Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 21 03 2017

Cop charged with abusing junior rank

Page 10

...threatening driver

No. 104859

TUESDAY, MARCH 21, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

GPHC to probe $605M drug purchase

Page 3

M&CC votes to keep parking meters Page 5

‌seeking legal advice on suspension order

City Councillors on Monday voted against the suspension of the parking meters project and instead opted to wait on legal advice first before carrying out a Cabinet order (Samuel Maughn photo)

Boy kills brother during fight Page 2

Not so easy GuySuCo lays out conditions for severance pay to Wales workers

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Guyana to tap CDB US$40M fund for poverty reduction

Page 10

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

President commends Georgetown Rotaract for water conservation project

PRESIDENT David Granger, who is also the patron of the Rotary Club of Guyana on Sunday evening, attended the ‘One Caribbean Charity Gala’ at the Pegasus Hotel.

The event was organised by members of the Rotaract Club of Georgetown, who have committed themselves to raising funds in support of a water conservation project in Bintouribe, Marmont in the Republic of Haiti.

Speaking on water scarcity and the challenges faced by that country, President Granger said, “Haiti has been very unfortunate. It has been damaged by a succession of natural disasters; earthquakes, floods and hurricanes. They were two devastating hurricanes in one year in Haiti alone. Our sister State needs our support and

solidarity. It is part of the one Caribbean family, which we speak about,” the Ministry of the Presidency quoted the President as saying in a release.

The event is part of the annual ‘World Rotaract Week’ observance, during which clubs celebrate their work. The President said that the Rotaract Club, which is the youth arm of the Rotary Club, has been an important vehicle for self-actualisation for young people that brings them together in the spirit of service and instills a deep sense of social responsibility. “They can successfully channel their enthusiasm and enterprise of their young membership into projects which benefit communities in our country. The Rotaract Club of Georgetown, for the past 32 years, epitomised the

virtue of selfless volunteerism,” President Granger said.

He singled out a few major projects that the Club has embarked on, including its work with children at Sophia and its partnerships with other organisations to support housing projects for vulnerable groups. This year the Club has chosen as its focus, public education and projects relating to water sanitation.

Describing access to clean water as a basic human right, the Head of State reminded of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, one of which speaks to universal and equitable access to safe, affordable water for all by 2030. “Water is essential to life, we cannot do without water. Water is needed for personal hygiene, cooking and washing. Water is essential for agriculture,

President David Granger and members of the Rotaract Club of Georgetown

President David Granger receives a special plaque from Ms. Noelle Plass as a token of appreciation for his attendance at the Gala

industries, economic growth, employment and public health,” he said.

The President added that the ‘Green State’ agenda seeks among other things, to eliminate threats to the country’s water resources posed by floods, droughts and pollution caused by activities such as mining. “Clean water is not just scarce. It is also costly… The average cost of a litre of water is G$240 and the cost of a litre of gasoline is G$190. So we are living in a world in which water is already more expensive than gasoline,” the President pointed out.

Over the years, the Rotaract Club has been in close partnership with the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) in an effort to push their programme of providing potable water to various com-

munities. Mr. Ramchand Jailall, GWI’s Planning and Implementation Director, explained that the company has been partnering with this organisation because their work-programme is aligned with the Government’s commitment of providing equal access to safe, adequate and affordable water supply and improved sanitation to all citizens. Moreover, this commitment forms the basis of GWI’s strategic plan.

He said that the water company is currently implementing a $2B programme, which will see improved water and sanitation infrastructure in all of the Administration Regions, particularly the hinterland.

Some of the projects include: the construction of septic tanks in Regions Three, Four and Six for about 1000

households that are lacking basic sanitation, and also the construction of new water treatment plants at Diamond, Uitvlugt and Sheet Anchor.

Additionally, GWI and the Rotary Club together, has constructed new water supply infrastructure at Kuru Kuru and Coomacka and Old England in Region 10.

Recently, the Club has requested monetary and technical assistance from GWI for their international community project to be executed in Haiti and Mr. Jailall said that the company has readily agreed to provide this support. President of the Rotaract Club, Ms. Noelle Plass said that for this year, they will be rolling out projects such as: blood drives, eye-care project at the East Le Penitence Night Shelter, Christmas cheer project, a recycle fair, as well as the ongoing Sophia Literacy project.

The Club is a non-governmental volunteer organisation that has been in existence for over 30 years under the sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Georgetown. It is made up of individuals between the ages of 18-30. The evening’s proceedings also featured a fashion show put on by local designers and a raffle draw that was sponsored by several private sector companies, including the Pegasus Hotel, Roraima Group of companies, the Guyana Power and Light, Sterling Products Limited, King’s Jewelry World, the Chilean Embassy and Impressions Printing.

Boy kills brother during fight AN 18-YEAR-OLD boy was reportedly stabbed to death by his older brother after the former had refused to lend the accused his motorcycle.

Dead is Vishal Sahora called “Daniel”,18,of Lot 82 Yakusari , North Black Bush Polder, Corentyne,Berbice.

According to reports,at around 21:00hrs on Sunday,Vishal was with several friends and his brother Romel Sahora, 21,at a friend’s home a short distance away imbibing.

It was while being there that Romel tried to borrow Vishal’s motorcycle and was refused.

An argument ensued between the two brothers, resulting in Romel slapping Vishal,explained Samuel Sahora,a younger brother.

He told the Guyana Chronicle that both of his brothers continued to argue,then Romel

Dead: Vishal Sahora called Daniel

whipped out a knife and mortally wounded Vishal. “Them two start scramble and them fall down ah ground and then Romel get up and Daniel nah get up;when we check we(see) he bleeding, it look like he get one bore on he chest,” Samuel

Alleged Killer: Romel Sahora

related.

According to reports the younger brother, who was employed as an electrician at a Rice Mill located at Branch Road, Yakusari, died as a result of a single stab wound to the region of his chest.

Family members at the home of the Sahoras

Daisy Hargobin, mother of the boys,said the brothers did not usually fight and it is heartbreaking that the incident happened this way. “This like me lose two of my children;one dead and the next deh lock up, he tell abee he nah know what

happen till morning when he ketch heself,he know he kill he lil brother,he sorry he do it…” the mother related tearfully.

Hargobin recalled when they received the call about the incident they were not told of the magnitude of what oc-

curred. “We only hear them fight but when we reach he de done dead;he died before he reach the hospital,” she related.

Meanwhile, Romel Sahora was arrested and is currently in police custody assisting with investigation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Drug probe

Minister orders GPHC to investigate drug procurement imbroglio

By Vanessa Braithwaite

MINISTER of Public Health, Ms Volda Lawrence has ordered the Board of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) to launch a probe into the recent expediting of the purchase of critically needed drugs and medical supplies.

This was told the media late Monday by the minister during a press conference at the National Communications Network, where she sought to clear the air as to why she took the decision to spend $605M on sourcing the drugs from the Trinidadian firm, ANSA McAl. She said the reason she’s ordered the investigation into the matter is so as to put to rest speculation in some quarters that she’d overstepped her bounds when she took the decision to fast-tract the purchase of the drugs, rather than wait for the requisition to go to tender as is the norm.

She said that in the circumstances, she wrote GPHC Chairman, Mr Allan Johnson last Thursday, asking that he conduct an investigation into the procurement process used in this instance, and will be allowing the Board to conduct the investigation independently.

Seizing the opportunity to explain at length the im-

Minister of Public Health, Ms Volda Lawrence

mediacy of the need to source the drugs expeditiously, as was done, Minister Lawrence told media operatives that having learnt of the shortage of drugs at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), she summoned its Chief Executive Officer and Chairman among other officials to a meeting to ascertain the level of the crisis, so that together they could remedy the situation as early as possible.

DELINQUENT SUPPLIERS She said that based on

PPP/C Member of Parliament, Bishop Juan Edghill

their meeting, she learnt from the medical officials that the institution was short of over 200 types of drugs, and that this was as a result of delinquent suppliers who had indicated their inability to fulfill their contractual arrangements.

“This has created a gap, and in order to fill that gap, the hospital was buying these drugs from private institutions,” Minister Lawrence said, adding: “And that is quite alarming to me; that put a strain on the hospital to be able to dispense the services, and hence

there was now a crises.”

She said that having learnt what she did, she immediately called for a drug inventory, which found that there was a shortage of a whopping 287 drugs.

It was at this stage, the minister said, that she engaged the medical officials on the fastest way to source these drugs, since the 2017 tenders had not gone out as yet.

“We looked at a twoweek period in order to address the issue,” she said, “and we decided that what we can do is look at the

shortlist of companies and ask them to bid on the items.

“Subsequently, I was informed that the documents were prepared, and that the four companies had uplifted them, paid for them and bid for the items.

“Then I received a call one morning indicating that there was a contract for ANSA McAl in the sum of $600M-plus; I asked that that be pulled. I said I would like to see it; that I wanted to know why.”

In response to her queries, the minister said, she was told that the Trinidad company was the first to respond to the bid for that amount of drugs, and because they were given a twoweek deadline, and again because of their having to fly the drugs in from Europe, it would take costs to $605M. Lawrence said it was imperative that the drugs were needed for chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes.

NO USURPING OF POWER Responding to allegations from the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and other quarters that what she did was tantamount to usurping the power of the GPHC Board and a contravention of tender arrangements, Minis-

ter Lawrence said that at the time, she had to take a decision as there was no Board in place at GPHC. PPP Member of Parliament, Bishop Juan Edghill on Monday at his party’s weekly press conference called for Lawrence to resign.

He also called for the GPHC Board to produce the minutes showing that the matter of the drug shortage was discussed as the level of the Board, and that a request was made for the acquisition of these drugs.

He gave as the reason for his demands his belief that Minister Lawrence, in her attempt to usurp the powers of the Board, gave them a directive to purchase the drugs from a particular supplier without the permission of the National Tender Board.

“If the Chairman of the Board and members of the Board cannot produce that, then they are all figureheads; they are puppets being controlled by the master, and they are not fit for public office,” Edghill said, adding: “They should depart gracefully and go into some other area of activity where they could find satisfaction.”

He also said that Minister Lawrence’s interference in such pertinent matters at GPHC “is dangerous to our public purse.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

FBI says no proof Trump was wiretapped -but confirms Russia election probe …says Moscow backed Trump FBI Director James Comey on Monday confirmed for the first time that the bureau is investigating possible ties between Republican Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and Russia as Moscow sought to influence the 2016 U.S. election.

Comey and Admiral Mike Rogers, the director of the National Security Agency, made clear that their investigation of Moscow and November’s U.S. elections could last for months.

Appearing before a congressional panel, Comey also publicly challenged Trump’s claim that former President Barack Obama wiretapped his 2016 campaign headquarters in Manhattan’s Trump Tower.

The two officials spent

5-1/2 hours before the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee in testimony marked by starkly partisan divides between the panel’s majority Republicans and Democrats. Comey refused to back away from his claim that Russian President Vladimir Putin did not simply want Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton to lose the election; he wanted Donald Trump to win.

Trump created a controversy in early March when he tweeted without giving evidence that Obama had wiretapped his campaign while the businessman competed against Clinton. “With respect to the president’s tweets about alleged wiretapping directed at him by the prior administration, I have

no information that supports those tweets,” Comey said.

The committee is one of several in the U.S. Congress investigating whether Russia tried to influence the election, mostly by hacking Democratic operatives’ emails and releasing embarrassing information. Russia denies the allegations.

Comey confirmed the FBI has been investigating since July possible Russian efforts to interfere in the election, including any cooperation between Trump’s campaign and Moscow. He said that while the Russian government wanted to hurt Clinton’s campaign and help Trump’s, intelligence agencies made no judgment on whether the efforts influenced the outcome.

Comey gave no details

of the classified investigation and said the fact that it exists does not mean charges would be filed. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that Russia tried to help Trump by hacking leading Democrats.

PUTIN’S PREFERENCE “I think that was a fairly easy judgment for the (intelligence) community,” he said. “Putin hated Secretary Clinton so much that the flip side of that coin was he had a clear preference for the person running against the person he hated so much.”

Asked about Comey, White House spokesman Sean Spicer read a series of quotes from officials - some from the Obama administration - who have said they have seen no signs of collusion between Trump’s campaign and Russia.

In a tweet before the

Tuesday March 21st, 2017 -12:00 hrs Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 - 13:00 hrs Thursday March 23rd, 2017 - 14:00 hrs

FBI Director James Comey

hearing, Trump wrote: “The Democrats made up and pushed the Russian story as an excuse for running a terrible campaign.”

Spicer said he was unaware of any White House official being under investigation by the FBI. Trump has frequently urged better relations with Russia, which has been at odds with the United States over Ukraine and the Syrian civil war. Representative Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the intelligence committee, detailed activities by Trump associates with ties to Russia, including former campaign manager Paul Manafort and Michael Flynn, who was forced out as Trump’s national security adviser after talking to the Russian ambassador and then misrepresenting the conversation to Vice President Mike Pence.

“Is it possible that all of these events and reports are

completely unrelated and nothing more than an entirely unhappy coincidence?

Yes, it is possible,” Schiff said. “But it is also possible, maybe more than possible, that they are not coincidental, not disconnected and not unrelated.”

NO ‘PHYSICAL’ WIRETAP Trump’s March 4 tweet about wiretapping pulled attention away from the claims of Russian election interference. He issued his tweet two days after Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who met with Russia’s U.S. ambassador at least twice last year, said he would recuse himself from any investigation of the matter. The White House has contended in recent days that Trump’s claim of wiretapping referred to general surveillance of the campaign.

