ended the sixth round on

13 points.

On Sunday the games were played on the International 100-square boards.

Both Jiaram and Pooranmall went into the final round with

9 points each.

A loss to Jiaram in the final round and a win for Pooranmall gave him a double crown in the competition. Jiaram placed

In picture: Ulric Brathwaite sitting right, left Khemraj Pooranmall; back right Jiaram, centre Steve Bacchus, left Navin Megbarran

second while Steve Bacchus and Ulric Brathwaite placed third and fourth respectively. All four players had competed in International competitions in top Draughts-playing nation Suriname.

Trophies donated by Trophy Stall and the National Sports Commission were awarded to the top players.

In the opening of the games president of the association, Mr Jiaram welcomed the players and congratulated them for their involvement in this aspect of the Jubilee celebrations. He also commended the association for supporting National activities such as this.

The association expressed its gratitude and thanks to Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall Bourda Market, executives of the National Sports Commission, Lalta Gainda of RUBiS Bel Air and Southland International.

CPL action

SOUTH Africa star batsman Faf du Plessis is relishing the opportunity to play in the West Indies this summer and believes that the HERO Caribbean Premier League (CPL) can open up a new and exciting chapter in his career when he leads the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots this summer.

Pretoria born du Plessis, 31, will feature in the Proteas squad for their forthcoming tour of the Caribbean and will then captain the Patriots in the fourth edition of the CPL, which is scheduled to take place between June 29 and August 7.

“When you look at the amount of international Test, ODI and T20 cricket that’s being played around the world, it’s funny to think that this will be the first time that I will get to play in the West Indies,” he said.

“I’ve been fortunate to play for my country for the last five years, but for whatever reason it hasn’t come to pass. I guess you could say that it has been a long time coming, but I’m really excited to FAF DU PLESSIS finally be playing in the Caribbean.”

Not playing in the Caribbean has not prevented news from the region from getting to his ears and what he has been hearing had only served to pique his interest.

“I’ve heard nothing but good things about the CPL. Off the field, the Caribbean people are great fans and provide an incredible atmosphere, which I have yet to fully experience,” he said. “And this year, on it, I think the competition is going to grow from strength to strength with a really high calibre of players across each of the six teams.

It will undoubtedly be a step into the unknown because I’m not familiar with the conditions, but that’s the kind of challenge you live for as a cricketer.

After my (finger) injury I’m feeling fresh and ready to get out there and try and be a positive influence for the Proteas and then the Patriots. I just can’t wait to get started!”(Sportsmax).

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday May 18, 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) ……………………

(2) …………………..

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which two teams contested the final of IPL 2011?

(2) Who was declared ‘Man of the Match’ of the IPL 2011 final?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

43

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 18, 2016

National Junior Men’s hockey team arrive in Toronto THE Guyana National Junior Men’s hockey team arrived in Toronto, Canada Monday evening to take part in the Pan American Junior Championships, scheduled for May 20 to 28.

The team settled into their accommodation at the University of Toronto grounds and had a taste of the 6°C temperature on their early morning jog and stretching session yesterday, under the

practice session on one of the University’s two artificial turfs at 15:30hrs yesterday.

The players are also scheduled to have a practice match today against a selection of senior Toronto club players, before their final practice session tomorrow, with the tournament fixed to start on Friday.

Three of the team’s most experienced players, Hilton

their CXC and CAPE examinations.

They will take on the tournament’s third-seeds on Friday at 15:00hrs, then Mexico on Saturday at the same time before playing second-seeds Canada on Monday at 17:30hrs.

According to head coach Robert Fernandes “We will use these first few days to get the boys comfortable with their surroundings, acclima-

adjust to the faster pace of play that the turf allows.

“So hopefully by arriving here early and having three sessions on the surface we will be firing on all cylinders by Friday.”

Local fans will be able to stream the matches live on the www.panamhockey.org website.

The Guyana team reads Mark Sargeant (capt), Medroy Scotland (GK), Mi-

The Guyana Junior Men’s hockey team guidance of physical trainer Barrington Browne.

The Guyanese were scheduled to have their first

Chester, Kareem McKenzie and Daniel Hooper will join the team tomorrow evening, after completing some of

tised to the conditions and adjusted to playing on the turf. We usually get better as tournaments wear on and we

chael Hing (GK), Kareem McKenzie, Keon McKenzie, Daniel Hooper, Shaquille Leung, Meshach Sargeant,

Rosario Ramsammy, Aroydy Branford, Andrew Stewart, Leon Bacchus, Jael Gaskin, Omar Hopkinson, Hilton Chester, Ato Greene, Paramanand Dindial, and Nyron Joseph.

Manager – Hubert Forrester Coaches – Robert Fernandes, Dwayne Alleyne and Marvin Dannett Physical Trainer – Barrington Browne

Bolt ‘fine’ after hamstring scare USAIN Bolt has been treated for discomfort in his hamstring following his season-opening 100-metre sprint in the Cayman Islands on Saturday.

Bolt won the race in 10.05s but according to his coach it was the discomfort he felt in his hamstring that prevented him from going faster.

Glen Mills, coach of the six-time Olympic gold medallist, speaking on radio in Jamaica on Monday, said Bolt received treatment in Germany and doctors there said he will be fine. Bolt is down to USAIN BOLT compete in the 100m at the Golden Spike in Ostrava on Friday. It was not clear whether the will go ahead and compete.

However, Sky Sports in the United Kingdom reported that the world record holder is still expected to show up.

