Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 22 11 2016

Nothing to hide

‒ Patterson defends spendings on Durban Park Project P.5 No. 104743

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2016

Price: $80

Stop politicising crime (VAT Inclusive)

‒ Barbados’ Attorney General warns region’s politicians

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Barbados’ Attorney General and Minister of Home Affairs Adriel Brathwaite speaks during the opening ceremony of the 17th Meeting of the Council for National Security and Law Enforcement (CONSLE) on Monday. Also in the photo are CARICOM Secretary General Ambassador Irwin La Rocque, Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan and other regional officials (Samuel Maughn photo)

Norton sent West Ruimveldt Cop hospitalised after crashing to Privileges man gunned into cow 2 down 8 Committee 9 P.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Cop hospitalised after crashing into cow A POLICE Corporal is battling for his life at the Intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital after sustaining serious injuries from a vehicular accident.

This newspaper understands that Corporal 21415, Satesh Narine was driving along the Southern carriageway when his car collided with a heifer and its calf along the Suzanna Public Road, Corentyne at around 02:00h on Monday.

Corporal Narine is the Subordinate Officer-in-charge of Albion Police Station.

Reports indicate that the animals were lying

Corporal Satesh Narine

on the darkened roadway when the accident occurred.

As a result of the impact, the vehicle was tossed into the nearby waterway. Upon hearing the impact, residents rushed to the scene and removed the semi-conscious policeman from the car. They rushed him to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was admitted and subsequently transferred to the GPHC. Berbice Traffic Chief, Superintendent Budnarine Persaud revealed that the rank suffered from fractures to both hands, shoulders and his lower extremities.

Meanwhile, police are yet to arrest the owner of the branded animals.

Awards ceremony for scholarship awardees of St. Stanislaus College THE Saint Stanislaus College Alumni Association is continuing its effort to upkeep and maintain the academic excellence of their Alma Mater, by offering scholarships.

This year the college is observing its 150th anniversary and in its quest to boost the teaching compliment, the Toronto and Guyana Chapters of the Old Students’ Association awarded two scholarships each, to the University of Guyana, to four former students.

After graduation, these

scholarship awardees will return to the college to teach in specific fields. In addition to tuition, the scholarships include book and travel allowances, along with a free laptop computer each, donated by the Toronto Alumni.

On Wednesday November 16, 2016, a signing ceremony was held in the Marion Forum for the students and their parents. In attendance were Mr. Kashir Khan, President of the Local Alumni Association, as well as Mr. Chris Fernandes, Chairman of the St. Stanislaus Board

of Governors, along with members of the association, school administration, students, the awardees and their parents. At the ceremony the laptops were handed over by Fernandes on behalf of the Toronto Alumni.

The recipients of these scholarships are Arrianna Mahase, Jemuel Parasram, Rosemarie Shiwbaran and Semaka Felix. These students have been outstanding in academics and co-curricular activities and were recommended by the school’s adTurn to page 3 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Stop politicising crime ‒ Barbados’ Attorney General warns region’s politicians

By Ariana Gordon CARICOM Ministers of Security attending the 17th Meeting of the Council for National Security and Law Enforcement (CONSLE), a one-day engagement held at the CARICOM Headquarters at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, were on Monday urged to desist from politicising crime in the region.

The Honourable Adriel Brathwaite, Attorney General and Minister of Home Affairs of Barbados, expressing deep concern about the state of crime in the region -- and more particularly violent crime –- charged that the upsurge in criminal activities within CARICOM was being “made into a political issue.”

“It is not a political issue!” he said, adding: “We have made this, in some cases, into a political issue. It is an issue that is fundamental to the way of life of all of our people, and none of us can deal with this alone; not one party, not one Government,” he said, as he urged fellow Security Ministers to find solutions to the ever-increasing problem.

Transparency International Guyana Incorporated had also recently called on local politicians to desist from

politicising the crime situation in Guyana.

Brathwaite stressed that the issue of gangs, and the increase of firearms in a region that does not produce same, must be addressed frontally.

“We are seeing in most of our territories, not only an increased amount of violent crime, but an increased usage of firearms from a myriad of sources. What I am being told (is that) more powerful weapons are being used in our territories. It is not a problem for Guyana, Trinidad or Barbados, it is a collective problem; we are all seeing this, and we need to address this,” the top Barbadian official admonished.

And he asked, “Why are we, as a region, seeing an increase in the number of firearms? Firearms are flowing through a region which does not produce guns of any kind! Is this linked to the free movement of people? What are the causes?”

He is of the opinion that, whatever the causes, the region MUST utilise its best available resources to tackle crime. He called on stakeholders to utilise both individual and regional entities, while making reference to the Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT Jus-

tice) Project, which is funded by the Government of Canada under an agreement with the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI).

The project provides assistance to CARICOM in drafting legislation to enhance regional integration and economic growth; provides more legislative protection of vulnerable groups against discrimination; and trains mediators and sensitises ordinary persons about their rights under the law.

FINANCIALLY CHALLENGED The Barbados Attorney General has said that, notwithstanding the assistance provided through IMPACT, regional security entities remain financially challenged.

“Yet, for some reason, we seem unable or unwilling to provide the resources necessary to address crime and security in the region,” he lamented.

Contending that there would be no sustainable industry in the region if crime remains out of control, Minister Brathwaite posited that a united approach in tackling crime must pervade the region.

“There is no use Barbados

being stable and St Vincent having challenges. There is no use Guyana being stable and Jamaica having challenges, because the international community will look at that,” he cautioned.

Guyana’s Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, told participants of the meeting that citizens’ perception of security and law enforcement in the region must be addressed with urgency. He stressed the urgency with which the region needs to change the perception that “the security and law enforcement sector is populated purely for predatory purposes”.

Ramjattan recommended implementation of programmes to create champions on the ground as an approach to tackling the current mindset of the region’s citizens.

“We have to lead our people out of that negative habit which teaches that crime and corruption are our culture…

They are bad choices that must never be condoned, and for which citizens must speak out against.”

Minister Ramjattan called on the CONSLE to construct projects of hope and trust, in order to secure freedom from violence and fear.

CARICOM Secretary

Awards ceremony for scholarship...

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ministration.

Mahase wishes to pursue a career of teaching, specialising in the field of Computer Science; Parasram wants to pursue a career in the field of Business Management; Shiwbaran was the best graduating CAPE (Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Ex-

pledged that the alumni associations would continue to support the college in its effort to provide quality education to its students.

In 2009, Ms. Kezia Bess was awarded a scholarship by the Alumni and has since returned to teach at the college.

amination) student for 2015 and will now be immersed in a teaching career in the field of Business Management; while Felix, as the Deputy Head Prefect of the College, was involved in the planning committees of activities of the college that included Graduation and Prize Giving

exercises and Teachers Day Celebrations. She wishes to pursue a career of teaching, specialising in the field of English with a minor in French.

In brief remarks Mr. Khan congratulated the students and expressed best wishes for success. He also

Attorney-General and Minister of Home Affairs of Barbados, Adriel Brathwaite

General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, who also addressed the forum, alluded to the threats which challenged the region’s peace and security.

“In many of our member states, the Community’s work in the area of crime and security has become more urgent,” he said as he called on the region’s security policymakers

to deepen their resolve and to remain committed to the task of further strengthening the regional security architecture through individual and collective action.

Chaired by Minister Brathwaite, the meeting sought to engage the region’s security ministers on issues relative to cybercrime and cyber security; member states’ citizenship by investment programmes (CIPS); CARICOM’s relationship with third states; and financing the regional security agenda, among other critical security issues.

It is also focused on the approval of the CARICOM Cyber Security and Cyber Crime Action Plan (CCSCAP), which provides a framework through which all initiatives of cyber security and cybercrime in the region would be managed, developed and implemented.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Nothing worth having is without adversity - Attorney-General tells MHS ‘Class of 2016’

By Vanessa Braithwaite MINISTER of Legal Affairs, Mr Basil Williams put it best when he said recently that nothing worthwhile having is without its ups and downs.

“Everyone wants to achieve greatness, but few want to endure adversity,” he said. “Many shrink in the face of difficulty and throw in the towel... Adversity is needed in order to propel us to greatness,” he told graduands of Mackenzie High School at their recent ‘Speech Night’ exercise.

As guest speaker, Williams, who is also the country’s Attorney-General, was accorded a rousing welcome, and, not wanting

to disappoint, he reciprocated by leaving his audience a thought-provoking message.

He began by congratulating the school for hanging in there, inspite of the odds, for 70 long years, and producing some of the greatest minds this country has ever seen.

“This is a great school; it has produced great people and will produce even greater persons,” Williams said, but in order for this to happen, students and teachers alike must overcome the inevitable, which, in his books, is adversity.

He, therefore, congratulated those students and teachers who would have done so and still excelled, given that Linden is a town that would

have had its fair share of adversity over the years.

EMBRACE ADVERSITY Using his own experiences to drive home the point, Williams said:

“I embrace the adversity; I embrace the stress.

So, if they think that they are attacking me, I embrace the challenge and I conquer... I had to fight many battles and many struggles, and if I had given up, I would not have been here as a practicing lawyer.”

He, however, cautioned that overcoming adversity is easier said than done; but that with help and goal-oriented work, it can be achieved.

As such, he tasked those present in a position to do so to help the school rise again to its former glory, and the student body to be confident and self assured; to study hard so that they will be the future leaders of the country above all else.

One way of doing so, he advised, is by taking advantage of the many scholarships available at both local and international tertiary institutions.

SUCCESSFUL YEAR Head Mistress Acting, Mrs. Carlotta Nurse reported that Mackenzie High School has been successful at both academics and sports this past year. The overall pass rate was

84% at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, and an analysis of the results has shown that MHS has done very well for itself, despite the many challenges it has come up against.

A total of 25 students received Grade Ones in mathematics, while the overall pass rate stands at above 70%.

English A raked in a total of 39 Grade Ones, with an overall pass rate of 90%.

The school also raked in an impressive 100% passes in Agricultural Science, Building Technology, Clothing and Textile, EDPM, and Food and Nutrition.

Over 90% of the students who wrote the exams in 2016 passed economics and English A, while 80% passed biology, Caribbean History and geography.

The school has also copped eight of the Region’s top 10 spots, with the top business student gaining seven Grade Ones. The Caribbean Advance Proficiency Examination (CAPE) also saw noticeable success, with 100% overall passes in several subjects. These include Agricultural Science, Caribbean Studies, chemistry, Communication Studies, Environmental Science, geography, Law Unit 1, Management of Business, mathematics Units 1 and 2, physics, and Sociology Units 1 and 2.

OVERALL PERFORMANCE The top CSEC student for 2016 was Asher Marks from the business stream, while Ornissa Gordon was honoured as the top CAPE performer. They were both honoured as not only the top performers for the school but for the entire Region 10.

