Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 23 06 2016

Girls removed from ‘sex camp’ No. 104591

THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

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mother questioned as police open probe

More pumps for flooded Reg 5 9

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… residents get medical, other aid,

Govt to review Parking Meters 3 contract Page

Cops charge mother of 12 raped toddler

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Senior Mines Officer of the GGMC Josiah stands in a “kaimoo” in the Kuribrong Mining District with police ranks as they searched and conducted investigations

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Girls removed from ‘sex camp’ … mother questioned as police open probe

By Ariana Gordon TWO teenage girls have been removed by ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in the Kuribrong Mining District, Region Eight, Potaro-Siparuni, following reports that they were allegedly working and participating in sexual activities there.

Police have also arrested their mother as they open an investigation into the matter.

The ranks who visited the Kuribrong mining district acted on a tip-off that under-aged or school-aged girls were residing in the hinterland location. The team included senior mines officers of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, Simona Broomes.

Along the Amaila Falls access road, located in the Kuribrong mining district, it was observed that several illegal structures were erected, which were inspected by the team of mines officers and the police.

It was during the inspection that the two young girls - aged 17 and 15 years old were found. At approximately 09:00hrs the girls were observed purchasing a pair of flip-flop slippers at a shop when the law- enforcement ranks questioned them.

The girls said that they have been residing in the Kuribrong mining district for just over one year and are originally from the Amerindian village of Kopinang, North Pakaraimas. They also said that they are twins and are adults.

But after a thorough investigation, it was discovered that the duo were not twins after the younger sister was unable to corroborate her year of birth. “Are you sure you are twins? What are you doing here? How long have you been in the back dam?” asked one police officer who recognised that the teenagers were lying.

“We been in here for about a year…we living over so with we parents and we does work with them,” said the older sister as her younger sibling nodded in conformity.

The law-enforcement

ranks later placed the girls into a vehicle and took them to their parents, who were indeed not too far away. The girls’ father was sitting under a tent in the area with a few friends imbibing, while their mother was inside the camp that was set up a little over a year ago.

“Sir, good morning. Are these your children?” asked an officer who was forced to repeat the question once more as the father of the children did not hear him. “Yes, they is me chirren,” said the father.

As the police spoke with the father of the girls, their mother arrived and she confirmed that the girls were her children and provided their names to the police. However, the names provided by the mother differed from that provided by the girls when they were found at the shop.

The girls gave the correct first names but different last

shaking his head. “Pack your things immediately…mom, you have to come with them,” said the law-enforcement officer firmly. The mother and her children complied and they were escorted out of the Kuribrong mining area.

‘Get Rich’ On the journey, the Guyana Chronicle spoke with the young girls who did not seem fearful of being in the back dam. The older girl said, “I want to get rich…me want to buy car and house…that is what me want,” while her sister looked on smiling.

The duo had no real plan for their lives, but believed that being in the back dam with their parents was their best option thus far. The 17 year - old admitted to visiting nearby “kaimoos” to drink alcohol, dance and sleep with men, most of whom are miners.

“I does do that yeah,” she

“The older girl said, ‘I want to get rich…me want to buy car and house…that is what me want,’ while her sister looked on smiling” names.

“Me mother sign for me and me father sign for she,” said the older teen.

The parents were asked to produce the birth certificates for the teenagers and it was discovered that they were not 18 years as they had initially claimed, but 17 and 15 respectively.

“Madam, what are these girls doing here? Do you know it is against the law for these minors to be here?” asked the police officer.

But all the mother of the teenagers would say is that her “daughters help me here.

They work with me.” The woman said she is a cook and would have her eldest daughter assist her as she prepares the food. She told the officers that her younger daughter, who attended Secondary School, was with her because she has no one to care for her.

But even as the woman attempted to explain why her daughters were with her, the father of the children sat quietly in a drunken state

admitted, while looking away shyly. She told this newspaper of her boyfriend who is involved in diamond mining “up in the mountain.” She said her boyfriend would visit her almost every weekend and spend time with her.

As she spoke, there were “hickeys” [kiss mark, love bite, or bruise-like mark caused by the kissing or sucking of the skin], visible on her neck. When asked how she

The conditions under which the young girls lived with their parents got the marks on her body, she would not answer but kept smiling.

Meanwhile, the younger sister said she had just returned from Georgetown two days prior. She said it was a shop-owner who had taken her on the trip to the city.

“I went to Georgetown and walk,” the 15-year-old said.

She spent three days in the city. The third form student said the last time she attended school was in December 2015 and explained that she stayed in the dormitory.

“I want to go home…I don’t mind going to school,” the young girl said smiling.

She disclosed that she and her sister would “help mommy wash wares, cook and suh.”

She said she does not party like her sister and she does not like the taste of beer. “I does go by the shop and hang out with the boys and watch TV, but I don’t go and party.

A man picks up scattered beer bottles from around a “kaimoo” along the Amaila Falls road in the Kuribrong Mining District, Region Eight

She [sister] went and party last night up suh.”

After listening to the girls, the law-enforcement officers journeyed for approximately nine hours out of the back dam. They along with their mother were taken to the Bartica Police Station where an investigation is ongoing. The police officer told the Guyana Chronicle that Child Services and the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs will be notified about the situation. This newspaper understands that the teenagers may also be subjected to medical treatment.

Police, GGMC commended Minister Broomes said she is pleased with the work done by both the GGMC officers and the Guyana Police Force. She explained that the collaboration between the two entities followed training on Trafficking in Persons

which took place last week.

Minister Broomes said no matter the circumstances of the family, the teenagers should not have been in the back dam.

“Regardless of how persons want to talk about their needs, it is worrisome…we can’t condone this sort of thing… I am happy with the way in which the police and GGMC handled the matter,” she said.

Describing the situation as a “sad” one, Minister Broomes noted that the fact that the girls were present in the interior with their parents is not sufficient grounds for them living in such conditions.

“The matter should be investigated thoroughly… and based on what has happened I am convinced that the police will get to the bottom of this story,” she said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Govt to review Parking Meters contract

By Ariana Gordon GOVERNMENT through the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Ministry of Finance will be reviewing the contract for the controversial parking meters project, which is being implemented by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC).

Cabinet Secretary Joseph Harmon at a post cabinet press briefing Wednesday told reporters that Cabinet at its last meeting held on Tuesday decided to have the contract reviewed so as to ensure there are no illegalities based on the complaints made.

The contract for the implementation of the parking

meters project was signed with National Parking Systems (NPS)/Smart City Solutions. But notwithstanding the ongoing row over the implementation of the parking meters, Minister Harmon assured that government’s decision to review the contract is by no means an attempt to interfere in the affairs of the City Council.

“If they claim there is something wrong or there is something illegal then government has a responsibility to look at the contract itself to see whether there is anything in the contract that closely resembles the complaints by citizens.”

He said government supports the efforts of the City

Council to garner revenue while reducing congestion on city streets but its intervention is necessary because Georgetown is the Capital City. According to Harmon, Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan briefed Cabinet about the project, noting that whatever the outcome, it is the citizens who will be affected.

Maintaining that City Hall is an independent body, Minister Harmon said, “It is a young Council and we believe it must operate independently.”

When asked whether government would lend its voice to a conversation on the rates to be implemented by the Town Council when the

Minister of State Mr Joseph Harmon parking meter project comes on stream, Minister Harmon said, “The issue of rates, whether too high or low…are issues for the Council itself.”

City Mayor Chase-Green had said that the Council is currently reviewing the rate to be charged to citizens and initially, $500 per hour to park was touted. Parking meters are to be installed on every street between South Road and Church Street, Water Street and Camp Street.

Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan has publicly declared that the parking meter project is a shady one. He said the mere fact that the City Mayor has refused to reveal the details of the contract to city councillors and make the contract public, suggests that something sinister is taking place.

“So much has been shady with regards to the contract

and how it will be rolled out,” said Duncan who insists that something is amidst with the project.

“What is so special about this contract that it cannot be shared with the public? Who would steal it? Another country? Another municipality? It doesn’t make sense,” Duncan opined.

Chairman of City Hall’s Finance Committee, Oscar Clarke said the City Council does not need to seek permission from anyone to have the project implemented but “Out of courtesy, we think we have to speak to the minister.

The minister doesn’t make a decision for the Council; the Cabinet does...”

25 new wells for Region Nine

WATER security in Region Nine (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo) will be significantly boosted by the end of 2016 it the installation of 25 new wells.

Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI’s) Executive Director for Infrastructure Planning and Implementation, Ramchand Jailal in a recent interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA) disclosed that eight of the wells are being undertaken by GWI in collaboration with the Region Nine administration. A similar number will be sunk by the Brazilian Army, while five will be drilled by the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) and four others will be done through the Regional Democratic Council of Region Nine.

Jailal explained that with regards the first eight wells, GWI entered into an agreement with the region for a Brazilian contractor to undertake the drilling, due to El Nino weather conditions encountered in the region in 2015 and earlier this year. Under this programme, two wells have since been completed, one at Rupertee and another at Wowetta, which are providing services to the communities from underground water resources. The remaining six wells will be drilled in the

communities of Aranaputa, Kwaimatta, Marcanata, Kumu, Potarinau and Shulinab. These six wells are scheduled to be constructed in the latter half of 2016, Jailal said.

He explained that because of the current rainfall in the area, “the contractor had to move some of his equipment just to ensure that they are maintained and to have them ready to recommence drilling in another few weeks.” He noted that it is better to drill in the dry season, as it allows for the “wells to be set at the right level.”

