Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 19 10 2016

Tender for Diamond flyover next month 10 Page

Wind energy soon No. 104709

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

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‌ roll-out of projects likely next year

Measures for renewable energy 3 in budget

Seniors in concert

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4 more years for drug lord

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Anjanie Boodnarine

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Barry Dataram

Woman freed of killing 5 husband Page

Senior citizens had an opportunity to showcase their talents under the patronage of First Lady, HE Sandra Granger, on Sunday at the Umana Yana.

Directed by veteran journalist Mr. Francis Quamina Farrier, a concert was hosted as part of Month of the Elderly, featuring songs, poetry, monologues and instrumental music for the entertainment of invited guests and fellow senior citizens from the Palms Geriatric Home, the Dharm Shala, the Uncle Eddie’s Home, Archers Home, Holy Family Home and the Salvation Army Home. In this Aubrey Odle photo, one of the seniors performs to the delight of the audience

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

4 more years for drug lord

CONVICTED drug lord, Barry Dataram and his common law wife, Anjanie Boodnarine appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan Tuesday at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, charged with forging a Guyanese passport, absconding the law and illegal departure from Guyana.

While Dataram pleaded guilty to all the charges, Boodnarine pleaded not guilty and was refused bail and remanded to prison until October 31. The duo was handed over to the SWAT Unit of the Guyana Police Force at Moleson Creek, Upper Corentyne, East Berbice on Saturday last, hours after they were caught in neighbouring Suriname.

The self-confessed drug lord was on September 27, found guilty by Magistrate

Judy Latchman of being in possession of a quantity of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking; but prior to the magistrate handing down her decision, Dataram and Boodnarine fled the jurisdiction while on bail. Boodnarine was found not guilty of the cocaine charges. In his absence, he was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and fined one hundred and sixty-four million, two hundred and sixty- eight dollars (Gy$164,268,000).

Dataram was sentenced to 12 months in jail for the forgery offense; 12 months for not presenting himself to an immigration officer and two years for attempting to defeat the administration of the law by leaving the country during his cocaine trial. The sentences will run consecutively, meaning that in addition to his current

five years imprisonment for drug trafficking, Dataram will spend an additional four years in jail.

Meanwhile, the charges read to the duo separately alleged that between September 20 and October 15, 2016, Dataram and his spouse attempted to default the administration of law to avoid the consequences of the matter they had before the court. It is further alleged that between April 15, 2013 to October 15, 2016 at Camp Street Georgetown with intent to commit a felony, he conspired with others, to forge one passport in favour of himself purporting showing same to be issued by the Central Immigration and Passport Office. The duo was also charged with illegal departure, which stated that on September 20, at Springlands they departed Guyana without presenting themselves to an Immigration Office. Boodnarine was also charged with forgery of a Guyana Passport.

The facts presented by police persecutor Neville

Jeffers stated that Dataram was arrested and charged for the possession of narcotics by the Criminal Investigation Unit. During the trial Dataram absconded before the trial was completed and he was sentenced in his absence.

According to the prosecutor on September 20, 2016 Dataram departed Guyana for Suriname via back track route at Springlands. He was subsequently arrested by the Suriname authorities and handed over to the police at Spring-

lands. An investigation was conducted at the Central Immigration office which showed that the defendant departed Guyana illegally, since there is no record of him leaving Guyana.

However the prosecutor objected to bail for Boodnarine, on the grounds that she was a flight risk. Magistrate McLennan did not grant Boodnarine bail, the magistrate stated that the defendant is indeed a flight risk and on the grounds she was remanded.

In his explanation to

the court, Dataram said, “I did not do it willfully but while the trial was going on I did not feel I was getting a fair trial,” adding that Magistrate Latchman and his former lawyer, Glen Hanoman, “have a personal problem” and was convinced that his trial was not fair.

He further attempted to clear his spouse of any wrong doing by stating that, “I’m the one who force the girl [Boodnarine] to get the documents and to leave the jurisdiction.”

GPL ties Tuesday’s blackout to shutdown of DBIS THE constant blackout that hit Demerara and Berbice on Tuesday resulted from three shutdowns of the Demerara/Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS), the Guyana Power and Light has said.

GPL says the DBIS experienced three shutdowns -- at approximately 12:03 hrs, 12:58 hrs, and 16:04 hrs -- due to a suspected fault on the 69kv transmission line linking the Kingston Power Station to the Sophia Substation (Dispatch Centre). This transmission line remains isolated from the DBIS grid.

According to GPL, while efforts are ongoing to determine the origin of the shutdowns, power was restored within minutes of each shutdown in both counties, with the exception of customers from Onverwagt to Ithaca, Berbice;

Sophia to Success, ECD; and along the East Bank Demerara Corridors. These areas were repowered at about 18:30hrs.

The loss of this transmission line connection between Kingston and Sophia has reduced available generation within the DBIS by 32 megawatts, thus necessitating an emergency load-shedding programme in both counties while work was done assiduously to return normalcy to the grid, GPL said.

Customers are encouraged to visit GPL website at www.gplinc.net and GPL Inc. Facebook page for updates as they become available, GPL added.

“We express regret for this unfortunate situation and the inconveniences caused, and seek the patience of our valued customers,” the power company has said.

Roll-out of wind energy projects next year

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

THE Government of Guyana (GoG) will soon embrace the role for renewable energy resources with implementation of wind energy in Guyana in keeping with the Green Economy initiative, and could begin rolling out projects from as early as next year.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) has said in a statement that it has undertaken a number of initiatives to provide the policy, regulatory and technical frameworks for development of wind energy according to international standards.

According to the MPI, the recently updated Study of Guyana’s Power Generation System Expansion identifies the role for up to 26MW of wind energy generation capacity from the year 2017; and as part of its policy framework for renewable energy, it is currently in the process of updating the

1994 National Energy Policy, under a Policy Steering Committee, to provide the framework and strategy to guide the transition of Guyana to an economy that is energy-efficient, low-carbon, cost-effective, has indigenous renewable energy resources, and provides for increased energy security.

“Also within this framework, interest in renewable energy development will be specially guided and supported, while a draft of the updated National Energy Policy will be available by the end of 2016, when the policy will be finalised within the second half of 2017 by way of a consultative process with stakeholders,” an MPI statement said.

The MPI said it consulted with an international expert in March 2016 to advise on the environmental, economic, technical issues, requirements and processes that would be

necessary for a systematic and professional development of wind energy projects.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson This consultancy resulted in outlining clear guidelines and criteria for assisting project developers and

all stakeholders (including government departments and agencies) to develop wind energy projects in a sustainable manner, in accordance with international standards.

Moreover, the policy, regulatory, and technical frameworks are expected to facilitate the social, environmental and economic sustainability of projects. Further, the MPI wishes to inform the public of the main requirements which are consistent with international standards. These requirements are for prospective wind energy developers in preparation for their projects, which are necessary to lead to Power Purchase Agreement negotiations.

Requirements can be accessible on the following website: http://electricity. gov.gy/:http://publicworks. gov.gy/ Late last year, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson announced that the

MPI had granted approval for a US$50M+ project which is being spearheaded by city businessman Lloyd Singh and a number of other investors. Patterson had said that Government was working to sign a power purchase agreement between the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) and the developer, Guyana Windfarm Inc. (GWF); and that GWF and GPL would have to reach a pact on the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) before a decision is made pertaining to the wind farm construction at Hope Beach. Minister Patterson explained that the PPA would address critical financial, commercial and technical issues relating to the development, construction, operation, maintenance and ownership of the project, including the issue of the price for which the power would be sold to GPL, and how the power is to be delivered.

When asked if there is need for tabling of a bill in Parliament for this transaction before it becomes operational, Minister Patterson said the GWF, when developed and if so licensed by the minister, would be an independent power producer which, under the current law, can only sell power to a public supplier, who in this case is GPL. The International Pharmaceutical Agency (IPA), one of the investors in the Hope Wind Farm Project, says the 25-megawatt facility can reduce the country’s fuel bill by US$5 million (G$1B) annually. The project, stalled under the previous administration, is now back on the agenda.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that the project would not have a negative impact on its surroundings.

Measures for renewable energy in budget MAJOR emphasis will be placed on the generation of renewable energy when the 2017 Budget is presented to the National Assembly on December 5.

In his recent address to the Parliament of Guyana, President David Granger disclosed that budgetary measures would include renewable energy generation and improved energy efficiency – key initiatives to

his administration’s green agenda.

“Guyana’s future is linked to renewable energy generation and increased use of energy-efficient technologies. We will graduate our economy increasingly towards greater renewable energy use across all sectors of Guyana. Government buildings will be powered eventually by renewable energy sources, and will

utilize energy-efficient technologies. Incentives will be offered to the private sector to follow the Government’s lead,” the President said.

Additionally, the National Budget will include measures aimed at developing a more diversified and climate-resilient agricultural sector. “We will promote agricultural expansion further inland by introducing mega farms in the Intermediate

and Rupununi savannahs; promote the expansion of non-traditional agricultural production, such as coconuts, fruits and spices; and promote the increase of aromatic rice production, which will add to the crop production in rice sector at a higher end of the value chain,” he further explained.

As the budget preparation continues, he said, it is characterised by an inclusive

Operation Safeway nets 2000 speedsters -147 charged for tinted motor vehicle

ONE MONTH after the launch of Operation Safeway, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has charged more than 2000 drivers for speeding and 147 for tinted motor vehicles, the acting Traffic Chief, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan, has revealed.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, the superintendent said 549 persons have also been charged with

driving under the influence (DUI), while 81 persons have been charged with driving without a licence.

Underscoring that the Police Traffic Department has embarked on a campaign to reduce carnage on the country’s roadways, he said a number of exercises have been initiated to educate citizens about the necessity of heeding traffic laws.

He explained that the po-

lice force continues to drop ‘the heavy hand of the law’ on traffic offenders, resulting in errant road users being prosecuted for traffic offences; and driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding are the most prevalent traffic offences.

“Operation Safeway was launched in an attempt to clamp down on drunk, speeding, and reckless drivers, as it intends to counter the mounting road accidents that

have resulted in fatalities,” he noted.

For the period September 15 to October 16, 2016, the Superintendent said, there has been a 36.3% reduction in fatal accidents in comparison with that same period last year. He said that a total of 6,421 charges have been made against drivers for various traffic offences since the inception of Operation Safeway.

and consultative process. “It will be designed around a results-based format,” President Granger emphasized, noting that it will be guided by the objectives of fiscal sustainability, institutional sustainability, and environmental sustainability.

In moving the country forward, President Granger said, his administration would continue to develop a cohesive society in which confrontation is replaced by cooperation. “The removal of inequalities based on geography and ethnicity will lay the foundation for a better quality of life for everyone. We will work to reduce prejudice

and violence. We will fashion a multi-cultural society characterized by tolerance (and) mutual respect,” he said.

The President said the ‘green’ state would ensure that present and future generations enjoy a safe future and a higher quality of life.

The ‘green’ pathway to development would allow for the country to sustain economic growth, generate new sectors and additional jobs, build a more resilient and diversified economy, promote human development, reduce inequalities, and ensure the safety, security and general well-being of our country, he posited.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Caterpillar trade row turns deadly Stop whining!

AT least 16 people have been killed in a row over a disputed charge on the sale of caterpillars in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The larvae were being sold for food in south-eastern Katanga province.

Days of violence began when a group of Batwa, also known as pygmies, accused the Luba ethnic group of imposing an illegal levy on the sale of caterpillars, and beating up vendors.