The White House has not Turm to Page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

M&CC votes to keep parking meters …seeking legal advice on suspension order

By Telesha Ramnarine MAJORITY of city councillors on Monday voted in favour of a motion that sought to defy Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan’s “order” to have the parking meter by-laws suspended for three months.

The councillors, who did so on the basis of a document containing legal advice that was sought to counteract the minister’s order, felt they needed time to “study” such advice.

Hence, the purpose of the extraordinary statutory meeting that was called yesterday, with the original intention of city councillors deciding to implement the minister’s recommendation, could not be achieved.

In deciding how much time the councillors will be facilitated to peruse the four-page document, Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan, who chaired the meeting as Acting Mayor, said it seems that the issue is not one that is as urgent as Town Clerk Royston King told him it was. For this reason, he fixed the next meeting for Monday when Mayor Patricia Chase-Green will be presiding.

From now to Monday, when asked what is the position of Smart City Solutions (SCS), King would only tell this newspaper: “The Council has not given any new or further direction to SCS. We have a contract that is in force.” This essentially means that motorists should continue to pay for parking and that enforcement measures will continue to be applied.

In an interview with this paper on Saturday, Duncan had expressed confidence that no one would oppose the advice of Cabinet, which would have resulted, yesterday, in the suspension of the by-laws.

He reasoned that since APNU (A Partnership for National Unity) councillors represent the majority in the Council, there could not have been any other outcome, other than them following through with the minister’s advice.

According to the legal advice City Hall received from lawyer Roger Yearwood, though, who is incidentally working in the same Chamber as those representing Smart City Solutions (SCS), the Municipal and District Councils Act “does not permit the honourable minister to direct

the council to suspend any contract or by-laws enacted by it as the honourable minister purports to do by his order dated 17th day of March, 2017.”

Yearwood continued in the document that it is important to note that the minister’s order does not suspend the by-laws, but directs the council to do so. “As such, if the council accedes to this mandate, it is the Act of the Council that will be effective to suspend the by-laws and not the order of the honourable minister. This would necessarily leave the Council susceptible to a claim for breach of contract by Smart City Solutions (SCS).”

Before the minister’s direction, Town Clerk Royston King had written to Minister Bulkan asking him to consider that there is no provision in the contract between M&CC and SCS to suspend it in part or in its entirety. “The suspension of the contract operates as a breach of contract and would therefore trigger the compensation clause.”

At the start of yesterday’s meeting, APNU Councillor, Heston Bostwick, moved a motion requesting that city councillors be granted time to

City Councillors meeting on Monday

study the legal advice, and for a copy of it to be forwarded to Minister Bulkan.

Those who voted in favour of Bostwick’s motion are Councillors ChowChee, Oscar Clarke, Welton Clarke, Yvonne Ferguson, Junior Garrett, Gregory Fraser, Andrea Marks, Linda Gomes-Haley, Winston Harding, Linden Hilliman, Ivelaw Henry, Desiree Liverpool, Ron Persaud, Trichria Richards, James Samuels, and Monica Thomas.

Those who opposed the motion were Councillors Selwyn Smartt, Lionel Jaikarran, Bishram Kuppen, Alfred Mentore, Akeem Peter, Phillip Smith and Sherod Duncan.

Abstaining were Carlyle Goring and Sophia Whyte.

Chairman of the Finance

Committee Oscar Clarke, who is also the General Secretary of the People’s National Congress (PNC), offered that after the minister communicated Cabinet’s recommendation, City Council thought it necessary to seek legal advice.

This, he said, is due to the fact that the decision regarding parking meters has to be taken by the Council and not the minister.

Clarke said it is clear that everyone will want to know of the legal implications of suspending the by-laws, including Minister Bulkan himself. He said the City Council will not want to follow the route that Cabinet has recommended without legal advice.

Deputy Mayor-elect Lionel Jaikarran referred to Min-

ister Bulkan’s words that he was ‘directing’ the council to suspend the by-laws and not merely requesting it to do so.

Jaikarran added that the minister did not make the decision on his own, but sought Cabinet’s intervention. He went further to note that even President Granger was part of the decision relayed to City Council. “Why are we going against Cabinet? Are we being contemptuous of the Cabinet?”

Other Councillor Bishram Kuppen similarly referred to the fact that the minister “directed” the council to suspend the bylaws following consultations with legal experts. The Ministries of Finance and Foreign Affairs, he noted, had also looked at it.

British envoy: Strong immigration systems crucial to State security

By Ravindra Rooplall BRITISH High Commissioner, Mr Greg Quinn, is of the opinion that given the free-market dynamics of today’s world, no country can operate in isolation, because of its stringent immigration policies.

He, however, feels that in the interest of State security, it is important for countries to have effective immigration systems in place.

“One of the first requests his Excellency the President made to me was for the UK to look at broader security sector reforms, and I am therefore happy to say that we have been able to start that support through the provision of a security sector adviser,” the British envoy said Monday at the opening of a Risk and Liaison Overseas Network (RALON) workshop for local immigration officers.

The appointee, whose

intended to protect Guyana, and improve on our national security,” Minister Felix said.

British High Commissioner, Mr Greg Quinn, addressing immigration ranks Monday at the opening of the training course at the Guyana Police Force Training Centre at Eve Leary

name is Mr. Russell Combe, has been tasked with reviewing the security sector to make recommendations and implement some of the agreed recommendations as soon as possible. “This is something we want to see in action; not just sitting on a shelf,” Ambassador Quinn said.

Training, he said, will cover several issues, among

them: An overview of Human Trafficking and Immigration; enhanced forgery and interviewing skills; and underscoring the latest trends and concerns in the wider Caribbean region.

“This will help ensure the integrity of the system, and allow genuine visitors to have the easiest possible access,” he said, adding: “Every country needs

strong borders; every country wants to encourage tourists and business visitors.”

According to Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Mr Winston Felix, the training course for immigration officers is part of a package to boost immigration surveillance, and guard against passport fraud, drug trafficking and Trafficking in Persons (TIP). “This is

TIGHTENING UP At a recent post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister of State, Mr Joseph Harmon had stated that the influx of illegal immigrants here is something that the government will be ‘tightening up’ on.

Harmon said that with the recent announcement

by Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of National Security that there are over 100 known terrorists linked to ISIS holed out there, it is now more important than ever that Guyana beefs up its own immigration capacity.

“We cannot be aware that something is happening in our neighbour’s yard and do not take steps to ensure we correct it here,” Minister Harmon said, adding: “We have to ensure that

we protect Guyanese; that we protect our image internationally so that we will not become another hotbed for extremism in this region.

“So, yes! We have to tighten up our immigration! And it has to do with illegal entry into Guyana, as well as for security purposes.”

He was quick to note, however, that no ban will be imposed on citizens travelling to and from places that are known terrorist haunts, unless the person in question is engaged in activities that raise a red flag.

“Once red flags are raised, they basically do their investigation. The intention, of course, is to ensure that we provide safety to Guyanese,” Minister Harmon said.

He’d also said that the government will not be putting measures in place to prevent Caribbean Community (CARICOM) personnel from entering Guyana.

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Editorial

Fixing our education system WITH rapid advancements in science and technology, education remains a constantly evolving process, and for a nation like Guyana to advance socially, economically and politically, its education system will have to rise to the challenges.

Currently, we are behind in the scheme of things. Our education system is based on an old model of development, and not much has changed from the dogma of the 1960s and 1970s where strong focus was placed on the arts and commerce and little attention on science, mathematics and technology.

Today, the reverse is required for success in this rapidly changing world, and our school system needs to adapt to these challenges if we are going to keep abreast with the advancement of other developing nations. Encouragingly, from the pronouncements of President David Granger and Education Minister, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, the Government appears to be fully aware of the plethora of challenges facing the school system, and want to make a concerted effort to fix them.

Problems such as poor performance in English and Mathematics at both the primary and secondary schools, teachers giving inadequate attention in the classrooms, delinquent behaviour by students and the need to shift greater attention to science, mathematics and technology are issues which cannot be addressed overnight, but overtime.

One gets the feeling that the urge for change in there, but

stronger action and skilful direction is needed for it to happen.

In the school system, there are efforts to place more attention on the sciences and mathematics, but more would be required on the part of teachers to stimulate students’ interest in these subjects at the early grade levels.

This would entail the Ministry’s experts revisiting how science and mathematics is being taught and promoted in the school system. Whatever the method or means used in doing this, whether it is through science fairs, essay competitions or documentary films, the story has to be told that life and business in today’s world revolve around science and technology. And ethical harnessing of knowledge in these fields is paramount to improving citizens’ lives and catapulting development of their country.

In this day and age, Guyana needs more chemists, biologists, physicists, engineers, geologists, architects, environmentalists, forestry and plant experts and doctors, and this is not to say that economists, accountants and other persons of the social sciences are not important. And with oil on the horizon, and the massive roll out of development projects that will follow, Guyana is at the cross-road where its education system needs to be aligned to meet national needs.

Here is where the inquiry into the education system was very important as it provided a golden opportunity to set the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

foundation to build an education system that will provide the competencies required to fashion a modern Guyana, known for her knowledge economy and competitiveness on the global arena. These are but some aspect of what is required of our education system. The system also needs to produce rounded individuals, who embrace love, tolerance and respect.

Most of the problems we face today such as unemployment, suicide and racial division can be addressed through an education system that not only imparts content, but provides an inspiration for positive change. After all, education is expected to provide individuals with the understanding, knowledge and skills, to thrive and peacefully co-exist among his fellow men, notwithstanding their race, religion or political persuasion.

It is hoped that the findings of the education CoI due this month end will capture some of these issues and that our leaders will take steps to implement them. Education is also everyone’s business, and all should play a role in moulding a Guyana we all can be proud off. This would not happen by mere word but concomitant action.

My take on the Ministerial PPP’s past catching up with it Outreach at Wales Dear Editor,

Dear Editor,

AT THE commencement of the session which was chaired by the Hon. Catherine Hughes - Minister of Public Telecommunications, there were about four male characters sitting in the front row grumbling among themselves. Several times the minister had to appeal for order because of the behaviour of those very four. The Madam Sessional Chairlady indicated that the format the activity will take was as follows : an address by the Hon. Noel Holder - Minister of Agriculture, followed by Remarks from Hon. Khemraj Ramjattan - Minister of Public Security, after which sugar workers will ask questions, seek clarity and amicable decisions will be made.

The four gentlemen continued to be disruptive, but not at a level that warranted police intervention. The Hon. Noel Holder addressed the gathering.

At the conclusion of Minister Holder’s address the four men began to inquire about their severance pay. Minister Cathy Hughes neatly called for order and asked that Minister

Ramjattan speak after which questions from the workers would be facilitated. The four men were not willing to settle for that and began to be loud and disorderly, seeking answers about their severance pay. Minister Ramjattan explained the legal ramifications that are currently present within the situation given that GAWU took GUYSUCO to court over the said matter. As hard as the minister tried to explain, the louder and more disorderly were the four men, asking questions relating to the said issue (severance pay). At no point did any minister refuse to answer queries raised by the four men, but their queries were addressed by the Ministers in a calm, cool and collective manner.

After about close to an hour of continuous back and forth over severance pay (which is currently engaging the court of Guyana with the minister saying that the court’s decision will be honoured), another sugar worker then requested that we move on because of the importance of time and given the fact that divestment and diversification are yet to be discussed. She

further stated that there are more than four people present and order needs to prevail if we are to get anywhere. She went on to recommend that should order and peace not prevail then the police should be called in to do their job.

At this juncture the four men got up and hastily left the meeting. Roughly about 15 persons followed them, whilst the majority remained. Order was restored and the meeting continued peacefully. It must be mentioned that from the four who were disrupting the meeting, two came back in and sat peacefully throughout the meeting and at the end of it all were seen embracing Hon. Minister Harmon.

During the closing remarks, sugar workers acknowledged by clapping, indicating that the session was indeed fruitful and informative. Editor, it is my belief that the four gentlemen attended the session with a clear motive. I am extremely happy that the majority who attended did not fall prey to their actions.

Regards Ganesh Mahipaul

I HAVE a problem when pretenders of knowledge try to camouflage reality. I am not a political analyst, thus much of what Mr Bandhu wrote in Kaieteur (19th March, 2017) and has written about in the past I ignore. However, to say that President Granger’s, and by extension the coalition, mode of governance is the reason for Burnham’s seeming popularity is preposterous in the least. Burnham, The Caribbean Man of the 20th Century, did not have to await the APNU-AFC coalition to become popular.

The wheeling and dealing that took place in and around the nation’s coffers and resources during the last twelve years of the PPP/C administration, seemed not kosher at times. Thus it was incumbent for the current administration to restore a level of trust

in state organs and actors that investigations be done to determine what really took place during the years of the PPP/C in office.

The evidence unearthed to date indicates that many who were placed in positions of responsibility while the PPP/C was in government were involved in activities which can only be considered criminal. The transfer of wealth from state to private individuals were at a scale never before seen in the Caribbean, some say in South America. Yes Mr Bandhu, the people the government is after are criminals, who have committed crimes against the state. To those reading, this the above dealt with some aspects in Mr Bandhu’s letter that I consider erroneous.