The support from the Brazilian Army for the safe water intervention in the region is coming through collaboration with the Civil Defence Commission. Jailal pointed out that the neighbouring country’s army is expected to commence drilling of the wells in September. He said that they will be working in the South and Deep South in the eight communities of Shea, Maruranau, Awarenau, Aishalton, Karaudaranau, Meriwau Achiwib and Parabara Villages.

In addition to undertaking the works, the army will also be providing the equipment and material for the drilling of the wells. He explained that what the GWI would be

providing is administrative cost.

Meanwhile, the BNTF will be drilling the wells at Apoteri, Tiger Pond, Crash Water and Semonie. That agency also has a larger project to improve the water supply in Lethem which will see the refurbishing of elevated storage tanks in the Tabatinga and Culvert City housing schemes.

Jailal explained that the BNTF programmes come in a complete package. “These projects provide for drilling of the wells, construction of elevated storage facilities (trestles with tanks), along with the photovoltaic system (solar panels and electrical system) and the pipelines for providing communities with the stand pipe and connecting it with the trestle,” he said. The regional administration, will drill wells at Massara, Quiko, Taushida, and Annai. Along with these interventions, GWI will also be establishing an office in Lethem, where the water company will have an engineer to operate and monitor the water supply system in the region full time. The interventions are expected to boost access to potable water supply for residents in the region, especially in the dry season. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

On eve of defining British EU referendum,rivals race for final votes

(Reuters) British Prime Minister David Cameron and his eurosceptic opponents made final pitches for wavering voters on Wednesday on the eve of a defining referendum on European Union membership with the outcome still too close to call.

The vote, which echoes the rise of populism elsewhere in Europe and the United States, will shape the continent’s future. A victory for “out” could unleash turmoil on financial markets and foreign exchange bureaus reported a surge in demand for foreign currency from Britons wary sterling may fall.

“It’s very close; nobody knows what’s going to happen,” Cameron told Wednesday’s Financial Times, with opinion polls showing the rival camps neck and neck.

The Leave camp was on 45 percent, just one point ahead of Remain, with 9 percent undecided, in the last poll published by Opinium, which called it a “statistical tie”.

Leave had a two-point advantage in a separate poll by research firm TNS, down from seven points in a previous TNS survey on June 14. TNS said the lead could evaporate on polling day, as in past referendums in Scotland and Quebec.

European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker warned there would be no further renegotiation whatever the result on Thursday, after EU leaders reached a deal on a new settlement for Britain in February.

French President Francois Hollande said a vote to leave could seriously jeopardize British access to the EU’s prized single market.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she did not want to speculate on what dangers would arise if Britain left, because she wanted it to stay in the Union.

The referendum will take place a week after the murder of ardently pro-EU lawmaker Jo Cox shocked the country, raising questions about the tone of an increasingly bitter four-month campaign.

Much of the debate has boiled down to two issues: the economy and immigration.

The City of London financial center, the International Monetary Fund and the majority of British business leaders back Cameron and his Remain camp’s stance that to leave the EU would plunge Britain into recession, costing jobs and raising prices.

Supporters of a so-called Brexit have struck a chord with many voters by saying Britain would regain control of immigration if it cut itself loose from a bloc they see as domineering and out of touch.

In what has become an ugly and personal fight, both

People take part in a flash mob Ceilidh dance in a show of support for the campaign to remain in Europe, ahead of the EU Referendum, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Britain June 22, 2016. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne camps have been accused of using unfounded assertions and scare tactics. Remain campaigners accuse their opponents of resorting to the politics of hate; the Leave camp say their rivals have run a “Project Fear” to scare voters about the economic risks.

Both sides hit the road and the airwaves to appeal to the large number of undecided voters who will be

decisive, along with the level of turnout.

“It’s our last chance to sort this out and take back control,” said former London mayor Boris Johnson, the main leader of the Leave campaign and favorite with bookmakers to replace Cameron in the event of Brexit.

“If we don’t vote to leave tomorrow we will remain locked in the back of the

car, driven in an uncertain direction frankly to a place we don’t want to go and perhaps by a driver who doesn’t speak the very best of English,” he said.

He was flying around Britain in a helicopter to spread the Brexit message, making an unashamed play to British patriotism by declaring Thursday could be “independence day”.

North Korea’s missile launches ‘brazen, irresponsible act’: U.N. chief (Reuters) United Nations Secretary-General Ban Kimoon described North Korea’s latest ballistic missile launches as a “brazen and irresponsible act” ahead of a U.N. Security Council meeting on the issue on Wednesday.

North Korea, or the DPRK, launched what ap-

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peared to be an intermediate-range missile on Wednesday to a high altitude in the direction of Japan before it plunged into the sea about two hours after a similar test failed.

“The continued pursuit by the DPRK of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles will only undermine its security and fail to improve the lives of its citizens,” Ban’s spokesman, Farhan Haq, said.

Haq added that the launch, “in defiance of

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the unanimous will of the international community, is a brazen and irresponsible act,” Haq added.

French U.N. Ambassador Francois Delattre, president of the 15-member council for June, said the missile launches were an “unacceptable violation” of a U.N. ban.

A council meeting later on Wednesday was requested by the United States and Japan.

“We want a quick and firm reaction of the Secu-

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rity Council on this,” said Delattre. “We hope that ... we’ll have a press statement on this.”

The tests were the latest in a string of demonstrations of military might that began in January with North Korea’s fourth nuclear test and included the launch of a longrange rocket in February.

North Korea has been under U.N. sanctions since 2006. In March, the Security Council imposed harsh new sanctions on the country.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

U.S. envoy talks with Venezuela President Maduro amid crisis (Reuters) Veteran U.S. diplomat Tom Shannon met with Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro on Wednesday to re-start talks between the ideologically opposed governments amid a punishing economic crisis in the South American OPEC nation.

Shannon, 57, who led a similar rapprochement last year that stalled over the jailing of protest leader Leopoldo Lopez, also met with opposition figures and civil society activists on his visit to Caracas.

During 17 years of socialist rule under Maduro and his predecessor Hugo Chavez, Venezuela has replaced Cuba as Washington’s principle irritant in the Americas.

The United States is backing an opposition push to hold a “fair and timely” referendum this year that

could see Maduro ousted.

However, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry agreed in talks with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez last week to re-start dialogue.

Shannon and Maduro, 53, met after lunch in the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas, but there was no immediate word on the content of their talks.

Their meeting came the day before the Organization of American States was to discuss a proposal by its head, Luis Almagro, to invoke the regional body’s Democratic Charter, which could eventually lead to a vote on suspending Venezuela.

Shannon also met in Caracas with opposition leaders including Henrique Capriles, the two-time presidential candidate who lost to both Chavez and Maduro and is

now spearheading the push for a referendum.

Maduro may be hoping the meeting eases international pressure on him, analysts and diplomats said, while Washington likely calculates a rapprochement undermines Venezuela’s constant blame on “imperialist” foes for the nation’s problems.

“Kerry indicated last week that the U.S. wants to see a recall referendum this year, and bilateral talks will help to offset what would otherwise be fodder for Maduro to declare that the U.S. is trying to overthrow his regime,” the Eurasia consultancy group said.

Shannon, a former U.S. ambassador to Brazil and current Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs who speaks Spanish and Portuguese, was likely to press for the release of jailed

Food Relief for Venezuela: T&T manufacturers sign US$27m agreement (Trinidad Express) Within a month after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro visited (Trinidad) to hold bi-lateral talks with the Government, local manufacturers have signed contracts to provide goods valued at US$26.9 million to a neighbour faced with a severe food crisis.

The first shipment of goods will land in Venezuela tomorrow and will include food items such as ketchup, mayonnaise and chicken. Non-food items will also be exported including bath soaps and toilet paper.

Trinidad’s Trade and Industry Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon, back left, and Venezuelan officials look on as VEMCO director Christopher Alcazar and vice-president, Economic Affairs, Venezuelan Foreign Trade Corporation SA (CORPOVEX), Miguel Perez Abad, sign an agreement for the provision of goods to Venezuela over a three-month period. (KERWIN PIERRE/Trinidad Express)

Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro shakes hands with U.S. diplomat Thomas Shannon during their meeting at Miraflores Palace in Caracas, Venezuela June 22, 2016. (REUTERS/Carlos Garcia Rawlins) opponents including Lopez.

He is also expected to push for internationally mediated talks between Maduro’s government and the

opposition to try and ease political strains behind the crisis.

The Venezuelan opposition leader was sentenced

to nearly 14 years for instigating 2014 anti-Maduro protests that led to violence killing 43 people across both sides.

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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

Civility must return to public square THE present management of this state-owned newspaper has an interest in the society, all its peoples, and the effective and efficient functioning of government institutions, at all levels. When government functions, the state and its peoples are assured the needed security not only consistent with sovereignty, but that any problem, hurdle or conflict, can be overcome in the interest of the common good. No one will deny achieving this necessitates the arms, institutions and tiers of the government have to not only operate in conformity with the laws, but also be mindful whose interests they serve and are in service to: the people.

Consequently, this editorial returns to the Georgetown Mayor and City Council. The M&CC prior to 2016 went for 22 years without Local Government Elections (LGE) as all other local government authorities. What makes the M&CC stand out, apart from being the oldest Municipality, it is located in the nation’s capital that seats central government, major businesses and other institutions, domestic and foreign. Whatever the government in this town -- local and central -- does and whatever takes place here goes national and becomes the standard by which Guyana is judged.