Given this exceptional performance, MHS was honoured with the 2016 Most Improved School award.

The school also retained this year’s Inter-Secondary track and field championship record, and won the National Basketball Championship for 2016.

Several teachers were honoured for producing excellent results at both the CSEC and CAPE level.

Mr. Kevin Bonnette received the award for Best CSEC Teacher, while Mr. Douglas Gittens received the award for the Best CAPE Teacher.

Business teacher, Miss Shamaine Gravesande copped the Teacher of the Year Award.

Since its establishment to now, Mackenzie High has evolved in many ways.

It now has 764 students with 52 teachers; it has also widened its curriculum of between seven and eight subjects and is now offering between 15 to 23 subjects at the CSEC level.

Minister Basil Williams presenting a gift to top CAPE performer Ornissa Gordon

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Nothing to hide - Patterson defends spendings on Durban Park Project

AMIDST heated debates in the National Assembly on Monday, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson informed the House that the Durban Park Development Project was initially managed and executed by Homestretch Development Inc., a private company; but that “L. London, B. Ram, J. Miller and B. Wilson” were also involved in the project.

He said the Ministry of the Presidency made a decision to assign the multi-million-dollar project to the Public Infrastructure Ministry in April 2016.

Making this disclosure in response to a motion brought before the House by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament Bishop Juan Edghill, the Public Infrastructure Min-

ister, who initially was not slated to debate the motion, told the House that he did not have all the requisite documents with him, and was responding based on the information available to him at the time. He said that, in the name of transparency and accountability, he was attempting to answer some of the questions posed in the resolve clause of the motion.

He told the House that because the project was being executed and managedv by a private company during its initial stage, none of the contributions received was placed into the Consolidated Fund.

“No contribution was paid over to the Consolidated Fund,” he posited.

Some of the contractors involved in the project were Barnes Construction, Car

Care, C&L Construction, TBL Home Design, Party Development, and RW Electrical; while the crusher-run was provided by companies such as Toolsie Persaud Limited and BK International, and asphalt was provided by the Demerara Harbour Bridge at a cost of $59.3M. “Sir, there is nothing to hide in the books of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure,” Minister Patterson told the House.

From all indications, Bishop Edghill, who had tabled the motion in the House, was dissatisfied with Minister Patterson’s response, which he described as inadequate.

The PPP Parliamentarian said the motion sought to have a number of questions answered in the name of transparency and account-

ability, but many of the APNU+AFC Members of Parliament, including the Public Infrastructure Minister, had failed to respond to

Public Infrastructure

Minister David Patterson

key aspects of the motion, seeking rather to address the relevance of Durban Park and the important role it had played in hosting Guyana’s

50th Independence anniversary celebration.

“Throughout this debate, sir, we have listened and experienced a level of stubbornness that came from the Government benches as it relates to the issue of transparency, accountability and good governance,” Bishop Edghill told the House during the late-night debate.

Shortly after taking over the project from the private company in April 2016, the Public Infrastructure Minister had said that consultations were held in the lead-up to the project. He maintained this position on Monday.

It was noted, too, that the project has several phases.

Minister Patterson had said that some $150M had, in the first instance, been allocated for completion of Phase 1 of

the project; and that $400m were subsequently allocated to fully complete the project.

“It must be noted that the Ministry’s responsibility over Durban Park will not reduce or detract its funds for other scheduled projects. In a sub-head under “Agency 322 Public Works: Chart of Account 1214900 Infrastructural Development”, the sum of G$150M has been provided from the Contingencies Fund to assist in this project. The G$72.889M voted under this sub-head by Parliament will not affect the approved scheduled projects,” Minister Patterson had noted.

After much back-andforward in the debate of the motion, it was taken to a vote, and the Government used its majority in the House to vote it down.

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

WHEN Minister Simona Broomes was appointed Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection with responsibility for Labour, the vitality she brought to her job -- though rumoured as unsettling to some employers -- was welcomed by workers, some employers, and the wider society.

In a society where mediocrity, disregard for rules, and mistreatment of workers were condoned or seen as acceptable, it should have come as no surprise that the proverbial ‘new broom’, sweeping as clean as she was doing, would have made some persons uncomfortable and would have threatened the old order.

Within the minister’s six-month stint, the Labour Department had earned a reputation of getting things done.

This was evident with the settling of outstanding grievances; interfacing with workers and management at the workplace; and workshops coordinated by the department to aid better understanding of the roles, rights and responsibilities of management, worker and Government.

The addressing of hundreds of complaints brought by workers to the ministry, and payment made to them by recalcitrant employers to the tune of over a hundred million dollars, are recorded achievements of her leadership.

When the minister was transferred to the Ministry of Natural Resources, the view was held that it was sudden, and had the fingerprint of those in the private sector who prefer the old order and had the ear of members in the Executive.

President David Granger assured the public that this transfer was designed to have Broomes give specific attention to labour matters in the mining and forestry sectors, which have their unique challenges. There are issues such as trafficking in persons (TIP), child labour, and workplace violations -- including threat to occupational health and safety and non-payment of workers -- tackling of which would no doubt require understanding of the sectors, dexterity to navigate the issues, and ability to get things done. None truthfully could have questioned Broomes’s ability in this regard, given her performance at Social Protection and activism as a miner. Arguably, this is her terrain.

Major issues affecting the labour climate in the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI), Bhai San Lin (BSL), Barama Company Limited (BCL), and Demerara Timbers Limited (DTL) have recently been in the news. In the case of BCGI, it deals with the seven-year dispute with management and the workers’ union, the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Is there some trickery here?

Dear Editor, I REFER to the article “Appalling state of Skeldon, failing industry….

Jagdeo, Ramotar trying to confuse the nation with trickery” carried in the November 17th edition of KN, in which the GuySuCo Chairman named the company that conducted the audit at Skeldon.

Editor, I feel compelled to make a few points so that the Guyanese public can decide where trickery is coming from: Wartsila is well known globally for its expertise in power generation, mainly with engines. This company is not known for expertise in sugar mill designs and sugar production. From the photographs and descriptions provided, Wartsila’s audit focused on power generation at Skeldon. It therefore boggles

the mind how the Chairman, using findings of an audit from a power company as a basis, concluded that the whole factory is falling apart. GuySuCo is deliberately withholding a fact: that Wartsila currently manages the operations of engines at Skeldon. Therefore, the only plausible conclusion is that Wartsila may have an interest in the steam power plant (boilers and turbines) but do not want to pay the real price; hence an audit to argue for reduced value for assets.

It’s a case wherein a person intends to buy a car and an inept seller depends on the buyer to assess that car for a value. Is there some trickery here?

I spoke about the need for a robust maintenance programme in my previous letter, and I maintain that if proper maintenance is not done, any machinery

will deteriorate, and do so quickly. Can the Chairman provide this nation with the maintenance programmes for Skeldon for the periods May - August 2015; December 2015 - February 2016 and May - August 2016? This will explain whether or not Skeldon was under-maintained during the three maintenance periods under his watch.

The photographs provided are for cooling water pumps. This looks like the raw water (canal water) pump station, which will be in poor condition if pump glands leak. The photos show this. Is there some trickery here?

In the article, Mr. Vieira was quoted as saying: “When we took over Skeldon, it was only producing 20,000 (tonnes) of sugar”. This is just a plain lie. At the end of the first crop for 2015, Skel-

don produced 8,220 tonnes of sugar, and was poised for a good 2nd crop, with canes in the ground; which Mr. Vieira and the Chairman inherited.

At end of 2015, Skeldon made 39,158 tonnes of sugar, and the Chairman boasted about it. This is 19,158 tonnes more than what Mr. Vieira stated. Is there some trickery here?

The year 2016 is coming to a close, and GuySuCo’s production is just about 150,000 tonnes of sugar.

The company is on track to hit the lowest production since 1990. The Chairman and team may be searching for reasons to explain this abysmal management performance, and Skeldon seems to be an ideal scapegoat. Is there some trickery here?

Yours sincerely, FREDRICK YUVRAJ

McDonald’s “Confronting Power” was thought-provoking Dear Editor,

I HAVE neither the power nor the authority to claim to know what was the mental process at work when Ian McDonald penned his recent piece, “Confronting Power”.

But as someone who has laboured in the political vineyard for years, and having met with thousands of people during that period, I have discerned the message Ian is urging his readers to take note of. He has left room in his article for the reader to bring out something from his own life.

Many, including myself, would have experienced a frisson of recognition in

reading McDonald’s masterful interpretation of the depravity of human morality, manifestations of cowardice, and man’s predisposition towards philistinism as well as the vengeful side of human nature.

This fine irony which runs throughout “Confronting Power” evokes a sense of gladness, but at the same time sadness. This particular ouvre de plume clearly warns us of coming events that are now casting their shadows over our country. A slow but malignant process is currently unfolding before our very eyes, but only the discernable eye can spot it.

McDonald has seen it, and has chosen to write,

Union, which has seen utmost disrespect being shown by management to the Government of Guyana and for our laws, in that they refused to attend a meeting called by the Ministry of Social Protection, where they were to meet the union.

Barama would downsize its workforce, which has to do in some part with the non-renewal of its contract. This will see hundreds of workers being unemployed.

The DTL management has fired workers who went on strike, protesting what they considered poor working conditions, and this move goes contrary to the labour laws of Guyana.

The BSL contract has been revoked; and this, according to the Government, has been the result of BSL’s failure to honour the conditions stipulated in the agreement.

Local workers will be affected.

The abovementioned four scenarios, outside of the pressing everyday work-related issues in the sectors, suggest that the minister’s hand would be filled. Yet, in the presence of such a volatile climate, Minister Broomes, who has earned a reputation for tackling difficult and

warning us about it; and, by the way, it is no fantastical fiction.

Though we are all Guyanese and our fates may be divergent, we are at the same time engulfed in a sea of individualism, selfishness and narcissism. Vengeful politics seems to be the flavour of the day. Martin Carter referred to this as “all are involved, all are consumed”.

McDonald has succeeded in laying bare human frailties: the foibles of man and, above all, the disturbing disintegration of the human personality, all of which are applicable in the present-day Guyana context. There is the irresistible urge to commit evil acts, transgress Consti-

tutional rights; and, worse yet, the predisposition to accommodate and absolve ourselves of wrong-doings, as if they are standards by which we must live and survive.

The gloomy political landscape is populated with escalating signs of authoritarianism, and the efforts to establish a police state are fraught with horrendous consequences that await the nation. The only way out is struggle: to stand up and be counted. It is better to stand for something than to stand for nothing. Too much is at stake.

Yours truly, CLEMENT ROHEE

unpleasant situations, is not seen or heard.