The two groups have clashed several times in the last few years.

The Batwa killed several members of the Luba ethnic group near the region of Kabalo in Katanga. The Luba then launched a revenge attack, killing at least 13 pygmies.

Tensions between the hunter-gatherer pygmies and the Luba, a Bantu ethnic group, have caused

hundreds of deaths over the past three years.

Caterpillars are a delicacy in western DR Congo, in the area around the capital, Kinshasa, hundreds of miles from Katanga, where the deadly clashes occurred.

They are harvested from trees, smoked and often eaten with sauce.

However, they are an unexpected cause of conflict in DR Congo, particularly in Katanga.

That province is not known for its love of eating caterpillars, and people have certainly never killed for them before.

But there is a running feud in the area between pygmies and other ethnic

groups.

Pygmies are native to the region, but they feel they are marginalised, with unequal access to resources and education.

So when they felt that one of their main sources of income was being subject to an unfair tax, the result was violence.

(BBC)

Caterpillars mean brisk business and war in DR Congo

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–Obama tells Trump

US President Barack Obama has told Donald Trump to “stop whining” as he rejected his claim that next month’s White House election will be rigged.

He said Mr Trump’s attempt to discredit a poll before it has even taken place was “unprecedented” for a US presidential candidate.

Also “unprecedented”, said Mr Obama, was the Republican candidate’s “flattery” of Russia’s president.

Mr Trump is facing sinking poll numbers and accusations of sexual assault.

The businessman-turned-politician has claimed that the November 8 election will be “absolutely rigged” in favour of Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton.

But in a White House Rose Garden news conference yesterday alongside visiting Italian Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi, Mr Obama said Trump’s assertions were “based on no facts”.

“I’d advise Mr Trump to stop whining and try to make his case to get votes,” Mr Obama said, adding: “By the way, it doesn’t really show the kind of leadership and toughness that you want out of a president, if you start whining before the game’s even over.

“If whenever things are going badly for you and you lose, you start blaming somebody else, then you don’t have what it takes to be in this job.”

Mr Obama also addressed the Republican candidate’s admiring remarks about Vladimir Putin.

“Mr Trump’s continued flattery of Mr Putin, and the degree to which he appears to model much of his policies and approach to politics on Mr Putin is unprecedented,” he said.

His broadside comes a day after Mr Trump said he would consider visiting Russia before taking office, if elected.

He told a talk-radio host: “If I win on November 8, I could see myself meeting with Putin and meeting with Russia prior to the start of the administration.”

Mr Trump and Mrs Clinton are to face-off today in the third and final presidential debate at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

The Republican candidate has seen his poll numbers slide since their first battle of wits, followed by the emergence of a 2005 sex-boast tape that he was forced to address in the second debate.

Mr Trump denied any impropriety, but a number of women have come forward with sexual assault allegations against him.

Mrs Clinton will head into today’s debate with a seven-point lead over her Republican rival, according to a Monmouth University poll.

She leads Mr Trump 47% to 40%, while 7% of likely voters say they will support the Libertarian Party candidate, Gary Johnson. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Two nabbed for Mahaicony Woman freed of businesswoman’s murder killing husband

TWO men have been taken into police custody as investigations continue into the murder of 56-year-old businesswoman Bibi Nesha Shairoon, called “Shakeela”, who was on Monday found dead at her home at Lot 3, Novar, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara with her hands and feet bound and with injuries to other parts of her body.

The mother of three, who only last month celebrated her 56th birthday, had also been robbed earlier this year. According to an autopsy done on Tuesday,

Shairoon died of blunt trauma to the head, and there was evidence that she had been sexually molested.

A teenager who resides in the same community is one of the men in custody, while the other suspect is from Good Faith, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara.

“The boy that get arrest use to visit the woman shop steady to buy phone cards, and she always catching him thieving her fruits from the trees in her backyard,” one resident told this newspaper.

The dead woman, who had lived alone, used to

Dead: Bibi Nesha Shairoon operate a grocery store that also sold garden chemicals,

cell phone cards and cell phones. It was situated in the lower flat of her home, which was also ransacked.

Police suspect that she had been attacked and robbed on Saturday night, since her body was found on Monday morning. According to a relative, the bandits gained entry to the home by breaking into a wooden section in the lower flat.

“They gone with a lot of cell phones, jewellery and her stocks. We didn’t find anything; the robbers carried away everything,” the relative said.

Repairs to Burnham Drive road this week REPAIRS to Burnham Drive in Linden, Region 10, a section of which completely collapsed a few weeks ago, causing several minor accidents, will commence this week. A contractor has already been awarded the project.

The ‘E’ Division Police Traffic Department was forced to barricade the road, and commuters were forced to use a nearby bypass. Region 10 Chairman Renis Morian has said the Ministry of Public Infrastructure would be repairing that section of the road, and he is happy that the engineers were able to have a first-hand view of the state of the entire road, thus they were able to observe its approximately six structural faults and several holes.

Burnham Drive is a main roadway, and is in dire need of major reconstruction, Morian has posited. “Burnham Drive needs a study; we need to move beyond the patching.

The road is contiguous to the river, so…we believe that

the road is being undermined by the river,” Morian said on Monday.

Burnham Drive, which starts at the Mackenzie/Wismar Bridge and ends at Christianburg, is used by many res-

private offices.

Given the magnitude of pedestrian and vehicular traffic traversing the road daily, there is fear that if extensive repairs are not done to the road earliest, fatalities may

This section of Burnham Drive collapsed a few weeks ago idents as an access to most of the communities on the Wismar shore, including Wismar Housing Scheme, Victory Valley, One Mile, Blue Berry Hill and Danjou Alley. Also located on the roadway are several schools, churches, the Linden Magistrate’s Court, the Wismar Police Station, all boat landings, the Wismar Market, several car parks, and several Government and

occur.

Earlier in the year, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure had repaired kokers and culverts along the road after it was observed that several parts of the thoroughfare were eroding into the river.

Senior Engineer Jermaine Braithwaite, while on a visit to Linden, told the Guyana Chronicle that the upper part of the tubes holding the

kokers together had corroded, causing the road base to wash in and its foundation to be lost. And even though the upper layer of the road may seem sound, its foundation is void; and that is why some parts are sinking while visible holes will continue to expand.

The situation has since worsened tremendously with the volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic traversing the road daily.

Regional officials are hoping that this situation is resolved soonest.

NICOLA Joseph walked out of the High Court a free woman on Tuesday after Justice Jo-Ann Barlow directed a 12-member jury to return a verdict of ‘not guilty’ of murder in her trial for the July 21, 2014 killing of her reputed husband during a domestic quarrel.

The decision was handed down after the prosecution had no evidence to disprove a self-defense case led by the defence. Before exiting the courtroom on Tuesday, the visibly relieved mother of six thanked Justice Barlow and the 12-member jury, after which she embraced her relatives who had attended the trial.

Joseph was represented by Attorney Sonia Parag, while the Dead: Curtis McKinnon State was represented by prosecutors Siand Dhurjon and Tameika Clarke. The prosecution’s case was that Joseph stabbed her reputed husband, 38-yearold Curtis McKinnon, to death at their Lot 12 Plantain Walk, Klien Pouderoyen, West Coast Demerara home during a heated row which escalated into a scuffle.

Neighbours had reportedly heard the couple arguing, and they were informed about the stabbing by Joseph’s 18-year-old son, who ran out of the house and summoned them. McKinnon was found bleeding on a mattress and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

According to police reports, McKinnon was stabbed in his neck, and Joseph had visited a nearby police station to file a report, and was arrested.

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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

Linden tourism potential THE United Nations (UN) has categorised the town of Linden as a prospective World Tourism Destination.

The potential for tourism in Linden and Region 10 in general is not new to citizens and leaders in the community, though it could be said such took a back seat to the emphasis on the production of bauxite.

A niche market in tourism today that Guyana can capitalise on is that of environmental promotion, with an eye towards preservation which can ennoble the community, equally as it spurs economic growth and address the problems within.

Linden has many attractions, such as the sandy hills, some of which resulted from the stripping of the overburden to get to the bauxite; the lake that was created as a consequence of bauxite mining; the so-called “blue lake” whose novelty lies in the absence of dark sediments on the lake bed which makes pronounced the reflection of the sky; springs; and remnants of bauxite mining on the Wismar and Mackenzie shores.

This year marks a century of mining bauxite in Guyana. Over the years, consequences positive and negative of the industry have made their mark on society, created a subculture within the Guyanese culture, which presents economic opportunities. The present degradation that comes with mining and the physical environmental practices of the time, the people who inhabited the land and their way of life, the natural habitat, flora and fauna, each segment of the community tells its own story and potential of developing an alternative industry.

Entering the town at night via the Linden/Soesdyke Highway on arriving at Amelia’s Ward the lights that demarcate the landscape from the Watooka community onto Christianburg which include the bauxite plant and central Mackenzie are a picturesque sight for visitors and residents.

The news of the UN confirms that Guyana, though a small nation, has equal attention of this world body, and moreso the country must move to recognise, appreciate

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Decision time on GuySuCo

Dear Editor,

IT IS obvious that sugar as a traditional pillar of the Guyanese economy is now at its crossroads, but hopefully this is not the end of the road.

I write because of the heated conversation now taking place regarding the past, present and future of this historical commodity, which featured prominently in our social history, our economic survival, and even our political development.

At a recent meeting held between the Management of GuySuCo and the three unions representing the employees, NAACIE, GLU and GAWU, I came to the conclusion that Guyana, because of politics and International control, is once again heading down a very dark financial path. I am totally aware that sugar would have been the first significant economic venture on a massive scale to bring foreign capital to Guyana’s economy centuries ago.

Naturally, Guyana’s sugar also sustained positive economic development in other countries, including Britain, which continued to be great because of this colonial crop.

I know that small producers worldwide were ‘forced’ to get rid of exchanging raw sugar for hard currency for various reasons, but the decision by the European Union

in 2007: to arbitrarily revise the Cotonou Agreement and reduce export of sugar from the ACP sugar-producing countries, while also reducing the price they pay for the commodity, would have caused a great burden on countries that could not get rid of the commodity for other hard currency earners.

Guyana is included.

My concern is presently with the announcement made by the authorities about “preparing to live without sugar”, which has placed the managers of the Sugar Corporations in a different mode, to the point of destructive behaviour. My own view is that the ailing industry is being positioned into a place whereby we will not be able to purchase machinery, not only for sugar, but for other industries; and we would once again have to restrict importation of basic goods and services, as in the unholy late seventies/ early eighties.

The Cold War and its repercussions for our own policies, and its economic stagnation are long over.

At the meeting of September 29, 2016 between the sugar corporation and the three unions, fear was portrayed and anxiety by persons whose lives depend on sugar production and sale. The message to the workers, again my view, should be that we all are in this together and we

and seek to pursue in a structured, realistic, and sustainable manner what has attracted global attention that we here might have taken for granted or ignored.

Linden’s history needs to be simply and succinctly captured in every sphere of activity. This includes attention paid to identifying all the bauxite mines, preserving the equipment and artifacts of the bauxite industry, such as the dragline and alumina plant. In developing the community as a tourist destination, it would require identification and auditing of the resources available, inclusive of the human component.

Priority has to be given, first and foremost, to the benefits that will be devolve to the community and its people. This requires a clear developmental policy that includes support from central government, not merely in direct financial input, but working with the people in realising the establishment of an Economic Plan agreed upon in August 2012 between central and regional governments.