Georgetown has gone through a phase recently where it was appropriately dubbed the “Garbage City.” This dilapidated state was largely said to be influenced by politics between central government and the City Council, due to different political groups that controlled these two tiers of government. Claims by the Council that it was being starved of funding and consequently opportunities for development, because the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration had withheld same and did not honour rates and taxes obligations for government properties attracted the citizens’ ire for that administration and empathy for the council. That LGEs were denied for more than two decades also incensed the people. When LGEs were held in March, the people spoke and in speaking they denied the PPP/C any seat on the council.

The new council, even though it comprises some members who were there from the 1994 LGEs, came into office with tremendous goodwill. This goodwill should not have been taken to mean the council can do as it pleases and treat its constituents, the business community inclusive of the vendors and manage City Hall without regard for

GUYANA CHRONICLE THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

Can UG elude the intruding hands of the state?

Dear Editor,

PERHAPS thousands of letters, columns and news reports have been devoted to the University of Guyana (called UG) in the 53 years of its existence. Not to mention think tanks, conferences and other interventions offering advice on the way forward for the institution of learning.

Inevitably therefore, this letter runs the risk of repetitiveness where UG is concerned.

As the brainstorming session at the Marriott led by the University of Guyana’s energetic new Vice Chancellor Dr Ivelaw Griffith begins its deliberations on the way forward, the fraught history of our only university will again be the focus of attention.

According to a newspaper report, the conference will be attended by approximately 100 persons, 48 of which are overseas-based Guyanese and will include professionals, non-professionals, academics and businessmen. It is conceivably, by far the most independent initiative driven by the university for itself.

There have been many such initiatives in the past to raise funds, but there is a discernible and refreshing openness and diligent preparation on the part of the new VC since he has acquired office. By extension, at least thus far, the Guyana government appears willing to let the VC and his team chart an independent course.

Professor Griffith recently told the press that he brought the visitors and stakeholders together to ask one simple question, “How can you help this university to raise funds?” In 1994, one political party, the WPA, had recommended that UG be freed to “generate revenues locally and overseas, to engage in commercial ventures such as consultancies, summer school for overseas students…and, in general to develop and exploit the considerable commercial potential of the research and development aspect of its work.” Unquestionably financial assistance, and lots of it, is of extreme importance for improved wages and working conditions crucial for academic and non-aca-

the denizens. This matter of the parking meters could have been handled and still can be handled better, mindful that councillors are in service to the people and paid by the people to work in their interest and under this new model of LGEs take seriously their direct relationship with their constituents.

None is denying that mistakes would be made. The reasonable among us would rather see where mistakes are perceived to be made instead of becoming determined to prove a point, to accept the wisdom in stepping back and looking at the matter through the lens of those expressing concerns.

The Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, who has responsibility for local government, spoke out over the weekend on the matter, which this paper carried. From the minister’s comments it was evident he took note of the diverse views and offered to the denizens that the matter will be put on hold, pending due diligence and ethics. This was the best approach to resolution of the conflict.

The minister never said the project is dead or the council should not proceed. He was speaking to proceeding in a manner that could defuse the conflicts, and allow the council comprising many groups to address the matter and return to the public hopefully devoid of the present contentious state of affairs. Coalition government or multi-party representatives sitting on one council present potential for conflicts given competing interests, and this is understood. That having been said, a coalition or multi-party government does not prevent

demic staff, research and the infrastructure of UG. But beyond the acquisition of funds, I am sure that the VC and his team will address the tenuous social and political fabric of this nation concurrent with the persistent problem of governmental interference into the academic institution.

Professor Griffith is definitely alert to the problem as he has already made a shot across the bow, calling for a non-interference policy from the governing UG council – the accustomed bully pulpit and source of pressure from governments of the past.

The University of Guyana, since its foundation in 1963, had historically come under pressure from political forces in the society and its relatively independent academic council was by the early 1970s subject to insistent intervention from the State. This dominion of the State over UG did not occur overnight.

In the Chronicle Christmas annual of 1967, an article musing on the University of Guyana’s first four years noted: “There have been bits

of unpleasantness – such as the controversy over the non-renewal of the contract of sociology lecturer Stuart Bowes, frictions with the Headmaster of Queens College over use of the premises, disagreements between Dr. (Lancelot) Hogben and (Richard) Drayton, disputes between the Administration and the government over shortage of funds, and the row between the Students society and the Administration over graduate gowns.

And in a small society such as Guyana, the disagreements have spilled over into the press and made headlines”.

This assessment was made 49 years ago, a time, presumably, of hope in a country that had just achieved independence. Indeed, the article in question titled “UG: Forward with the Future” actually captured the future (our present) in another amazingly predictive passage: “A major problem facing U.G is one of finance. Library facilities are still very inadequate and See page 7

working to achieve consensus. In fact, it presents the society the best opportunity to witness diversity of views in action and consensus formed through said association and interaction.

The present administrators of the Government of Guyana have communicated on several occasions that its governance will be built on civility, social cohesion, national unity and inclusionary democracy. These commitments also influenced the support received at the local, regional and national elections. Thus when the mayor and team that visited Mexico and Panama on the meters issue, at their press conference of Monday, said it is moving ahead with the project, it created concern that the words of the minister, other members of the council and the society, meant nothing. Said approach poses risk to conflict-resolution and commitments the administration campaigned on. When Councillor Oscar Clarke in response to questions asked about the trip and project responded by saying “I have no apologies to make to anyone…” is making an untenable situation more untenable. Minister of State Harmon did apologise for his no-apology in response to public outcries, even though belatedly and partial, but this should not be seen as the new standard for state and government officials, elected or appointed, to treat with those whom they are elected to represent and paid to serve. Good sense must prevail and civility must return to the public square. The State and people depend on it.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

Rohee mouth opens, story jumps out Dear Editor,

FINALLY, Rohee admits to the alleged corrupt modus operandi of the PPP Government in the widespread use of sole-sourcing, the conveyor belt for his party to siphon off state revenues and resources to relatives, friends, party members, loyal constituents, business partners, foreign friends and allies. This admission provides insights on how the state treasury became the PPP’s slush funds for rewards and patronage.

I am still dazed by Clement Rohee’s statement in Kaieteur News (June 21, 2016), and I quote: “Yea, well, that [accusation] may have been levelled against us, but that’s the previous administration.

But now they are in the Government and they have to face the music if they do it as well. That’s the nature of politics.” It is my understanding of his statement in

the context of sole-sourcing, that everyone, regardless of political party affiliation, must face the music or be held accountable.

The most glaring example of sole-sourcing (a nobid contract to one person or company) is the sweetheart deal to Bharat’s best friend and business partner Ramroop. First, the GPC was practically gifted to him, along with Sanata, thereafter the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Company (GPC) received most favoured status from the previous government to monopolize medical supplies, reaping huge profits which previously was state revenue. The list of similar deals which followed is long, well known and shameless.

But shame is not a word the PPP cabal understands, given the moral high ground they now claim.

However, the forensic auditors have found that sole-sourcing had not only

become the main channels of how that government did business with the private sector and individuals, but is the system put in place to circumvent the laws, accounting principles, audits, and in turn provide for kick-backs and enrich executives, relatives, and party supporters in a corrupt network.

After reading two (MMA-ADA & NDIA) of the 33 forensic audit reports posted on the Ministry of Finance website, it boggles the mind as to how this corrupt system could have evaded the scrutiny and elicit corrective action of our Auditor-General and our Parliament. The MMA-ADA forensic auditor TDA LAL & Co. found that contracts under one million dollars were not being awarded based on the three- quote system of goods and services where the lower price with fair quality is usually accepted.

They also found that when

Can UG elude the...

From page 6 essential equipment has had to be done without. At times there seems even danger that enough money will not be there to pay salaries to Staffmen.”

In the early period of PNC rule, as the late political scientist Tyrone Ferguson contends, there was a degree of independence at UG, citing the case of Shirley Patterson (Field-Ridley) “who was herself strongly linked with the PNC and was to be appointed Minister of Education in 1968, could not get her contract renewed by the university two years earlier.”

Interference in UG’s role and position in society would nonetheless become the norm. Walter Rodney was denied a position in 1969 and from there the path was downward. Successive VCs and their staff were subjected to the whims of PNC and PPP officials. The political control of UG took many forms – among them the power to terminate contracts, starving UG of funds to bend the institution to their respective wills and other forms of “engagement,” thereby destroying academic independence. Under the PPP regime

the domination continued.

Frederick Kissoon and others were modern victims of the government-dominated UG Council.

Will the grouping at the Marriott confab with new leadership find a path for UG out of the maze of economic, social, cultural, infrastructural and other issues that has followed the institution from the inception? Can they set out a path to instill new, independent and visionary energy into the University of Guyana? Can an institution termed “University of Guyana” finally elude the intruding hands of the State and its vassals as extant up to the recent past? A good friend of mine mused on the implications of the designation “University of Guyana” and what it means in a small society where the ownership rights of the State is implicitly and explicitly bound up in the very title.

I am certain that Guyanese at home and abroad will fully support this current U.G. initiative and wish them all success. But we can also warn the academics and businessmen and women that the financial focus of their delibera-

tions should be supplemented by what I would call a “Guyana 101” syllabus, to wit, an examination of the profundity of daily perils and consuming nature of Guyanese civilization and its fragile civil, political and social fabric. Guyana and its institutions have over time succeeded in breaking even the most visionary and practical expeditions of remedy in almost all areas of national life.