The area where I am in agreement with him is where he speculates what could happen to the party vis-a-vis governance of Guyana, in the near fu-

ture. While Bandhu speculates that the leadership of the PPP/C would be too exhausted from defending themselves to successfully launch a campaign to get back in office, I am of the opinion that if the government is successful in proving to the Guyanese people through the courts that indeed many within the PPP/C leadership ran criminal enterprises while in government, the people simply would not have faith to give them the mandate to govern Guyana.

Mr Bandhu would want us to believe that the undoing of the PPP/C chances in 2020 shall be due to perceived machinations of the PNC and the ABC countries, but what is becoming evidently clearer is its leadership’s past is catching up with it, and definitely poised to hurt it again in 2020.

Regards Elton McRae

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

The Constitution is not a statute but emanates from the will of the people Dear Editor, JUSTICE Duke Pollard is a retired member of the Caribbean Court of Justice and as he has done before while the case of “Cedric Richardson v. the Attorney General of Guyana and the Speaker of the National Assembly” was referred to our Court of Appeal, he has now pronounced judgement in the press after the government challenged that latter decision in the CCJ: “Act No 17, 2001 is in full compliance with Article 164 of the Constitution”.

(SN 3-18-17) Justice Pollard is very consistent with his conclusion, but sadly he just as consistently insists on conflating procedural and substantive matters in constitutional interpretation. Putatively addressing Chancellor Carl Singh’s statement, “Caribbean Parliaments are

not at liberty to legislate whatever or however they see fit without having regard to the limits enshrined in the constitution which ultimately have to be construed and guarded by the judiciary,” Justice Pollard rather snarky posits: “In effect, given the role of the judiciary as guardian of the Constitution, this intractable issue appears to resolve itself into the aspirational concept of judicial supremacy notwithstanding the express provisions in the Constitution designating this instrument as the supreme law.”

Justice Pollard cannot be oblivious of the context within which Chancellor Singh offered his caution: the case was not dealing with matters of policy but interpreting several Acts of the Constitution. As such to allude to “judicial supremacy” is to attempt to muddy the judicial waters when the Chancellor was properly

exercising the power of “Judicial Review”, which accepts the Constitution as the “supreme law”, but that it is the remit of the court to pronounce on its proper application.

The other - and more fundamental flaw - in Justice Pollard’s argument is his confusion between the source of the authority on which the constitution rests as the “supreme law” and the legality of its application.

Justice Pollard summarises his confusion when he rather astonishingly insists that “the Constitution is a statute” - albeit of “peculiar significance”. Chief Justice Chang and Chancellor Singh were pronouncing on the rights that emanate from the former which is prior to the latter, while Justice Pollard remained stuck at painfully explicating the latter, which is irrelevant to the gravamen of the case at hand. In his own words, all his effusions

Commendation to Justice Pollard Dear Editor, REFERENCE is made to article “Misinterpreted-Justice Pollard differs on third-term ruling” (GC 18th, March 2017).

THE opportunity is taken to commend Professor Justice Duke Pollard for adding his voice

and legal weight behind retired Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang’s decision on the constitutionality of the third term. It is always encouraging to hear from those who read the law through context, spirit and intent. As a people, we may not always agree, but when this quality of

FBI says no... provided evidence of surveillance of any kind. “Let me be clear: We know there was not a physical wiretap on Trump Tower. However, it’s still possible that other surveillance activities were used against President Trump and his associates,” said Representative Devin Nunes, the committee’s Republican chairman.

Last week, Trump’s spokesman cited a media report that British intelligence was behind the surveillance, prompting ridicule in London. Rogers said the

allegation had strained relations with London. “I think it clearly frustrates a key ally of ours,” Rogers said. Comey warned that Russia would attempt to influence the next U.S. presidential election in 2020 and perhaps congressional elections next year.

“They’ll be back in 2020.

They may be back in 2018.

And one of the lessons they may draw from this is that they were successful because they introduced chaos and division and discord and sowed doubt about the nature of this amazing country of ours and

discourse forms part of the national discourse the society is better served. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, is urged to pay heed to this level of public involvement.

Regards Lincoln Lewis

From Page 4 our democratic process,” he said.

The rare open congressional intelligence committee hearing revealed a stark partisan divide. Republicans, who hold a majority of seats on the panel, largely concentrated their questions on leaks of classified information to the media - a concern that Trump frequently mentions. Democrats sought to highlight links between the Republican’s campaign and Moscow and to shoot down Trump’s wiretapping claim. (Reuters)

are “dicta.”

The Constitution is NOT a statute but emanates from the will of the people, in which sovereignty inalienably resides. Its legitimacy rests on this fact as attested

by Article 4 of the Constitutional Reform Act of 1999 which established a Constitutional Reform Commission consisting of “(a) five members nominated by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic; (b) three members nominated by the People’s National Congress; (c) one member nominated by the United Force; (d) one member nominated by the Alliance for Guyana; (e) a farmers’ representative; a private sector’s representative; (g) an indigenous people’s representative; (h) a women’s organisations’

representative; (i) a youth organisations’ representative; (j) a Guyana Bar Association’s representative; (k) a Hindu religious organisations’ representative; (l) a Muslim religious organisations’ representative; (m) a Christian religious organisations’ representative; (n) a Labour Movement’s representative.”

This body of “the people’ in quite unambiguous language in Article 9 declared “Sovereignty belongs to the people, who exercise it through their representatives and the democratic organs established by or under this constitution.”

Justice Pollard declares that in our Constitution, “democratic” must be construed in the same manner like the surrounding terms

“indivisible”, “secular” and “sovereign”, all of which speak undeniably to a unified political entity” we agree because the Constitution asserts “Guyana is an indivisible, secular, democratic sovereign state.” (Art 1).

Justice Pollard confuses this DESCRIPTION of the state, with the sovereignty of the people (Art 9) who cannot delegate the power to alter the NATURE of the constitution to its representatives. As to whether restricting “the right of electors to elect a President” does in fact alter the nature of the Constitution is a totally different - and subsequent - question.

Regards Ravi Dev

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

No backing down Bandit killed in Bel Air – Protestors brave rain to press for revocation of parking meters

PROTESTORS yesterday braved the inclement weather to back calls for the revocation of the Metered Parking Project.

But while the rain did not deter the Movement Against Parking Meter (MAMP) from making their voices heard, the turnout was not as large as we’ve grown accustomed to seeing.

As an extraordinary

meeting of the councillors was in progress, the sizeable group used the opportunity to voice their concern outside of City Hall.

City Councillors were in the process of deliberating on the government’s call to suspend the project, when an outburst of heckles started.

Protestors began shouting, “Revoke the contract!”

And because the area was not

blocked to vehicular traffic, there were minor confrontations.

One protestor said that despite all that is happening, he will stand against the parking meters, and was hoping for the project to be suspended.

Others shared his views, saying they will not stop protesting until the project is cancelled.

Protestors ensured they were dressed for the weather Monday

On the picket line Monday

11 years for arrow and bow murder AT YESTERDAY’S beginning of the re-trial for Alvin Gounga, he changed his plea from not guilty of murder to guilty of the lesser count of manslaughter,for the May 14, 2005 unlawful killing of his father-in-law with an arrow and bow.

His plea was submitted to Justice Navindra Singh by his attorney,Dexter Todd, in the Georgetown High Court on Monday.

After submissions by Todd, Justice Singh asked the accused if he would like to say anything,to which he replied: “I am sorry for what I did.”

In response, Justice Singh handed down his 11-year sentence and ordered that the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) deduct time already served.

Justice Singh told Gounga that he should prepare

Sentenced to 11 years: Alvin Gounga

himself to be re-integrated into society and urged him to make a meaningful contribution to same upon his release.

His previous trial in the High Court was before Jus-

tice Roxane George and a 12-member jury. However, the jury could not arrive at a unanimous verdict and a re-trial was ordered.

Gounga pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter for the murder of Desmond Henry.The murder occurred at Five Star Backdam, Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD) on May 14, 2005.

According to the allegation, the accused is said to have shot Henry to death with his bow and arrow.

The accused reportedly shot Henry following an argument over stolen gold.

Gounga was arrested shortly after the incident and has been incarcerated since 2005.

The state was represented by Siand Dhurjon and Tuanna Hardy.

shooting identified THE armed bandit shot dead in the wee hours of Sunday morning during a confrontation with a businessman in Bel Air was identified as 32-year-old old Ray Golden of Independence Boulevard, Albouystown Georgetown; Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara and of Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara, respectively.

The businessman was not injured in the shootout, but a friend of his, the driver of the vehicle in which he was travelling was and is currently hospitalised at a private institution. The fallen bandit was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

According to reports, the businessman had just seen one of two friends home in Belvoir Court after a night out at the movies when the

The .32 auto berretta gun that the bandit used

incident occurred. It happened around 00:30hrs as the friend was about to secure the gate to his premises, when he was accosted by two men, one of whom brandished a firearm and ordered him to ‘Freeze!’ The driver, sensing that something was amiss, decided to reverse the vehicle to check on his friend, and came under a hail of bullets as the armed bandit opened fire. In the fusillade, the front windscreen of the vehicle was shattered and the driver was hit on his arm.

The businessman, who was seated in the rear of the vehicle, immediately drew his licensed .32 Taurus pistol and returned fire, hitting the bandit squarely in the chest. His accomplice, not wanting to wait around, took to his heels, leaving his fallen accomplice behind. The police were subsequently informed of the shooting, and upon arriving at the scene, found a .32 pistol believed to have belonged to the deceased suspect. They also found seven .32 calibre spent shells and a cellular phone. The police are reportedly reviewing footage from several CCTV surveillance cameras in the neighbourhood to build their case. The body of the slain bandit was taken to the Lyken Funeral Home.

A post-mortem is expected to be done Wednesday.

Hope Estate farmers owe $3.8M in rent HOPE Estate Manager, Ricky Roopchand on Monday called on farmers who owe the estate $3.8M for lands utilised by them to pay up or face legal action.

Roopchand in a letter to the editor said there are three categories of farmers who owe rent to the Hope Estate. As of January this year, of the 237 farmers who are all tenants of the Hope Estate, 103 farmers owe the estate some $3.8M. Three notices have since been sent out to the delinquent farmers to pay their debt or enter into an arrangement with the management of the estate to remedy the situation.

“To date 35 farmers have paid, leaving 65 farmers who are still to honour their financial obligation with the Estate. These defaulters have until the end of March 2017, to do as outlined in the third and final notice,” Roopchand said in his letter.

He noted that many of the defaulters owe rent as far back as 2009 and according to him there are three categories of farmers. Category one represents farmers who “willingly pay their rent to Hope Estate without a fuss” while the second category refers to farmers who

would “rant and rave but eventually will settle their outstanding arrears.”

The final category of farmers is those who “deliberately” make no effort to pay their rents to the estate.

Only recently, Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder, told Hope Estate Farmers that soon the annual government subvention to the Estate will come to a halt.

Holder made it clear that 2017 is the last year government would be providing the subvention. Additionally, the Minister said while he empathises with the farmers, Hope Estate must be managed as a business so that it can sustain itself.

The fees to rent lands to cash crop and rice farmers have increased from $5000 per acre annually to $15,000 per acre annually while livestock farmers are required to pay $4000 per acre annually. There are only two livestock farmers.

Farmers have repeatedly complained that the increase in the cost to rent lands will provide hardship on them and have since protested the move by the administration to increase the rental fees.

Minister Holder had also called on farmers who are

cultivating crops on access dams to discontinue same.

“Farmers must understand that they are tenants and not owners of the land.

Those farmers who have chosen not to pay will most likely face legal action that is swift and decisive,” said Roopchand.

Meanwhile, management of Hope Estate is currently seeking land to re-establish coconut cultivation and as such, any land reclaimed by the estate will “most likely be used for coconut cultivation or some other developmental project as the Estate sees fit.”

The Hope Estate Manager made it clear that in order for the Estate to survive and not become a “mini Guysuco” the Estate’s income must be strengthened to ensure sustainability and development which would be beneficial to both farmers and the agricultural sector.

“As the deadline approaches for those farmers who are indebted to the Estate, I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to them to come into the office and make suitable arrangements to address this issue,” said Roopchand as he awaits directive from the newly appointed Board of Directors of Hope Estate and Minister Holder.

Not so easy 9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

GuySuCo lays out conditions for severance pay to Wales workers

THE Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) on Monday clarified that cane harvesters and transport operators of Wales could only become entitled to the payment of severance or redundancy allowance if their contracts were terminated in accordance with sections 12 and 21 (1) of the Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act (TESPA).

A number of workers of the estate have been clamouring for severance pay, but the sugar corporation explained that the question of whether the contract of employment of an employee is to be terminated by reason of redundancy is a determination which must be made specifically by the employer, pursuant to section 12 of TESPA. On the other hand, GuySuCo said the employees in this case the cane harvesters and cane transport operators cannot unilaterally decide that they are redundant. “In the absence of the termination of the contracts of employment of these two categories of employees, the Corporation is under no legal obligation to pay severance or redundancy allowance,” the statement read.

Additionally, GuySuCo said these employees’ services are currently being retained at the Wales Estate and were offered work at the Uitvlugt location. “The issue of Uitvlugt Estate being outside of a ten (10) mile radius from Wales does not invoke the operation of section 21 (4) (b), in the absence of there being any termination of the contracts of employment of the Cane Harvesters and Cane Transport Operators. Importantly, the section does not create an entitlement to the payment of severance or redundancy allowance where the employee is merely being offer work at another worksite, outside of a ten (10) mile radius.”