Conversely, it behooves the people of Linden/Region 10, having attracted recognition at such level for an economic take-off in tourism, to not sit idly on their potential.

The infrastructure that built Linden and the people who mi-

all have to live or die together. We do not have enough money, and where will we get the money from? This should encourage reasonable discussion.

It would be wrong for me not to suggest a way out, especially knowing that this situation is a result of the decisions by the European Union affecting the Cotonou Agreement, coupled with the administration’s actions to deal with them.

Where we are looking for an alternative for the receipt of foreign currency through labour, we should give the sugar corporation assistance through Government -- a chance to work. The billions that the 18-monthold APNU/AFC Government has had to inject into the industry are indeed a significant sum from tax payers.

But I, as a representative unionist who is directly impacted and as a tax payer and patriotic citizen, call for added assistance from the Government for many reasons. This includes the fact that a sugar levy once bailed us all out; that any sudden immediate demise of the sugar industry will cause national economic chaos that will engulf us all; that funds could be found if much more scientific scrutiny would be paid to the bleeding of revenues from our gold through smuggling, through bauxite

earnings, and through foreign employers who alone set prices, claiming international market realities.

GuySuCo workers might be underpaid, and underperforming because of low morale born of the Government’s dire predictions and actions. We will certainly be spending much more to bring in less foreign exchange if this trend is not stopped urgently. Incidentally, has the Foreign Service thrust at economic diplomacy started?

Are diplomats marketing and selling our rice, sugar and timber aggressively as yet?

Make the only decision necessary Mr. President: find finance to keep a reformed industry alive and refreshed.

I see no ready agricultural alternatives except talk right now. Besides finance, programmes must be launched to create ‘new day farmers’ who are provided with land, technical assistance and technology.

Meanwhile, I look forward to seeing a re-oriented GuySuCo sending committed managers into the fields and factories among the workers. The Unions stand ready to play their part.

It is certainly DECISION TIME. Regards, KENNETH JOSEPH General Secretary NAACIE

grated to this community from all parts of Guyana brought with them their unique culture that fused into one culture, known as the “mining culture,” which pioneered and built a community from raw jungle to a town. This town, at one time, when bauxite was king, made significant contributions to the country’s development.

It may not be of widespread knowledge, which is an anomaly the education system must correct in the needed continuous process of forging a nation and recognising the contribution of each group to the nation’s development, but this community, in 1975, put Guyana on the world map.

Bauxite workers of Linden assembled what in 1975 was then the world’s largest dragline. Hopefully this machine, which was last in the East Montgomery Mine, has been preserved, though it was said that the Privatisation Unit under Winston Brassington had intended to sell it as scrap metal.

If the pioneers of yesteryear did it, there is no doubt such pioneering spirit resides in their descendants, who must take the potential for tourism and use the opportunity to move their community into a new phase of development.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Honouring our past and present ‘sons of Guyana’ Dear Editor, GUYANA is a country that is abundant with great men and women.

The great accomplishments of our sons and daughters of this soil must never go unnoticed and must never be forgotten. Some of the sacrificial contributions made by these past and present political leaders have all helped to shape our country.

I would like us all to honour our Prime Minister of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Moses V. Nagamootoo.

The Bharath University in India conferred him a Honoris Causa Degree (Doctor of Letters) on October 5, 2016 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Also, on October 4, the Madras Development

Society presented the Prime Minister its highest award, the Crown Jewel of Tamils, for his outstanding achievements in public life. He was hailed as the first person with Tamil ancestry who has been elevated to the post of Prime Minister and First Vice-President. This is a great recognition for not only him and family as a political stalwart and leader, but also for Guyana, as he belongs to us.

On this same thought, I was always very pained to take note of the fact that certain people in their political commentary have made a mockery of such great achievements of our people who receive awards and honours.

Also, it should not pass us, as a people, to recognize Former President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo for the

twelve years he served as president. Prior to his presidency, he served as the Minister of Finance. Apart from his national contributions, he has received five (5) honorary doctorates and holds a number of global leadership positions in the areas of sustainable development, green growth and climate change. Serving as the Leader of the Opposition currently, this son of the soil must be celebrated for his service to Guyana.

In the same vein, I would like to honour another internationally recognized son of Guyana, and perhaps he can be called the ‘father’, the indomitable Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan. He was also mocked for the many great things he did for world politics and human development. His many books, moreso the popular

“West on Trial”, has been paid scant attention to in his own country. His most vital contribution to world affairs was his book and explanation on the need for “A New Human Global Order”. Many in North America and Europe could not see it when he had expounded the wisdom; however, it has now been recognized as an important component for international human development, to the point that the United Nations had adopted resolutions.

We must recognize a true stalwart and nationalist in Former leader of Guyana Mr. Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. Many had mocked him on his ideas for independence and self-sufficiency, instead of joining hands with him to make it a reality.

Burnham and his Gov-

Resolving the Diwali impasse Dear Editor, IN AN attempt to resolve the impasse on the Diwali issue in Guyana, it may be quite useful to examine the system used by the Indian astrologers in determining their dates for Diwali in India.

The Sree Venkateshwar Panchanga, commonly referred to as the ‘100-year Patra,’ has been the chief source of our calendar in Guyana for approximately one hundred years. All organizations in Guyana continue to use it.

It follows the North Indian system, the same system followed by Hindus in Guyana. It should be mentioned that the astrologers of Trinidad, USA and Canada also follow the same system.

I have done an analysis of this Panchanga for the years 1990-2020.

Tabulated hereunder are my findings for the years 1995 – 2001 and 2015 2018.

In my analysis, I have found: (a) The Sree Venkateshvar Panchaanga has not interfered with the ending-time of the Tithi; it has not extended the moon’s phase whatsoever. (b) It has consistently adhered to the age-old principle of locating Diwali within the time-span of the Amaavasya Tithi. (c) Diwali has always been observed on the evening where Amaavasya prevails.

Where Amaavasya prevails at the evening of the first day, Diwali is on that evening (1995 – 2001). Where Amaavasya prevails at the evening of the second day, Diwali is observed on the second day (2015 - 2018). (d) For the years 1995 – 2001, Guyana and India celebrated Diwali on the same date; Amaavasya prevailed at the same evenings (first) for both countries. This was also the case for the years 2012 – 2014, and will be so for 2019 and 2020.

DIWALI IN GUYANA For Guyana, after mak-

ernment were attacked locally and internationally for being a pipe dream.

He believed in Guyana and the possibility of this nation blossoming into a great economy. Moreso, he believed that Guyana could be the bread basket of the Caribbean.

And, of course, I could not end without mentioning my hero and spirit brother, Former President Mr. Hugh Desmond Hoyte, whose Economic Recovery Program (ERP) enhanced Guyana! Developed Guyana! At that time, it was touted by the then political opposition and many others as empty rice pots. He was the architect of the open economy and he opened industries which developed the country. It would also be fair to point out that when

the PPP/C Government took power in 1992, they maintained the philosophy of Hugh Desmond Hoyte, and utilized it to the maximum benefit of Guyana (ERP).

My point and purpose, brothers and sisters, is to propel the idea into the mentality of us all -- in a country of enormous proportions, mentalities and economic possibilities -- that we must recognize our heroes and we must stop looking at the negatives.

Each leader and each new Government has its own style of stewardship. Please, oh people of Guyana, let us look at the positives; let us honor our heroes!

ing the necessary adjustment for the time difference of 9:30 hours, the principle as used by the Panchanga must then be followed, i.e. placing Diwali at the evening of Amaavasya.

For 2016, the duration of Amaavasya will then be from 11:09am (20:39 - 9:30) on the 29th to 13:37pm (23:07 - 9:30) on the 30th.

Following the principle and system used throughout the “100-year Panchanga,” Diwali will then be on the evening of the first day, i.e. 29th October. All other Panchangas support this position.

Regards, ROSHAN KHAN

Regards, PANDIT R. BALBADAR

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

MV GUYANA ON THE MOVE

Transitioning from a narco-state to a stable, diversified economy ON Thursday of the week past, President David Granger delivered to the National Assembly his fourth address as Head of State. The varied address dealt with a broad menu of national issues including quality of life, economic and environmental policies and insight into budget 2017 among others.

However, it was when His Excellency spoke to the issue of public trust that he encapsulated the very essence of what Guyana, as a model developing nation must aspire to be. Guyana has been incrementally emerging from its pre-May 2015 history of a fledging narco-state, major trans-shipment point for illicit drugs from South America to North America and Europe and a nation tethering on the edge of anarchy with rampant crime, piracy, extra-judicial and mass killings, kidnappings and a host of violent drug-related reprisal crimes.

SAFE FUTURE The President outlined, that “[t]he green state will ensure that we bequeath to our children and grandchildren a secure and safe future and a higher quality of life. The green pathway to development will allow for us to sustain economic growth, generate new sectors and additional jobs, build a more resilient and diversified economy, promote human development, reduce inequalities and ensure the safety, security and general well-being of our country.”

What President Granger, in effect, was articulating is that, as a nation with such a troubled past, we must reimagine the country we aspire to cultivate, build and live in.

No more must our well-being be in such tatters that the ambition of the majority of Guyanese is to acquire a visa to anywhere but here. A new, reimagined Guyana must provide a comfortable and fulfilling life right within these 83,000 square miles for all Guyanese. Under the previous administration we had the resources but lacked the will. President Granger articulated this Coalition Government’s intent and will to change.

President Granger spoke against the background of a not-so-distant reality which we cannot ignore. It was since President Granger was sworn in as Guyana’s 8th executive president seventeen months and three days ago, on May 16th, 2015 that the nation began to understand, in a fulsome way, how dependent Guyana’s economy had been not on sugar, gold, bauxite and timber but on the illegal narco-trade and its attendant tentacles.

CLEANSING GUYANA The monies circulating locally as a result gave a false sense of economic prosperity. Now that the Coalition Government has been making deliberate efforts to cleanse Guyana’s economy it has resulted in an anticipated drying up of the lavish drug funds and a slowdown in economic activity has been the inevitable result. Many enforcers, look-outs, couriers and such like who depended on the drug trade for a living in a PPP-economy which did not provide legal jobs for them have since turned to petty crimes.

It has compounded the problem which the Ministry of Public Security and the

Guyana Police Force have been gallantly combating.

However, this is not a permanent state of affairs but a difficult and necessary transitionary period towards a better Guyana.

This is a temporary state of affairs. It is anticipated that with measures to be proposed in budget 2017 and subsequent budgets by Finance Minister Winston Jordan, along with the opening up of new agricultural lands, the intensification of preparations for the operations of the oil and gas sector, the pursuit of major infrastructural projects along with the prospects of foreign direct investments, there will be a ‘clean’ regeneration of Guyana’s economy.

As President Granger outlined, the focus of government, working in conjunction with the private sector and local and foreign investors will be to build a more resilient and diversified economy which will allow for sustained economic growth, generating new sectors and more jobs for our Guyanese people.

This is not a quick fix approach which was the mantra of the previous administration. It is the difficult, prudent, unattractive and tedious approach to national planning and economic stability. This Coalition Government could very well have taken the easy route. It could have emulated the previous administration and turn a blind eye to the narco trade and other illegal activities in an effort to keep “the money running” and those who were profiting from these “hustles” happy.

APPROACH Such an approach would not only have been reckless and irresponsible but unsustainable.

It would have inevitably led the nation down the road to anarchy and severe internal strife. Such a scenario is neither theoretical or imperceptive. A hop, skip and a jump away, in Colombia this was reality for many years.