The UG gathering can begin their exercise by flouting tradition and deferring to home-grown wisdom through careful reading and reflection on the untiring observations and admonitions of local critics and onlookers in the press, including Freddy Kissoon, GHK Lall, Pastor Wendell Jeffrey, Allan Fenty, EB John, Frank Fyfe and others on the nature of everyday Guyana, its forms, and the way it consumes, like flesh- eating bacteria, any noble endeavour. Please don’t read this as nagging negativism. It is pessimistic optimism.

Sincerely NIGEL WESTMAAS

sole-sourcing occurred, it is possible that better quality or cheaper prices could have been obtained if contracts had been advertised by tender. Many purchase requests were made at the discretion of department heads with no invoice or value-for-money principle. Further to that, there is contract-splitting to stay below the legal tender board or Cabinet requirement.

These auditors also flagged the possibility of collusion between staff and external parties in the procurement of mechanical spares, among many other malpractices.

The forensic audit of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) is much more appalling when you consider how the state’s resources were managed worse than a private cakeshop. Here, Nigel Hinds Financial Services made the troubling observation that for the short period Jan. – July 2015, a review of the projects awarded showed that out of G$647,338,367. – 59% were awarded by sole- sourcing, 17% by quotations, and 24%

by public tendering. All of the sole-sourcing contracts were granted to Water Users Associations (WUAs) which comprise nine farmers associations for the organisation and management of Secondary Drainage and Irrigation(D&I) structures and inputs for agricultural production and rural housing. Every six months, the WUAs submit requests for contracts and are paid accordingly. There are many reports of mismanagement, but none of these associations have prepared annual financial reports or have financial statements audited for the years 2011, 2012, 2013, or 2014.

Nigel Hinds Financial Services has also found the NDIA spent in excess of G$12 Billion in both Capital and Revenue Expenditure over the past four years and the Internal Audit Unit or watchdog for NDIA has only one person who is tasked with the responsibility of auditing the entire organisation. In addition to that, the internal auditor erroneously reports to the CEO who showed little or no interest in the internal controls, generally. For

obvious reasons, Rohee did not advocate discontinuing the system of sole- sourcing which lacked controls and accountability while the PPP Government was in power.

Often, the system was manipulated to accommodate sole-sourcing and kick-backs to executives.

There is dire need to prosecute those who stole state resources and introduce fool-proof systems that would lead to accountability to the Guyanese taxpayers of State revenues as cited by out-going U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Bryan Hunt. In the interim, our leadership need to take action to prosecute wrong doers and start breaking up this corrupt system by way of removals, transfers and re-shuffling of senior public sector functionaries including permanent secretaries and senior legal officers who are slow to act in cleaning up this mess. Not to act is lunacy or flagrant neglect.

Regards MAX WALLERSON

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Surviving cancer and other potholes in Guyana

What’s that smell!

“WHAT is it that it smells so nasty?” I thought as I sat up in bed.

The smell of bacon being fried wafted through my window from a nearby cafe. The smell, which I usually relished, was alien to me that morning.

My stomach felt empty and queasy at the same time; nothingness was churning sickly in my stomach.

I inhaled and exhaled deeply. “Okay, it's not that bad,” I said to myself, as the deep breathing seemed to soothe my stomach.

Two minutes later, my sense of smell was assaulted by yet another familiar scent. Grandma’s perfume made its way through the great expanse of ceiling, wrapped itself around the high wooden beams, and slithered into my nostrils, resulting in my immediate removal from the soft, warm and cozy trappings of my bed to the cold, hard bathroom tiles I kneeled on as I clutched the toilet bowl.

My stomach violently convulsed as I emptied its contents.

“How can my body still want to throw up, when there’s nothing left?” I remember thinking, as my respiratory muscles forced my digestive tract’s one-way street into reverse.

I continued to stretch for about 20 minutes, whilst trying not to pass out from the cold sweat and increased heart rate.

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

HANGOVER FROM HELL ‘Chemo’ symptoms are the hangover from hell.

Everyone at home dosed me up with ginger tea and mints for the nausea (This helped considerably), fruits, coconut water ( I lived on this) handkerchiefs soaked in Shilling Oil and Limacol, of course, the Guyanese cure for all ailments. Broke your foot? Put some Limacol on it. LOL! During this first week after my ‘chemo’, the feelings

four days after my ‘chemo’ on Wednesday.

THURSDAY

“Completed my first ‘chemo’ round; took about three hours. It wasn’t unpleasant. I didn’t even tense up for the IV. I didn’t throw up until I smelt perfume this morning. I keep bunning down Rome and drinking ginger tea, because it helps with the nausea, and watching gravity falls…”

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

Slight headache, not much nausea. I still have my appetite, and taste in my mouth. My joints hurt a little; just feel tired. So tired. I also want to go out of the house for a walk, but the effort is too much. I am tired just thinking about it, but I will push myself...”

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

I used the mask for about three days. Uusually, in the mornings and night, it was at its peak. I wanted to eat, but my stomach continued to be a choosy brat; always trying to return what I gave it.

I soon found out that it’s easier to throw up coconut water, watermelon, grapes and apples than bananas.

As the week progressed, I felt tired; a weary sort of tired. I spent most of my time lying in bed, not sleeping.

I could never sleep during the day, unless I was very sick.

And the “very sick” I was didn't make day naps pleasurable.

THE FIRST FOUR DAYS The following are journal excerpts spanning the first

“Best day since Saturday. Today was very ‘normal’.

The slight headace is still existing. Visited Sam yesterday for a few hours. Today, Tiffany came and brought me chocolates. It has been a good day; read some interesting facts on RH-Negative DNA ( Yea, that conspiracy stuff).

Rewatching The Matrix today. I think I’ll start walking with mom on the seawall. My writing is bad because of the joints feeling weird to write with…”

TUESDAY “Feeling very similar to ‘normal’ self. Supposed to go walking with mom later. I have so much chocolate, I have to try not to eat it, lol. Yeap! Definitely need to get out, if I'm going to be writing about chocolate.”

After all the mental kicking and screaming, I survived my first week of side effects, and was back to my usual ‘foodie’ self by the next, which was perfect timing, as it marked the beginning of a new side effect; the one that would attack my vanity.

Pressure gov’t to act on forensic audit reports - Dr David Hinds urges Guyanese

By Ravin Singh THE government must seek to expunge corruption as a matter of priority and to show its willingness to do so it must act against those found guilty in state agencies, political activist Dr David Hinds said Tuesday.

Dr Hinds is an executive member of the Working People's Alliance (WPA) party, which is part of the governing coalition.

He said that those responsible for corruption, as cited in recent forensic audit reports, must be held accountable.

Failure to do so, he contended, “will make a mockery of democracy and will further institutionalise corruption in the society.”

Dr Hinds was speaking at a WPA symposium to mark the 36th death anniversary of Dr Walter Rodney, the renowned historian and political activist. Dr Rodney, a fierce opponent of the government of then President Forbes Burnham, died in an explosion just outside the Camp Street prison June 13, 1980.

Dr Hinds focused much of his presentation on Guyana’s history and detailed expectations which he believed will pro-

pel Guyana in a progressive way.

He said that the change of government in May 2015 did not bring along the expected change in behaviour of the state and he warned against the State apparatus being “used against the people.” On this note, he pointed to the recent removal of vendors around the Stabroek Market and the way in which they were treated by the Georgetown City Council.

Further, to move Guyana forward, he said a multi-ethnic movement is needed both at the national and grassroots level.

“We have to find a way to bring our people together,” he said, adding that other multi-ethnic countries have found creative ways to bring people together and harness their energies.

He acknowledged that this is no easy task, but he pointed to the fact that Suriname, Kenya and Zimbabwe have all recorded some amount of success in this regard.

Going forward too, he noted that there the push for foreign direct investment must be balanced with building capacity domestically.

“We’ve spent a lot of energies on attracting foreign investment, but we have not spent enough in investing in a

policy to recruit our people in the building of our country,” Dr. Hinds said.

The fifth issue he highlighted was the need for constitutional reform, which, according to him, must not only be approached from the top. He suggested that there must be fundamental changes to local governance.

Dr. Hinds explained that there is a sense that elections could transform the local government system, but he is of an opposing conviction.

“I think that we have to have fundamental transformation in the local system, because I think that is the engine of governance,” he said.

Finally, he examined that need to re-invest in education in Guyana, which, according to him, is critical to the development of the country. Dr. Hinds expressed the view that Caribbean societies have been able to use education as a means of lifting the poor and giving hope to them.

“When that mother or father who had to drop out of school can see his or her child with degrees speaking with authority, then it says that is where the hope of our future lies,” he stated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

More pumps for flooded Reg. 5 …residents get medical, other aid

By Svetlana Marshall FLOOD waters in West Coast Berbice, Region Five have begun to recede, even as plans are being put in place to deploy four additional irrigation pumps to the affected areas and optimize the capacity of the ‘problematic’ Trafalgar Pump Station.

Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan yesterday led a high-profile team to West Berbice, where onthe-spot assessments were conducted in the flood- affected villages.

He was accompanied by Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix; Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings; and the Public Infrastructure Ministry’s Chief Engineer and Community Coordinator, Walter Willis and Neilson McKenzie respectively. With them were other regional representatives, technicians and engineers.

Following a thorough assessment of the Trafalgar Pump Station, where the sluice is currently inoperable and the outfall channel is silted up, Ministers Ramjattan and Felix ordered that immediate remedial works be executed.

At the time of their arrival, only one of the four pumps was in operation. Two of the remaining three have been dysfunctional for more than two years, while the other one “conked-out” just yesterday morning.

However, by the time the ministers were ready to leave the district, the second pump had been repaired, and was in full operation.