The corporation also said it intends to transport these employees daily from Wales to Uitvlugt Estate for work, and to pay them a disturbance allowance in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement (CLA), entered into in 2004 by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) and the Corporation.

GuySuCo CEO Errol Hanoman

GuySuCo said this arrangement is not a peculiar one within the industry, noting that the practice of transporting employees to other estates for work is addressed under clause 26 of the CLA. Clause 26 of the CLA makes provision for the payment of a disturbance allowance, where field and factory workers are required to work on an Estate, other than their base Estate. “In light of the customary practice of the Corporation of transporting workers to the Estates for work, the Corporation’s undertaking to transport the Cane Harvesters and Cane Transport Operators from Wales to Uitvlugt Estate is not a novel situation.”

Additionally, GuySuCo said part of the current debate makes reference to the abandonment in 2009 of the Diamond Estate Cultivation and severance was paid to the same categories of employees. However, it is important to note, the sugar company said that it was not until 2010 that the question of severance was raised. It noted that due to an intervention by the Government of the day, there was a final settlement in terms of severance to the employees in 2011, after they had been employed at LBI Estate for 18 months. It is to be noted that this arrangement was quite different from the normal industrial relations engagements.

“The transferred employees were paid a disturbance allowance and transported to LBI Estate on a daily basis.

This position was supported by the then Chief Labour Officer who acted as conciliator between the Corporation and GAWU. The situation involving the employees from the Diamond/LBI Estates and those from Wales

Estate is different, since in the Diamond/LBI case the services of the employees were actually terminated for redundancy, hence they were entitled to receive a severance or redundancy allowance.”

GuySuCo stressed that the offer of employment remains open to the Cane Harvesters and Cane Transport Operators from the Wales Estate to go to the Uitvlugt Estate. “In the current circumstances therefore, it is arguable that should the employees voluntarily terminate their services, that consistent with TESPA, they would not be eligible for benefits.”

SLOWLY Meanwhile, cane harvesters and other support staff from the Wales have been gradually taking up positions at the Uitvlugt Estate. This is according to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Errol Hanoman who spoke to the Guyana Chronicle on the sidelines of the recently held Cabinet outreach to Wales on the West Bank of Demerara, on Friday. Upon the closure of the Wales Sugar Estate, some 389 persons were made redundant and paid their severance. The remaining 428 cane harvesters and support staff were expected to remain with the Sugar Corporation with the majority (374) expected to be transferred to the Uitvlugt Estate.

According to Hanoman, since the start of this crop, the numbers have been gradually increasing. “Since the crop started in February, the numbers have been climbing, we started with seven, and we had 43 this morning,” the CEO pointed out. It is the hope of GuySuCo that the numbers will continue to increase.

On Friday, during the ministerial outreach at the Wales Community Centre, the harvesters pleaded with the Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder; the Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, and the Minister of Public Telecommunication to have their severance paid, contending that only five persons had opted to be transferred to the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate.

But Hanoman is refuting

Some of the affected cane harvesters pleading with the Minister of Public Telecommunication to have their severance paid

this claim. “Contrary to what you would have heard, there was a point in these discussions that over 250 said yes they would remain and work at Uitvlugt and suddenly there after they opted for severance,” he contended.

However, Hanoman believes that the call for severance has no merit in this case. It was explained that if the sugar workers were made redundant and subsequently offered re-employment beyond 10 miles of the original location, they are entitled to severance.

But in this case, GuySuCo has not made this batch of workers redundant. “But we have not made these people redundant so the question of 10 miles doesn’t arise,” Hanoman further argued while alluding to the Diamond Sugar Estate closure.

“So Diamond for example, they were made redundant and the question

of severance did arise…In this case, they have not been made redundant, and if they have not been made redundant, there is no reason why they shouldn’t work with us,” he emphasised.

The Government, however, is maintaining that GuySuCo is in no financial position to make an additional payout of $375M in severance. However, in light of threats to legal recourse, it said if the matter is won by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) in the courts, it will respect the court’s decision and pay the $375M the best way possible.

Like Government, Hanoman is of the strong opinion that if the majority of the workers withhold their labour, it will ultimately result in the collapse of the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate.

“If we want to ensure that Uitvlugt survives we

need to have these 300 plus persons, harvesters and support staff from Wales at Uitvlugt,” he emphasized.

Minister Ramjattan, during the meeting, cited three reasons why the workers should give support to the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate.

“At this stage, there are three reasons: the option that you took earlier in the transition, the one that we don’t have the money; the $375M to pay and thirdly, the fact that it would necessarily mean a collapse of Uitvlugt if the workers don’t go there,” he summarised.

However, the Public Security Minister noted that nothing is written in “stone,” and the matter will be discussed at the level of Cabinet. Since taking office in 2015, the Government has pumped $32B into the ailing sugar industry.

Drunk driver gets four years jail CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan sentenced a Charlestown resident to four years’ imprisonment on Monday, after he pleaded guilty to a charge of causing death by dangerous driving.

Fazal Mohammed, 53years old of Charlestown, did not deny the allegation which stated that on February 19, this year, in Kingston, he drove motorcar HC 358 in a manner dangerous to the public, causing the

death of Gregory Nedd.

Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore told the Court that Mohammed reversed with a lot of speed and slammed into the deceased, who was sitting on a chair at the side of the road.

Nedd was rushed to the hospital, where he was a patient of the institution until a few days ago when he succumbed to spinal injuries.

The court heard that at the time of the accident Mohammed was under the

influence of alcohol. He had a blood alcohol level of 220%.

Mohammed was recently charged for driving under the influence of alcohol. Previously he was charged for dangerous driving, but after Nedd lost his life that charge was dropped and he was hit with a new one – causing death by dangerous driving - on Monday when he was told that the injured man had died.

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‘All eyes on illegality’ – Felix promises to deal condignly with officers involved in illicit activities GLARING cases of human trafficking and illegal immigration through Guyana’s borders have prompted the Ministry of Citizenship to employ counter measures, and to be even more vigilant.

Though not pointing fingers at any one nationality in particular, Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix said the department currently has all eyes on illegalities, and that in time it will be able to ‘definitely pinpoint’ who the guilty parties are.

From all accounts, however, among those shown in the past to have been habitually charged with entering Guyana illegally are Haitians, Colombians, Chinese, Surinamese, and even Venezuelans.

Then last year, the minister had announced that Guyana may well be home to some 5,300 illegal immigrants, and that every effort will be made to get the Immigration Department extra manpower to root them out.

He even gave reason as to why this was happening.

“The flow of illegal immigrants to Guyana is as a result of the pull factor in certain developed countries,” Minister Felix had said, adding: “But stringent checks at certain ports have forced these illegal immigrants

to use Guyana as a transit point… Unfortunately, quite a number of them remain in this country.”

He made the point, too, that illegal immigrants put additional pressure on government resources, as while they’re free to utilise our services, there’s no pressure on them to pay taxes.

Given that accessing Guyana is easier from neighbouring countries like Suriname, Brazil and Venezuela, immigration officers are now on the alert for ‘illegals’, and working to ensure that all protocols and procedures are observed at the borders.

Asked whether he believes that some immigration officers might be encouraging illegalities, Felix said that there is a strong ‘possibility’ that this might very well be the case.

But he gave every assurance that the ministry fully intends to probe every instance where there is an indication that an immigration officer might be “out of order”.

And once proven guilty, those officers will be dealt with condignly, Minister Felix warned.

While efforts are afoot to correct the problems, the Ministry and other stakeholders are working to strengthen the system by introducing the E-visa.

Minister of Citizenship, Mr Winston Felix

The visa will be electronic in nature, in that to the naked eye, it would seem that there is no label or stamp on the passport.

However, it will be easily discernible to officials at ports of entry with the appropriate electronic device at their disposal.

According to Minister Felix, the visas at reference were earmarked as the source for correcting the “many issues” associated with Guyana’s current visa system.

“It will serve us well, given that they will ensure that persons entering Guyana for work are properly screened and vetted,” he said, adding: “And the recommendations will ensure that the policy is set straight for travellers and airlines.”

Hotel owner charged with hiring hitman, granted bail A BUSINESSMAN was granted $1.5M bail after he was charged with soliciting a man to commit murder.

Ganesh Rajkumar, 65, of Durban and Henry Streets, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Monday and was not required to plead to the charge which stated that on August 25, 2016 at Durban and Henry Streets, he solicited Mark Sandy to murder Roger Conners.

The accused was represented by Senior Counsel, Neil Boston, who told the court the allegation was made by Sandy after he learned that Rajkumar was entering a sizable deal with a bank, to pump money into his business.

Boston added that Sandy’s allegation is a failed extortion attempt.

He added that Sandy

Ganesh Rajkumar

was employed by the accused, Rajkumar, who is the owner of the Arawak Hotel in Corriverton, Berbice. It is believed that he also has a number of mining concessions.

Police prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones, objected to bail for Rajkumar based on the nature of the offense and the penalty attached. Jones added that Rajkumar has the means, not only to flee the jurisdiction, but also to interfere with the witnesses.

Rajkumar’s defense attorney rebutted that the only witness for the prosecution would be Sandy.

He added that his client has cooperated throughout with police officers, which represents good faith.

Bail was granted and Rajkumar will return to court on March 28, 2017.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Guyana to tap CDB US$40M fund for poverty reduction The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has announced US$40 million in funding for poverty reduction in eight countries in the Caribbean Region, through the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF).

The resources will support improved access to quality education; water and sanitation; basic community access and drainage; livelihoods enhancement and human resource development services in low-income and vulnerable communities under the ninth phase of BNTF (BNTF 9).

Countries that will benefit are: Belize; the Commonwealth of Dominica; Grenada; the Cooperative Republic of Guyana; Jamaica; Saint Lucia; St. Vincent and the Grenadines; and Suriname,

the CDB said in a statement.

“The participating countries share many common characteristics and face a number of challenges inherent to small, open economies. BNTF 9 will respond to the development needs of these countries, which face challenges associated with limited diversity in production and extreme vulnerability to natural hazards, which is now exacerbated by climate change and other external shocks,” said Daniel Best, Director of Projects, CDB. Initiatives under BNTF 9 will be implemented during the period March 2017 to December 2020. Governments of the eight participating countries will provide total counterpart funding of US$6.04M.

BNTF has implemented more than 2,750 sub-projects over the past 37 years, directly impacting the lives of more than three million beneficiaries in poor communities. The programme is CDB’s main vehicle for tackling poverty in the Region, through the provision of basic infrastructure and skills training towards improving the livelihoods of beneficiaries in participating countries. BNTF projects are implemented through grant financing from the Bank’s Special Development Fund [Unified]. BNTF aligns with CDB’s objective of poverty reduction through inclusive and sustainable economic growth, as articulated in the Bank’s Strategic Plan 2015-2019.

Cop charged with abusing junior rank ...threatening driver CITY Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday placed Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Frank Thompson on $120,000 bail for the offences of verbal assault and using threatening language.

A video on popular social media website, Facebook, went viral after ASP Thompson was seen making threats and verbally assaulting a junior rank, who was on duty at the time of the incident.

Thompson, 29, of Stewartville, West Coast Demerara denied the allegations, which stated that at Broad Street, Georgetown on February 22, 2017, he made use of threatening language to Hemchand Budhai.

Thompson also pleaded not guilty to another charge, which stated that on the said date, he made use of abusive language to Police Constable Leandrea Gillis. The court heard that this incident stemmed from an alterca-

ASP, Frank Thompson

tion between Thompson and Budhai.

The court heard that on the day in question, Thompson’s vehicle had crashed into Budhai’s vehicle. Budhai then approached Constable Gillis, who was told of the incident and that was when he intervened.

According to the allegations, when ASP Thompson was approached by the virtual complainant, he responded

abusively with colourful language, and even threatened to kill Budhai, as well as the occupants of Budhai’s vehicle.

When Constable Gillis arrived on the scene, he spoke with Budhai, after which he escorted Budhai to ASP Thompson’s vehicle. It was then that ASP Thompson, after hearing the allegation by Budhai, asked the junior police rank, “what the f&*k you gon do about it?!”

Police Constable Gillis then made a report to his superior, and ASP Thompson was escorted to the Brickdam Police Station by Gillis and Police Corporal Jones.

ASP Thompson was granted $60,000 bail on each of the charges after bail was not objected to by the police prosecutor.

ASP Thompson also told the court he has another matter in the court, related to careless driving.

He will return to court on March 27, 2017.

Enmore man nabbed with illegal gun A VENDOR of Newtown, Enmore, East Coast Demerara, who allegedly threatened a fellow patron at an entertainment establishment was arrested by police and allegedly found with an unlicensed .38 Taurus revolver and a shotgun.

Press Officer, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan

said the suspect was arrested in the wee hours of Monday morning and was subdued and handed over to police ranks by public-spirited citizens.

He said the man was found with the unlicensed gun with five live matching rounds and one spent shell.

Further, he said at 09:30hrs Monday morning

the suspect was escorted to his home where a search was conducted and an unlicensed twelve gauge single barrel Stephen Shotgun and six live cartridges were found concealed in a wardrobe. The suspect who has since admitted ownership of the latter weapon and ammunition only, is cooperating with investigators.

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‘I have nothing to hide’ GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

– Lawrence welcomes probe into $605M emergency drug purchase PUBLIC Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, is insisting that the purchase of some $605M worth of medical drugs for the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) was above board; that she has nothing to hide, and would welcome an investigation into the transaction.