The country is still, to this day, grappling with the after-effects. The security forces, even with massive international aid had engaged in a years long and bloody battle against mega-drug kingpin, Pablo Escobar who effectively presided over parts of Colombia where the government had lost control. Hundreds of thousands of innocent lives were lost. Judges, police officers, teachers, farmers and others were ruthlessly exterminated.

Here in Guyana, prior to 2015, the nation had begun to witness the emergence of untouchable drug lords. Ordinary people lived

in daily fear of these well connected dons.

Today these drug kingpins are scampering from law enforcement and some are in shackles and in jail. What this illustrates and what it should signal to the people of Guyana is that the elections of May 2015 did not merely result in a change in government but a change in the manner in which the country and the economy are managed.

The rule of law must take precedence.

Guyana must no longer be known in the Caribbean and internationally as a delinquent state flirting with failure.

HAT IN HAND In spite of efforts to paint him as someone who possesses economic prowess, it was during the Presidency of Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo that former Prime Minister of Jamaica Mr. Bruce Golding, in 2008, in an obvious reference to Mr. Jagdeo, said that some CARICOM leaders had developed a reputation for “[going] around, hat in hand, to every capital of the world like panhandlers on the street, telling people how we are the wretched of the earth, we are poor and that we need all sorts of charity.”

This savage castigation and condemnation of former president Jagdeo by a then sitting fellow head of state was an indictment of his management of Guyana’s affairs and the approach of mendicancy which was heavily relied upon to sustain the local economy.

“I am tired of that,” declared a disgusted and frustrated Prime Minister Golding. That is a sentiment echoed by the majority of the electorate in the last election and indeed by all right-thinking, patriotic Guyanese who had become jaded and disillusioned with the reputation their beautiful country had developed around the world under the PPP. The task of righting the rogue ship in dangerous waters is on the way. We have changed course and moved deliberately into calmer if somewhat sluggish waters.

MV Guyana is edging forward at a gradual pace. As proper structures and systems are erected and implemented to replace the fastidious ad hocism of the previous administration and as power is magnanimously decentralised away from the seat of the presidency and to the regions and communities, we will pick up steam and the dividends will accrue not for a select, elite, politically connected few, but for all Guyanese. That is the mission of this Coalition Government.

Imran Khan is the Director of Public Information and Press Secretary to the Prime Minister. This is the first installation of a weekly ‘FYI by DPI’ column which he will pen and which will appear in our Wednesday edition.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Ganja decriminalisation

By Akola Thompson

I HAVE never spoken to President David Granger, but I have always admired him for some of the values he holds, which for the most part are inclusive and non-discriminatory.

In recent times, whenever someone in his Cabinet erred, I would think back to how pleased I was during Phagwah, when he was seen celebrating with Hindus; and it would calm me a bit, because a true leader represents all his people.

President Granger has always struck me as a very intelligent man. That’s why I found it disconcerting when I heard of his comments, made on the ‘Public Interest’, regarding decriminalisation of marijuana in Guyana. President Granger stated that decriminalisation of marijuana

might be contradictory, given the Government’s efforts to reduce tobacco smoking.

I believe that this line of reasoning by the President is disappointing.

I do not know whether the President realises that many youths lose opportunities, and elders have their lives interrupted for having small quantities of a drug that has been decriminalised and legalised elsewhere.

A l m o s t e v e r y d a y, the courts are filled with young and old persons being charged -- and sentenced to months and often years in jail -- for small amounts of marijuana. According to the findings of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the Camp Street Prison riot that claimed 17 lives following the March 3 fire, it takes $485,000 to house one prisoner per year. How much money

is being wasted yearly to take away future opportunities from the nation’s youths for daring to burn a ‘spliff’?

What President Granger has failed to take into consideration is that, unlike marijuana, tobacco has no medicinal benefits; and unlike tobacco, marijuana has not been linked to cancer and various other health concerns.

Unlike marijuana, persons found with small amounts of tobacco are not placed into the prison system. I think one of the most interesting things in the debate about whether to legalise or decriminalise small quantities of marijuana is that we, as a Caribbean people, through the Rastafarian movement, are the ones who have popularised marijuana usage.

As one friend said: “When you think about the Caribbean, you think

Lloyd Britton murder trial nearing end THE murder trial of Lloyd Britton for the murder of Elvis Fernandes on July 26, 2013, which began recently at the Demerara Assizes before Justice James Bovell-Drakes, is nearing an end.

Fernandes was in a minibus on the day in question when it is alleged, he was shot and killed by the accused.

The accused, according to witnesses, was subsequently arrested and charged with murder.

Ms Shawnettte Schmitz is heading the case for the prosecution, while Mr. Nigel Hughes is defending.

According to the prosecutrix, the State had brought the case, and as such must prove its case if the accused is to be found guilty.

Among other things, she said that the State would have to prove that Elvis died as a result of injuries received; that the accused inflicted the injuries; and that at the time he inflicted the injuries on Elvis, he did so with the intention to kill or to cause serious bodily harm.

The prosecution does not have to prove motive, or that the killing was premeditated. Also, there is no duty on the State to produce a murder weapon.

Yesterday afternoon, the State was conducting an inquiry into an allegation concerning two members of the jury.

Justice Bovell-Drakes will sum up the evidence to the jury next week, after which he would hand over the case to them for their consideration and verdict.

about sun and ‘weed’.”

So it is interesting to note that our leaders are still bickering among themselves, while world powers such as the United States of America and the United Kingdom, which would have learnt about marijuana from us, are already in the process of decriminalising and completely legalizing it.

One Caribbean island that is doing it right is Jamaica. Jamaica last year enacted the “Dangerous Drug (Amendment) Act 2015”, which decriminalised possession of less than two ounces of marijuana. Once someone is found with more than two

ounces, they can be given a ticket that is similar in nature to that of a traffic ticket. They can also be arrested, charged and tried in court, and sentenced to imprisonment or fined if found guilty of having more than two ounces.

President Granger was worried that we were seeking to look at countries such as the USA, which are ahead of us in technology; but I think that if we look at Jamaica, maybe we can learn a few things that can be applied to our country. There should be focus, of course, on the possible consequences involved in its legalisation or decriminalisation, as the

need to ensure safe supply and limitation of access to children is paramount, given that marijuana usage among children remains high. However, finding ways to regulate marijuana usage similar to how alcohol is regulated makes tremendously more sense than the continued criminalisation of it.

President Granger, this marijuana law is a draconian one that has too harsh penalties. The young people particularly are suffering from it.

I say this even as I quote Michael Carrington and say that no one should go to jail for ‘taking a smoke’.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

41 stakeholders added to countrywide consultation initiative

AN ADDITIONAL 41 stakeholders from Corriverton, Corentyne, East Berbice (Region Six) were today added to the hundreds of persons who have so far contributed to the Countrywide Consultation initiative of the Ministry of Social Cohesion (MSC); and the MSC has said the consultations have so far been receiving overwhelming response from participants around the country.

The participants ranged from members of non-governmental organisations to religious and youth groups to residents of the neighbouring indigenous communities of Orealla and Siparuta.

The consultations have been used as a social cohesion awareness vehicle.

Today’s session was the twentieth of 32 planned; two others are planned for New Amsterdam and Rose Hall Town over the next two days.

Technical Officer of the Ministry of Social Cohesion, Ms. Natasha Singh-Lewis, has said that one positive response coming out of all the consultations is the sensitisation aspect, as residents are able to learn more about the MSC’s work. “We have residents, especially from hinterland communities,

who are particularly happy to learn about social cohesion,” she said.

Lead Consultant for the Social Cohesion National Strategic Plan, Dr. Thomas

have received very good content because people have been speaking their minds,” he said. He added that the MSC’s aim is to make the consultations free of politics,

to the process, and it is very heartening,” he said.

The participants were given the chance to provide feedback on five thematic areas affecting social cohe-

From left are Ministry of Social Cohesion’s Technical Officer Mrs. Natasha Singh-Lewis; Resident Representative of the UNDP to Guyana, Ms. Mikiko Tanaka; Corriverton Mayor Mr. Ganesh Gangadin; Regional Executive Officer Ms. Kim Stephens; Lead Consultant for the Social Cohesion National Strategic Plan, Dr. Thomas Gittens; Regional Health Officer Mr. Jevon Stephens, and representatives from the UNDP at the Social Cohesion Consultation in Corriverton Gittens, has said the consultations have also highlighted proposals and responses that reflect the particular issues affecting the communities, which, he noted gives tremendous insight into the needs of those communities.

“We have had a tremendous level of participation and input at all the consultations. In many cases, we

and this he believes has led to people being more inclined to share their views.

“We have also been seeing people thinking very deeply about what they want to see at a community and national level. There has been a lot of commitment in terms of how people are seeing the whole process and how they are modelling their participation

sion in Guyana: economic equity and opportunities, citizens’ safety and security, social inclusion and tolerance, inclusive and participatory governance, and harmonious ethnic and racial relations. Their feedback will contribute to the development of a 2017-2021 Strategic Plan on Social Cohesion in Guyana, which

is expected to be completed by this year-end.

Speaking in regard to economic inclusion, Corriverton businessman Nicholas Jaundoo said it is important for people of various professional backgrounds to have equal access to financing.

“This will enable them to make a contribution in their community, and will help to uplift the community.

The whole idea of this programme is very inclusive, with a wide cross-section of people. I would like to see more of these consultations, so that people can be informed of what the Government has planned for the country,” he said.

Corriverton resident Loretta Angel said that, in the area of security, residents are concerned about crime, and that it is important for all groups to work together to fight it. “If we can work together for our social wellness, we can be more comfortable and feel more secure. If we work together, we would be at a better place when it comes to security, wellness of mind, and socializing; no matter what our differences, you get more from people when you have cooperation,” she said.

The consultations are supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). UNDP

Resident Representative to Guyana, Ms. Mikiko Tanaka, who was present at today’s session, said the UNDP is pleased to support the MSC’s work, as social cohesion serves as a core foundation for peace and development, and is reflected in the Sustainable Development Goals.

“In the context of Guyana, I am very happy to hear that this is a very important issue and objective for the country. This motto Guyana has, of ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’, very much captures that aspiration that Guyana has. So the UNDP has been accompanying the process of developing a national strategy for social cohesion under this current administration, and led by the Ministry of Social Cohesion,” she said.

Ms. Tanaka said that, most importantly, it is the voice of the local people that make up the issues and challenges of social cohesion, and what they would like to do to achieve social cohesion. “As a result of all of the consultations, we hope that we get a better sense, at the national level or the regional levels, of the strategic complementary actions needed to really bring the society together,” she said. (GINA)

Tenders for flyover road next month GOV ER N MEN T w ill, early next month, go to tender for the construction of an overhead pass at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, Project Manager of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Sunil Ganesh, has said. Ganesh told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that tenders for the project should be advertised early next month, and works would commence early

next year.

“There are about 20,000 vehicles that use that intersection, so this vehicle overhead pass would significantly reduce the backup of traffic existing in Diamond. So when the vehicle overhead pass is completed, you (would) have free flow of traffic coming out of Diamond, (and) there will be almost zero delay,” Ganesh explained.

The project manager

added that in addition to the vehicular overhead pass, pedestrian overhead passes would be constructed at the Harbour Bridge, next to the office of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council; another at Eccles on the eastern side of the traffic light, and a third in the vicinity of the Houston Secondary School.

Earlier this year, Government had announced that, as part of its programme to improve road transportation,

it would be building three pedestrian overpasses and a flyover at Diamond, East Bank Demerara. Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson had said that, in addition to the overpasses and flyover, road safety would be improved along the East Bank with the installation of traffic lights, streetlights, and road markings and signs.