Dredging of the outfall in the vicinity of Trafalgar was expected to commence last evening, with the arrival of the pontoon and dredge. Plans were also being made to have four irrigation pumps from the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) deployed to the district.

MEETING WITH RESIDENTS During a meeting with residents of the affected villages -- Golden Grove, Lovely Lass, Trafalgar, No. 29, Union and Lichfield -- both ministers assured them that short and medium-term solutions would be put in place to bring them much-needed relief.

However, in a separate meeting with representatives from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) and the Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ ADA), Minister Ramjattan came to the conclusion that the drainage and irrigation system in West Coast Berbice villages were badly maintained.

Minister Felix observed that the floods were also as a result of the heavy downpours, coupled with the release of water from the rice fields. He said, too, that while the pump stations at Bush Lot and Abary are in full effect, the Trafalgar Pump Station has been unable to effectively pump water off the land, resulting in flooding.

Floods have not only brought much discomfort to residents, but damage to property, and even loss of poultry.

However, Minister Felix emphasised that the government will put short and long-term plans in place to prevent flooding in these areas.

“The short-term plan will ensure that the pumps are working, and that the outfall is kept dredged,” he explained, adding that in the longrun, the government will put systems in place to have the entire drainage system in the connecting villages.

SHEER NEGLIGENCE During the outreach, the MMA/ADA came under attack by residents who complained bitterly about the authority’s alleged neglect of duty. According to the residents, it was negligence on the part of the MMA/ADA that contributed to the flooding.

Public Infrastructure Ministry’s Chief Engineer, Walter Willis explaining the situation to Ministers Ramjattan and Felix

The lone pump which was in operation at the time of the ministers’ visit to the Trafalgar Pump Station

But MMA/ADA Manager, Aubrey Charles refuted those claims, saying that on the contrary, the Authority has been doing its best to mitigate flooding in the area.

He explained that under normal circumstances, the doors of the sea sluices are often opened to keep the outfall channel clear of silt, but that this process was severely affected by the just-concluded dry spell.

Noting that the Trafalgar Pump Station was the one mostly affected, Charles said: “There was not enough water in the drainage system to open the sluice door to flush the silt from the outfall channel.” Charles said when the rains came in late April, the Authority could not have opened the sluice door at Trafalgar, and that the two other sluices at Profit and D’Edward could not have drained the water from the residential areas, nor the irrigation water from the rice fields, resulting in flooding.

Their only alternative, he said, was, with the help of the NDIA and RDC, to deploy three mobile pumps, six tractor-operated pumps and a number of excavators to the villages of Golden Grove, Lovely Lass, Trafalgar, No. 29, Union and Lichfield.

NDIA Senior Engineer, Dave Hicks assured the ministers and regional councillors that every effort is being made to drain the water off of the residential lands.

Hicks said while short-term plans are being put in place, the NDIA, in its 2016 Budget, has set aside $29M for the rehabilitation of one of the two electrical pumps at Trafalgar that became dysfunctional approximately two years ago.

He explained that it would cost the NIDA approximately $46M to repair the two pumps, and that as such, a decision was taken to repair only one.

That pump is expected to be completed before the start of the next rainy season.

Minister Khemraj Ramjattan meeting with some of the affected residents in West Coast Berbice

Flood waters receding off residential lands. This house is one of few still affected by the floods (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Resurfaced Surama airstrip commissioned While being told that government is putting policy in place for proper management and maintenance of aerodromes in Guyana’s hinterland, residents of Surama were charged by Minister of Indigenous Affairs Sydney Allicock to be more aggressive in pushing for tourism development in the Region 9 community.

Minister Allicock was speaking at the recommissioning ceremony of the Surama Airstrip on the 84th birth anniversary of the community’s founder Robert Fredericks Allicock, who is also the father of the minister.

The airstrip was reconstructed on a budget of over $5M by J.R Ranch Incorporated Construction Services and features a specialised EBS soil solutions surface sealer which lengthens the

life of the airstrip, cut maintenance costs and reduces the impact of dust pollution. The minister said the hinterland airstrip project is a small part of a ten-point plan proposed

by President David Granger for the development of the hinterland.

He told residents that while government invests in their development, they must take the business-like approach, pushing tourism for further expansion in the community. “We are investing… we would like to see results.

We are going to support you but you have to realise that this is yours… all the advice that has been given to you, take it … own it! Surama!

Tourism! You have to get aggressive. Come out of the box, climb on the hills and look down to see what you have to manage. We have a

Minister of Indigenous Affairs Sydney Allicock and Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Annette Ferguson pose at the recommissioned Surama Airstrip in Region 9 beautiful surrounding here.

See how you could market it so tourists buy packages in the thousands so it would justify how we could open up.”

Jokingly, he added, “You have the airstrip but if the aircraft don’t land we might very well put 40 cricket pitches on it!”

“Having an airstrip is not the end of it… most of the persons have that quality to bring to this nation the respect that it deserves and this is the angle that we would like to take… to show how partnership works.”

Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Anette Ferguson said government is considering policy to ensure the proper maintenance and development of airstrips in the hinterland regions.

“We have started to work to ensure that we have a policy because many of these aerodromes they do not have

proper lighting facility, there is the absence of fencing among other things. It is very risky especially if you have to do flights by night. It is by God’s grace and guidance that these pilots, they assemble properly and they take off safely,” Minister Ferguson said.

She said government has already dispatched a team comprising technicians from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to have assessments done throughout hinterland.

The team is currently in Region 9. She praised the new soil solutions surface sealer system used in the construction of the airstrip saying that she felt pleased that there was no presence of dust when the aircraft landed as the high-level team ventured into the area.

“I trust that we can adapt this throughout the other regions where we

have aerodromes so that our aircrafts and our passengers can land safely,” the Minister said. She said government will empower village leaders and skilled individuals to manage and maintain the airstrip, creating employment and offering a sense of ownership. “Maintenance of these aerodromes (is) very critical. At the level of the ministry we will develop a new system. Instead of having people outside of your community maintaining these aerodromes, we want to empower the village councilors or whoever the groupings are to have the aerodromes maintained. I have already started negotiations with Vice President to have village councilors identified so monies can be handed over for maintenance of airstrip”, creating employment and development of the people.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Ex-cop says he was on legitimate police business when arrested

EX-POLICEMAN, Tito Benons told the court yesterday that at the time of his arrest, he was going to lodge a gun he’d found on Cemetery Road, at the Brickdam Police Station.

Benons, who said he was attached to the Berbice Anti-Crime Unit, is currently on trial before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore on two gun-related charges.

He was called upon to lead a defence after the magistrate ruled that the prosecution had made out a prima facie case against him on the charge, which alleged that on March 26, at Norton Street and Louisa Row, Georgetown, he had an unlicensed Smith and Wesson 9mm pistol along with 15 rounds of live ammunition.

During his sworn testimony, the defendant told the court that on the day in question, he, his cousins and a friend were riding their motorcycles along Ceme-

tery Road.

At the time, he said, the traffic was so congested, they were proceeding at a slow rate of speed. According to Benons, he was ‘riding pillion’ with his friend, when he noticed a black object lying on the side of the road.

“I told my friend to stop; I came off of the motorcycle and walked about five meters backwards.

“I noticed that the black object appeared to be a firearm. I picked up the said firearm and showed it to my friend, and told him that it is a real gun,” Benons told the court.

The ex-cop told the magistrate that he indicated to his friend that he was taking the weapon to the Brickdam Police Station to have it lodged, but they were both intercepted by police while making their way there.

Benons said he came off the motorcycle and went to

a policeman, who later identified himself as Constable George.

According to the defendant, when he showed the firearm to the Constable, the officer told him that he was trying to impersonate a police, in spite of other officers who were a part of the patrol indicating that he was indeed a policeman.

The defendant recalled that he was placed into the police van, and taken to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at the Brickdam station where he was handed over to one Sergeant Sarrabo.

However, the prosecution’s case is that Benons had told traffic ranks who arrested him that the illegal firearm he was carrying belonged to him, and that it was for his protection.

The matter will be called again on Friday, when Benons is to be cross-examined by the prosecutor.

Private criminal charges against Justice Navindra Singh withdrawn THE criminal charges against Justice Navindra Singh were yesterday withdrawn

by Magistrate Renita Singh on the request of Special Prosecutor Glenn Hanoman.

Justice Singh had legal action filed against him by policeman, Gavyn Smith, for the use of threatening language, words which incite racial hostility, and for obstructing the free flow of traffic along a main carriageway.

However, Prosecutor Hanoman yesterday moved a motion for the matter to be withdrawn against Singh, since the police had also dismissed criminal charges filed against Smith.

The allegation stemmed from a heated argument at a traffic sign in early April between Smith and Singh on April 12, 2016.

Singh had caused his motor vehicle to remain in the centre carriageway of Camp Street, thereby obstructing the flow of traffic, in contravention of Section 60 of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02.

On the same day, the policeman claimed that Singh used threatening language against him. The policeman alleged Justice Navindra Singh that Singh also threatened to shoot him.

Smith further claimed that during the encounter, the judge used words that incited or attempted to incite hostility against him, on the grounds of race.

The police officer also faced four charges, based on allegations made by the judge.

Those charges are: The use of indecent language; having a prohibited amount of tint on his motor vehicle; dangerous driving; and failure to observe the traffic signals.

The prosecutor stated that based upon the merit of the police upon dismissing their charges against Smith, it was only fair that the judge be subjected to the same.

Hanoman explained to the court that if the matter were to be tried, it would have caused damage to the judicial board and the judge’s character also.