“I have absolutely no problem with scrutiny,” Minister Lawrence told journalist Gordon Moseley, on a local radio programme on Monday. She said she has already invited the GPHC Board to investigate the matter as a follow up to ensuring that all correct procedures were observed. Minister Lawrence has nonetheless reminded Guyanese that she is responsible for their well-being and will make decisions to their benefit.

“I’m responsible for their health and I am responsible

for ensuring that all the medical facilities are operating at a level where they [citizens] can walk in and be served.”

Lawrence in defending the decision said it benefitted the institution in tackling drug shortages and ensuring quality stock within the system. The minister has described the purchase as an “emergency” after a prolonged period of drug shortages. Media reports show that between February 7 and March 6, 2017, there had been reports of drug shortages in Regions Two, Three, Six and Seven. Minister Lawrence, who recently assumed responsibility over the health sector, has however come in for criticisms for what is being described as “sole-sourcing” and a failure to utilise the Public Procurement system.

Minister Lawrence has

Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence remained firm however that the decision to push ahead with the $605million pharmaceutical purchase was done in the interest of citizens. During a morning interview on the radio show ‘Jump Start,’ Lawrence reminded citizens that the drug purchase was an, “…emergency to fill a gap that was created because of shortfall by (drug) suppliers in 2016.”

Region 5 residents urged to open own businesses RESIDENTS of Mahaica-Berbice (Five) have been encouraged to become job creators as opposed to dependents by pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.

This charge was made by Shazeena Seetayah, of the Ministry of Social Protection during a seminar on interview techniques last Friday.

The seminar was held at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Boardroom, Fort Wellington, West Coast Berbice (WCB) and targeted the unemployed in that region.

During the seminar, residents raised the issue of lack of jobs which has affected individuals of all age range in the region. In addressing this concern Seetayah, who was a facilitator at the seminar, committed on the Ministry’s behalf to assist individuals in finding jobs, while encouraging them to create their own jobs through entrepreneurial ventures.

She explained to the participants that the Central Recruitement and Manpower Agency (CRMA) of the Min-

istry, continues to work with persons until they are able to secure employment. The agency is a division of the Social Protection Ministry that registers applicants for employment, taking specific note of their occupational qualifications, experiences and desires, and interviews them for employment and evaluates, if necessary, their physical and vocational abilities.

Its objective is to place individuals seeking jobs in suitable employment while providing career guidance and counselling. Over the last two year, President David Granger has emphasized the need for individuals to venture into entrepreneurship and become job creators as opposed to depending on businesses to provide jobs for them.

Meanwhile, Valarie Moore, Chief Central Recruitment and Manpower Officer, said based on the feedback from employers, it is the interview process which is crucial and most

applicants are disqualified at that stage. She said that as a result, the department has implemented training sessions in the area of interview techniques as a part of their work programme for 2017.

The Ministry said in a statement that at the end of the seminar, participants were expected to be better able to prepare for and enter the work environment. They were encouraged to utilize and support the services of the CRMA. To help individuals achieve this, the sessions provided them with useful information and techniques on preparing a resume and the interview process.

Additionally, there was a practical session were participants were able to participate in mock interviews. Grateful for the opportunity to have been part of an exercise which they said benefitted them tremendously, participants extended words of acknowledgements to the Ministry.

The Health Minister went on to explain that the Auditor General’s 2015 report addressed in detail companies that failed to supply drugs that they were paid to deliver and this led to a national shortage, where, at one point, the GPHC was unable to provide more than 200 types of medication.

This situation on many occasions forced health authorities to make local drug purchases that were often high priced, the minister continued. It was noted too that some of the pharmacies selling the high priced drugs to the health sector were also owned and operated by the same persons who failed on their contractual agreements to provide the drugs.

Under the last government, there were numerous charges of unprincipled be-

haviour in the procurement of drugs. The New GPC, whose owner was said to be close to the then government, was accused of getting the lion’s share in drug contracts, while many small rackets were taking place within the system, allowing for drug shortages that caused price hikes.

“So if persons bought a lot of drugs and have it on the market to sell at high prices they won’t be happy that we are stocking up because they will be left with it and it could be many other things why we are hearing this hue and cry,” the Minister said.

Outside of this, Minister Lawrence noted that since taking over the public health portfolio she has noticed that in acquiring medication for the sector, apart from the factors that contribute to

drug shortages, poor quality drugs has been an issue. She said there were complaints of poor quality drugs being purchased and getting into the system. The Minister has thus welcomed any investigation into the fast-tracking of the drug purchase; confident that the process was necessary and above board.

Former Auditor General, Anand Goolsarran, has called on the Public Procurement Commission to launch an investigation into the drug purchase, while the Guyana Trade Union Congress (TUC) has called on the government to immediately investigate the minister’s actions. The Opposition People’s Progressive Party has also taken the opportunity to call out the minister saying the drug purchase was a “reckless use” of public funds.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

After my first chemo session WHAT is it that it smells so nasty?’ I thought as I sat up in bed. The smell of bacon being fried wafted through my window from a nearby cafe. The smell which I usually relished was alien to me that morning. My stomach felt empty and queasy at the same time. Nothingness was churning sickly in my stomach, I inhaled and exhaled deeply ‘Okay it’s not that bad’, as the deep breathing seemed to soothe my stomach. Two minutes later my sense of smell was assaulted by another familiar scent – Grandma’s perfume made its way through the great expanse of ceiling, wrapped around

the high wooden beams and slithered into my nostrils, resulting in my immediate removal from the soft, warm and cosy trappings of my bed to the cold hard bathroom tiles I kneeled on, as I clutched the toilet bowl, my stomach violently convulsed as I emptied its contents.

“How can my body still want to throw up, when there’s nothing left,” I remember thinking as my respiratory muscles forced my digestive tracts one way street into reverse. I continued to retch for about twenty minutes, whilst trying not to pass out from the cold sweat and increased heart rate. The

episode finally subsided and I returned to bed, I was exhausted. As I started to get as accustomed as I could to the nauseated feeling, a headache, the size of a freight train was speeding through the canal in my right ear, possibly trying to collide with the one coming from the other side. When they met, it was official- chemo symptoms are the hangover from hell.

Everyone at home dosed me up with ginger tea and mints for the nausea (this helped considerably), fruits, coconut water (I lived on this) handkerchiefs soaked in Shiling oil and Limacol of course, the Guyanese cure

for all ailments- broke your foot? Put some Limacol on it, lol. During this first week after my chemo, the feelings of nausea subsided slightly.

There was no relief from the hangover headache from hell. At its worse my eyes became super sensitive to light, I finally found utility in the sleeping masks I had accumulated over the years, but had never needed to use.

I used the mask for about three days, usually in the mornings and night it was at its peak. I wanted to eat but my stomach continued to be a choosy brat, always trying to return what I gave it. I soon found out that it’s easier to throw up coconut water, watermelons, grapes and apples than bananas. As the week progressed I felt tired, a weary sort of tired. I spent most of my time lying in bed not sleeping, I could never sleep during the day unless I was very sick and the very sick I was didn’t make day naps pleasurable.

The following are journal excerpts spanning the first

four days after my chemo on Wednesday: THURSDAY “Completed my first chemo round – took about three hours. It wasn’t unpleasant.

I didnt even tense up for the IV. I didn’t throw up until I smelt perfume this morning.

I keep bunning down Rome and drinking ginger tea because it helps with the nausea and watching gravity falls…”

SATURDAY “So far the best morning I’ve had since Wednesday.

Slight headache, not much nausea. I still have my appetite and taste in my mouth.

My joints hurt a little, just feel tired. So tired. I also want to go out of the house for a walk but the effort is too much. I am tired just thinking about it. But I will push myself..”

MONDAY “Best day since Saturday. Today was very ‘normal. The slight headace is still existing. Visited Sam

yesterday for a few hours.

Today Tiffany came and brought me chocolates.

It’s been a good day, read some interesting facts on RH Negative DNA (yea that conspiracy stuff). Rewatching The Matrix today.

I think I’ll start walking with mom on the seawall.

My writing is bad because of the joints feeling weird to write with…”

TUESDAY “Feeling very similar to ‘normal’ self. Supposed to go walking with mom later. I have so much chocolate I have to try not to eat it, lol. Yeap, definitely need to get out if I’m going to be writing about chocolate.” After all the mental kicking and screaming I survived my first week of side effects and was back to my usual ‘foodie’ self by the next, which was perfect timing as it marked the beginning of a new side effectthe one that would attack my vanity.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

‘Texila U’ mulls construction of specialty hospital at Providence – ready to commission new campus

By Alva Solomon THE Texila American University-Guyana is thinking seriously about constructing a specialty hospital at its Providence, East Bank Demerara complex.

The university has given as the rationale behind the decision, Guyana’s growing popularity as the destination of choice for medical studies.

Texila U’s President, Mr Saju Bhaskar, told reporters Monday during a tour of its Providence campus that the institution is currently under-

business and Information Communication Technology (ICT) programmes. These two areas of study, he said, will be offered for part-time studies aside from the medical programme.

Currently, the institution is preparing to commission its Providence campus, construction of which cost in the vicinity of US$10M. APPLICATIONS POURING IN And according to Bhaskar, the investment is already showing signs of paying off,

as applications have already begun to pour in from prospective candidates in such sister CARICOM countries as Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica.

During Monday’s tour, reporters were given a firsthand look at the facilities, and according to officials, the institution is just awaiting word from the authorities to officially commission the campus.

The campus is divided into two expansive blocks, the first of which comprises the registrar’s office, the finance

department and the student and examination affairs unit.

Executive offices, as well as classrooms are also located on that block.

On the second block, there are additional classrooms and laboratory facilities, among them those dedicated to the study of pathology, microbiology and bio-chemistry, all of which are fully equipped and cater for large-sized classrooms.

The institution also has in place a multimedia laboratory, which is equipped with 140 computer workstations for examination and assessment purposes, as well as a computerised e-library, where stu-

A Texila U medical staff explains the function of the various parts of the human body during the tour of the institution

dents have access to thousands of reference material Online.

VAST LIBRARY During the tour, the media was also given the opportunity to view the campus’ vast library, which has the capacity to not only house hundreds of books, but to also accommodate dozens of students wanting to use the facility to read.

According to the university, plans are also afoot to facilitate a student lounge and playground so as to add to the aesthetics of the campus.

The campus has a student capacity of 1500, and already there are 434 students on its roster, the majority of

The university’s biochemistry laboratory

taking a market study for the planned specialty hospital project.

He said that the body is examining the prospects of the project, with catered plans for the provision of medical services such as neurology, urology and cancer treatments.

“Maybe it will take another six months for us to really start off,” Bhaskar said of its hospital plans, adding that seeing that the campus is only occupying the front portion of the complex, there is adequate space available for that project.

Bhaskar said, too, that the institution is planning to include in its curriculum

Texila U students at the institution’s Providence campus on Monday

University officials prior to the tour on Monday. Seated from left are: Head of Operations, Dr Immanuel Prabalanathan; Vice-Chancellor, Dr Arulsammy Anand; Public Relations Consultant, Mr Kit Nascimento; President and Founder, Mr Saru Bhaskar; Vice-President of International Operations, Mr Ashok Kumar; and one other official, whose name we did not get

whom are locals. To date, there are quite a few foreign students from various countries enrolled in the medical programmes, including from India, Jamaica, Trinidad and Nigeria.

According to the university, Guyanese students are being offered partial scholarships to study at the university at 50% of the regular cost per year.

The university was established here in 2010, and offers medical programmes in such areas of study as the Doctor of Medicine (MD), Bachelor of Nursing (BSN/ RN-BSN), and Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm).

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

IOM forum to tackle TIP, migrant smuggling

AN International Organisation for Migration (IOM) forum which opens here today will tackle trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants.

The forum is being coordinated by the Regional Office in Brussels and the Coordination Office for the Caribbean in Guyana. The three-day “Peer-to-Peer Exchange Meeting” will focus on counter-trafficking in human beings and smuggling of migrants. The event will bring to the region 60 delegates of African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) States and of the European Union (EU) to debate effective means of

countering both phenomena at the local, regional and global levels, the IOM said in a release.

Running through to Thursday, the meeting brings together stakeholders involved in IOM’s “ACPEU Migration Action programme,” following up on the joint ACP-EU Dialogue on Migration and Development.

Among other stakeholders, the First Lady of Guyana, Mrs. Sandra Granger and the Minister of Social Protection, Mrs. Amna Ally,are expected to attend and give speeches.

Ambassadors of the European Union, the US and Canada

are also attending, as are high representatives of several UN Agencies such as IOM, UNODC, UNICEF and UN Women.

According to the IOM,the meeting will provide a space to exchange on challenges, lessons learned, and good practices identified to date in the implementation of the ACP-EU Migration programme and of the recommendations spelled out on the ACP-EU Dialogue documents. ”This is an excellent opportunity to learn from the experiences of experts from these three regions in preventing and responding to both Trafficking in Persons

and migrant smuggling, including protection of victims and migrants who have suffered human rights abuses,” stated IOM’s Rosilyne Borland, who will be facilitating the event.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS Trafficking and smuggling are both typified as crimes within the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime (UNTOC) and related protocols1. Both actions are highly profitable businesses involving human beings and criminal networks that are very hard to trace by the authorities, the IOM said.