He had said that each month, the Guyana Police

Force, through its traffic statistics, indicates that pedestrians are the most affected by fatal accidents on our roadways.

“Saving even a single life is important. The pedestrian overhead crossings will be located at the Harbour Bridge intersection at Peter’s Hall, Eccles, and Houston. These sites were chosen following studies which showed that these three areas have the most

pedestrian movement,” Patterson said.

As it relates to the vehicular overhead crossing at Diamond, this will be located at the intersection of the East Bank Road and Diamond. “Diamond is the biggest housing scheme in our country, and it is only expected to grow. The community is also one that suffers from serious traffic congestion, so the overhead crossing will be a relief. We expect that the overhead crossing will significantly reduce accidents; save on travel time for those from Diamond; and also precipitate a free flow of traffic at the proposed site,” the minister had said.

Meanwhile, the East Bank Four Lane Expansion Project which began in 2012 is almost completed.

The Ministry is currently working on installing traffic signs and road markings on certain sections of the road. The project was funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) at a cost of US$17M.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Mahdia residents up in arms against water supplier ––impeding pressure on taps while filling up tanks

RESIDENTS of the Region Eight community of Mahdia are up in arms over the actions of a water supplier who has been selling them the precious liquid from the water system while impeding the pressure in pipes which run into the community.

The water supply situation in the Potaro/Siparuni administrative capital has for years been a contentious issue, and several persons who spoke to this publication this week have expressed frustration and growing concerns regarding the unreliable water network there.

To compound matters, persons noted that the dry weather conditions have impacted the Salbora Creek water system, a key source of potable water to households in the community.

The Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) and the Region Eight Administration are working to improve the water supply network at Mahdia, but residents noted on Tuesday that in the absence of a reliable network, a trucker has been exploiting the situation. According to reports, residents have, for several years, been paying the private supplier large

Residents responding to the fire in Mahdia two weeks ago.The building was eventually razed due to a lack of water sums of money for the supply of water; to wit $6000 per black tank of water, $1000 for a 45-gallon drum and $200 per five-gallon bucket.

A resident in the area reported on Tuesday that this ‘main supplier’ has taken control of the network, and spends as much as two and a half hours filling his tanks while residents are made to wait. Efforts to reach this supplier and Regional Executive Officer Raphael

Downes on Tuesday proved futile, as their phones went to voicemail.

A resident of 111 Miles Potaro Road noted that the low water pressure results in water reaching only the bottom of the hill-top community. “He claims the region gave him permission, but Brother (the REO) refuted (that claim)”, the resident noted.

The woman, who chose to remain anonymous, noted that two weeks ago residents

‘Blood’ captured for Ulverston murder

‘B’ Division Police have apprehended Winston Benjamin, called “Blood,” who had gone into hiding after viciously stabbing his reputed wife, Yansen Brusch, to death on Monday afternoon.

Ranks have confirmed that the 40-yearold cane harvester was found in the Lesbeholden backdam of Black Bush Polder in Central Corentyne, where he went into hiding since allegedly killing the mother of his four children.

Upon his apprehension he was taken to the Port Mourant Hospital, since it was rumoured that he had ingested a poisonous substance in an effort to end his life. He was reportedly given a clean bill of health and taken to the Whim Police Station, where he remains in custody. He is expected to be charged shortly.

Last Monday, at about 14:00h, Benjamin allegedly whipped out a knife at a grocery shop in his home village of Ulverston, Corentyne, and repeatedly stabbed Yansen

Brusch about her body. The 38-year-old victim, of Lot 20 Second Street Ulverston, who had operated a canteen at the Alness Primary School, had been in a relationship with Benjamin for the past 18 years.

Despite efforts by the shopkeeper, Beverly Green, to stop Benjamin from further hurting Brusch, he had managed to stab the woman five times about her body. She was pronounced dead at the Port Mourant Hospital, where she was rushed after the incident.

Relatives told Guyana Chronicle that the relationship between Benjamin and Brusch had been ‘on and off’ because of Benjamin’s violent nature. However, Brusch and Benjamin would still maintain a somewhat cordial relationship.

This newspaper understands from residents who spoke on condition of anonymity that Benjamin has a history of violent altercations, hence the nickname ‘blood’.

of the community were incensed when fire engulfed and eventually destroyed a house along the Seven Miles road. She said the supplier was approached by fire officials when their water had run out, but the supplier told the firemen that his tanks were empty. According to her, residents proved otherwise.

She explained that another situation arose when road works were recently being undertaken in the area and the water supplier refused

to move from the pipes even as the team informed that water was needed to carry out works to the roadway.

“The REO had to call the (Regional) chairman and they had to call the engineer so that the man could move and stop filling up”, she added.

The GWI stated last November that it would be exploring the drilling of a new well for Mahdia as it looks to safeguard and regularise the community’s

potable water supply; while, in the short term, it would provide a pump to boost supply. GWI’s plans include installation of a reservoir in order to improve the performance of the water supply system in the Region Eight community.

Mahdia was established in 1884 by emancipated slaves, and has since become home to both locals and non-locals. It is slated for commissioning as a town in 2017.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Selling flowers is big business ––PM encourages farmers to diversify, try horticulture

FRESH from a State visit to Tamil Nadu, where he’s seen it being done successfully, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo is now encouraging local women to become heavily involved in the cut-flower business.

“People sell garlands with fresh flowers and bouquets at every street corner; at every temple; outside every hotel; outside every business place,” he said. “I want to also encourage Guyanese farmers -- our Guyanese women who cultivate their gardens, their kitchen gardens or even the front of their yards – (to) grow those types of flowers that can be sold, and not simply given away…

It is a commodity,” he told his audience on Sunday at an exhibition held in Mahaicony to mark World Food Day.

He was particularly high in praise for the effort being made by some local producers to bring the labelling and packaging of their products on par with international standards, saying that where before labels read ‘Grown in Guyana’, they’re now proudly proclaiming ‘Made in Guyana’.

“We are bursting out from the nutshell of colonial confinement that told us that what we produced was not good enough for our (bodies) and for our beauty,” he said, adding that packaging has improved significantly in the rice industry, as evidenced by the display of Guyana’s rice on the shelves of supermarkets throughout the Caribbean, and even further afield.

The Prime Minister said

he is particularly proud of the fact that rice farmers were able to achieve all this in spite of the major challenges facing the industry, mainly as a result of the loss of the Venezuelan market.

“Packaging has im-

by-products as rice cereals, biscuits, ice-cream and other by-products have been popular on the international market, to the extent that some countries even import Guyana’s rice on a large scale, and further

‘We are bursting out from the nutshell of colonial confinement that told us that what we produced was not good enough for our (bodies) and for our beauty’ –– Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo proved considerably through the efforts of some large-scale millers and producers…. Rice is a base commodity, and we need to also focus on value-added products,” he said, adding that for decades, such

produce biscuits for their own export.

KEEN INTEREST He recalled meeting a delegation from Chile which had a keen interest in Guyana’s rice as raw material to boost its own economy through the production and marketing of a particular product.

“They want to use our rice to convert it into biscuits, which they will export to Japan, where they have no tariff that will prevent them from exporting the biscuit,” he said, adding: “So, Guyana sells bulk rice, and

the value-added profits will go elsewhere. It is time that we make our own biscuits in Guyana, and find the market for the biscuits made from rice.”

The Prime Minister said Guyana must use as an example the development path taken by other countries, and diversify its economy.

“Only diversification can save sugar and the workers’ livelihood,” he said.

But in order for this to be fulfilled, he said, Guyanese will need to desist from seeing agriculture as a part-time business and venture into large-scale cultivation.

Nagamootoo said his recent experience in Tamil Nadu in India has confirmed his belief that Guyana’s agriculture sector has the potential to be self-sustainable.

The cuisine in India, he said, reflected true sustainable development within India’s agriculture sector.

“I can’t remember when last I ate rice for breakfast.

I’m a lover of rice; I was surprised I was eating rice every morning; it is a necessary part of the cuisine in all hotels…. Everything, from biscuits to ice-cream, had a

rice flavour,” Nagamootoo said.

A c c o r d i n g t o Wi k i pedia, “India is one of the world’s largest producers of white and brown rice, accounting for 20% of all world rice production.

Rice is India’s pre-eminent crop, and is the staple food of the people of the eastern and southern parts of the country.”

Fresh juices flavoured with fruits, many similar to those farmed in Guyana, were part of every cuisine.

“As part of the cuisine of the hotels and anywhere you go, along the street corners, you have these fresh juices and fresh water coconuts,” he said, adding: “No meal was complete without locally-grown vegetables.”

Tamil Nadu, a state populated by millions, is self-sustainable, he said.

“Tamil Nadu, with a population of 75 million people, is feeding itself from the produce of local farmers.

It is feeding itself, and it is feeding tourists and visitors with pride, with what it produces. Farmers are among the most prosperous people,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

UWI apologises for ‘misunderstanding’ with Jamaican parliamentary committee ––says it’s willing to answer how it spent taxpayers’ money

By Ravin Singh

THE University of the West Indies (UWI) has apologised for a “misunderstanding” between itself and Jamaica Parliament’s Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC).

The disagreement stemmed from UWI’s refusal to appear before PAAC to answer how it spent taxpayers’ money.

Signed by Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hilary Beckles, the letter of apology states that the response from UWI’s registrar, after the institution was asked to appear before the PAAC, sought to clarify the principle of accountability rather than obstruct the importance of the engagement.

Last week, UWI, through its registrar, issued a letter to the PAAC stating that it is not an-

swerable to the Jamaica Parliament on how it spends Government subvention.

Parliamentary rules have empowered the PAAC to summon any entity that receives a subvention from Jamaica’s national budget, and request of that entity to provide a report on its expenditure.

Jamaica will contribute JMD$8.3B (US$64.7M) of taxpayers’ money to UWI this year, which ac-

counts for approximately 20 per cent of the institution’s annual budget.

But after they were asked to appear before the committee, UWI said that it is a public autonomous regional body, to which Jamaica is only one contributor.

“The UWI is a public autonomous regional educational institution which serves 17 countries in the Caribbean,” the university declared in its letter.

According to Professor Beckles, however, “the governance model of UWI was created in order to embrace ministers of national governments in order to accommodate this circumstance.

“There is, therefore, no attempt to challenge the authority of the Jamaican Parliament, which we celebrate and recognise as having made the largest single investment in UWI these past 68 years.”

He went on to acknowledge the efforts of the parliament to approve investments that have enabled UWI to grow as a globally respected regional university.

As such, he said that “The University Bursar, therefore, acting on behalf of the entire UWI system, is empowered to honour the request of the PAAC, and will do so as soon as his presence is requested.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

GuySuCo urges end to protest

THE industrial action taken by sugar workers has negatively impacted the Sugar Industry, according to the Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Sugar Corporation, Errol Hanoman.

On Monday, sugar workers downed tools in demand of higher salaries and better working conditions but according to Hanoman, the protest was uncalled for, explaining that it took place at a time when the Corporation was still in negotiation with the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU). The negotiation teams are expected to meet again today.

“The protest has caused

us a bit of pain,” Hanoman told Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday while explaining that the sugar production will likely drop this week due to the industrial action.

“Last week was an excellent week but we will lose the better part of this week,” he posited.

The CEO further explained that on Monday the factories were expected to undergo maintenance but that had to be done on Tuesday as a result of the strike.