Quicker emergency services coming

Guyanese will soon benefit from an improved emergency medical response service in the future thanks to a recently launched programme.

This was announced by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon during his post-Cabinet media briefing on Wednesday. The minister said Cabinet was briefed by Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan on the state of local Emergency Medical Services (EMS), plans to improve this, and the “response to emergencies”.

Minister Harmon explained that the plan’s first phase, to initiate needed improvements, will be completed within a year and result in a reduction of time from reports being made to transportation to medical facilities. The aim, the Minister said, is to have within 15 minutes, patients picked up and taken to a medical facility.

He added, “Initially the project is going to be dealing with Region Four and along the coast where 80 percent of the population resides and later on to other areas. The programme will also build on the current medical evacuation arrangement from hinterland communities and riverain areas,” he stated. He added, “the plan envisages the compilation of these assets into one system, that will benefit the Guyanese people by large” The plan will see an increased number of ambulances, more training of emergency medical personnel, fully equipped medical transportation such as road and water ambulances and aircraft. The next phase will encompass, “the rest of Guyana”, Minister Harmon further stated. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

Cops charge mother of raped toddler

AN East Berbice mother of three is expected to appear in court today to face child neglect charges after her three-year-old daughter was found to have been sexually molested.

Police say she is likely to be arraigned at the Sprin-

glands Magistrates Court, and that other persons of interest are being questioned.

Among those initially held for questioning were her two brothers, aged eight and 14.

The toddler, who is currently hospitalised in Berbice, was first taken to the

Springlands Police Station after her mother noticed she was bleeding profusely from her vagina.

The woman was advised by the police to take the child to the hospital, where a medical examination verified that she had indeed been raped.

The incident reportedly occurred at the home where the child lives, at around 10:30hrs on Sunday.

At the time of the incident, reports say, the child’s mother, her two brothers, and a male friend of her mother’s, were all at home. Their fa-

ther, who’s a fisherman, was away at sea.

Investigators say that the mother, a known alcoholic, was drinking when the incident occurred, and that the child had been left unattended.

According to Divisional

Commander, Ian Amsterdam, the Child Protection Agency is working closely with the police to ensure that justice is served.

He said, too, that the toddler will be removed from the home and put somewhere safe.

Driver bailed for deadly Coverden smash-up

ALMOST two months after a motorcyclist and his pillion rider were killed in an accident on the Coverden Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD), a 23-year-old driver was yesterday charged for their death.

General Manager of Guyana Quartz Sand, Jason Bhaskaran, of Track ‘B’ Timehri, EBD, was released on $400,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on two counts of causing death by dangerous driving.

Particulars of the first charge alleged that on April 17 at Coverden Public Road, Bhaskaran drove his Toyota Jeep, PHH 8034 in a dangerous manner, resulting in the death of 23-year-old Rudolph Bess of 620 Kaneville, EBD. Bhaskaran was also charged for causing the death of 16-year-old Hansranie Persaud of Grove Housing Scheme, EBD, who was saddling on Bess’s bike.

The general manager denied both charges, while his lawyer told the court that he was initially released on $100,000 station bail and

Dead: Rudolph Bess

Jason Bhaskaran has been cooperating with the police. Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones made no objections to bail, but disclosed that the post-mortem report on the two deceased are still outstanding.

The chief magistrate

Dead: Hansranie Persaud granted Bhaskaran $200,000 bail on each count and transferred the matter to Magistrate Judy Latchman for July 13.

According to reports, at about 03:00hrs on April 17, Bess and Persaud were on a motorcycle when an approaching jeep slammed into them, killing them both on the spot. The jeep then toppled several times and slammed into another car, injuring two persons.

The duo was heading back home from the Soesdyke area after a Saturday night party. Persaud had reportedly sneaked out of her home to go to the party.

Deportee fined for procuring fake passport A 27-year-old fibre-technician of Seventh Street, Cummings Lodge, was on Wednesday fined $70,000 by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for making a false declaration for the purpose of procuring a new passport.

Mahindra Charran pleaded guilty to the offence, which stated that on June 11, 2006, at the Central Immigration and Passport Office, Georgetown, he made a false statement by signing a written declaration that he was Kishore Ram, despite knowing same to be false.

Prosecutor Corporal Deniro Jones said the defendant is the holder of a Guyana passport in the name of Charran, which he used to travel to

Mahindra Charran

Saint Martin, but was denied entry because he had previously overstayed. He was subsequently deported to Guyana.

However on June 11, 2006, Charran visited the passport office in Guyana to apply for another document in the name of Kishore Ram, which he used to travel to Saint Martin. The man reportedly was deported again after he overstayed his time.

Police in Guyana arrested the accused after it was revealed that Charran used the faked name of “Ram” to obtain the passports. He begged the court for forgiveness and apologised for his action, but was fined with an alternative of eight months imprisonment.

GUYANA CHRONICLE THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

School uniform vouchers ready for distribution THE Ministry of Education has announced that it is ready to distribute approximately 150,000 uniform vouchers to parents and guardians of children attending public sch ools in R egions 2,3,4,5,6,10, Bartica, and Georgetown.

Each voucher is valued $2,000, an increase from $1,500 in previous years, and is valid until October 31, 2016.

Parents are remind-

ed that vouchers are intended to be used for the purchase of school items only and that all vouchers can be redeemed at participating businesses/ suppliers, a list of which has been published in the press and is available at the respective schools and Regional Departments of Education.

A valid form of identification is required to uplift this voucher.

Every child attending a

Government school is entitled to uniform assistance under the National Uniform Programme.

On the coastland, the Ministry of Education administers the Uniform Voucher Programme, while in Hinterland communities the assistance is administered by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs.

Public schools will be closed for a period of eight weeks from July 11 to September 2, 2016.

Thrusday June 23rd, 2016 - 05:00 hrs Friday June 24th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

‘Nothing more to be released on Rodney report’ - Harmon

THE lone volume of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry report is all there is to be released, according to Cabinet Secretary Joseph Harmon.

Harmon’s statement follows requests made by the political opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) to have the other volumes released by President David Granger, since the report currently in circulation states “Volume 1.”

At his post-Cabinet press conference yesterday, Harmon said government had sought clarification from the Chairman of the CoI Sir Richard Cheltenham on whether there were more volumes, but the Barbadian legal titan responded in the negative.

“There is no volume two or volume three,” Harmon said, reassuring that there is nothing more to be released by the government since the entire report was included in the document marked “Volume 1” that was handed to President David Granger February last.

That report was subsequently presented to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland,

Minister of State Mr Joseph Harmon the opposition PPP and the family of the late Dr Rodney.

The previous Donald Ramotar administration in 2013 had established the inquiry into the death of Rodney, whose challenge to the Forbes Burnham administration in the 1970s had catapulted him to prominence as a political activist.

The Granger government, when it came to office in 2015, brought the commission to an end since it had dragged on for more than two years and exhausted tens of millions of dollars. The CoI was likened to a political witch-hunt against the People’s National Congress (PNC), the party which was in power

when Rodney was killed on June 13, 1980.

President Granger is the current leader of the PNC, which is the major party of the coalition now in government.

Government’s presentation of the report to the House Speaker on May 11, 2016, came one day before a motion for the release of the report was tabled by the PPP. An online petition is currently in circulation throughout the Caribbean demanding that the Guyana government release the Rodney report to the public.

Meanwhile, the PPP is still moving forward with its motion to have the report debated in the National Assembly.

Dr Barton Scotland, the speaker of the National Assembly, has accepted the party’s motion to have the debate on the contents of the report.

Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira confirmed this in an invited comment from this newspaper. Government is yet to announce the date for the next sitting of the National Assembly.

The PPP motion, introduced by Teixeira, called for

the government to table the Rodney report in the National Assembly, which would open that report to debate.

Teixeira said she has heard through the grapevine that there could be a sitting on June 30, but up to the

time of her comment, she had not been informed by government’s Chief Whip, Amna Ally.

The PPP’s motion may not come up at the next Sitting of the house, since that sitting will deal with gov-

15

ernment business. The PPP motion would have to await a sitting designated for Private Member’s business.

Teixeira expressed concern about the uncertainty of sittings of the National Assembly.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

Nigerian trainee doctors, nurses host empowerment session at Joshua House

By Shirley Thomas

THE Nigerian Student Association of Guyana (NSAG) last Saturday hosted an exciting day of learning, caring and sharing with the children of Joshua House at their church’s Thomas Street residence, Georgetown, leaving them with a brand new perspective on life and empowered to play their part in shaping their own career paths.

The visiting team comprised about 35 medical doctors and nurses in training at various universities in Guyana, with a passion for ministering to the needs of less fortunate children, who would, from time to time visit and make donations to targeted cases.

This time around, the programme took a twist,

beginning with a cheerful ‘getting-to-know-you’ exercise; after which the team conducted highly interactive health education sessions for them. Gifts were distributed to those correctly answering questions.

Chaired by newly installed President, Belemo Afenfia, the programme opened with the singing of ‘Jesus Loves the Little Children’ and ‘You are My Sunshine’. Outgoing President is Innocent Jarrel.

Topics covered included: Healthy Lifestyle Practice; Hygiene; environmental health; counselling on Self Esteem and ‘Saying No’ to alcohol and narcotics.

Facilitators included: Ruby Reason Onya; Esther Ndibueze; Maximus Saloo; and Ebani Omamofe.

The day’s activities cul-

President of the Nigerian Student Association of Guyana, Belemo Afenfia (standing at centre), conducts the ‘getting-to-know- you’ exercise

minated in a gala, ‘Nigerian-style Party’ with lots to eat and drink; upbeat Nigerian music and games such as ‘musical chairs’.