The two topics, however, refer to two different criminal acts:Trafficking in Human Beings, being a crime against an individual and Smuggling of Migrants,which is a crime against the State. “It must be understood however that in spite of this difference, States usually have the same cadre of officials dealing with both issues”, says IOM’s Agueda Marin, Thematic Specialist in counter-trafficking in persons.

In September 2015, UN member states agreed on 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), out of which

three make specific reference to ending trafficking in human beings. The dialogue during the meeting will therefore include contributions by other UN agencies working in the fields of counter-trafficking and counter-smuggling of migrants, contributing to the drafting of concrete recommendations to the ACP-EU Dialogue to reach the targets set out in the SDGs. More specifically, representatives of UN Women, UNODC and UNICEF are expected to deliver speeches on eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls in public and private spheres (SDG 5.2), on ending abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence and torture against children (SDG 16.2) and on ending modern slavery and human trafficking (target 8.7).

THE ACP-EU MIGRATION ACTION IOM’s ACP-EU Migration Action, launched in June 2014, provides tailored technical support on migration to countries in all ACP regions.

To date it has received 58 technical assistance requests from 44 ACP governments and 5 regional organisa-

tions. A third of these requests directly concern either counter-trafficking or counter-smuggling activities, with all of them touching, in one way or another, the targets set up in the SDGs. The programme is financed by the 10th European Development Fund (EDF) and supported by the ACP Secretariat and the EU. In 2010, the ACP Group of States and the European Union agreed on a Joint Declaration on Migration and Development that was endorsed by the ACP-EU Council in June 2010. In this declaration, the parties committed to strengthening and deepening cooperation in the Governance of migration and coordination of dialogue built on strategies to address irregular migration, enable regular migration, and migration and development, including issues related to counter-trafficking in persons and counter-smuggling of migrants.

This week’s meeting builds on the work done by the programme in both areas.

Future peer-to-peer meetings will be held on other areas covered by the programme–namely: visas and readmission.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Aries There are plenty of things you wish you could express with your trademark frankness, but you are aware of how brutal honesty might harm your reputation. You must decide which is more important: getting along with coworkers and associates or allowing yourself to pop off at someone who deserves a piece of your mind.

Although it's frustrating to suppress your opinion today, your struggle can be alleviated somewhat by focusing on producing measurable progress as you work. Shout praise, whisper criticism.

Taurus While many people rush through their days at top speed, you're taking a tip from the tortoise and keeping it slow and steady. You wish you could say that your optimistic outlook is what enables you to maintain a sustainable pace, but it's really the opposite today. Uncertainty swirls in the periphery of your mind as you struggle to choose the best route for reaching your destination. Fortunately, getting your hands dirty instead of sitting around worrying is a great way to turn stress into success.

Gemini It seems like the more you try to let loose today, the harder it is to justify your frivolity. Unexpressed frustration finds its way into your conversations now, even if the person on the other end of your ranting has nothing to do with what's bothering you.

Rather than making an innocent bystander a sounding board for your problems, go directly to the source and seek the origins of your current discontent. Words won't soothe the soul now; you must consult the heart.

Cancer Talking about professional aspirations with a friend or partner may be uncomfortable if they start to scold you for your ambition. Although their intentions are likely well-intended, you might feel judged when the cold Capricorn Moon clashes with an overzealous Mercury-Venus duo in your 10th House of Career. However, you must be willing to proceed without validation from others now, even if it means drawing from your spiritual practice to feel at peace. The only approval that really matters is your own.

Leo Your vision for the future is so vibrant that you wonder how normal life hasn't caught up to it yet. No matter how diligently you work on making steps toward your highest potential, it could seem like you just can't make it happen as fast as you want. While imagining your desired outcome is an essential part of reaching your goals, the grit it takes to make progress is generated by tapping into your deepest power reserves.

Make a wish, then make it come true.

Virgo The clay is yours to shape, but translating abstract ideas into reality is a unique challenge today. You would almost rather edit what already exists than try to create something new from scratch. However, true satisfaction comes only from moulding your raw materials into a finished product, even though you face the risk of falling short of perfection. Ironically, what matters more to your personal development is the shaping process itself.

Libra Attractions swirl and insinuations abound, but something puts a bit of a drag on your aerodynamics. Flirty Venus and crafty Mercury in your 7th House of Relationships are down for a game of chance, but the guarded Capricorn Moon makes you wonder how safe it is to gamble with your heart. It's impossible to calculate the odds of life with numbers and figures. Instead, put your finger to the pulse of your deepest longings and sync your actions to the rhythm. No risk, no reward.

Scorpio Figuring out what to do would be less of a headache if you could just get your hands on some solid facts. But you're torn between frankly stating your case and trying to find a way to show someone what you mean with your actions. But sometimes neither logical analysis nor back-breaking effort can fully convey your position. Your energy is better spent viewing your situation in a different light than ferreting out the logistics. Albert Einstein reminds us, "No problem can be solved from the same level of consciousness that created it."

Sagittarius You're hard-pressed to care about anything but satisfying your immediate desires today; however, a nagging cognizance of potential consequences gives you pause.

Fulfilling your responsibilities can feel like slaving away while the rest of the world is having fun, but there is another layer to this cake that underlies your restlessness.

Your cravings may be a symptom of a lack of creative nutrients; look for a way to treat the root of the problem, not just band-aid the pain with more shenanigans.

Picasso said, "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."

Capricorn You think your message will finally get across if you just strip your words down to bare bones. Unfortunately, you may shoot yourself in the foot by stubbornly clinging to a cold communication style. You might be less forgiving of family members and close friends than you realize because you feel they know you so well already.

However, a magical Sun-Pluto connection beckons you to take a different approach to domestic disputes, looking beyond the ordinary and into the veiled reasons for your attitude. Dig deep for the answers buried in your heart.

Aquarius You want to take the solo route today and rely on your own moral compass to keep you grounded. But temptations to ignore reason are everywhere while there are four fiery planets cavorting in your 3rd House of Distractions. However, an earthy trine between the consistent Capricorn Moon and pragmatic Mars encourages you to keep it simple rather than expending your mental energy on things that may not pan out. Staying out of trouble allows you to stay on track.

Pisces You feel the weight of societal expectations today as if a hundred pairs of eyes are peering at you. Sometimes it seems like you have a responsibility to people you've never met and you experience a pang of anxiety now, wondering how to live up to it all. Use the questions that arise as prompts to listen for authentic answers. However, the best gift you can give to the world is being unequivocally yourself. Martin Luther King Jr. said, "Only in the darkness can you see the stars."

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Team Goliath register new strip record

By Stephan Sookram NOT even the rains could have quelled the enthusiasm of the crowd that turned up on Sunday for the seasonopening drag race meet of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) dubbed Reaction.

The early morning showers had very little bearing on the afternoon crowd that ended the day in fine style with team Mohamed’s Enterprise Goliath

resetting a new strip record of 7.5 seconds.

The only car registering that time, the blue GTR was left competition-less, decimating its brother, Nismo as well as several bikes with driver Josh Ramsey taking that trophy.

Meanwhile, a specially organised exhibition between the GT-R and eight-second winner Shawn Persaud had to be scrapped due to a false start on account of the starter.

Persaud, who drives a Toyota

Caldina won the eight-second class hands down as he easily overcame the challenges of the two Surinamese cars that were in his class.

The nine-, ten- and elevensecond class belonged to Suriname’s Vishal Ramcharran, who piloted his Toyota Mark X to three consecutive titles, including the final race of the day against his fellow Surinamese.

In the twelve-second class Raymond John took the trophy

Referee given life ban (REUTERS) - Ghanaian referee Joseph Lamptey has been banned for life for match manipulation in a World Cup qualifier, soccer’s governing body FIFA said yesterday.

FIFA said Lamptey was found guilty of unlawfully influencing a match result following South Africa’s 2-1 win over Senegal in November in African Group

D. FIFA did not give further details but African soccer’s governing body (CAF) said at the time that Lamptey had wrongly awarded a penalty to the South Africans and suspended him for three months.

CAF said that Lamptey was guilty of “poor performance” in the match and “awarded a wrong penalty for handball

Rampant GDF THE rampant Guyana Defence Force (GDF) made their intentions quite clear with a resounding 4-0 victory over upstarts Devcon Victoria Kings when the second half of the 2016-17 STAG Elite League (SEL) got underway at the Camp Ayanganna venue on Sunday.

Already league leaders in the first half of the prestigious tournament, and playing in front of their home fans, GDF sounded a warning to their opponents that they will also be a potent force in the second half of season two.

GDF registered their first goal 23 minutes into the game, which promised much but petered out into a one-sided affair, when Delroy Fraser blasted home past the East Coast Demerara-based goalie.

By the end of the first half, the writing was already on the wall, with the home team going into the break with a comfortable 3-0 lead. Skipper Kelvin Sullivan and Olvis Mitchell had added goals in the 38th and 41st minutes respectively.

Looking more purposeful on the resumption, Victoria Kings caused some anxious moments in their opponents’ camp but the more robust army players withstood the challenge admirably, thereby regaining the ascendancy.

Mitchell, who was enjoying a fine evening, banged in his second goal in the 60th minute much to the delight of the army supporters as GDF soared to 4-0.

Two quick bookings in the 83rd and 85th minutes saw GDF’s Jerome Richardson being booted out of the game but this was to no avail as his team prevailed.

The supporting game, featuring Linden’s Topp XX and Georgetown’s Fruta Conquerors, was deadlocked for 65 minutes without any goals until Eon Alleyne gave the latter a well-deserved

while Imran Khan and his Toyota took the 13-second class for a record third time.

Sunil Singh and Devindra Persaud won the 14- and 15-second classes as the day closed with one of the largest crowd-shows ever for a dragracing event.

In the bike class, Rajiv Lallbeharrie of Suriname took the top award.

The next event in the calendar is the first Race of Champions billed for April 2.

despite the fact that the ball never touched the hand of the player”.

Thulani Hlatshwayo converted the penalty in the 42nd minute and Thulani Serero added another goal three minutes later.

Lamptey previously served a six-month ban, imposed by CAF, for wrongly awarding a goal during a CAF Champions League semi-

final in 2010.

South Africa’s win left them level with Burkina Faso on four points from two games in the group with Senegal on three and Cape Verde on none.

FIFA did not say whether the result would stand or whether it would order a replay.

“Further information concerning the South Africa vs Senegal match in question will be provided once the decision becomes final and binding,” it said.

lead which seemed to have ignited his team.

The experienced former national forward Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams, who came on as a substitute in the 63rd minute, wasted no time in making it 2-0, 14 minutes later with one of his trademark shots to goal.

Not to be outdone, Reshawn Sandiford ensured it was 3-0 with a goal in the second minute of added time, as the Tucvillebased Conquerors also started the second half on a victorious note.

Action in the SEL sec-

ond half continues on Sunday, April 2, at the Buxton ground with what should be a sizzling double-header featuring the home team and Monedderlust FC, while Victoria Kings clash with the Fruta Conquerors in the feature game. Kick-off time for the first encounter is 16:00hrs.

In the meantime, the action switches to the Mackenzie Sports Club ground, Linden for the international friendly between hosts Guyana and Martinique, scheduled for Tuesday, March 28, starting at 20:00hrs.

South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:50 hrs American Tiger 09:25 hrs Silver Class 10:00 hrs Movie Show 10:30 hrs Secret Star 11:10 hrs Mr Rambo

10:10 hrs Brigadoon 10:40 hrs Muqarred 11:15 hrs Whosyourhousemate 11:50 hrs Fiery Spice 12:25 hrs Outer Space 13:00 hrs Dark Profit 13:35 hrs Bonnie Arlene

Irish Racing Tips Clonmel 09:55 hrs Jacobs Well 10:25 hrs Moroval 10:55 hrs Zipporah 11:30 hrs No Dice 12:05 hrs The Paparrazi Kid 12:40 hrs Dinnie’s Vinnie 13:15 hrs Mon El Dorado English Racing Tips Exeter 10:00 hrs Paddocks Lounge 10:30 hrs Alfie’s Choice 11:05 hrs Magical Thomas 12:15 hrs Kap Jazz 12:50 hrs Bacchanel 13:25 hrs Gunfleet Southwell

Wetherby 10:20 hrs Mr Snoozy 11:25 hrs The Grinder 12:00 hrs Clues And Arrows 12:35 hrs Broadway Belle 13;10 hrs Ask Paddy 13:40 hrs Fernan American Racing Tips Philadelphia Park Race 1 In the Script Race 2 Boilermaker Race 3 C J’s Awesome Race 4 Appealing Miss Race 5 Helloitsme Race 6 Percolator Race 7 Pioneer Spirit Race 8 I’m Not Joking Race 9 Renwick

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Handscomb, Marsh inspire Australia’s great escape

By Amlan Chakraborty

RANCHI, India (Reuters) - Resolute rearguard action

by Peter Handscomb and Shaun Marsh helped Australia escape with a remarkable draw against India on the final day of the third Test yesterday.

Having conceded a 152run first-innings lead, the tourists were reeling when skipper Steve Smith departed, leaving his team at 63-4 with more than two sessions to go and the hosts confident of a win.

But Handscomb and Marsh battled on through the entire second session to first erase the deficit and then ensure Australia were safe by the time they were separated.

Handscomb made 72 not out, his third Test fifty, to help Australia finish on 204 for six before the players shook hands.