He said too that many sugar workers have developed a practice of not returning to work the day after they would have taken industrial action. As such, Hanoman

said, when the negotiating parties meet today, the negative impact of industrial actions on the industry will be highlighted by GuySuCo. In a statement on Monday, GuySuCo said strike actions have negatively impacted the industry over the years.

“During the last 10 years, strike action ranged between 160 in 2005 to 250 in 2010, and fluctuated slightly during that period. For six years, the numbers were above 200 annually, and in 2014 and 2015 there was a slight reduction,” the Corporation said.

It added that from 2005 to 2015, the total man-days lost to strikes were 813,437, Sugar workers protesting on Monday and the highest man-days lost for this period was in 2009 with 130, 171 in 2006 and the lowest being 32,064 in 2014.

For four years, the number was above 90,000; this was in 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2010 and for another four years, it was above 50,000 while it was below 50,000 for three years during this period.

“Being a labour-intensive Corporation, over 150 strikes per year have been contributing to the demise of the Corporation and have been impacting significantly on its financial viability. It is important to note that in order for the Corporation to grow and become a profitable entity, it has to diversify.

GuySuCo is calling on the unions to just this once, put the employees’ interest above their own agenda,” GuySuCo said.

The Corporation noted that it has a responsibility to protect the rights and also secure the livelihood of the workers, both members and non-members of unions.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Eight students benefit from Demlife bursary awards EIGHT children of policyholders were on Monday each presented with bursary awards from the Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited (DEMLIFE) for being successful at this year’s National Grade Six Assessment examinations.

The awardees of the $11,000 bursaries are: Mark Bentick, Azarya Willis, Princess Patterson, Kayla McAllister, Daniel Seaford, Tiffiann Henry, Grace Browne and Shan Norton.

The recipients will be granted the $11,000 on a yearly basis for the next five years, as long as they upkeep their academic performance to at least 60 percent for the first three terms.

DEMLIFE Human Resource Manager Mrs. Denise Lambert encouraged the students to continue studying hard so that they could

DEMLIFE Board members pose with students who were presented bursary awards be successful while making the company proud. Mrs. Lambert said the presentation was the 18th awards ceremony and the initiative is viewed as a way of giving

back to the community.

Mrs. Lambert is advising policyholders to make good use of the company’s yearly programme as a form of encouragement for their

children’s successful performances by entering their children into the programme.

The programme is advertised in all local newspapers, and there is included

a form to fill out in order to enter the programme. The company chooses 10 of the top students from different regions to receive the bursaries, which are granted for a

five-year period.

Mrs. Lambert said the programme would continue to be a yearly one, and that the company is working on taking the programme to a higher level, wherein the company would be able to assist the students up to a tertiary level.

The most outstanding student for this year, Mark Bentick, stated: “I was very surprised when I heard that I was the most outstanding student for the programme, but I am happy for myself and the other awardees, who worked hard in order to be successful at the National Grade Six Assessment (exams) and to be a part of this occasion”.

Mark gained 530 marks at his examinations and was able to secure a spot at the Bishops High School, which he noted comes from hard work and sacrifices.

Our first caregivers and educators

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By Margaret Burke

EVER SINCE the beginning of time, women have always been (mostly) the first caregivers and subsequently the educators too. They have always been more influential in one way or another – as mother or guardian; as wife; as teacher or mentor; or in whatever manner required. Of course, there is always the exception to the rule; but, in general, women are always thought -- especially by the young, the old, the most

conception. Poet William Ross Wallace titled probably his most popular poem “The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.”

In fact, some of the most famous men (and women) across the world can attest to the fact that it was the ‘woman’ who, to a large extent, single-handedly raised them. In Guyana, for example, there is a very large percentage of single-parent mothers. A few are by choice, but the majority had this situation forced upon them; therefore, to highlight a few on this oc-

“The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.” vulnerable, and by men -- to be faithful to the call. But these ‘thoughts’ could raise much debate, depending on the experience of who is reading this article.

A woman's power has not tapered; and, in fact, today the advertising industry exploits this power by the use of attractive, seductive women in order to sell everything – from a simple soft drink or some food, a holiday, cars, phones, a bed or pillow, a mouthwash or toothpaste; and it can get really ridiculous with the blatant sexual images to catch a man's glance and capture his attention. With all this, every day men walk away from wives, children, friends, parents, siblings —risking careers and reputation.

In the meanwhile, the woman is, in many cases, compelled to hold the fort – to keep the family together; many times as she continues to work in and outside of the home, steering a career as well as ensuring that the children, both boys and girls, receive all the necessary care and attention plus a good education.

SINGLE MOTHERS Power is a relative term. However, in general, it relates to a situation of control, authority, supremacy and the like.

In addition, it has been established that women are more often than not put in a position to exercise their authority over the young ones from early in their lives – from

casion would be difficult.

So acknowledgement is made of every mother who made a difference in the lives

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

One cannot underestimate the influence of those who might be allowed to ‘school’ children and adults too: to nurture their minds; having a long process of orientation and/or re-orientation; to disciple them. The fact is that education is about the academics, the ‘Sunday’ or Sabbath schools – spiritual education, the moral education, and much more.

If no other place do women occupy the larger amount of seats in the education system, be it formal, non-formal or informal. In fact, at the youngest age of formal teaching, which is the nursery or kindergarten, school is manned primarily by women. This is at one of the most crucial periods of the individual’s life. In the primary school system the situation remains the same, but changes somewhat at the secondary level. At the tertiary level (university, technical and other) , the situation changes even more in favour of a larger percentage of males.

Still, the early impact of school, in addition to the continuum of the women in

neurs, board directors, labour leaders, leaders in almost every type of organisations.

They occupy traditional men’s roles, such as top positions in security organizations, in government, international organisations, as well as in industry and business.

MORE MALE DOMINATED Some occupations, especially in areas such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEMS), are still more male-dominated, although the situation is changing to show more and more women taking up key positions.

In the medical field though, although there is a very large workforce of women doctors, and despite the increase of women being trained as specialist doctors, there are still far more consultants and high-positioned male doctors within the hospitals and related spheres. However, here in Guyana, there is an acceptable amount of women who hold high offices in most, if not

Teachers standing in front of children in classrooms of a nursery and a primary school of their children; some becoming very powerful and influential themselves.

the classroom and other places of teaching, cannot be downplayed.

EDUCATION: FORMAL, NON-FORMAL AND INFORMAL Outside of the home, the education system is one of the most powerful in influencing the lives of most people, once allowed to penetrate and impart.

OCCUPATIONAL POWER Other than the academia, almost in every aspect of the workplace women can be found – be it in technical or formal positions.

Women are now more oriented towards taking up the challenges of the technical work -- of flying planes; of leading in the mathematical, financial, scientific, and other occupations.

They are readily working as CEOs, entrepre-

Forming that bond: mothers breast-feeding their little ones

all, of the major sectors. Studies have shown that women can be more loyal, more disciplined, more discerning, more calculative, and yet more thoughtful and responsive. Studies have also revealed that the mother instinct in the woman, even when she had not (biologically) mothered a child, kicks in whenever it becomes necessary to bring change where needed.

But then there are also the “Thatchers’ / iron-women type” who can be as tough as leather. The fact is that a woman can be irrepressible, unbeatable, unfathomable, irresistible and mysterious, but most effective.

Executive women executing their various tasks

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Best promises thorough probe into miner’s death

REAR Admiral (Ret’d), Gary Best was sworn in on Tuesday by the Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan to lead a Commission of Inquiry into the death of gold miner, Keon Wilson.

As mandated by President David Granger, the Commission will investigate, examine, probe and report on the circumstances, which led to the collapse of a mining pit, resulting in the death of Wilson on October

8, in Rock Creek, Puruni, Region 7.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Joslyn McKenzie and Commissioner (ag) of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Newell Dennison were among officials who witnessed the swearing in. Minutes after he was sworn-in at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, Best expressed the hope that the

Commission’s recommendations will have a positive impact on the way mining is done in Guyana.

“What I do hope is that this inquiry, this Commission of Inquiry will probably bring to bear all that is required to prevent the reoccurrence of these deaths within the mining industry,” Best told reporters.

Amid increasing criticisms over the constant launching of inquiries and

Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Gary Best addressing reporters at the launching of the CoI COIs, the former Chiefof-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) said he believes this COI is a step in the right direction. He explained that the Commission will not only investigate the circumstances which led to the death of Wilson, but will also take into account the reports and recommendations from past inquiries, in order to formulate a menu of wide ranging recommendations.

“My mandate is not to investigate previous incidence, but to use the information to draw a better opinion for this one,” he posited.

Additionally, the Mining Act and Mining Regulations will form part of the Commission’s investigative tools. Asked what makes him the right “man” for the job, Best, in response, told reporters that he is “fair and impartial.”

“I am an attorney. I know to weigh information, weigh evidence…I have fundamentally…informing judgment, (and) I think the fact that I am an attorney, that helps,” Best added, while noting too that his ability to think critically and strategically is a required quality.

However, he posited, that the Commission will have access to experts in the field of mining. Best’s preliminary report will be due in two weeks. According to initial reports, a pit caved in while Wilson, a resident of Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara, was working as a jetman employed on a land dredge owned by Eventon Daly, also of Ann’s Grove, ECD. Daly had been issued a cease-work order by GGMC for unsafe mining practices, but he did not heed the order.

His dredge was unregistered and deemed unsafe for

working in accordance with regulation 214 of the mining regulations. Guyana Chronicle understands that George Alphonso is the owner of the property, and Daly had obtained a mining privilege from the GGMC on June 21, 2016 for a period of 12 months.

Since 2006, more than 120 mine-related deaths have been recorded in Guyana, and according to reports, the constant neglect of Occupation, Health and Safety (OHS) practices is among the leading causes.

Earlier in the year, GGMC Commissioner Acting while speaking at a mining forum called for a change in attitude.

“My view is that attitudes have to be changed, where common sense, common decency and common goals for better at the broader social level must be obtained,” he said as he addressed leading men and women in the industry during the Mining Week Opening Ceremony in August. “It requires a serious commitment to partnerships and collaborations, first with each other as Guyanese citizens and then with institutions like the GGMC, who are present to serve, support and guide and where necessary apply the appropriate measures of the law,” he added.

In his message directed to miners, Dennison said GGMC will continue to push for a stronger culture of safety in mining through awareness sessions and enforcement of the law.

Nothing in mining, he said, should translate to risking life or callous practices, he said while warning that actions will be taken against defaulters.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 19, 2016

Obtaining birth, death or marriage certificates to become easier ––Felix THE process to complete the digitisation of records at the General Registrar’s Office (GRO) should be completed soon, and then obtaining a birth, death or marriage certificate would become easier.

Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix, told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that the process, which started this year, should be completed soon.

Records at the GRO for the period 1987 to the present are to be put in a digital format that would make search and retrieval easier and faster, GINA reported Monday.

According to Felix, the digitisation process will also enable the GRO to secure records for much longer periods, and under safer conditions.

Meanwhile, the ministry is awaiting approval for additional consultancy services that would see the GRO being computerised to handle

the digitised records.

“I’m awaiting a report from the E-Government’s department, because they did another bid. The bids have just been assessed, and I think out of this project, contractors will be identified soon; so I’m just awaiting that report,” Felix said.

NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS For years, there have been numerous complaints about the slow delivery of services by the GRO, but Felix assured GINA that the government is working towards the delivery of better service to citizens.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Guyana is to benefit from technical assistance to modernise its visas regime and remittances scheme under the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP)–European Union (EU) Migration Action plan.