And not least, there was a huge mouth-watering

birthday cake, specially baked by the medical team and beautifully iced green and white. It was prepared in honour of those persons who would have celebrated birthdays during the week.

It was a day well spent, with the members of the association teaming up with the staff of Joshua House and volunteers to provide quality service and cheer to the less for-

tunate children, who by the end of the day had learnt the importance of realizing their true potential, and setting high goals. Many of them are now aspiring to become doctors and soldiers.

Allowances committee, employee bargaining unit heralded GOVERNMENT and the union representing the country’s public servants have concluded day one of the long-awaited talks to flesh out wages, salaries, and allowances for state employees.

An invitation to the union,the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), by the Ministry of the Presidency’s chief official, Minister Joseph Harmon, marked the beginning of the first such engagement between the David Granger administration and that union. From this first round, both the union and government, through their representatives, have agreed to establish a committee dealing specifically with allowances

for public servants.

Meanwhile, the negotiating teams also settled on further engagements on public servants’ remuneration scheduled to continue on June 27. GPSU President Patrick Yarde expressed concern to reporters on Tuesday that the invitation by Minister Harmon did not mention “allowances” for public servants which have not been forthcoming for some 20 years.

Yarde said even though his union had accepted the invitation, the body responded in writing to the minister requesting clarification on whether “allowances” would form part of the negotiations.

For his part, State Minister Joseph Harmon told reporters

…as gov’t, GPSU end first round of talks

The Public Service Department’s Permanent Secretary Reginald Brotherson flanked by the government’s negotiating team at a post-cabinet press briefing five percent increases, which yesterday that a response was had become the norm under made to the GPSU regarding the former Bharrat Jagdeo “allowances,” but this was and Donald Ramotar admindone after Yarde’s Tuesday istrations. meeting with reporters.

Harmon was upbeat “We prefer a sequential during his press conference process engaged in these ne- about the prospects of the gotiations,” Harmon told the discussions. “We feel that press corps, adding that allow- the atmosphere in which ances should not be lumped these negotiations take place with wages and salaries, but is a friendly atmosphere, should be taken in parts in a not one of antagonism bestep-by-step process. tween two sides. Both sides The negotiating teams will negotiate and negotiate yesterday agreed to have a hard,” Harmon said. Govreview, done by the GPSU, of ernment had set up a Comgovernment’s proposal for a mission of Inquiry into the “differentiated approach” to Public Service, and had said GPSU President Patrick Yarde flanked by his delegation at increases of wages and sala- the report would be used to ries as opposed to the imposed guide the development of yesterday’s negotiations

the public sector, including wages, salaries and allowances.

All wage negotiations with the union representing the country’s public servants were put on hold until the report was presented to the President. President Granger received the report last May. At his union’s press conference, Yarde had advocated the setting up of the Public Service Appellate Tribunal, which is to be appointed by the President. That tribunal has not been summoned since the first term of the Bharrat Jagdeo administration (20012006).

There was no mention from yesterday’s negotiations of the tribunal coming up in discussions, and efforts to contact GPSU’s President were unsuccessful. Article 215A of the Guyana Constitution speaks to the establishment of a Public Service Appellate Tribunal.

The tribunal is empowered by the country’s constitution to overrule any decision made by the Public Service Commission (PSC) except those involving transfers. The power of the tribunal was emphasised since that body could nullify positions taken by the PSC, which has been accused of being defunct by politically motivated persons serving on the body.

GUYANA CHRONICLE THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

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STARR Computer offers new IT solutions for businesses

TECHNOLOGY giant STARR Computer Wednesday launched its business centre to provide start-up businesses, small to medium and corporate businesses with Information Technology (IT) Solutions in the area of mobility, point of sale (POS), security, training and cloud computing.

Speaking with the media at the Head Office, Brickdam, Georgetown, President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan, said “that businesses cannot afford to operate the way they did 10 years ago.”

“It is businesses that adapt to technology that will be more productive, efficient and provide better customer services. Technology in business, transforms businesses,” he stated.

As the leading and most experienced Point of Sale (POS) hardware provider in Guyana, Mohan said the company is now moving beyond POS systems and engaging its customers on the future of IT in business.

Emphasising that companies in Guyana are not realising their true potential since

Also on display were the touch-screen POS solutions, portable printer, portable point of sale equipment and a biometric system amongst others.

Touching on the current trends, General Manager Rehman Majeed stated that he has seen a heightened demand by local companies seeking advice to enhance their current POS systems, so as to be more productive and to respond better to customer needs.

He said consultations, recommendations and proposals are provided at no cost to businesses. Many companies are also looking for reliability with their hardware purchases and therefore seek reputable brands that STARR Computer resells.

STARR Computer International Partners include: Lenovo, Star MiGeneral Manager Rehman Majeed displays one piece of the portable point of sale equipment cronics, Zebra, Bematthat can benefit a variety of businesses in the presence of company president Mike Mohan ech, Qsee, HP, FirstAlert, at one of the tables that stock the business centre. or homes. The user simply Linksys, Logitech, Kingston they are utilising traditional fully utilises the technology At the event, an exciting presses a button at the en- and DataCard,all of which methods of operation, Mohan it resells. Utilisation of such new product was demon- trance of the doorway and have their products and said that STARR Computer is technology allows STARR strated in the form of a video the alert rings on the owner’s solutions on display in the not only a reseller of IT solu- to better equip its customers doorbell buzzer for the en- smartphone with live video new STARR business Centre. tions, but also a company that operation. trances of buildings, offices feed.

Gafoors PVC pipes get standards certification

PLASTIC Products Limited (Gafoors) has once again been given the green light to affix the national standards mark to the Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) pipes it manufactures.

The company was re-issued with a certificate by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) under its Product Certification Scheme. This recent re-certification occurred at the company’s Land of Canaan manufacturing complex.

A re-certification audit conducted by the GNBS revealed that the pipes that Plastic Products Limited (PPL) manufactures con- The renewal certificate, which is valid for one year, was presented by Mr Al Fraser, Technical Officer tinue to meet the requisite II of the GNBS to PPL’s Plant Manager, Mr. Bharrath Rampersad in the presence of Ms. Zorina testing and quality require- Armaugan, Production Assistant of PPL and Mr. Keon Rankin, Technical Officer I of the GNBS.

ments of the two National Standards: GYS 107 Specification for pressure–rated PVC pipes (SDR series) and GYS 99, Specification for PVC pipes Schedules 40, 80 and 120 under the GNBS Product Certification Scheme.

“The GNBS is proud of the commitment demonstrated by companies such as Plastic Products Limited to have their products certified to the requirements of national standards.

Other products certified to national standards are PVC pipes manufactured

by Guyana Thermoplastics Limited and gold jewellery manufactured by Steve’s Jewellery,” Public Relations Officer Lloyd David noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2016

PRO says...

Materials, not money

By Telesha Ramnarine

PUBLIC Relations Officer (PRO) of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC), Ms Debra Lewis, has said that work on the Kitty Market is not necessarily stalled because of financial issues, but the unavailability of the right type of materials.

“Finances are involved to some level, but not totally,” Lewis told the Chronicle when asked yesterday. Work is expected to resume later this week or early in the new week, she said.

Meanwhile, the materials have already been procured on Tuesday. “We can’t use just any type of materials,” Lewis said, adding: “There have been intermittent disruptions, but the project has not come to a total standstill.”

Lewis further said that consideration ought to be given to the fact that restoring the Kitty Market is a very big project that the M&CC is solely undertaking.

However, a source at City Hall told this newspaper on Tuesday that the contractor for the Kitty Market has put a pause on rehabilitation works there as a result of an exhaust-

--cause work on Kitty Market to stall

The incomplete bottom flat of the Kitty Market

ed credit line.

In fact, other contractors have been crying out that they are not being paid in a timely fashion for services, and that Town Clerk Royston King has been having them “back and forth” for payments.

RATES AND TAXES OFFICE The upper flat of the Kitty Market is being remodelled to

include a rates and taxes office, as well as a municipal clinic. “People from Cummings Lodge to Kitty don’t have to come all the way to City Hall to pay their rates and taxes.

We are aiming to reintroduce the system that was in place many, years ago,” Mayor Patricia Chase-Green had told the Chronicle recently.

The City Council had hoped to finish works on the

market in time for the Golden Jubilee celebrations, but was unable to, in view of other necessary works, Chase-Green reported.

The upper flat of the market will also accommodate new vendors, and installing a clinic up there will also be looked at.

Meanwhile, Kitty Market vendors are eagerly anticipating completion of the market.

The 19th Century structure suffered massive deterioration over the years, causing vendors operating in the area to lodge numerous complaints with the City Council. The Council, however, had long been citing financial woes as the reason the market continued to remain a “threat to life and limb.”

Under the new administration, City Hall embarked on a $240M restoration exercise as of February last.

The Kitty Market was established in 1882, two years after the Bourda Market came into being. Like the Bourda Market, the Kitty Market is timber-framed.

Shot teen mechanic….

Two in custody, police still studying video footage POLICE are still analyzing video footage of the crime scene, but two persons are assisting with investigations into the shooting on Sunday of a 15-yearold apprentice mechanic.

The police have also impounded a car looking very much like the one seen in the video footage, right down to the licence plate.

Jahmaul Lewis of Wren Avenue, South Ruimveldt, was shot in the face at his place of employ, just a corner away from where he lives.

A student of the North Ruimveldt Multilateral School, Lewis reportedly worked at the mechanic shop every day after school for about an hour.