It is not the intent of this editorial to question the motive or decision that would, in the first instance, inform the minister’s transfer to another ministry. President Granger’s statement in regard to the reason why Minister Broomes was transferred suffices, and it is reasonable to assume that these sectors would not be left unattended. The noted public absence of the minister and her renowned hands-on management style since assumption of duty in the Ministry of Natural Resources are bound to give rise to concern and speculation.

Where concern is felt that the minister is being sidelined, and speculation is held that her activism and knowledge of the mining sector and issues such as TIP and child labour threaten her seniors or ruffle the feathers of the old order, these ought to be noted and addressed. In the meantime, it would serve the society well if Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman should put these views to rest and have his ministry give a head-on tackle to what is evidently an untenable environment in the mining and forestry sectors.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Trust dilemma of the City Council Dear Editor,

THE Public Relations Officer of the City Council has written to the press about consultations done to determine the priorities for the Georgetown municipality, and about pervasive criticisms being levelled “every time the Georgetown Municipality seeks to employ a new revenue-earning venture” (Kaieteur News, November 19, 2016).

Indeed, we have read numerous articles and letters criticising the operations of the City Council, and especially its methodology, which appears to be rooted in the principles of disregard, disrespect and bullying. Some of the issues have been highlighted by councillors who had the good sense to make citizens aware of the state of transparency and accountability in the City.

Although the people have a part to play, the state of affairs should be placed at the feet of the Council.

Engagement of the citizens on setting the priorities for the City is a step in the right direction, and I applaud the City in earnest, rather than facetiousness. Consultation should be pursued fervently, as it provides empowerment and self-determination, which should be hallmarks of local government.

Nevertheless, the City should elaborate on the thor-

oughness of the engagement.

The PRO’s letter does not indicate whether determination of the approaches to garnering the requisite financial inputs was addressed with the people. This is important, since it should be recognised that agreement on the priorities does not imply approval of the methodologies, if these were not specifically discussed.

The Council, furthermore, should consider the broken trust, for which it needs to make amends. An excerpt from a column article

by Transparency Institute Guyana Incorporated (TIGI), which was published in Stabroek News of May 4, 2016 with the title “Institutional Trust and Citizen Engagement in Guyana”, indicates that: “The public tends to have greater trust in institutions when the authorities are not expected to abuse their powers to intentionally cause harm, or serve narrow interests without consideration of the harm done. In return, the citizens tend to defer more to decisions made by officials, and to voluntarily comply with rules (Khodyakov, 2007).”

The City Council has, in my view, not yet earned the confidence of the people, and it should not be surprised that it is not necessarily trusted or allowed to determine just measures

for generating revenue. Once trust is broken, the road to redemption can be long and perilous. In the current scenario, wherein the top echelons of the City Council so recently appeared to be strangers to the concepts of democracy, transparency and accountability, it is perhaps unrealistic to expect rapid change in the attitudes of the people -- especially when some city officials remain obstinate and unrepentant, and when some of the issues remain unresolved.

The City should continue on the path of citizen engagement. To build trust and to inform everyone, the City should provide accurate and complete information on its operations in a timely manner, and it should become more responsive and accountable to the people.

Tipping a low-trust or a distrust equilibrium requires sustained effort and genuine commitment to democratic principles.

The PRO and the Council are faced with an uphill task in this regard, and it is important to consider that impatience can be counterproductive. I wish to take this opportunity to commend the upstanding councillors who have, and continue to, put the citizens first.

After a while it becomes routine, and that is when the problem occurs. Too much pressure and victimisation have dire consequences.

I am asking that school guidance counsellors be placed in schools to help tackle these issues, which often lead our teens to drop out of school, turn to a life of drugs, or in some cases commit suicide. I also am requesting that parents speak to their children and become more involved in their lives.

Show them a little extra love, find out about their day, and what happens in school.

Parents should also make regular visits to schools, speak to their children’s peers to determine the children’s behaviour; and if their child is the aggressor, then parents should seek help for

the child.

Too many of our youths are committing suicide, and we need to start acting.

To my fellow youths: I ask you to think twice before you even consider taking your life. Think about the possibilities of living and about your future opportunities, and then seek help. Speak to your older siblings, parents, or even a random stranger; it helps.

Also, do not be ashamed to seek counselling; it may save your life.

Finally, I am asking our youths to show respect rather than hate; it helps, and goes a long way. God bless you all.

Yours faithfully, TROY THOMAS, PhD

Youths not receiving proper support Dear Editor, THE purpose of this letter is to highlight the growing issue of suicide among our youths, especially our teenagers. I am disappointed and unhappy about the struggles our youths have to endure without proper support from those who should be supporting us.

The issues of sexual abuse and bullying are two of the major contributing factors to teen suicide. It is very unnerving that, although this problem is recognized, little is being done to address it. As a student, I am exposed to first-hand bullying and, to some extent, abuse within our school system by our peers. However, there is little being done to help us deal with the issue.

ROMELL KING Student: Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary

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West Ruimveldt man gunned down

By Navendra Seoraj THE bullet-riddled body of 31-year-old Paul Rodney of West Ruimveldt was found early Monday morning in Avocado Street, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown following an alleged confrontation with unidentified individuals.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle, a relative of Rodney disclosed that ranks of the Guyana Police Force alerted the family that Rodney was found dead.

According to the relative, who prefers to remain anonymous, Rodney who takes care of his ill father, left on Sunday evening for a party in the compound of the East Ruimveldt Secondary School but never returned

Dead: Paul Rodney

home.

Relatives were informed that he was involved in an alleged altercation with some unidentified individuals, who attacked and shot him sever-

al times about the body.

The relative described the scenario as being rather strange, given that Rodney was not the type who would party frequently, since he spends most of his time taking care of his sickly father.

Meanwhile, during a visit to Avocado Street, East Ruimveldt where the incident took place, residents disclosed that after hearing several gunshots, they rushed out and met Rodney covered in blood, pleading for help.

Subsequently, the police were alerted and the man was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

No one has been arrested thus far and police investigations are ongoing.

The spot where Rodney’s bullet-riddled body was found at Avocado Street, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown

Soldier remanded on ganja charge A GUYANA Defence Force private was remanded to prison on Monday after pleading not guilty to possession of 496 grams of cannabis sativa at Fort Wellington public road.

Lennox Williams, aged 22 years, attached to the Agriculture Corps, Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara and also of Lot 44 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam appeared at the Blairmont

Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Rhondel Weaver.

He is expected to return to Fort Wellington court on December 1.

According to Police Corporal Racquel Mars, the prosecutor, on November 17 last ranks from the Traffic department of the Fort Wellington Police Station were on mobile patrol when one of the officers received a tip-off and stopped motor car HC

7077, which was driving east along the Bath Settlement Public Road.

At the time the motor car had five occupants, including the defendant who is alleged to have had a bag between his legs behind the front seat.

The bag was opened in the presence of all the occupants of the car and a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems, suspected to be marijuana, were found.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Suspected sheep thief died from shock, haemorrhage EX-COP and suspected sheep thief, Romel Hoppie died as a result of shock and haemorrhage due to gunshot injuries sustained during a shootout with police at Mount Sinai last Tuesday.

The cause of death was revealed following a post-mortem examination conducted by Government pathologist, Dr Vivikanand Brijmohan at the

New Amsterdam Hospital Mortuary.

Hoppie was identified by his mother whose identification card revealed her name to be Monica Hoppie and not Monica Marks as she had told investigators.

Further, the name of the deceased has been certified as Romel Hoppie and not Rondel Marks called Romel Hoppie as was previously stated by his mother.

Guyana Chronicle was informed that after fingerprints of the deceased were obtained, it matched that of Hoppie of Dartmouth Village, Essequibo Coast, who was implicated in several robberies.

Meanwhile, the body of Hoppie has been handed over to relatives for burial on Wednesday at Le Repentir Cemetery in Georgetown.

Organisation re-launched to help deportees

By Alva Solomon A NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation has been re-launched to assist persons who have been deported from foreign jurisdictions under an ambitious five-year plan.

At the same time, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Georgetown sees the change in US administration, headed by Donald Trump as a spot of bother, as it anticipates an increased number of deportees in the years ahead.

On Monday morning, the Juncata Juvant Friendly Society was re-launched at the National Library, Georgetown, with a re-shaped focus, which entails partnering with the private sector and Government in assisting persons who have been deported back to these shores.

The organization, which uses the preferred term of ‘involuntary remigrant’ as opposed to “deportees”, has in the past worked to remove the stigma attached to these persons via educating the society on the real issues facing them. However, as a result of several setbacks, including a lack of resources, the body slid into a dormant state.

Speaking to a packed room of mainly male audience on Monday, Vice-President of the body, Ruth Howard noted that the organisation has positioned itself to deliver a wider range of initiatives to ensure holistic development, support, reintegration and assistance to involuntary remigrant.

“Our five-year plan consists of best practices within its framework,” she added.

Howard said the plan entails empowering deported persons through a range of services and these will be achieved through a range of programmes, including the provision of employment for

Juncata Juvant Friendly Society Executive member Patrick Triumph speaking at the re-launch of the organisation on Monday

deported persons, skills training, liaising with partners and working with organisations to assist deported persons.

She said there may be many persons with skills which may be marketable and these persons may be able to contribute to the social economic status of the country. In addition, she said that on arrival, the migrants will be provided with appropriate social services in accordance with their needs. These will be available countrywide, she said.

The body will work towards the establishment of agricultural development projects with aim of providing further employment to deported persons.

The Juncata Juvant Society plans to establish a shelter facility, either independently or through collaboration with the private sector or Government.

Meanwhile, IOM’s Chief of Mission sand the Regional Coordinator for the Caribbean, Robert Natiello, in brief remarks told the gathering that returning migrants possess many skills which can be

utilised once they are reintegrated into the society.

According to Natiello, there are opportunities which exist for those persons to utilise after returning home.

He noted, however, that there exists a concern, following the US elections earlier in November.

“The situation in the United States, the President-elect and incoming administration is cause for some concern for us in that there may be, or may see an increased number of deportees,” he said.

To this end, he called on the re-migrant population and the Juncata Juvant body, as well as public and private sector organisations to work together. “I think now we need to work together to prepare for these type of eventualities,” he said in the event of mass deportations.

The forum was well-attended on Monday, and after a late start, persons began trickling into the venue as some told of their experiences restarting life after being brought to Guyana after spending decades in the United States.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Build local capacity to manage oil industry ‒ Ugandans urge Guyana

By Alva Solomon VISITING Ugandan petroleum officials have suggested that Guyana train persons quickly to function in the oil and gas sector, contending that human resource capacity is critical to the development of the sector.

Dozith Abeinomugisha, acting Assistant Commissioner, Directorate of Petroleum, Republic of Uganda and Alex Nyombi, Senior Petroleum Geophysicist from the Ministry of Energy in the African country are in Guyana to liaise with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) on the development of this country’s petroleum regulatory framework regarding the development of the sector.