Several tested for gastroenteritis in Linden A RECENT spike in cases of gastroenteritis among children in Linden is of concern to regional Linden Hospital Complex officials.

Gastroenteritis is said to be an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically resulting from bacterial toxins or viral infection and causing vomiting and diarrhea.

According to Pediatrician, Shimicka Hector about 16 children as young as 7 weeks were admitted over the past few days, but the situation was worst last week. The hospital is making provisions to accommodate every patient and to give them the necessary drugs and services needed to recuperate.

Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, Dr Faroak Ryasat assured residents that there is adequate drug supply to treat the patients. “We have saline, IV fluids, antibiotics, ORS, we have all of these at the same time besides the drugs we have made an accommodation to have enough beds just in case more and more persons come in with diarrhea,” Ryasat posited.

Dr. Hector encouraged residents of Linden to be more careful with their hygiene and eating practices as the hospital has not yet ascertained the reason behind the situation. Dr. Ryasat said that it is suspected to be a bacterial infection that maybe airborne or waterborne but cannot pronounce on it as yet.

According to reports most of the patients are living on the Wismar shore, especially the Blue Berry Hill area.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the hospital Board, Mortimor Mingo said that the managerial staff is putting everything in place to properly treat the patients. “I hope that it is something very brief and we would like to know the cause of it basically so we will have to do some test to find out the exact source.”

Regional Chairman, Renis Morian on a visit to the pediatric and emergency ward on Monday expressed concern about the situation and gave some comforting words especially to the parents of children being treated.

Minister Felix said that the Ministry of Citizenship will re-engage the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to recommence the entire project, as there were some difficulties with the private contractors who were sourced by IOM. “Something went out of line of our expectation, so that project seems hazy somewhere along the line. I have asked IOM for us to re-engage, and they have promised some action in that regard,” Felix said.

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Wednesday October 19th, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Thursday October 20th, 2015 - 08:30 hrs Friday October 21th, 2015 - 09:30 hrs

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Foley died of

fluid build-up (BBC) - Munster and Ireland rugby legend Anthony Foley died after a heart condition caused fluid to build up in his

in Paris where Munster were staying prior to Sunday’s scheduled game against Racing 92.

His funeral will be held

Relig Nua Cemetery.

The death of the Munster head coach could “be linked to a cardiac problem”, a spokeswoman for the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, October 19, 2016

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Anthony Foley earned 62 Ireland caps and captained his country three times lungs, a French coroner has said.

The condition, known as acute pulmonary edema, was caused by “a heart rhythm disorder”, an autopsy has revealed.

Foley, 42, died on Saturday night at the hotel

in Killaloe, County Clare, on Friday at 12:00 BST. Foley’s body will be flown to Shannon Airport on Wednesday before being taken to the family home.

Funeral mass will take place at St Flannan’s Church, with burial afterwards at

Nanterre public prosecutor said on Tuesday, without giving any further details.

Other toxicological analysis is under way, with results due in the coming weeks.

UEFA Champions League ...

Madrid win big, Leicester

Worcester

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maintain 100% record

(GOAL.com) - Real Madrid survived an early scare to comfortably see off Legia Warsaw 5-1 in the Champions League and extend their unbeaten run to 23 games across all competitions.

Madrid made hard work of the contest before Gareth Bale’s first Champions League goal since December 2014 opened the scoring, with Vadis Odidja-Ofoe previously hitting the post in one of several early chances.

A Tomasz Jodlowiec owngoal did not dishearten Legia either as Miroslav Radovic won and scored a penalty to give them a deserved lifeline. However, Marco Asensio’s first goal in the competition just before the break was a bitter blow with second-

half substitute Lucas Vazquez and Alvaro Morata on the scorecards as well.

Over at the Estádio José Alvalade, Borussia Dortmund tasted victory for the first time in almost a month as a gripping 2-1 victory over Sporting preserved top spot in Champions League Group F. Thomas Tuchel’s highly touted side wavered in their Bundesliga ambitions either side of the international break, with a defeat to Bayer Leverkusen and a draw against Hertha Berlin leaving them languishing in fifth domestically.

Bernardo Silva denied Lacina Traore the chance to punish his parent club by earning Monaco a late 1-1 draw in their home

Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow.

Portugal international Silva found the back of the net in the 87th minute to salvage a point for Leonardo Jardim’s team, who staved off defeat in their previous Group E outing against Bayer Leverkusen with a Kamil Glik goal in second-half stoppage time.

On-loan CSKA striker Traore put his permanent owners on the path to their first defeat of the competition when he slotted home the opener in the 34th minute.

A fantastic strike from Miguel Layun and Andre Silva’s stoppage-time penalty saw Porto earn a dramatic 2-1 win over Club Brugge in their match.

Meanwhile Algerian Riyad Mahrez combined with his club

Mahrez has been directly involved in four of Leicester’s five Champions League goals this season. (BBC photo) and international team-mate Islam Slimani to secure victory over Copenhagen and maintain his side’s 100 per cent record in the

group.

Elsewhere, 38-year-old Gianluigi Buffon cemented his status as the greatest goalkeeper

of all-time by saving a penalty and making two other stunning stops to help earn 10-man Juventus a 1-0 win in Lyon

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Bravo, Bishoo rise in ICC rankings

Devendra Bishoo (ICC and have high latest

Media) - Azhar Ali Devendra Bishoo achieved careerrankings in the MRF Tyres ICC

Test Player Rankings, released yesterday morning following Pakistan’s 56-run victory in the day/night Test in Dubai.

Azhar, who won the Player-of-the-match award for his 302 not out, has climbed five places to a career-high 12th position, while Bishoo’s

Bolt headlines IAAF World Athlete-of-the-Year shortlist (SPORTSMAX) - Having completed an unprecedented ‘triple-triple’ at Rio 2016, Usain Bolt is in contention for a sixth IAAF World Athlete-of-the-Year award.

Usain Bolt headlines the list of male nominees for the 2016 IAAF World Athlete-of-the-Year award.

Jamaican sprint icon Bolt completed an unprecedented ‘tripletriple’ by winning gold in the 100 metres, 200m and 4x100m relay for the third successive Olympic

Games at Rio 2016.

The 30-year-old, set to retire after the World Championships in London next year, could take the accolade for the sixth time in his career on December 2.

Bolt will have to depose 2015 winner Ashton Eaton, who successfully defended his decathlon gold in Rio. Other male Olympic champions on the 10man shortlist include Mo Farah, David Rudisha, Wayde van Niekerk and

Thiago Braz da Silva.

For the women’s award, two-time gold medallist Elaine Thompson will be among the frontrunners.

The Jamaican will hope to follow in the footsteps of compatriot Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who won the award in 2013 and with whom she took silver in the 4x100m relay in Rio. Caster Semenya, Almaz Ayana and Anita Wlodraczyk will also be in the running having impressed at the Games.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday October 19, 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)

WI vs PAK, Bourda, 1988

(2)

Gordon Greenidge

Today’s Quiz: (1)

How many runs Javed Miandad made in his first Test innings?

(2) Test?

Who is the only Pakistani to make a century before lunch on the first day of a

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

match figures of 10 for 174 have helped him gain 11 places to claim 30th position.

Azhar is the fourth Pakistan batsman after Hanif Mohammad, Inzamam-ulHaq and Younis Khan to score a Test triple-century. For this achievement, the opener, who played as a wrist-spinner in the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2002 in New Zealand, has earned 62 points, which, in turn, has also allowed him to move ahead of teammate Asad Shafiq (16th, down by three places).

Azhar now has his captain Misbah-ul-Haq firmly within his sights, whom he trails by just one point, while Younus Khan remains his side’s highest-ranked batsman in fifth place (slipped one place after dropping one per cent of his points for missing the Dubai Test).

In contrast, by rising 11 places to 30th, Bishoo has opened up a significant lead over teammate Shannon Gabriel (48th), who is the second highest-ranked West Indies bowler in the series, and captain Jason Holder (61st).

The 30-year-old looks strong to gain further points and edge closer to the top 20 as he is still in the qualification

period. A bowler qualifies for a full rating after he has taken 100 wickets, while Bishoo has so far claimed 69 wickets in 19 Tests.

Stylish West Indies batsman Darren Bravo is the other player to make a big impact in the latest rankings.

The 27-year-old lefthander, who played in the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2008 in Malaysia, scored 87 and 116 in the Test in which the West Indies went down fighting.

Consequently, Bravo has returned to the top 20 where he has joined Pakistan’s Sarfaraz Ahmed in 20th position after rising eight places.

Last time Bravo enjoyed a place inside the top 20 was in June 2014, when he figured in 19th position. His careerhigh ranking remains 15th, which he had achieved against New Zealand in Dunedin in December 2013.

Bravo and Sarfaraz now have an opportunity to improve their rankings as they trail New Zealand’s 19thranked Ross Taylor by 13 points.

Marlon Samuels, who scored 76 and four, is the other batsman to head in the right direction. He has moved up five places to 40th, while

Pakistan opener Sami Aslam has jumped 19 places to share 58th position with Martin Guptill of New Zealand.

Jason Holder is just five points and one place behind the duo of Sami and Guptill.

Steve Smith is the numberone ranked Test batsman and he leads England’s secondranked Joe Root by 28 points.

Hashim Amla of South Africa is third.

Apart from Bishoo, Pakistan’s Wahab Riaz is the other bowler to achieve a career-high ranking to date.

The left-arm fast bowler picked up two for 65 and one for 47, and, as such, has moved up three places to 26th.

Mohammad Amir’s three wickets in the second innings have helped him gain four places and 60th position in the latest rankings.

Yasir Shah of Pakistan, who completed 100 wickets in his 17th Test while taking seven wickets in the match, has retained his sixth position but has gained three points for his achievement.

The bowling table is headed by India’s Ravichandran Ashwin, with Dale Steyn of South Africa second and England’s James Anderson third.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Just wanted to bat out the day - Bravo

(ESPNCricinfo) - West Indies batsman Darren Bravo says he was less focused on playing for a win or a draw and more driven to stay at the crease, believing either result was possible as long as he kept batting.

West Indies eventually fell short by 56 runs to Pakistan in the first Test at Dubai as Bravo was seventh man out after making 116 in a near seven-hour stay at the crease in pursuit of a target of 346.

Bravo faced 507 balls in the match, including 249 in the second innings on the way to scoring his eighth Test century to give hope that West Indies might make it out of the first Test without a loss and says his side did well to stay in the match after Pakistan’s imposing first innings total.

“It was a situation where I wanted to actually bat out the entire day,” Bravo said. “As long as I batted and spent a lot of time out in the middle, definitely going to frustrate the Pakistanis and start to dig in for us. I just wanted to bat and have a couple of partnerships and that would make it much easier.

“I think it was a very good batting wicket for the entire match but the thing was with the situation, if we had won the game today, we would have won the game in the last session or something like that, so it was all

about spending time in the middle and just waiting to launch in the end. Having said that, I think it was a tremendous effort. The guys really fought throughout the entire Test match even though in the first two days of the entire Test match we were totally outplayed.

The way Bishoo bowled put us in

enough batting track where he could prosper as well, if he focused on staying at the crease rather than thinking about the daunting challenge of playing catch up to Pakistan’s total.

“It was just a matter of spending time,” Bravo said. “I realised that as long as you spend

wanted to spend time out in the middle.

“I didn’t really concentrate on runs, I just wanted to bat for the entire day and I know as long as I did that, if not close to a hundred, I’ll go past 100. I just wanted to bat for the team. I think I did that pretty okay and I just want to

… not always glorious shots.