The 29-year-old star is aiming to win an unprecedented third treble in Rio this August as he seeks to defend his titles in the 100 metres, 200 metres and 4x100m relay. (Sportsmax.com)

WIFBSC Championships 2016 – Antigua

Guyana aiming to retain Short Range and Individual trophies THE defending champions of the West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) Short Range championship, Guyana, are confident of successfully retaining the trophy when the 2016 edition shoots off at the Crabbs Rifle Range in Antigua and Barbuda, today.

Defending Individual champion Lennox Braithwaite is also confident of making it four in a row when proceedings get underway with the Individuals over the next three days.

No championships were held last year since the WIFBSC sent a team to the World Championships in Ohio, Texas USA. For the first time in its history the West Indies did not place last as they finished ahead of Germany. Half of the 16-member team was made up of Guyanese.

Braithwaite and USA-

Team Guyana prepare for their shoot

based John Fraser arrived in Antigua on Sunday while the remainder of the team, Mahendra Persaud (captain & Wind coach), Dylan Fields (vice-captain), Ransford Goodluck (Wind coach), Leo Romalho, Peter Persaud, Ryan Sampson, Sherwin Felicien, Terrence Stuart and Head Wind coach Paul Slowe, arrived yesterday.

Team Guyana practised yesterday in order to get their zeros and a feel of the range ahead of today’s competition.

Captain Persaud said that while they were a bit tired, they are focused on the task at hand and that is to successfully defend the Individual title as well as the Short Range championship. The Long Range title which Guyana also hold will not be contested since Antigua does not have such a facility.

President of the Antigua

and Barbuda Shooting Club which is an affiliate of the WIFBSC, Thomas Greenaway, said that all systems are in place for the successful hosting of the 2016 championships noting that a lot of work has gone into making it become reality.

Competition will be held at the 300, 500 and 600 yards ranges following the opening ceremony at 09:00hrs today.

The Individual competition, which would see shooters from the host nation, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Canada compete, will last until tomorrow.

Team matches will commence on Friday with the nations competing in the Wadadli Cup, a 4-member per team competition. On Saturday, the 8-member team Anchor Cup match will be contested.

National Junior Men’s hockey team arrive in Toronto See story on page 43

Surinamese repelled

by Guyanese dragsters See story on page 39

Guyanese dragster Asurdin Mohammed in his GTR (left) gets the jump on a Surinamese Ford Mustang (Michael Gonzalves photo)

IOC says 31 athletes could miss Rio after positive Beijing drug re-tests

By Martyn Herman LONDON, England |(Reuters) – Thirty-one athletes from six sports could be banned from this year’s Rio Olympics after failing dope tests when 454 samples were reexamined from the 2008 Beijing Games, the International Olympic Committee said yesterday.

The IOC also said it would start re-testing Sochi 2014 winter Games samples after allegations of tarnished samples were made last week by Russia’s former top anti-doping scientist. Some 250 samples from the London Games will also be reexamined.

In an effort to crack down on cheats during the Olympics, the IOC said this was targeted to re-testing athletes likely to be at the Rio Games starting on August 5, and those found to have tested positive would not compete.

An IOC official told Reuters no names would be made public at this stage until athletes had been in-

formed and a second sample, or B-sample, tested as well.

“The aim is to stop any drugs cheats coming to the Olympic Games in Rio de

THOMAS BACH Janeiro,” the IOC said. “The (IOC) Executive Board agreed unanimously to initiate proceedings immediately, with the 12 National Olympic Committees concerned informed in the coming days.”

The re-tests, a regular procedure by the IOC as it looks to use newer methods or looks for new substances, were carried out in conjunction with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and international federations.

The IOC said it had also called on WADA to launch a “fully fledged investigation” into allegations that testing during the Sochi 2014 winter Olympics by the on-site accredited laboratory had been subverted.

The former head of Russia’s anti-doping agency Grigory Rodchenkov said last week that the Sochi lab had tampered with samples.

Russia is at the heart of the biggest drugs scandal in years, with the country’s track and field athletes currently suspended and the Rio Games hopes in doubt, and their drugs testing lab and anti-doping agency undergoing complete overhaul.

“All these measures are a powerful strike against the cheats we do not allow to win.

They show once again that dopers have no place to hide,” said IOC president Thomas Bach.

“The re-tests from Beijing and London and the measures we are taking following the worrying allegations against the laboratory in Sochi are another major step to protect the clean athletes, irrespective of any sport or any nation.”

Apart from tarnishing any competition, doping has also damaged the Olympics’ reputation, with the IOC regularly stripping athletes of their medals, sometimes years after they competed, due to positive drugs tests.

“By stopping so many doped athletes from participating in Rio we are showing once more our determination to protect the integrity of the Olympic competitions, including the Rio anti-doping laboratory, so that the Olympic magic can unfold in Rio de Janeiro,” Bach said.

The Rio Games run from August 5 to 21.

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Cozier’s body set for viewing today BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - Arrangements have been set in train for members of the public to pay final respects to the internationally-acclaimed cricket writer, commentator and journalist Tony Cozier, today from 12:00hrs to 18:00hrs in an area behind the 3Ws Stand at Kensington Oval.

Cozier’s body will be on display (in closed casket) and individuals will be able to sign ‘remembrance books’ in his honour. These books will be kept at the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) TONY COZIER for posterity.

The BCA extends a special invitation to all members of the cricket and local sports family.

Cozier, a Barbadian, died in hospital here on May 11 following an illness. He was 75.

His funeral service and cremation will take place on Friday, May 20 at Coral Ridge Memorial Gardens, The Ridge, in the southern parish of Christ Church at 15:00hrs. (BCA article) WEDNESDAY, MAY 18, 2016