Uganda has been paired with Guyana through the New Petroleum Producers Discussion Group, a non-profit, non-governmental organisation based in London.

That body’s mission is to analyse and promote the understanding of major international issues and current affairs. It is working along with the Natural Resources Ministry as Guyana prepares for oil which is expected in the year 2020.

Abeinomugisha, who attended a two-day oil and gas seminar here last week, which was organised by the New Petroleum Group through Chatham House , told members of the media on Monday that Uganda has a good framework which the country developed after it discovered hydrocarbons in 2006.

“When we made discovery our thinking was that we need first to establish ourselves,” he said, noting that since then, the country has been working on the institutional framework to develop the sector. These included the creation of a national policy, laws and governance regulations which were completed this year.

Dozith Abeinomugisha, acting Assistant Commissioner, Directorate of Petroleum and Alex Nyombi, Senior Petroleum Geophysicist from the Ministry of Energy, both from the Republic of Uganda, interact with Ministry of Natural Resources Legal Officer Joanna Homer on Monday

He said Uganda has not started production, a decision he said that is equal to Guyana’s position in the development of the sector.

“We are glad that this partnership has worked,” he said, noting that the country, even though it is ahead, is learning from Guyana’s strides in the sector thus far.

The legal framework needs to be consolidated, he said.

He noted too that the difference between the two

countries is that Uganda’s hydrocarbons are located onshore, while Guyana’s is offshore. He suggested that Guyana ensure that its legal framework is detailed and is compiled after rigorous processes.

“You will need as (a) country as quick as possible, (to) get your young men and women and train them in this sector,” he said, noting that it is critical to taking the sector forward.

Ministry of Natural Re-

sources Legal Officer, Joanna Homer said the Ministry is working to present its compilation of laws to the populace very soon.

At the opening of an oil and gas workshop last week at the Cara Lodge in Quamina Street, Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman explained the legal papers are being compiled with draft regulations slated for completion next month.

He told stakeholders that the new petroleum group made

Guyana “A beneficiary of a unique and open exchange” forum with Uganda.

He said that the latter was chosen as a suitable mentor, having recently completed preparations for oil and gas extraction, which is expected to commence next year.

Uganda has enacted laws and cautiously scrutinised production-sharing agreements to ensure the country receives the best possible deals.

Norton sent to Privileges Committee

By Svetlana Marshall PUBLIC Health Minister Dr. George Norton has been sent to the Privileges Committee of the National Assembly for misleading that august assembly on the multi-year contract the Public Health Ministry had signed with the Linden Holding Company for rental of the Sussex Street Bond in Georgetown.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland, made the ruling on Monday after a motion was brought against the Public Health Minister by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament Dr. Frank Anthony. In making the ruling, the Speaker told the House that the motion is in order, a prima facie case has been made out against the minister, and the matter would therefore be referred to the Privileges Committee for attention.

During examination of Supplementary Financial Paper No. 1 on August 8, 2016, Minister Norton admitted that the Government had entered into a multi-year rental agreement with a new company – Linden Holdings Company – in regard to storage of pharmaceutical and medical supplies. However, the Public Health Minister had misinformed and misled

the National Assembly – acts to which he has admitted and for which he would have since apologized -- but the PPP had made it clear that his actions were unacceptable and he would be held responsible for them.

In bringing the motion before the House, Dr. Anthony recalled that Minister Norton had repeatedly misinformed the House, and by extension the nation, when he told Parliamentarians on both sides of the House that the bond was acquired as a matter of urgency, and the procurement process was accordingly not adhered to in respect to the selection of Linden Holdings Company.

Dr. Anthony recalled that Dr. Norton had also told the House that the newly-rented storage facility was certified in keeping with international standards set out by the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO); that he had visited the facility on several occasions, and that pharmaceuticals and medical supplies were already being stored there.

The PPP Member of Parliament also alluded to the Public Health Minister saying that the cost to rent the space was cheaper than what the Health Ministry was paying the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Company. However,

“the minister was unable to enlighten the House as to the nature of the emergency which required another pharmaceutical bond, and one in particular to be based in Georgetown when there is adequate space at the Diamond Government-owned bond as well as (at) the Georgetown Public Hospital.”

He reminded that the Public Health Minister had not only admitted that there was no public tending, but had said that he had visited the facility on numerous occasions and had found it suitable for storing pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. Further, he had declared that the bond was already being used for storage purposes.

NOT SO “This was found to not be so,” Dr. Anthony told the House, pointing out that “published photographic evidence illustrated, on August 8th and days after, that this was an empty residential building of less than 6000 square feet, which was devoid of any facilities required for a fully equipped and certified pharmaceutical bond, as claimed by the minister,” Dr. Anthony elaborated.

He noted that the House was informed that $25M had already been paid in rental and security deposit for the period July to August 2016,

Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton

as provided for in the Supplementary Financial Paper No. 1 of 2016; although, on August 8, the building was empty and was not in a position to store any medicine or other medical supplies, as was claimed.

“The Minister of Health when questioned, misinformed the House with regard to the cost of the rental of bond space at the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (NGPC) at $19M per month; when, in fact, under the PPP/C Government, the bond was provided free of cost; and according to the Supplementary Financial Paper No 1 of 2016, the cost of the rent for NGPC Bond for the months of March (to) June 2016 was $9.6M per month,”

the PPP Member of Parliament stated.

He added: “The minister, in doing so, deliberately attempted to justify the cost of the rental for the Sussex Street property, owned by the Linden Holdings Company, at Gy$12.5M per month; and in doing so, misinformed the House.”

Dr. Anthony maintained that contents of the three-year contract with Linden Holdings Company had contradicted statements made by Minister Norton.

Days after misleading the National Assembly, Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton issued an apology to President David Granger, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Members of Parliament, and the nation as a whole.

“In the circumstances, I wish to express my sincere and profound regrets,” Dr. Norton had said.

Amidst heckling from the Opposition, the Minister of Health had said, “I take fully the responsibility for this unfortunate episode,” as he committed to non-recurrence of the provision of inaccurate information.

Minister Norton had, on August 8, told the House that a contract was signed with Linden Holdings Incorporated, owned by one Larry Singh, to rent the storage bond on

Sussex Street in the City for $12.5M a month. He had said that the first month’s rent was handed over along with an additional $13 million, which the minister said was for a security deposit. The terms of the contract stated that the agreement may be terminated with due cause by either party 12 months ahead, once notice is provided in writing.

But the Ministry of Public Health had agreed to pay to the owner of the bond the sum of thirty-seven million, five hundred thousand dollars ($37,500,000) , representing two months’ rent in advance together with the equivalent of one month’s rent as a security deposit, which would be refunded at the end of the tenancy minus deductions made

by Linden Holdings for all or any damages occasioned by the Ministry of Public Health.

According to the contract, the Ministry of Public Health is also responsible for maintaining the aesthetics of the premises; paying the monthly utilities on the premises, which include the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), and the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT); and making its own arrangements for security of the facility.

The contract has since been placed under review for further determination.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Local playwright puts the spotlight on Surama

By Crystal Stoll GUYANESE-born playwright and author, Dr. Michael Gilkes recently wrapped up a two- week shoot here of the proposed short film, “Maira and the Jaguar People”.

The shoot was held in Surama, a predominantly Macushi village in the North Rupununi, where the story is set.

The production team included famed Cuban visual artist and director of photography, Omar Estrada and his crew, who flew in to capture the film on location.

During the shoot, the residents of Surama reportedly benefitted directly from the production of the film, since

practical wisdom behind the traditions and beliefs of their community and way of life.

In the film, the rainforest will be featured as more than just a beautiful backdrop.

The music of the trees, waterfalls, rivers and birdsong all come together to play an important part in the story.

Also, the musical language of the Macushi with subtitles will be featured in the film.

Michael Gilkes (fourth left) with the technical and production crew of ‘Maira and the Jaguar People’

they were actively involved in the technical and casting aspects of the production.

The construction of a replica of Surama, as it looked back in the 1950s,

which was used as part of the set, was spearheaded by the village’s toshao, Mr Glen-

don Allicock, and completed with the help of members of his immediate family and other members of the community. Word is that the structures will remain in the care of the community for use in the future.

STORYLINE The objective of the movie, which is about young Maira and her twin brother, Mairun, is to promote the restoration and preservation of the Makushi way of life.

The story talks of Maira, who loves birdsongs and her twin, Mairun, who dreams of becoming a hunter. As a result of a terrifying encounter with a jaguar called “Karamapichu”, the two discovered for themselves the

ABOUT GILKES Michael Gilkes is a distinguished Caribbean critic, dramatist and former lecturer at several Universities, and more recently a filmmaker.

His critical work includes ‘Wilson Harris and the Caribbean Novel (1975)’; ‘The Literate Imagination (1989)’, which is also about Harris; and ‘The West Indian Novel, Twayne’.

His play, ‘Couvade’, was published by Cape in 1974, while ‘A Pleasant Career’, a play about the life and work of Edgar Mittelholzer, won the prestigious Guyana Prize for Drama in 1992. ‘Joanstown’ won the 2002 Guyana Prize for best book of poetry.

He won the 2006 Guyana Prize for drama with his play, ‘The Last of the Redmen’.

The movie is set to be released in March 2017 for several film festivals around the world.

Tuesday, November 22, 2016 - 12:30 hrs Wednesday, Novemeber 23, 2016 - 13:30 hrs Thursday, November 24, 2016 - 14:00 hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

GWI gives customers month-long grace period - to settle accounts in time for Christmas ognises that they have a right to provide a good service, customers also have a right to keep their accounts up to date.

Those who do so, he said, will benefit from cash-backs and free valves for their storage tanks to help with conserving water.

However, those customers who were disconnected before November, but have since brought their accounts up to date, will earn themselves a waiver on the reconnection fee.

That said, Daniels is now urging customers to take advantage of the offer before the grace period ends, by paying up their water bills and avoid being disconnected.

“Enjoy these pocket-saving offers from GWI,” he said. “Collect big credit in

Local actress Ms Desiree Edghill and the QC student who will feature in the television advertisement in the GWI Christmas promotion

THE Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) on Monday rolled out its Christmas promotion, dubbed “H2O Connect and Collect”.

The promotion, which began Monday and runs until December 23, is an innovative

way of allowing the company to recover outstanding water rates from those customers who are behind in payment.

The launch of the promotion was backed by a television advertisement, and will be followed shortly by one

on radio featuring local theatre personality, Ms Desiree Edghill among other participants.

Company Executive, Mr Marlon Daniels told the media Monday at a press conference that while the company rec-

your account, for customers who bring their accounts upto-date are eligible to have a cash reward credited to their account,” he added.

Among options open to customers wanting to settle their accounts are Online banking, the services of the various post offices around the country and other similar service-oriented agencies.