Sometimes you have to show that solid determination and discipline to get a job done.

“I tried that in this game and it worked. Who knows, next game it can be probably fluent. You never know but at the end of the day I’m putting a lot of work in

Darren Bravo celebrates his fighting hundred, Pakistan v West Indies. good stead to obviously come out on top.”

Bravo says he took a positive outlook to Azhar Ali’s triplecentury in that it was still a good

time in the middle, you’re going to score runs. Azhar Ali scored a triple-century, he batted a very, very long time on a very, very good batting wicket and I just

continue from here.

“Some days I probably might score faster, some days you’ll have to stick it out. Sometimes they say you have to remove

the nets and I’m really happy to reap rewards especially in this game.”

Bravo also gave credit to leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo for

keeping the team in the match with an eight-wicket haul in the second innings. Bravo says Bishoo was underutilised in the first innings and the team made a concerted effort to get him involved much earlier in Pakistan’s second innings - a decision which helped set up West Indies and Bravo’s valiant fourth-innings chase.

“I don’t think Bishoo bowled enough in the first innings and it was a conscious effort to give him the ball in the second innings to work his magic and that is exactly what he did,” Bravo said.

“He put us in a very, very good position and I’m really happy for him. He’s someone that wishes everybody well so it’s always good to see him reap rewards for his hard work and hopefully he can continue for the rest of the series.”

After coming so close to pulling off a dramatic victory in the final hour of play, Bravo says West Indies have demonstrated that they can pose a serious challenge to Pakistan in the final two Tests.

However, he says West Indies can’t always be playing from behind and must establish stronger positions earlier in the match in order to have the best chance of drawing level in the next Test at Abu Dhabi beginning on Friday.

OMSCC stages glittering presentation ...Gobin, Mandolall share Player-of-the-Year awards

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada - Two former Guyana Under-19 players, Troy Gobin and Rovendra Mandolall were the main toasts of the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) last Saturday night when the organisation held its glittering 16th annual presentation, dinner and dance at the Estate Banquet Hall, Scarborough here.

Both Gobin, of Our Own Sports Club, and Mandolall who represented Hustlers Sports Club, were voted joint Division One Player- of-theYear following their brilliant all-round performances in the recently-concluded 2016 season.

Gaining the nod in Division Two was Ganesh Ramraj while former Guyana players Shivnauth Seeram and Ivan Narain shared the honours in the Over-50 division.

Significantly, it marked the second consecutive year for Gobin who copped the MVP in both the inaugural Toronto Cup Masters category and the First Division final last season, resulting in his being named Player-of-the-Year, which was introduced for the first time in 2015.

His sterling contributions with both bat and ball allowed Our Own to top the standings although they failed to make it five championships in a row, bowing out to eventual winners Guyana Sports Club (GSC) in their semi-final encounter.

Competing in nine matches, Gobin led the way with 409 runs, including a highest score of 118, averaging 102.25 and also claimed nine wickets at 8.89 runs each. Mandolall, on the other hand, ended the season with 282 runs with 63 being his top score and also tied for the most wickets

(13) with Our Own skipper Mahendranauth ‘Bobby’ Parasnauth.

Parasnauth was once again the Most Economical bowler in Division One - a title he held for the last four years, his 13 scalps claimed at a phenomenal 2.98 runs each.

It was also a memorable

centuries, 151 being the highest. He also chipped in with 10 wickets to crown a fine all-round season.

In the Over-50 Division, Seeram (Skeldon) topped the batting with 283, slamming 116 on the way while Narain (Jaguars) tallied 179 and took six wickets at 7.46 runs each.

The victorious Division One players, Guyana Sports Club, pose with their winning trophy. OMSCC president Azeem Khan is at extreme left.

year for Ramraj, whose 553 runs for Friendship in Division Two was by far the highest by any player in the league and included three

Among the other outstanding performers were Matbar Singh (Caribbean Sensation 1) who averaged an unbelievable 242 in the Over-

50 Division, Nitarm Dass (Double Impact) who took the most wickets in the same division, Feroze Mohamed (Friendship) most wickets in Division Two, Lall ‘Dingo’ Singh (Skeldon best bowling average in Over-50 and Deonarine Sukhoo (Royals) best bowling average in Division Two. The season also saw Guyana Sports Club capture the Division One crown, defeating debutants Hustlers Sports Club in the final after earlier dethroning nemesis and four-time consecutive winners Our Own Sports Club in the semi-final.

There were also new winners in Division Two with top seed Royals securing a narrow victory over Miracles while Dirty Dozen also won a thriller from favourites Skeldon in the Over-50 category.

In brief remarks, OMSCC president Azeem Karamat Khan described 2015 as another fantastic year for Masters cricket, pointing out that the level of cricket had

improved tremendously.

Khan, however, admitted that there were still challenges to overcome, “with the main one being compliance with parks and permit rules. We are asking every cricketer and spectator that from next year, a complaint from the parks or school board will be a thing of the past.”

A notable achievement, Khan pointed out, was the establishment of a Care Fund which caters to emergency needs of players, their families and needy organisations towards which players contribute. Ardent supporter and associate of the OMSCC, Shanta Jaman made an on-the-spot pledge of $100 per month for the rest of the year and the entire 2017.

Khan also disclosed that the OMSCC is gearing to participate in next month’s sixth Guyana Softball Cup and will also be hosting the second edition of the Toronto Cup, featuring teams from North America and Guyana, during Caribana weekend next year.

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, October 19, 2016

‘Bizzy’ Boyce laid to rest … deserves a national award - Lumumba

By Michael DaSilva

THE `Angelo Dundee’ of Guyana’s boxing, Maurice `Bizzy’ Boyce, was laid to rest yesterday, at the Le Repentir Cemetery after serving Guyana’s boxing fraternity for more than 48 years.

Boyce, who died two

quit the sport.

Delivering a tribute to Boyce during the funeral ceremony at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall yesterday, Mayor Chase-Green acknowledged that she knew Boyce for more than 48 years and it was through her husband, Terrence `Dick Tiger’ Green that she met

Odinga Lumumba, feels that the late boxing tactician deserves a national award Lumumba, a former boxing manager and promoter, in his tribute remembered the many times the two of them travelled all over the world with local boxers seeking to mark their names on the international

Georgetown Mayor Patricia Chase-Green (4th left) pays her respects to the late Maurice `Bizzy’ Boyce at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall yesterday (Samuel Maughn Photo).

coaches.

According to Thorne, the highpoint of Boyce’s career was when he took Anthony `The Pearl’ Andrews and Wayne ‘Big Truck’ Braithwaite to fight for world titles as well as Michael Benjamin for the Continental of Americas welterweight title.

Thorne said Boyce also plied his trade at the worldfamous Gleason Gym in New York. “The boxing fraternity will surely miss him. While we’re sad that he is no more, he has left an indelible mark on the sport.”

Boyce’s wife Desiree explained that her husband was ill for a while and family members took him to the

hospital for treatment but he was not admitted. However, his condition worsened and he was taken back to the hospital and this time was admitted but died the following morning.

On learning of Boyce’s death, his close friend and former boxing promoter, Keith Bazilio expressed shock at the news stating that Guyana has suffered a great loss with Boyce’s passing.

“Bizzy was not just a coach, he was always looking to see how best he can improve conditions for local boxers.

He was always around to give advice to boxers and promoters and even those persons who are charged with the administration of the sport locally.”

Among the many boxers Boyce assisted in reaching world-class recognition are: Michael Benjamin for his first defence of the Continental of Americas title against Steve Lorrimer, Michael Reid, Kenny Bristol, Brian Muller, Albert Browne, Andrew `The Pearl’ Andrews for his world title fight against Jorge Castro, in the USA, and Joseph Murray for his FECABOX title fight.

Boyce leaves to mourn his wife Desiree, two sons – Jason and Rondell – many grandchildren and close friends.

Chronicle Sport extends its heartfelt sympathy to Mrs Boyce and her family during this period of mourning.

Banks DIH on board for IGG 2016

Former Presidential Adviser on Empowerment Odinga Lumumba (extreme right) offers his tribute to Maurice `Bizzy’ Boyce at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall yesterday (Samuel Maughn photo).

Saturdays ago, four days after celebrating his 73rd birth anniversary, was given a hero’s send-off at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall before his body was taken to its final resting place.

The news of his death came as a shock as it was only weeks ago that Boyce was very actively involved in a card organised by the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) at the Giftland Mall, East Coast Demerara.

According to reports, even though Boyce was not feeling well on the night of the card, he found the energy to ensure he was part of the card.

It was during the night of the very card that Boyce’s longtime friend and Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia ChaseGreen, asked him when he will

Boyce and they have shared a close, friendly relationship since then.

“At the last boxing card at Giftland, I asked Bizzy when he would ever give up the sport and his reply to me was … I’ll never give up until I breathe my last breath,” Mayor ChaseGreen recalled.

She said that Boyce, whom she met for the first time at the Albouystown YMCA, has lived his life how he wanted to and questioned: “How do you tell a man who has lived his life for his country and for the youths of the country to give up. I wish him farewell and may his soul rest in peace.” Mayor Green concluded.

Former Presidential Adviser on Empowerment,

scene.

Lumumba remembered seeing Boyce at 04:00hrs to 05:00hrs taking his charges through their paces while doing road work. “This was a man that was dedicated to the sport. Bizzy was sincere and every great boxer that Guyana produced, Bizzy was in some way or the other responsible for that boxer’s success,” Lumumba stated, adding “This is indeed a great loss to Guyana and Bizzy deserves a national award.”

Also offering a tribute was GBBC’s treasurer Andrew Thorne who reminded that Boyce started his career as a corner man in 1968, “fetching buckets of water and then he became one of Guyana’s better

From left: Errol Nelson, Banks DIH Water Beverage Manager Clive Pellew handing sponsorship package to Assistant Director of Sport Brian Smith and Ms Sooklall of the NSC.

THE name Banks DIH has been in the conversation whenever talk about sponsorship in the sports sector arises and this year the company continues its support for the InterGuiana Games (IGG) with a sponsorship package presented to the National Sports Commission, ahead of this weekend’s Games in Guyana.

Water Beverage Brand Manager Clive Pellew made the presentation to Assistant Director of

Sport, Brian Smith, during a simple ceremony at the NSC Office on Homestretch Avenue.

Also present were Errol Nelson, Brand Manager of Banks DIH and R. Sooklall, Accountant of the NSC. The company will be providing Rainforest Waters and Powerade for the athletes and officials participating in the Games set for Friday to Sunday.

Smith thanked Banks DIH for supporting the annual Games which started back in 1967 and involved

the three neighbouring territories that comprise the Guianas.

The games will run from Friday to Sunday and will hold competitions in eight disciplines between Guyana and neighbouring Suriname, as French Guiana will not attend. Fans can look forward to action in basketball, volleyball, badminton, futsal football, table tennis, swimming and track and field.

UEFA Champions League ...

Madrid win big, Leicester

maintain 100% record See Page 28

‘Bizzy’ Boyce laid to rest … deserves a national award - Lumumba - See Page 31

Members of the Guyana Defence Force Boxing Gym give Maurice Boyce a glove of Honour as GBBC secretary Trevor Arno (second left) and treasurer Andrew Thorne (second right) bear the coffin with the remains of Boyce yesterday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. (Samuel Maughn photo).

Bolt headlines IAAF World Athlete-ofthe-Year shortlist See Page 29

OMSCC stages Bravo, Bishoo rise in glittering ICC rankings presentation See Page 29

See Page 30