Marsh made 53, the duo frustrating India for nearly four hours with a dour 124run stand to shatter the hosts’ chances of going 2-1 up in the four-Test series.

“I’m very proud. They

had magnificent plans; they backed their defence for a long time. To see the game out for as long as they did, it was an outstanding performance,” Smith told reporters.

“That’s one of the things we’ve been talking about being resilient and being able to stick out at tough times.

The way Peter and Shaun did that was absolutely magnificent.”

India, buoyant after making 603 in their first innings and with Ravindra Jadeja having taken a couple of late wickets the previous evening, came out hard at the Australians in the morning.

Overnight batsmen Smith and Matt Renshaw resumed with Australia on 23 for two and denied the hosts for about 21 overs before falling in quick succession.

Left-arm spinner Jadeja relentlessly attacked the rough outside Renshaw’s off-stump, while Ishant Sharma bowled to Smith with a seven-two offside field.

Pumped up after an alter-

bat, spun one past Smith’s advancing pad and uprooted the off-stump. Smith managed 21.

Australia coach Darren Lehmann had asked his team on Sunday to learn from the focus and application shown

by India’s Cheteshwar Pujara and Wriddhiman Saha whose 199-run partnership gave the hosts their commanding position.

Handscomb and Marsh certainly did, thwarting the Indian bowlers for 62 overs on a fifth day wicket at the Jharkhand State Cricket Asso-

ciation Stadium.

Jadeja eventually dismissed Marsh and Ashwin sent back Glenn Maxwell but Australia were safe by then.

“They batted really well,” India captain Virat Kohli said of Australia’s fifth-wicket partnership that denied his team a victory.

“They were four down at lunch, credit to them that they did not lose another wicket in the following session.”

The teams now move to Dharamsala for the final match from Saturday.

SCOREBOARD

AUSTRALIA 1st innings 451 (S. Smith 178 n.o, G. Maxwell 104; R. Jadeja 5-124)

Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb run between the wickets in their 124-run stand.

INDIA 1st innings 603 for 9 decl. (C. Pujara 202, W. Saha 117, M. Vijay 82, L. Rahul 67, R. Jadeja 54 n.o.; P. Cummins 4-106)

cation with Renshaw, Sharma earned the breakthrough for India when he trapped the opener leg-before for 15 with a fuller delivery.

AUSTRALIA 2nd innings (o/n 23-2) D. Warner b Jadeja 14 M. Renshaw lbw b I. Sharma 15

A bigger blow awaited Australia in the next over when Jadeja, who claimed nine wickets in the match to go with an unbeaten fifty with the

N. Lyon b Jadeja 2 S. Smith b Jadeja 21 S. Marsh c Vijay b Jadeja 53 P. Handscomb not out 72 G. Maxwell c Vijay b R. Ashwin 2 M. Wade not out 9 Extras: (b-9, lb-4, nb-3) 16 Total: (for 6 wickets, 100 overs) 204 Fall of wickets: 1-17, 2-23, 3-59, 4-63, 5-187, 6-190.

Bowling: R. Ashwin 30-1071-1, R. Jadeja 44-18-544, U. Yadav 15-2-36-0, I. Sharma 11-0-30-1 (nb-3).

Victoria to host South Australia in Shield final VICTORIA will play South Australia in the Sheffield Shield final for the second consecutive summer after New South Wales fell seven runs short of victory in a tense finish to the last regular match of the competition in Perth.

Chasing 403 to win and gain a place in the decider, the Blues were denied when Peter

Nevill reverse-swept and was caught off Ashton Turner for 63.

The six-run win was a fine way for Western Australia to farewell their retiring captain Adam Voges, although South Australia’s victory over Tasmania earlier in the day had ended any hopes the Warriors had of jumping from fifth on the table into the final.

Instead, Western Australia had to settle for third on the table, with Victoria to host South Australia in the final in Alice Springs.

The final morning began with New South Wales in a vulnerable position at 1 for 6, needing a further 396 in a day to secure a place in the final.

But a 161-run second-wicket stand between Ed Cowan and

Daniel Hughes was the perfect platform.

Cowan fell for 80 when he was bowled by Cameron Green, but he finished on top of the Shield’s run tally for the regular portion of this season with 959 at 73.76.

Hughes brought up his first century of the Shield season but was caught by Voges off Turner for 110, although

further contributions were to come from the New South Wales middle order. Kurtis Patterson made 39 and captain Moises Henriques posted 66, but both men fell to the offspin of Turner and left Nevill marshalling the lower order for the remainder of the chase.

The final partnership began when No.11 Harry Conway

joined Nevill with 24 runs still required, although time was also a factor with the number of overs in the day starting to dwindle. Nevill and Conway put on 17, but the drama ended when Nevill reverse-swept on 63 and was caught off the bowling of Turner, who finished with a career-best 6 for 111.

The Shield final will be played from Sunday.`

Rivals are closer, warn Mercedes F1 boss (REUTERS) - Formula One’s new rules are “just what the doctor ordered”, even if rival teams have become more competitive, according to Mercedes motorsport head Toto Wolff.

The Austrian said in a preview for Sunday’s Australian season-opener in Melbourne that Mercedes, the dominant team of the past three years, face a big challenge.

“We have been very successful over the last three years through stable rules -- but no team has ever maintained its success over such a big regulation change before,” said Wolff.

“In a way, it’s just what the doctor ordered. To have such a challenge is good for the team.

“We have done the best job we possibly could over the winter and, if we are not the fastest in Melbourne, then it’s about finding out why and what needs to be done to get us back to that top spot.”

Ferrari emerged from pre-season testing with the quickest times, although the Mercedes pairing of triple champion Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas did the most laps with impressive reliability.

Bottas, previously with

Mercedes executive director Toto Wolff

Williams, has replaced 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg, who retired days after winning his first title.

Hamilton, winner of 53 grands prix over his career to date, starts the season as favourite for a fourth championship and to win the opening race.

Bookmakers William Hill have the Briton at 10/11 for Melbourne, with Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel second favourite at 7/2 and Bottas at 6/1.

“We believe that it is going to be another Mercedes procession but the Australian Grand Prix is often unpredictable,” said William Hill

spokesman Rupert Adams.

Wolff said testing in Barcelona had indicated “that the margins at the front of the field have shrunk,” although there was no way of knowing for sure.

Teams use testing to experiment with fuel loads and power unit settings.

Mercedes have won 51 of 59 grands prix since the 1.6 litre V6 turbo hybrid units were introduced. The team also started all but one of last season’s races on pole position.

Ferrari and Red Bull are the only teams to have beaten Mercedes since 2013.

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

GCA/Carib Beer T20 tournament …

DCC, GCC, Police play unbeaten PLAY in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/ Carib Beer T20 tournament commenced last weekend with several matches over the two days. At the end of two rounds DCC, GCC and Police remained unbeaten.

Summarised scores for the games are as follow: On Saturday: Hosts Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) defeated Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) by 31 runs. Hosts Police Sports Club edged Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) by six runs. Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) whipped University of Guyana (UG) by 142 runs and Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) won by seven wickets against visitors Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

MSC registered 155-4 in 20 overs. Kandasammy Surujnarine top-scored with 50 from 34 balls. Darshan Persaud and Prakash Chowtie had two wickets each for GYO, who finished on 124-9 in 20 overs in their reply. Irfaan Alli 33 and Kishan Singh 26 were the best contributors with the bat. Steven Jacobs grabbed 2-28.

Police made 181-6 from 20 overs. Mark Rhobe 39 and Sherwin McPherson 20 contributed with the bat. Jermine Grovesnor and Ryan Shun

took two wickets apiece for GNIC. GNIC, in reply, reached 175-6. Ryan scored Shun 80 and Ovid Richardson 50.

Raun Johnson claimed 3 for 15 from four overs and Jason Heyliger 3 for 9 from two overs were the best bowlers for the lawmen.

DCC, batting first, made 255-6 in 20 overs against UG. Christopher Barnwell hit 60, while Sherfane Rutherford 48, Brian Sattaur 40, Kemol Savoury 37 and Paul Wintz 30, all contributed to the huge total. Linden Austin 2-36 and pacer Ray Newton 2-57 led

GDF were bowled out for 93 in 19.4 overs, with Leon Andrews making 22. Robin Bacchus claimed 3-23 and Anthony Adams 2-9. GCC in reply reached 94-3 in 19 overs. Martin Pestano-Belle scored 31 and Renaldo Ali Mohamed 25 not out.

On Sunday: DCC defeat-

Kandasammy Surujnarine

Christopher Barnwell

Tevin Imlach

the bowling.

UG then reached 1139. Darnell Douglas scored 31. Cohen Ismond had 4-25, while Steven Sankar and Trevon Garraway supported with two wickets each.

ed GNIC) by eight wickets.

GCC got past MSC by seven wickets, Police whipped TSC by nine wickets and Everest Cricket Club beat GYO by eight wickets.

GNIC posed 149-7 from 20 overs, with Ryan Shun hitting 52. In reply, Tevin Imlach hit an unbeaten 87 to see his team home comfortably.

MSC, batting first, made 128-7 in 20 overs, with Marcus Watkins hitting 46 from 36 balls, while Ncosie Barker

and Steven Jacobs scored 21 not out and 15 respectively.

In reply, GCC reached 129-3 in 17 overs, as Renaldo Ali-Mohamed blasted 55, with five fours and three sixes.

TSC, batting first, were bowled out for 74 in 14.5 overs. Steven Harris impressed with 4-9, while Raun Johnson and Ricardo Adams snared two wickets each. Police raced to 78-1 in 7.5 overs, with Alex Algoo hitting an unbeaten 51.

GYO were bowled out for 91, with only Chris Deonarine (31) surpassing 20.

Chandrapaul Hemraj got three wickets. In reply, the hosts successfully reached 92 for the loss og two wickets.

The tournament continues this weekend.

GCB Schools Cricket

South Georgetown Combined clinch one-run thriller SOUTH Georgetown Combined clinched a dramatic one-run victory over East Georgetown Combined in the Guyana Cricket Board/National Secondary Schools Cricket League match, last Saturday, at the Enmore Community Centre ground.

Batting first, South Georgetown posed a challenging total of 182, with Stephon Wilson smashing his way to 74, with six fours, while Tuen Hicks contributed 42.

Devon Allen claimed 3-22, while Wayne Bollers had 2-48 bowling for East Georgetown. In reply, Nkosi Beaton smashed an en-

tertaining 74, inclusive of six fours and a six, while Osafa Greene and Ameer Singh contributed 23 and 21 respectively, but their effort was not enough, as South Georgetown managed to hold their nerves to pull off a onerun thriller.

Bowling for South Georgetown, Jamal Michael grabbed 3-33, Shadrach Bacon 2-42 and Mohamed Jameer 2-17.

North Georgetown Combined will now do battle with the Rest of Georgetown- South and East Georgetown Combined tomorrow at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground.

Joseph, Louis bowl Hurricanes to crucial win KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) — Test seamer Alzarri Joseph combined with Jeremiah Louis to destroy Jamaica Scorpions’ second innings and propel Leeward Islands Hurricanes to a much-needed 34-run victory, in an extraordinary, low-scoring seventh round game here Sunday.

Chasing 149 to win at Sabina Park on the third day of the day/night contest, the hosts collapsed to 114 all out, with the 20-year-old Joseph picking up five for 43 - his fourth five-wicket haul in only his 15th first class game.

Fellow pacer Louis, 21, finished with four for 23 to add to his four from the first innings, and end with match figures of eight for 27 which were good enough to earn him Manof-the-Match honours.

Test batsman Jermaine

Blackwood resisted with a top score of 47, an innings lasting 90 deliveries and a shade under 2-1/4 hours, and including four fours and a six.

But the right-hander found little support and his 37-run, eighth-wicket stand with Jerome Taylor (19) was the best of the innings.

E a r l i e r, H u r r i c a n e s

Alzarri Joseph

fought their way to 133 - the highest innings total of the game - after resuming on a precarious 31 for five.

Their fightback was due to a wicketkeeper Jahmar Hamilton’s invaluable 45 and Louis’s 23. When Hurricanes slumped further to 63 for seven, the pair combined in a 63-run, eighth-wicket partnership - the best of the game - to rally the innings.

Hamilton faced 98 deliveries in 143 minutes and struck five fours, before he was eighth out.

Pacers Rovman Powell (2-12) and Jerome Taylor 2-21, along with leg-spinner Damion Jacobs (2-28) and left-arm spinner Nikita Miller (2-43) claimed two wickets each.

A whopping 25 wickets fell on Saturday’s second day after the first day was abandoned due to persistent rain.

SCOREBOARD

HURRICANES 1st innings 71 SCORPIONS 1st innings 56

HURRICANES 2nd innings (o/n 31 for five) M. Hodge c wkp. Walton b Powell 15 K. Powell run-out 2 J. Otto lbw b Taylor 5 K. Carty lbw b Taylor 2 N. Bonner c wkp. Walton b Powell 0 J. Hamilton lbw b Jacobs 45 J. Campbell c Thomas b Miller 18 R. Cornwall lbw b Mindley 5 J. Louis stp. Walton b Jacobs23 G. Tonge b Miller 0 A. Joseph not out 6 Extras: (lb-10, nb-2) 12 Total: (all out, 50 overs) 133 Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-13, 3-26, 4-26, 5-26, 6-56, 7-63, 8-126, 9-127.