Daniels said that on December 30, the company will have drawings at each of their eight regional offices countrywide, the proceedings of which will be televised.

Meanwhile, Revenue Manager (Georgetown), Ms Malika Dowlin reminded customers of their obligations to pay their water bills, since the penalties can be costly for those who have illegal

connections.

She said customers can visit any GWI office countrywide and have their services regularised at no cost. And for those customers whose arrears are hefty, there’s a pocket-friendly payment plan just for them.

CEO, Dr. Richard VanWest Charles said the utility is aiming at recovering debt since they are moving for financial viability, and urged that customers pay up on balances owed.

He said that because no one wants to be without water, they should enter in a relationship with GWI to settle all arrears in their payment plan and also for disconnected customers to benefit from the waiver for reconnections.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Waitresses, waiters trained in customer service

By Shirley Thomas

THE Guyana Tourism Authority, in preparation for “Guyana Restaurants Week”, from November 18 to 27, last week conducted a Customer Services training programme for Waiters and Waitresses from several restaurants located in and around Georgetown.

Held at Cara Lodge, Quamina Street, Georgetown the response was phenomenal and attracted male and female staff from the 19 restaurants enlist-

ed for the event, and others not participating.

Director of the GTA, Mr. Indranauth Haralsingh who delivered the feature address said that the GTA is very committed to training and capacity building, concurring with Senior Production Manager, Kamrul Baksh that the GTA is mandated to provide training for the sector.

Tourism Month is celebrated during the November and for the month so far, Baksh said, more than 700 persons were trained in var-

ious areas. The next set of persons to be trained will be speed boat operators, (specifically targeting speedboat operators from Bartica), taxi drivers, as well as front desk staff.

Stressing the importance of training for the customer service providers working in restaurants, Haralsingh said that such persons - specifically waiters and waitresses can influence a customer’s perception, their loyalty and ultimately the company’s profitability.

To the participants, he stressed: “You play a very important role in your business, serving guests …and I hope that today’s training will serve to reinforce knowledge and skills that you would have already developed.”

He said that while they will be given certificates at the end of the training, that is not the be all and the end all, and it is important that they demonstrate the skills that they would have learnt when they go back to their workplaces.

Importantly, the GTA

Manager drew the attention of the participants to what has become a reality - when persons go to restaurants of which they have high expectations and are disappointed.

“When they have to wait for long periods for the food is bad, or in other ways they are not satisfied with the service, they are now taking to Facebook where they make their concerns known.”

The Guyana Tourism Association has zero tolerance for rude or impolite service, and urged the participants

to uphold the very high standards which they would have been taught during the training programme, and Mr. Haralsingh cautioned them: “You are the face of your establishment. Customers see you, they do not see the managers or owners, so much devolves on you; A lot will be expected of you, and remember, use restaurant week to do your best, because the restaurants depend on the patronage of guests or customers who come in.”

Driver charged for crashing into elderly folks TIRENDRA Totaram, who was driving a vehicle that knocked down three elderly persons last Friday, has on Monday been fined $57,500 by the Whim Magistrate.

The 20-year-old appeared before the magistrate to answer charges of driving under the influence, failing to report

an accident to police, and failing to render assistance to the persons his vehicle had hit; and he pleaded guilty to all of the charges.

Having paid the fines, Totaram was leaving the court when he was rearrested by ranks, who told him that there were other charges

against him and he has to pass through the courts a second time to answer to the other charges.

On Friday last, at about 17:30 hrs, three sexagenarians: Harrinarine Lakhan, Vi d a w a t t i e A d h a r i a n d George Beramsingh, were ‘catching up on old times’

while sitting on the concrete rail of their bridge when motorcar PNN 7746, a white Primo driven by Totaram, slammed into them. According to eyewitnesses, the car was proceeding at a fast rate, and while attempting to turn into the street, the driver missed the turn and slammed

into the three elderly persons.

On realising what happened, Totaram reportedly fled the scene, but was later apprehended; and following a breathalyzer test, it was found that he had alcohol in the system above the legal limit; and as such he was detained.

The three senior citizens were rushed to the Skeldon Hospital, but were subsequently transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where they received medical attention. Beramsingh suffered severe injuries to his legs, and one had to be amputated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Green defends Pension Bill ‒ accuses GHRA, TIGI of trying to confuse nation Administration accepted the principle which existed since Independence, past presidents and prime ministers (Hugh Desmond Hoyte and Hamilton Green) benefited from security, drivers and a vehicle, among other things.

He reminded that the legislation was promulgated in 2011, and former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who receives a former President’s pension, made a plea for both

Former Prime Minister Hamilton Green

By Ariana Gordon MR. HAMILTON Green, Prime Minister of Guyana in a People’s National Congress Administration that lasted from 1985 to 1992, has dismissed as “irrelevant” criticisms of the Pension Bill crafted in his name, and has accused its two opponents, independent watchdog bodies Transparency International Guyana Incorporated (TIGI) and the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), of trying to confuse the nation.

WITHDRAW The GHRA, in a statement on Saturday, said the bill should be withdrawn on the ground that it is an insult to taxpayers of this generation, who are “prominently wage-earners”, to shoulder the burden of providing excessive pension for people who have “so curtailed this generation’s life chances”.

The human rights body contends that Green “never apologised for the humiliation, hardship and violence to which the Guyanese people were subjected during his harrowing term of office”; and has argued that the personalised bill to allow Green to be rewarded for a “lifetime of politics marked by incompetence and divisiveness is provocative,” given that the administration is attempting to curb corruption.

RESPONSE Green, who also served as Mayor of the City of Georgetown for in excess of 20 years, posited that the GHRA and TIGI have “speculated on mat-

ters they don’t know about”.

“The response to that (tirade of criticism) is that these gentlemen or ladies obviously are versed in fomenting strife, distorting history, and not dealing with the relevant issue…. This kind of statement is mere propaganda being regurgitated, (and is) completely irrelevant,” Green told reporters on Monday.

“First of all, in every civilised country that I know, there are provisions made for pension and special benefits for former presidents and prime ministers, however styled. This is of universal application, and there is nothing unique about it,” he declared.

Green contends that, in all civilised societies, provisions are in place for former presidents and prime ministers to receive pension and other benefits, in order that they might maintain the lifestyle to which they were accustomed while in office. “(In) Europe, UK, US, the salaries attached to the heads of states are always set aside for those purposes; and in each of those countries, there is poverty. And what we seek to do as politicians is to narrow that gap between the rich and the poor. It is not an easy thing, it is a constant struggle,” Green explained.

He reminded that it was under the former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Administration that legislation was taken to the National Assembly for former presidents to receive pension and related benefits.

He said that, prior to Independence, such benefits were applicable, and he noted that in 1992, when the PPP

former presidents and prime ministers to be allowed to live at a certain level, one consistent with the positions they had held.

“This problem started when the PPP took the matter to Parliament in 2011.

They only catered for pensions and benefits for former presidents…I don’t know why they didn’t include former prime ministers,” he said.

Green said he made ef-

forts under the former PPP Administration to acquire his pension, but he noted that there was some “error in the legislation”, and this had to be corrected.

He said the bill laid in the National Assembly is “an effort to correct” the error.

NOT ‘GREEN’ Asked if he believes the bill should be tabled in his name, Green responded in the negative. He said that when he was made aware of the draft legislation, he questioned why

it carried his name.

The former Prime Minister concurred with the view expressed by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo that the legislation should be reviewed and his name should be removed.

The draft legislation, “Hamilton Green Pension Bill”, No.23 of 2016, which seeks to provide pension benefits and other facilities to Mr. Green, was tabled in Parliament on Monday, but a date for its debate has not yet been set.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Opportunities plentiful in ICT sector ‒ Minister Cathy Hughes tells Tutorial High graduating class of 2016

By Shirley Thomas

MINISTER of Public Telecommunications, Kathy Hughes has urged the Tutorial High School Graduating Class of 2016 to learn ‘everything they could’ about Information Communication Technology, telling them that in so doing, a promising future awaits them in the world of work.

And ideally, a lot of the students find themselves in a distinctly advantageous position, since Tutorial High School was among the first schools in Georgetown to have been connected to the national fibre-optic Internet network.

Minister Hughes made these remarks as she delivered the feature address at the school’s graduation ceremony last Wednesday, where keenly enthusiastic graduands, teaching staff, schoolmates, supportive family members and other distinguished invitees were gathered to share in celebrating their accomplishment and seeing them off to higher heights.

Having been given such a jump start, and having benefitted from fully outfitted science laboratories, the minister expressed the hope that the graduates would be able to build on these achievements.

Minister Hughes also told the graduates that the doors of opportunities in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector are always open.

“This field already has doors open for you in the world of work. If you are technically inclined, learn how to fix and assemble laptops, iPads, and cell phones.

Study computer engineering and the world will be your oyster. If you are a creator, you will find a lot of work in the computer software industry – in programming, applications/apps or creating children’s learning tools and games … and you will have the means to establish your own business.”

Minister of Public Telecommunication, Cathy Hughes addresses the gathering at Tutorial High School Graduation last Thursday

ICT is an umbrella term that includes any communication device or application, encompassing: radio, television, cellular phones, computer and network hardware and software, satellite systems and so on, as well as the various services and applications associated with them, such as videoconferencing and distance learning.

“We have moved from desk-top computers with a mouse to IPads, notebooks and smart phones; from face-to-face interaction to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat. Now we’re on our way to real, lucrative competition with the rest of the world,” said Minister Hughes as she noted the advances made in ICT over the past decade.

Admonishing the graduands that there’s no time to waste, the minister cautioned them that the world is moving along very quickly; technology is advancing at an amazingly fast rate and should not be left behind.

Several certificates and trophies were distributed to the outstanding students.

Valedictorian Joshua Grant attained passes in 12 subjects at the CSEC examination, securing 8 Grade Is and 5 Grade 2s.

He is currently a Grade 12 student at the Queens College with a view to pursuing a Natural Science programme at the University of Guyana.

Joshua is the son of Earl and Simone Grant of Republic Park, East Bank Demerara and is the fifth of six siblings. Moving on from Tutorial he asserts, “I am really going to miss this school because it has given me the motivation to realise my God-given potential and achieve more than I thought I could have achieved. I am grateful to God; my teachers who worked hard with me and inspired me; my parents, supportive siblings and my classmates with whom I shares good times.

Quoting from the Book of II Timothy Chapter 2:15 which says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth, Joshua says: “So my encouragement to oth-

An elated Joshua Grant, Valedictorian of Tutorial High School Graduating Class of 2016

ers is to put God first in anything that you do; be dedicated; be hard-working and apply yourself in whatever you have to do and you will see Him come through for you.”

The graduands await the proud moment for presentation of certificates

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

North Georgetown retain swim title, draw first blood in process

By Daniel Haynes THERE could not have been a better start to the 56th Nationals Schools Championships for North Georgetown who retained their swimming title with a dominating performance at the National Aquatic Centre yesterday.

It was all North Georgetown as the district tallied 401 points, with second-place Upper Demerara Kwakwani (Linden) finishing 128 points behind with 273, through 54 events.

Rounding out the top five were North West, South Georgetown and Essequibo Coast/Pomeroon who ended with 207, 196 and 182

points respectively.

A victory seemed set up for the district in purple, who led the points race for the entire day with 84 points through events 1-10 to Linden’s 63.

From there North Georgetown (District 11) maintained their dominance, having top finishes in most of the events.

Top finishers on the day were Anna Isaacs, Daniel Scott, Raekwon Noel, Jamal Skeete and the George sisters Danielle and Jadyn for the North Georgetown side.

The track-and-field leg of the Championships begins today at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

St Angela’s Headmistress...

From back page that our coach who has been very dedicated and successful over the last two years was not recognised as the ‘Coach-of-the-Tournament’.

Honestly I was disappointed, but we will honour and recognise him as the best coach soon.

“We look forward for him being here next year to bring home the crown again.

We really, really appreciate the work the coach has done with the team. In two years we have not lost our 14 matches and conceded only a solitary goal.”

Mrs Osborne-Blair indicated that she has been inspired by the performance and is already thinking ahead of next year.

“I do not know much about football but when I watched our boys play last Sunday I saw talent and skill and I mentioned to the teacher who acts as the manager of the team, Miss Gordon, that we must start preparing from now for next year and find a way to have the coach working continuously with other students, to get the best talent we have at the school and be ready for any

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tournament.

“We have no facility to adequately do what we would want to do, but I will have discussions with the Ministry of Education to see what assistance could be rendered in terms of getting a facility to develop the sport at our school.

“We have the potential to be like a feeder for Guyana’s football and I would really love to see that manifested. I am available for any discussions with the relevant authorities who are willing to come on board to make this a reality,” Mrs Osborne-Blair declared.

Due to the inclement weather yesterday a specially planned morning assembly for the champions had to be put off to this coming Friday when the school will honour the coach and the victorious team.

In addition to taking away the coveted Champions trophy, St. Angela's' Shuwada Hutson was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament and Antoin Vinvent was named MV, and the tournament’s top goal scorer Seon Cato.

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20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

India wrap up 246-run win over England (REUTERS) - India spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Jayant Yadav claimed three wickets apiece in the second innings to lead the hosts to a comfortable 246-run win in the second Test against England yesterday and a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

England, chasing an improbable victory target of 405, were all out for 158 shortly after lunch on the fifth and final day in Visakhapatnam.

Batting fourth after losing the toss was always set to be a difficult task for England with the wicket offering vicious turn and uneven bounce during the venue's Test debut.

England needed to match India's first-innings total of 455 but were on the back foot after losing five wickets for 80 on the second day. Conceding the 200-run lead proved crucial.

"From disappointingly losing those five wickets on day two - in India you need to score first innings runs - you saw how hard it is to score in India's second innings," England captain Alastair Cook said, pointing to his counterpart Virat Kohli's 167 and 81 with the bat as another decisive factor.

"It's all about first-innings runs and trying to get parity ... But from that moment we showed lots of character and fight. We made India work very hard."

The touring side lost all 10 of their second-innings wickets for 83 runs after openers Cook and Haseeb Hameed combined in a stand of 75 runs on Sunday.

Ben Duckett's poor series continued when he fell without scoring to Ashwin, caught behind miscuing a sweep shot against the world's top-ranked bowler after England resumed on 87-2.

Moeen Ali did not last long either, out to left-arm

Ramdhani places fifth in Vancouver Island University tournament

Narayan Ramdhani

R.Ashwin and Virat Kohli are pumped after opener Haseeb Hameed's wicket.

spinner Ravindra Jadeja for two after failing to show any of his usual fluidity in a 31-ball knock.

ROOT FALLS Joe Root, playing his 50th Test match, was key to England's slim hopes after Cook fell on the last delivery of the fourth day.

England's best batsman had an early reprieve on nine when Kohli failed to hold a catch at leg slip off Ashwin.

The right-hander was then given out, caught behind on 11 against Ashwin, but managed to overturn the decision on review with replays showing he had missed the ball.

After Moeen's dismissal, Root and Ben Stokes kept

India at bay for more than 11 overs before debutant spinner Jayant clean-bowled Stokes with a delivery that spun and beat the lefthander's edge.

Paceman Mohammed Shami then removed Root for 25 when he extracted reverse swing from the new-ish ball and hit the batsman's pad. Root failed to have the decision overturned on review.

Shami also claimed the wicket of Adil Rashid before lunch Ashwin, who took his 22nd five-wicket haul in the first innings, cleaned up Zafar Ansari for a duck after lunch.

Jayant trapped Stuart Broad and James Anderson lbw in successive balls, with

Anderson becoming the first English batsman since 1906 to be dismissed for first ball ducks in both innings of a Test match.

England defeated India 2-1 in 2012 after losing the first Test and Kohli said his team would not be complacent when they go to Mohali for the third match starting on Saturday.

"We have played some really good cricket. We have maintained nice momentum as far as the first two games are concerned," said the Man-of-the-Match.

"We respect the team England is.

"We need to strike the right balance of not getting too desperate and at the same time not relaxing either."

SCOREBOARD

INDIA 1st innings 455 (V. Kohli 167, C. Pujara 119, R. Ashwin 58) ENGLAND 1st innings 255 (B. Stokes 70, J. Bairstow 53, J. Root 53; R. Ashwin 5-67) INDIA 2nd innings 204 (V. Kohli 81; S. Broad 4-33, A. Rashid 4-82) ENGLAND 2nd innings (o/n 87-2; Target: 405 runs) A. Cook lbw b Jadeja H. Hameed lbw b R. Ashwin J. Root lbw b Shami B. Duckett c Saha b R. Ashwin

54 25 25 0

M. Ali c Kohli b Jadeja 2 B. Stokes b Yadav 6 J. Bairstow not out 34 A. Rashid c Saha b Shami 4 Z. Ansari b R. Ashwin 0 S. Broad lbw b Yadav 5 J. Anderson lbw b Yadav 0 Extras: (lb-3) 3 Total: (all out, 97.3 overs) 158 Fall of wickets: 1-75, 2-87, 3-92, 4-101, 5-115, 6-115, 7-129, 8-143, 9-158 Bowling: M. Shami 14-3-30-2, U. Yadav 8-3-8-0, R. Ashwin 30-11-52-3, R. Jadeja 34-14-35-2, J. Yadav 11.3-4-30-3.

GUYANA'S Sunburst Badminton champion Narayan Ramdhani placed fifth overall in Men Singles draw of sixteen players when the Vancouver Island University hosted an Under-23 tournament last Saturday in Nanaimo.

Ramdhani is currently on scholarship in Vancouver Canada, pursuing a degree in Sports Science.

The 18-year-old, who had represented Shuttlesport Badminton Academy, reached the quarterfinals in the main draw by defeating Robert Foster of Vancouver

Island University 21-13, 21-18, but lost to James Ho of University of British Colombia 21-14, 19-21, 21-5 in a thrilling three. James Ho eventually won the tournament.

In the placement draw, Narayan defeated Thomas Tran of Simon Fraser University 21-9, 21-7 and Jack Chen of University of British Colombia 21-23, 21-10, 21-12.

Narayan teamed up with Zack Fan of Shuttlesport where they played the Men Under-23 doubles on Sunday.

Persaud wins top prize in Grand Coastal tourney PARMANAND Persaud continued his impressive season of golf, winning the top prize in the annual Grand Coastal Golf Tournament last Saturday at the Lusignan Golf Course (LGC).

Persaud returned a net score of 65 to be adjudged the clear winner in the day’s play, finishing ahead of a field of more than 40 golfers.

Aleem Hussain 65/17, Richard Haniff 66/15, Joaan Deo 67/21 and Kalyan Tewari 67/14 finished in that order.

As usual the first four place-winners were decided on their back nine performances over their ties.

Meanwhile, the best gross was won by Jaipaul Suknanan (78/7), while Al-

eem Hussain won the nearest-to-the-pin award.

After the day’s play Persaud, commented, “My game is now on. It’s a pity it’s too late for the 2016 Guyana Open, but I will be a serious contender for the 2017 Guyana Open. I had some excellent long drives, and good end games, having to do a 9-ft putt on my last hole in order to win, and I did it!”

Grand Coastal Manager, Ramesh Taykoo, in congratulating the winners, expressed his company’s delight to be a part of the development of the sport locally.

Golf Club president Oncar Ramroop thanked Grand Coastal for its consistent and dependable sponsorship of tournaments.

21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Wave of International stars expected for Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey Festival THIS year’s Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey Festival will see a wave of top international talent gracing the shores of Guyana as teams from the USA, Canada,and Trinidad and Tobago have all entered in more than one division.

While the men’s defending champs from Canada are not returning this year, several of their key players will be present as members of this year’ Toronto Lions team.

Among those expected is last year’s Most Valuable Player in the men’s division, Jeewan Bath, who has been a main contributor on the Canadian men’s national indoor team for the past ten years.

Bath also holds the record of being the most capped indoor player for Canada.

The Toronto Lions boast a formidable line-up with four Canadian nationals including goalkeeper Pre-

makanthan Shankar who will also be conducting a goalkeeping clinic here in Guyana leading up to the tournament.

2013 Festival runners-up Queens Park of Trinidad returns this year in an effort to exceed that showing and cart off the trophy. The club is represented in both the men’s and Carib over-35 divisions and will be led by former Guyanese international Jerazeno ‘Skillaxe’ Bell. National and under-21 captains, Daren Cowie and Jordan Reynos will both add quality to a skillful side that is a strong contender for gold.

Perennial attendee, Carib hockey club will visit for the 5th straight year and have reached as close as second place in the Carib over-35 division.

Last year’s over-35 MVP, Kern Ramsammy,

one of several Ramsammy relatives on the team, will lead their charge for gold this year. Malvern Hockey Club, who has been the overseas club with the highest attendance record, appearing in all but one year, round out the Trinidad contingent with their over-35 side led by former Trinidad international, Damian ‘Junior Gong’ Gordon.

The Bal Wash Ers make their first appearance this year and compete in both the men’s and over-35 divisions.

As their name suggests, these players originate from the Baltimore and Washington areas of the USA and many of them will be first-time visitors to Guyana. Returning with this team however is former Guyanese national, Jeremy Roberts, who will this be making his third appearance in the festival.

This side is not short on

Barbados Pride beat Red Force by huge 292 runs PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Barbados Pride pulled off an emphatic victory over Trinidad and Tobago Red Force here yesterday, when they crushed their perennial arch-rivals by 292 runs, to notch their first win of the newly minted Regional Four-Day Championship.