Bowling: Taylor 12-5-212, Mindley 9-1-19-1 (nb-2), Powell 7-3-12-2, Miller 13-

1-43-2, Jacobs 9-1-28-2.

SCORPIONS 2nd innings (target: 149) C. Walton c Cornwall b Tonge 8 S. Thomas lbw b Joseph 6 J. Blackwood c wkp. Otto b Joseph 47 A. McCarthy b Joseph 0 B. King lbw b Louis 17 D. Thomas c Campbell b Louis 0 R. Powell b Louis 1 D Jacobs b Louis 1 J. Taylor c Carty b Joseph 19 M. Mindley c wkp. Otto b Joseph 1 N. Miller not out 8 Extras: (b-2, w-1, nb-3) 6 Total: (all out, 37.5 overs) 114 Fall of wickets: 1-15, 2-15, 3-15, 4-42, 5-44, 6-50, 7-67, 8-104, 9-105.

Bowling: Tonge 8-1-29-1 (nb-1), Joseph 15.5-1-435 (nb-2), Louis 9-2-23-4 (w-1), Cornwall 5-1-17-0.

Points: Hurricanes 19, Scorpions 5.6.

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Tiger, a hit with fans at New York book-signing

By Larry Fine

NEW YORK, USA (Reuters) - Tiger Woods has been largely absent from the golf circuit for nearly two years due to nagging back problems but the 14-time major champion can still draw a crowd.

Some 250 fans and autograph hounds lined up outside a Manhattan bookstore yesterday. Some had camped overnight, to attend a book-signing by Woods for ‘The 1997 Masters: My Story’, about his first major title.

A Barnes and Noble spokesman said they had enough interest to accommodate a thousand people, but had to limit the crowd based on Woods’ avail-

ability.

Dressed casually in a long sleeve grey striped shirt, the golfer, who has played just three competitive rounds over the past 19 months, received enthusiastic applause as he made his way to the stage and flashed a big smile at his reception.

Attendees were allowed a maximum of two signed books, without personalisation, and Woods exchanged pleasantries as he signed on the title page.

“He was really nice.

Just a normal guy,” said Claudia as she was escorted to the exit escalator by the attentive security detail.

“I was very surprised.

Nice signature and pretty pleasant,” said a man who

Golfer Tiger Woods poses with a copy of his new book, ‘The 1997 Masters: My Story’ at a book-signing event at a Barnes & Noble store in New York City, New York, USA, Monday. (REUTERS/Mike

made a seven-hour drive from Pittsburgh to attend.

“I’m absolutely a Tiger fan. He’s going right up next to my Michael Jordan.”

Another man said he attended as “a memorabilia thing. I met (Jack) Nicklaus and (Arnold) Palmer and had to get him to have the three.”

A middle-aged New Yorker said he offered Woods some advice.

“He was very nice. I suffer back pains and I expressed that he should maybe get acupuncture and he said that he does try it and enjoys it.”

A grey-haired fan got a handshake. “Now I can go to heaven,” said Kenny.

Team Coco’s John edges Hicks to win GCF’s 70-miler TEAM Coco’s Jamal John edged Team United’s Andrew Hicks across the finish line to win the Guyana Cycling Federation’s (GCF) 70-mile points race last Sunday.

John’s time for the event attracted a mere 18 starters outside the Ocean View International Hotel, East Coast Demerara.

The cyclists proceeded to Mahaicony before turning back to finish at the same location. John’s time was two hours 37 minutes 10 seconds.

This was John’s second win in as many starts

Team Coco’s Jamal John edges Team United’s Andrew Hicks across the finish line to win the GCF’s 70-mile points race on Sunday. Hicks’ teammate Raphael Leung placed third.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

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)Clive Lloyd-74 Tests (2)Brian Lara-125 ODIs Today’s Quiz: (1)How many players have captained the WI in

Tests to date?

(2) How many players have captained the WI in

ODIs to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

for the GCF’s 2017 season. His first was last month when he won a 75-miler in three hours 20 minutes 23 seconds. That event started on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown, proceeded to Loo Creek on the Soesdyke/ Linden Highway before turning back to finish at the place of origin.

With the two victories to his name, John heads the points table with 30 points.

Hicks earned 12 points for finishing second on Sunday and his teammate Raphael Leung placed third for 10 points.

According to the GCF, the points accumulated will play a major role in the selection of local cyclists to represent Guyana at Regional and International levels when the time arises for such selection process.

Veteran cyclist Junior Niles continued his fine form but had to settle for fourth place in the 70-mile race.

The other top six places were occupied by Briton John, Leer Nunes, Dwayne Gibbs Jr, Jason Cameron, Eric Sankar and Everal Mundy respectively.

Petra Futsal football resumes tonight with six matches TUCVILLE and North East La Penitence will open the proceedings when the Petra Organisation’s Fustal football tournament resumes tonight at the National Gymnasium

on Mandela Avenue.

That game is carded for 19:30hrs with Sophia and Albouystown playing game two at 20:15hrs. In game three at 21:00hrs

Tiger Bay and Back Circle will be in action while game four will be between Bent Street and Broad Road Ballers.

Sparta Boss and

Agricola Ballers clash in the evening’s penultimate match with West Front Road and West Back Road squaring off in the final game of the evening at 23:15hrs.

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Noel, Winter join Seaton as CARIFTA swimming qualifiers

By Tamica Garnett SWIMMERS Raekwon Noel and Lian Winter have joined Goodwill Swim Meet gold medallist Leon Seaton as the final swimmers to make qualifying times (QT) for events, in the upcoming CARIFTA Swimming Championships, after the qualifying period concluded last Sunday with the Mashramani Swim Meet held at the National Aquatic Centre in Liliendaal.

Seaton had already begun qualifying for the April 14-19 CARIFTA event when trials started in February. However Noel and Winter were added to the list after clinching times in last weekend’s meet. Seaton added another four races to his list to bring the total to six events, while Winter qualified in two and Noel in one.

All three are in the 1112 age category, Seaton and Noel are on the Boys’ side, while Winter is on the

distaff end. When the trials began Noel and Winter were singled out as swimmers to watch after they continued to come near the qualifying times in several events.

Noel and Winter were elated to find out that they were able to qualify after they kept coming close to the standard in several events, but always came up short.

“I feel very excited, and I’m very happy to be going to represent Guyana at CARIFTA in Bahamas. I was very surprised because I thought I did a very slow time,” commented Noel, who got past the CARIFTA QT in the 400m freestyle after he clocked 5:10.69s for second place behind Seaton. QT for the event was at 5:11.3s.

Noel also went on take down his seed times in all eight of his events, despite finishing second place.

Winter also saw improvements.

Winter had got a sea-

CARIFTA Swimming Championship qualifiers, from left: Leon Seaton, Lian Winter and Raekwon Noel at the pool last Sunday.

son-opening 34.86 seconds in the 50m butterfly at the first long-course time-trial event in January. She managed to lower that to 32.28 seconds enabling her to make the 32.57 seconds qualifying time in that event.

The Dorado Speed Swim club member also finished inside the qualifying time of the 200m butterfly after clocking 2:58.97s to win the event, while the QT was set at 3:05.0s, registering new seed times in both events.

The Bishops’ High second former also had a drastic drop of her time in the 100m butterfly event. The 12-yearold was swimming 1:21.08 seconds back in January but was down to 1:14.91s last weekend, getting past her 1:18.98s personal best to win the event.

Winter also won the 200m IM (2:54.18s), 200m backstroke (2:55.84s) in personal-best performances, while closing in on her seed times in the 50m

(35.88s) and 100m backstrokes (1:19.95s).

Meanwhile Seaton added the 50m breaststroke (38.24s), 50m backstroke (33.99s) and 100m freestyle (1:01.99s) and 400m freestyle (4:59.38s) races to his qualifying list of events. The 50m freestyle was the first event that Seaton qualified in after he clocked 27.97 seconds back in January. He continued in fine form last weekend with 27.32 seconds to win the race.

He also first qualified in the 50m butterfly last month when he swam 31.15 seconds, with an improved 30.12 seconds last weekend.

Also swimming impressive times was 10-year-old Aleka Persaud. The Goodwill Swim Meet gold medallist had a remarkable 32.57 seconds in the 50m butterfly, equalling the QT. However, she will not be on the team, because she is too young to participate. Persaud currently participates in the 9-10 category.

Fourteen teams qualify for Milo football round of 16 FOURTEEN teams have moved on to the round of 16 in the Milo Schools U-18 football tournament with the final two spots to be decided in the coming days.

Among those who are already into the next round are School of the Nations who registered an 8-0 thrashing

of Central High in the latest match last Sunday.

Andy Parks’ 7th, 56th and​ 69th-minute strikes, coupled with Peter Perez’ 37th and 55th and single strikes from Quadel DeFreitas (5th), Darren Thomas (9th) and Jibril Abdullah (57th), ensured that the side went through to the

next round.

The other team to qualify from Group G were Dolphin who won 3-2 against North Georgetown thanks to Beres Parkinson’s double (9th and 36th) and Leandre Gilbert (3rd).

North Georgetown had Brandon Solomon (27th) and

Rayon Bailey (47th) on target.

Queen’s College also broke through to the next round from Group H, having won their match on Sunday against Mae’s 3-1. Kevin Willis (12th), Jonathan Connelly (58th), and Michael Hunter (66th) were on target to cancel Isaiah Stephens’ 27th minute

strike.

Tutorial beat St George’s 2-0 to get into the next round with Travis Hercules scoring in the 44th and 68th minutes The other teams through are Masters Academy and Bishops’ High (Group A) in that order while Lodge and East Ruimveldt went through

in Group C as well as Morgan’s Learning Centre and Pure Masters in Group D. Group E had Sir Leon Lessons and Carmel moving on with Queenstown and South Ruimveldt qualifying from Group F; Group B has two more matches to determine who will go through.

No shortage of cricketing talent Jaguars cruise to easy win in Guyana, says Drepaul

By Rajiv Bisnauth

THERE’S no shortage of cricketing talent within Guyana’s junior ranks, according to chairman of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) junior selectors, Nazimul Drepaul.

Drepaul made the comment on Sunday in an exclusive interview following the conclusion of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Inter-County Under-15 one-day tournament.

“Talent’s not our problem in Guyana. We’ve got plenty of talented young cricketers as you can see during the Under-15 tournament,” Drepaul said.

He added “While there were a number of players we see have that raw talent, I feel that Marvan Prashad, Shoaib Shaw and Sheldon Charles are extremely

Marvan Prashad

talented cricketers, and they have a far way to go.”

And while there’s plenty of talk about a ‘war on talent’, Drepaul believes the tournament has provided the opportunities to develop and keep the country’s most talented young cricketers

engaged with the sport.

Meanwhile, a 20-man squad was selected for further training ahead of the Inter-County Under-17 tournament as well as the regional youth tournament.

“What the GCB has done over the years is to include the national Under-15 squad into the Inter-County Under-17 tournament in order for continuous preparation. This has definitely helped us in terms of domination at the regional level.

“But apart from that I feel the squad this year will do Guyana proud … in fact, I am optimistic that Guyana will win the title,” Drepaul concluded.

The Under-15s have reached a high level, winning the tournament in Jamaica 2014 and Guyana 2015, while ending as

Sheldon Charles

runners-up last year.

The Under-15 tournament – in its 22nd year – will be contested under a round-robin format, featuring five rounds of matches with the team accumulating the most points being declared champions.

The tournament will run from July 24 to August 3 in Barbados.

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) - Two-time defending champions Guyana Jaguars needed less than 45 minutes to brush aside Trinidad and Tobago Red Force by 10 wickets, and extend their lead at the top of the Regional four-day championship.

Resuming yesterday’s final day of the seventh round contest on three without loss and needing only a further 53 runs to win, Jaguars cruised to their target, with aggressive

left-hander Shimron Hetmyer slamming 44 not out off 40 balls with seven fours and a six. Rajindra Chandrika ended on 10 not out.

For Jaguars, it was their second straight win following the restart of the tournament, and their fourth overall.

In contrast, the loss was a major setback for Red Force who had revived their campaign in the last round with a comprehensive victory over Leeward Islands Hurricanes.

SCOREBOARD RED FORCE 1st innings 202 JAGUARS 1st innings

330

RED FORCE 2nd innings 183 JAGUARS2nd innings(target: 56 runs) (o/n three without loss)

S. Hetmyer not out 44 R. Chandrika not out 10 Extras:(w-2) 2 Total:(without loss, 12.4 overs) 56 Bowling: Richards 5-1-18-0 (w-2), Phillip 3-2-19-0, Charles 3-0-9-0, Pierre 1.4-0-10-0.

Noel, Winter join Seaton as CARIFTA swimming qualifiers 27 P.

Team Goliath register new strip record at drag race meet … Suriname’s Ramcharran cops Champion driver title

See Page 23 Bike action was also a crowd-puller during Sundays meet.

Team Mohamed’s Enterprise Nizmo gets the jump on Goliath during one of the races on Sunday

Rampant GDF storm past Victoria Kings 4-0 … Conquerors tame Topp XX

Referee given life ban for match-fixing World Cup qualifier See Page 23

See Page 23 Fruta Conquerors goalscorers, from right - Reshawn Sandiford, Eon Alleyne and Anthony Abrams

GDF marksmen, from right - Kelvin Sullivan, Olvis Mitchell and Delroy Fraser

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

Ghanaian referee Joseph Lamptey TUESDAY, MARCH, 21 , 2017