The visitors secured victory in the first over after lunch on the final day of the second round contest, as Red Force crumbled for an embarrassing 99 in their second innings, in pursuit of an unlikely target of 392 at Queen’s Park Oval.

Pride’s assault was led by captain Kevin Stoute who snatched three for 14 while fellow seamer, Test bowler Kemar Roach, finished with

three 33.

Resuming the day on 57 for three, Red Force lost their last six wickets for 42 runs – with opener Jeremy Solozano again unable to bat because of illness.

Other than Kyle Hope (26) and Yannic Cariah (25) who perished on Sunday’s third day, no other batsman made it into double figures.

Pride were forced to wait until the eighth over of the morning before finding success when Roach had captain Yannick Ottley, yet to score overnight, caught at the wicket for two with the score on 64.

In the very next over, leftarm spinner Jomel Warrican had nightwatchman Marlon Richards caught at bat-pad for seven without any addi-

tion to the overall score, to leave Red Force reeling.

Debutant Jyd Goolie spent 46 minutes and 26 balls over nine before he was bowled by Stoute who struck again in his next over by removing Roshon Primus to a catch at the wicket for two, at 80 for seven.

Wicketkeeper Steven Katwaroo holed out in the deep off pacer Justin Greaves for eight before lunch as the Red Force innings lay in ruins at 99 for eight at the interval.

And Roach applied the finishing touches immediately following the break when he bowled Jon-Russ Jaggesar for three.

For their efforts, Pride took away 18.4 points while Red Force mustered four.

SCOREBOARD

PRIDE 1st innings 242 RED FORCE 1st innings 168 PRIDE 2nd innings 317-2 decl.

RED FORCE 2nd innings (target: 392 runs) (o.n. 57 for three)

K. Hope b Stoute 26 Imran Khan c wkp. Rampersad b Roach 0 Y. Cariah b Williams 25 M. Richards c Phillips b Warrican 7 Y. Ottley c wkp. Rampersaud b Roach 2 J. Goolie b Stoute 9 S. Katwaroo c Warrican b Greaves 8

R. Primus c Rampersaud b Stoute 2 S. Cottrell not out 8 J. Jagessar b Roach 3 J. Solozano ret. out Extras: (b-1, lb-5, nb-3) 9 Total: (all out, 53 overs) 99 Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-50, 3-56, 4-64, 5-64, 6-78, 7-80, 8-88, 9-99.

Bowling: Roach 12-4-33-3 (nb-2), Greaves 11-5-23-1, Chase 4-2-8-0, Stoute 12-6-14-3, Warrican 8-4-10-1, Williams 5-2-5-1, Charles 1-1-0-0.

Points: Pride 18.4 points, Red Force 4.

Man-of-the-Match: Anthony Alleyne.

Canadian international Jeewan Bath on the attack in last year's festival.

experience and features several players from the USA master’s national team including former player/coach Peter Jones.

The Toronto Academy will this year visit for the second time and this time

around will be boasting a stronger lineup after being the losing finalists in 2013.

Captain of the Canadian Indoor Team that went to the World Cup in Germany in 2015, Kaelan Watson, will lead the Academy.

Watson has played for the Canadian National outdoor team from 2011 to 2015. She is known as a strong defender with quick stick skills and powerful shot on net.

Supporting Watson will be international teammate Angela Lancaster who has represented Canada since 2010. Canada-based Guyanese international Leigh Sandison adds to the powerful lineup which will prove quite a challenge for defending champions Pizza Hut GCC. Top local sides Hikers, GCC and Old Fort are each represented in all three divisions with the Pepsi Hikers men and Pizza Hut GCC ladies being the defending champions.

Matches begin tomorrow from 17.30hrs with all games being played at the National Gymnasium.

GIKMAA hosts successful Championship OVER 60 participants, drawn from seven schools, recently completed the Guyana International Kyokushinkai Martial Arts Academy’s (GIKMAA) fourth Open International Martial Arts Championship.

The two-day event, held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, saw participants from the Tang-Soo-Do International Guyana, Stanleytown Shotokan Karate Dojo, National Martial Arts Association, Black Hawks Rising Sun Dojo, Best of the Best Martial Arts School, the Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate Association and GIKMAA. GIKMAA, with 17 students, won 29 medals, comprising 14 gold, seven silver, six bronze and two fourthplace finishes.

Sensei Kelvin Walcott of the Enmore Branch of the GIKMAA won two gold medals and had a fourthplace finish, while Sensei Parsuram Arjune from the Wales branch won three gold medals and Samuel Fraser two.

Zoann Shuman and Brandon Ferreira of St Cuthbert’s Mission also won two gold medals each. Other outstanding students were: Tadious Edun (gold, silver and bronze), Umish Parsaram

The successful participants who recently completed the Guyana International Kyokushinkai Martial Arts Academy (GIKMAA) fourth Open International Martial Arts Championship.

(gold and bronze), Christian Freeman (gold), Leonel Chacon (two silver) and Omesh Lallchand (silver).

Sensei Kelvin Walcott in the heavyweight division (Enmore), Tadious Edun in the middleweight division (Wales), Umish Parsaram, Omesh Lallchand and Parsuran Arjune (Wales) once again thrilled the audience with the full contact fighting.

Sensei Parsuram Arjune, Tadious Edun and Marcell Lynda Yassim received their ‘Life Membership’ of the GIKMAA, while Garfield Newton of the Black Hawks Martial Arts Management and Roland Eudoxie of the Tang-Soo-do Int’l Guyana received special appreciation Martial Arts Brotherhood Awards for their work with the GIKMAA. The GIKMAA is expressing gratitude to the National Sports Commis-

sion, Red Cherry Cafeteria, Right Price Lumber and Grandmaster Abdool Nazim Yassim for their sponsorship of the tournament.

“Special thanks also go to the judges and referees, along with the parents and supporters that help to make the tournament a successful one. Maranda Bennett, Grace Harry, Shawn English, Ryan Patterson, and David Critchlow brought the crowd to their feet with live singing. Shihan Nazim is also thankful to Nerissa Vanvield of VOG (Radio) and Max Massiah of Maximum Sports Combat & Strength (TV) for having us on their programmes to promote this tournament,” the GIKMAA said in a release.

Shihan Nazim Yassim and his team will now turn their attention to the Bragging Rights tournament in December.

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

OSCL president bemoans non-use of white balls … Trophy Stall continues to make an input

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada – President of the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) Albert Ramcharran has bemoaned the non-use of the white balls at competitions organised by the league.

In a stirring message, contained in the brochure to celebrate the OSCL’s 21st anniversary and which was delivered recently at the league’s annual presentation, dinner and dance, Ramcharran lamented the fact that the players had stymied the continuation of playing with the white balls after it was introduced in 2015.

“Last year, we introduced the white ball in our 10/10 tournament, taking into consideration that our players are required to contest at the international level with that variety and the aim was to take it another level in the 2016 season,” Ramcharran pointed out.

According to the long-standing president and founder-member, “Unfortunately, our plan was derailed at the annual general meeting and we were left with no option but to carry out the wishes of the players. We can only hope that they would have a change of heart since it will extremely difficult for us to compete with the other teams at tournaments in Guyana, Florida and New York. It’s as simple as that, unless we just want to compete for the sake of it.”

The OSCL president boasted that the league had grown from a fledgling body to one of prominence in the Greater Toronto area and continues to

Navin Singh (right) receives the winning Independence Cup from Roger Sunich on behalf of Trophy Stall.

promote the grassroots sport despite a few obstacles.

“Despite a few naysayers, the OSCL has been making constant efforts to promote the game of softball to the best of our ability and in a very democratic way.

“While overall, the discipline could be considered quite satisfactory during the last season, a few issues still remain unsettled and worrying but the league intends to deal with them very firmly. We have no intentions of sitting idly by and letting anyone ridicule what we strove to build in 21 years,” Ramcharran asserted.

Touching on the contentious issue of pelting, Ramcharran observed that it surfaced again in the 2016 season, raising its ugly head in the Conference A final, featuring Dant and Sunshine.

“The OSCL was very

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saddened with the manner how the proceedings were handled and will make every effort to curb any such happenings in the future. We will once again engage the umpires prior to the start of the new season to explore and find a common ground on the contentious issue.”

The president also spoke about the recent initiative embarked on by the league to assist the needy in Guyana. He disclosed that a decision was taken to donate moneys to selected charitable organisations on a yearly basis.

The first of such donation was made during the early part of November to the Guyana Red Cross Society Children’s Convalescent Home by vice-president Terry Mathura, who was in Guyana to participate in the Guyana Softball Cup. Ramcharran also took the opportunity to congratulate the winning and runner-up teams and all the other participating teams across all formats in our league. Special kudos were extended to Dant for their all-conquering “efforts, GTA Storm for storming to victory in the Norman Sue Bakery-sponsored 15-over tournament and debutants Enterprise who played unbeaten in Conference B and subsequently emerged winners of the division.

A big ‘thank you’ was also

OSCL president Albert Ramcharran (third from right) receives recognition plaque from Roger Sunich, compliments of his brother and proprietor of Trophy Stall (Guyana), Ramesh Sunich.

extended to the hard-working executives for their sterling efforts in sometimes trying and demanding situations.

“You have shone like beacons under the circumstances and I am extremely proud of you.”

Hearty thanks were also showered on the several sponsors, including Harri Sukhu, Norman Sue Bakery and Home Trust.

In recognition of his services to the OSCL and to the game of softball, Ramcharran was presented with a plaque, compliments of Trophy Stall (Guyana) with Roger Sunich doing the honours on behalf of his brother and proprietor Ramesh Sunich. Trophy Stall also sponsored the winning and Most Valuable Player trophies and medals for the annual Independence Cup. Guyana’s High Commissioner to Canada, Clarissa Riehl, in her message, described the attainment of 21 years as a remarkable achievement which could not have come to fruition without hard work and dedication. “Your devotion and hard work have not gone in vain and for this I would like to wish the Ontario Softball Cricket League continued success and many more years of existence.”

Greetings were also re-

OSCL vice-president Terry Mathura (left) is rewarded for his outstanding dedication and commitment by president Albert Ramcharran.

ceived from Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Eleanor McMahon, on behalf of the government of Ontario.

McMahon applauded the coaches and officials for their hard work, spirit and dedication to the sport of softball cricket. “You are helping to encourage physical activity in a welcoming environment

for athletes for all ages,” she observed.

According to the minister, she has the privilege of seeing the positive impact that participation in sport can have on individuals and communities. “This league demonstrates the importance of inclusive and accessible sport opportunities for everyone.”

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Hurricanes break 33-year-old record to beat Jaguars by four wickets BASSETERRE, St Kitts (CMC) – Leeward Islands Hurricanes laid waste to a 33-year-old record by executing the highest successful run chase in the history of the modern first class championship, as they shocked two-time reigning champions Guyana Jaguars by four wickets here yesterday.

Set what appeared to be an improbable victory target of 369 on Sunday’s penultimate day, Hurricanes batted imperiously to reach their target at 17:07hrs. On the final day with 21 balls left in the contest at Warner Park, to register their first win over Jaguars in 2-1/2 years.

The monumental effort was spearheaded by opener Montcin Hodge who stroked 114 – his second first class hundred – while Jamaican Nkrumah Bonner stroked an up tempo 82 off 114 balls and opener and captain Kieran Powell, 54.

Wicketkeeper Jahmar Hamilton came at the end to

unleash a cameo unbeaten 49 from 43 deliveries and it was he who hit the winning runs, smashing left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie over long on for six to end the game in style.

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul claimed four for 109.

The effort by Hurricanes eclipsed the previous best run-chase back in 1983 when Windward Islands overhauled 368 to beat Trinidad and Tobago by two wickets at Queen’s Park Oval.

For the Hurricanes, it was their first win of the new Regional Four-Day Championship season, following their draw against Barbados Pride in the opening round here last week and represents one of their best starts to a first-class campaign in recent years, after a tough last few seasons.

Jaguars, meanwhile, saw their unbeaten streak finally broken, as the loss was their first in 19 outings.

the final session, Hamilton and Jeremiah Louis – who was unbeaten on 26 at the end – combined in an unbroken 63-run, seventh-wicket partnership to seal the result.

Hodge and Powell set the tone early on, carrying Hurricanes safely through the first hour to frustrate Jaguars.

The right-handed Hodge, starting the day on 26, faced 287 deliveries in just over 6-1/2 hours and counted ten fours and a six while Powell, unbeaten on 20 at the start, faced 113 balls in just over Montcin Hodge

Resuming the day on 47 without loss and requiring a further 322 for victory, Hurricanes were propelled by three vital partnerships.

Hodge extended his first-wicket stand with Powell to 93 and added a superb 145 for the fourth wicket with Bonner – a partnership that set up the win.

And when Hurricanes lost three wickets for 23 runs in

2-3/4 hours at the crease and struck five fours and a six.

Powell eventually holed out in the deep off Permaul and Akeem Saunders followed soon afterwards for ten, stumped trying to use his feet to the same bowler.

Hodge put on 32 with left-hander Chesney Hughes (23) in a stand that took Hurricanes to lunch on 134 for two and when Hughes fell in the fourth over following the resumption, it paved the way for Hodge and Bonner to entertain.

The right-handed Bonner was positive from the outset, stroking three fours in three hours at the crease and his enterprise saw Hurricanes reach tea at 236 without further loss.

Hodge reached triple figures in the fifth over after the break before finally departing, missing a charge at Permaul and going stumped. Even then, however, Hurricanes kept their focus and Bonner and Hamilton ensured there was no disappointment later on.

SCOREBOARD

JAGUARS 1st innings 293 HURRICANES 1st innings 158 JAGUARS 2nd innings 233-8 decl.

HURRICANES 2nd innings (target: 369 runs, o/n 47 without loss) K. Powell c Barnwell b Permaul M. Hodge stp. Bramble b Permaul A. Saunders stp. Bramble b Permaul C. Hughes c Chanderpaul b Reifer N. Bonner stp. Bramble b Permaul J. Hamilton not out

54 114 10 23 82 49

R. Cornwall run-out 0 J. Louis not out 26 Extras: (lb-5, w-10, nb-1) 16 Total: (6 wkts, 111.3 overs) 372 Fall of wickets: 1-93, 2-109, 3-141, 4-286, 5-309, 6-309.

Bowling: Joseph 16-1-56-0, Reifer 15-1-651, Barnwell 15-1-47-0, Motie 24.3-3-89-0, Permaul 40-7-109-4, Johnson 1-0-1-0.

Points: Hurricanes 15.4, Jaguars 6.2.

Man-of-the-Match: Montcin Hodge.

Bottom of Form

Fruta Conquerors brush Miller’s five for 22 condemns aside Bakewell Topp XX 3-0 Volcanoes to defeat … GFF/STAG Elite League underway IT WAS a nightmare welcome to Guyana’s top flight football for newcomers Victoria Kings and Bakewell Topp XX when the GFF/STAG Elite League season two got underway last Sunday at the DCC ground in Queenstown.

After Kings were outclassed by the GDF 1-7 in the opener, Topp XX were brushed aside by Conquerors 3-0, to end a goal-feast opening night of the ‘Beautiful Game’ that produced 11 goals and heavy defeats for the debutants.

A double within a two-minute spell by midfielder Jermaine Junor in the 38th and 40th minutes laid the foundation for the youthful Tucville-based side to easily overcome their Linden counterparts. After the break, Kwame La Fleur made it three-nil when he converted in the 70th minute.

Although they lost the game, the 3-0 score-line does not reflect the competitiveness of Topp XX as was promised by coach Collie Hercules.

The comprehensive victories by the top two contenders of the six-team race for the coveted title were the ideal starts they expected.

While it is just the opening game day, both sides

have positively responded to their labelling as the main challengers for the top prize worth $6M. The 6-team STAG Elite League will switch to Tucville this Friday where there will be another double-header beginning at 18:00hrs. The first game will feature Buxton United and Monedderlust FC, followed by home team Conquerors versus Victoria Kings. (Ras Wadada)

Jermaine Junior (L) and Kwame La Fleur (R).

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Champion leftarm spinner Nikita Miller snatched his 24th five-wicket haul in first class cricket to fire Jamaica Scorpions to a stunning come-frombehind 41-run victory over hapless Windward Islands Volcanoes here yesterday.

With the visitors set a mere 106 to win at Sabina Park, captain Miller scythed through their innings with five for 22 to send them tumbling for 64 all out on the final day of the second round game in the Regional Four-Day Championship, in which 18 wickets fall.

He was well supported by leg-spinner Damion Jacobs who finished with three for 17, as Scorpions picked up their first win of the season following their defeat to Guyana Jaguars in Georgetown last week.

For Volcanoes, it was their second straight loss, coming on the backs of their nine-wicket defeat to Trinidad and Tobago Red Force

in Port of Spain in the last round.

No such result for Scorpions seemed possible when they slumped from their overnight 92 for two to 159 all out, with opener John Campbell top-scoring with 67 and Test batsman Jermaine Blackwood getting 27.

The pair extended their overnight third-wicket partnership to 46 before being separated, when Blackwood departed in the day’s sixth over after adding 11 to his overnight score.

His dismissal triggered a terminal decline for Scorpions as they lost their last seven wickets for just 31 runs in quick time, as 21-year-old left-arm spinner Larry Edward picked up career-best figures of six for 20.

Campbell, unbeaten on 43 overnight, completed his seventh first-class half-century, striking six fours off 141 balls in three hours at the crease.

Then, what should have been a straightforward run

chase quickly turned into a nightmare for Volcanoes as they lost wickets steadily, with only opener Devon Smith (19) and all-rounder Kyle Mayers (15 not out) reaching double figures.

Scorpions claimed 16.2 points while Volcanoes picked up 5.2.

Nikita Miller

Hurricanes break 33-year-old record to beat Jaguars by four wickets P.23

North Georgetown retain swim title, draw first blood in process19 P.

The freestyle stroke gets underway. (Adrian Narine photo)

Berbicians rule the roost in 10K female and male categories DISTRICT 5 (West Coast Berbice) and Corentyne (District 6) collected their first wins when the National Schools Championships commenced yesterday morning, with Vaneia Hemerding and Delroy Leitch prevailing respectively in the female and male categories of the 10km road race that started on CARIFESTA Avenue.

The Berbicians ruled in an event usually dominated by hinterland athletes, and saw Leitch avenge his last year’s loss to Ricky Williams from North West (District 1). He finished over 50 seconds faster than he did last year.

As the rain beat down on the athletes in the final minutes of the race, a drenched Leitch was the first athlete to cross the finish line some 35 minutes four seconds after he started, in a race where only 12 of the 15 districts participated.

Williams came in second place just two seconds behind Leitch, to collect 8 points for his District. Leitch's first place earned his District 10 points.

A time of 38 minutes 35 seconds was registered by District 5's Daniel Gaskin for the third place finish.

North Georgetown (District 11) and Linden (District 10) battled for fourth place, with North winning the fight, thanks to Ronaldo Wishart and the 39 minutes 22 seconds that he ran, just two seconds in front of Samuel France.

On the distaff end, things were a little less competitive as girls dropped out along the trail, and only four of the eight girls completed the journey.

Hemerding's winning time stood at 49 minutes 10 seconds.

She triumphed over Alicia Marks (District 1), who crossed the finish line in 49 minutes 38 seconds.

Niocy Anthony from District 10 had a time of 52 minutes 32 seconds. District 6's Sarswattie Matading was the only other female, ending the race after 65 minutes and 19 seconds.

District 11 took a hit when Tabitha Bowman did not finish the race.

St Angela’s Headmistress elated over 2-peat Pee Wee football title … looking forward to 3-peatBy Ras Wadada HEADMISTRESS of ‘back-to-back’ Pee Wee football champions, Mrs Alecia Osborne-Blair, is over the moon with her school’s repeat championship win last Sunday at Thirst Park.

“Right now I am elated, I am happy for the boys and I am extremely proud of their achievement. They have been working day-in day-out with the coach, who has always been there for them in a limited area not conducive for outdoor football, but it paid off in the end and we at St Angela’s Primary are very happy,” a smiling Mrs Osborne-Blair told Chronicle Sport during her lunch break at the school.

The Headmistress was among hundreds of fans who watched the Championship game, which her school won 1-0 against next door neighbours, St Agnes Primary. She claims it was her most memorable experience.

“Being part of the crowd support and witnessing the

historic achievement on Sunday is definitely my most memorable experience as a teacher at St Angela’s.

“When the game started I got my chair close to the field and as I watched, very tense, I could see our boys looking relaxed and confident.

“I am not a person to express myself by jumping and shouting in public, but when we scored I was out of my chair, jumping up and shouting like every other person. It was memorable and after the game I joined in doing the Champion dance celebration with my boys and fans,” recalled the acting Headmistress.

“This achievement has certainly put us on the map and I am happy for it to be highlighted, because at St Angela’s Primary we have talented children in Sports as well as children who perform well in academics.”

“I know there were persons who wanted us to lose and that is natural in sport, but our performance over the two years, where we have lost only once has been consistent, We are the Champions! Some members of 'Back-to-back" Pee-wee so we are the champions again,” the Head said with a broad football Champions, St Angela's Primary take time out to pose with smile. spoils along with Coach Oscar Payne and Head Teacher Mrs. Alecia Osborne-Blair during lunch break yesterday.

“What was disappointing was Turn to page 19 ►

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2016