Reports are that on the day in question, he’d just returned from buying plantain chips, and was sitting on his bicycle when three armed men stormed the mechanic shop, which also serves as a base for Green Ice Taxi Service.

The incident reportedly occurred at about 14:00hrs.

Lewis, who was apparently the first person the bandits encountered, was reportedly told to lie on the ground, but having failed to comply, he

INJURED: Jahmaul Lewis

was shot.

He and his fellow employees were robbed of their ‘cell-phones’ and a small amount of cash, after which the suspects escaped in a car.

Employees say they initially thought it was a prank when the bandits descended on the place; but the perception immediately changed when Lewis was shot and they were relieved of their valuables.

According to a relative, the teen has since successfully undergone surgery, and is currently recovering in the Intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Lindeners will always remember the Son Chapman tragedy

“TO LIVE IN hearts we leave behind is not to die”, is a true indication of the memories that live on in the minds and hearts of Lindeners of that fateful day when 43 Lindeners lost their lives in what is called “the Son Chapman Massacre.”

As Guyanese here and in the diaspora continue to celebrate our 50th year of Independence, for many Lindeners there is a feeling of ambivalence as Linden was still recovering from the Son Chapman and the Wismar massacre when Guyana gained Independence.

It was only two years before Independence that blood created a wall to wall carpet in the streets of Wismar and subsequently after washed the shores of the Demerara River. For the old timers, that were alive during that dark period, 53 years seems like yesterday. As the story has been told to young people like myself, approximately 16:00 hrs. Monday July 6th 1964, the Son Chapman vessel had just left the docks of Hurudaia, a timber grant settlement 16 miles up the Demerara River after letting off three passengers. The vessel was owned

by Norman Chapman but was captained by Herman Softleigh on that day. The persons on board inclusive of passengers and crew men were all enjoying the cool afternoon breeze and the surrounding scenery of the banks of the river. Unfortunately, this solitude was shortly interrupted about 300 yards from Hurudaia by a loud explosion which caused the lives of 43 persons inclusive of two children and six Demba employees. Pandemonium broke loose as the 27 persons and six crew men who were on the decks of the boat who survived the explosion by swimming to shore while others were rescued by passerby vessels as they watched the “Son Chapman” sink. It was a titanic scene in the Demerara River as news spread of the horrific tragedy.

Donald Gentle, who lost his mother in

the tragedy, related that he had just left Christianburg Government School and was heading for home at Lee Ting alley, when he observed an unusual amount of people standing on both banks of the Demerara river in the vicinity of Linden.

“What I was told was the reason why those people were standing around crying, made me cry too, knowing that my mother travelled every Monday on the Son Chapman,” he said.

His mother was a huckster who travelled to Georgetown every Sunday evening to purchase commodities and return the following day with the Son

Norman Chapman laying wreaths

What the Son Chapman looked like

Chapman.

“Unfortunately on July 13, 1964 she did not make it back to Wismar where she lived and sold her commodities from a stall erected at the side of Burnham Drive in the vicinity of Poker’s Sand road. She was the woman whose father pleaded with her not to travel with the Son Chapman on that particular day because he had heard rumors of a bomb being placed on the launch, Maybe it was because she had left nine children, including an 18-months’ old baby at home that she insisted in travelling with the launch. She did not make it to Linden alive,” recalled Gentle

who was 15 years’ old at the time.

The youngster was preparing to write the College of Preceptors Examination.

“Forty years later I can still picture the chaotic scene with screaming, crying and some people even swearing and cursing on that bitter memorable day at Linden. Mother has gone and may her soul rest in peace.”

He also remembers seeing bodies floating up at the Christianburg cemetery. By 8th July, 32 bodies had been recovered from the river and taken to the Mackenzie Hospital morgue to be buried. Two badly decomposed bodies were buried at Horadia and two in Georgetown. Some of the bodies that were identified and buried were Jean Abrams, Winnifred Giles, Irene Jordan, Daphne London, Edna Dublin, Carmen Carrly, Alphonso Peters, Joseph Brittlebank, Frank Adams, Evande Adams among others. With 43 fatalities, the sinking of the Sun Chapman is the single

largest loss of Guyanese life. The river was commonly used for this journey before the Linden-Soesdyke highway was constructed in 1966.

The cause of this blood bath remains a mystery to date as many continue to put forth their theories. Some of the blame was placed on the PPP, the PNC, racial Indians taking revenge for those Indians who were murdered, raped or had lost their property to fire in Wismar Pogrom. Another theory suggests that the explosion was accidental - that a number of detonators were carelessly stored near the heated engine room of the “Son Chapman”.

Many alive today never knew the men, women and children of the Son Chapman massacre, but the tragedy that occurred sets a lesson for all of us, that racial and political division can lead to meaningless loss of lives. We must strive to live in unity and peace, not only for the preservation of live but for the making of a history free from hatred, bloodshed and strife.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

City status here we come

The 46-year-old mining town of Linden has embraced a new municipal council that has been working diligently with the central and regional governments to fulfill its goal of transforming the bauxite mining hilly township into a modern developed city.

The new municipal team has made great efforts in having the initial stages of this vision materialized. Among the various moves is that of pushing for the economy to be stimulated by various means. Linden has been labeled as the depressed and economically challenged town by many. This reasoning is given on the basis that the unemployment rate in the town is over 70%, there is very little investment; young people often migrate after completing high school as a result of the limited options for tertiary education, career opportunities and limited entertainment choices among other things.

According to Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland, this unfortunate truth will change as the Council has the support of the people and the government. The Mayor is appreciative that the Local Government Election has afforded him the opportunity to lead the council that will gear this rapid transformation of the town. “It will take some shaping . We have to change the way we do business. If we see development we have to change the way we do things. We were heading down a bleak, dark road, going in a wrong direction and I thank God he gave us victory so that we can change things and pull things the way it should be in Linden,” he stated.

The fulfillment of this vision he said calls for the three tiers of government - central, regional and local to work in tandem as this was lacking prior to Local Government Elections.

The decisions on Linden, he said were made in Georgetown and most of those decisions were made to marginalize Linden and stifle the town from developing. The council is keeping pace with the regional Members of Parliament who will represent the needs of the people and the town in parliament.

Currently the council is looking for ways to generate funds to commence projects relevant to the city’s transformation. The council unfortunately is presently cash-strapped and indebted to many organizations, but this the Mayor said would not dampen their spirits in achieving their goals.

The closure of the toll booth saw the council losing close to $250M dollars and its re-establishment is one of the key components in the recovery drive. Other systems that will be implemented to generate funds is the securing of a greater share in the Wismar/ Mackenzie bridge; implementation of computerized toll technology, which will allow for all out of town vehicles to pay when entering the town; increased rates and taxes for residents and market vendors; and the commencement (of) the composing and recycling of garbage as a means of garnering funds.

“We are looking to put Linden in the profit margin so we can start having money in our coffers, and not be broke all the time,” posited the Mayor.

In addition to these, the council is considering investing in bottled water to be sold locally and regionally. “Some of the water we see selling here, they come from out of Guyana. We have so much water in Guyana, we can start producing bottled water in Linden and that is one of the projects we’re working on that we can get youths employed through such a project and many others.”

When the council would have generated sufficient funds, the push for transformation will commence. Some of the developmental projects will see Linden becoming a city, the reviving of Wismar by means of agriculture, and the providing of affordable housing via housing schemes and condominiums. This

Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland

was according to the Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Patterson who also said attention would be paid to the general outlook of the town, inclusive of street lighting, public infrastructure such as roads, bridges and walk-ways, creating beautiful scenery and landscapes for tourism and most significantly the constructing of a municipal mall.

The municipal mall is one of the biggest dreams of the Mayor and the design for same has already commenced. “I’m talking about a couple stories of glass, the full works - nice restaurants and other buildings geared to support the local scene.

The aim of this mall is to persuade Lindeners to not journey to Georgetown to support businesses in the city, but to support their brothers and sisters and to entice persons from Georgetown and other regions to come to Linden.

EDUCATION Education also plays a big role in the transformation of any town. On the agenda is the establishing of a section of the University of Guyana Campus in Linden, being cognizant that scores of students journey from Linden to Georgetown each day for classes. The council is also in discussion with a company to set up a massive computer store in Linden which will allow for training in Information Technology and the creation of jobs. Young people will also receive training in entrepreneurship as an option of becoming self-employed.

“I’ve already had talks with Caricom and Caricom will be doing some training on entrepreneurship to help these young people who are struggling in Linden. We’re already in the process of inviting investors to come.

We’re looking for space right now for some of these investors.”

Despite the odds, the Mayor and council are working assiduously in having these goals fulfilled as Linden has been deprived of development for too long and has been branded as economically dead. The Mayor said that unity was needed to bring a change to Linden and most importantly, the mindset of the people has to change.

“It is a tall asking for us to get there but with the support of each and every one we can develop. We want our children to grow up in a developed town. We want our children to grow up in betterment and we want all residents to know and appreciate what a city looks like. We will move linden to the status of a super city,” the Mayor said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Linden’s music industry waiting to soar THE BUDDING music industry in Linden has experienced a few stumbling blocks along the way, but refuses to remain dormant even as young promoters, producers and artistes continue to nudge it back up.

Currently the industry is flooding with talent, some recently explored by the just completed High School Supernova singing competition.

With only two recording studios and a plethora of talent, Linden’s leading music producer Devin Sears is of the opinion that the lack of resources to produce high quality music is not the only deterrent but the lack of support from Lindeners and Guyanese as a whole.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Sears who has been an established music producer for over a decade and founder of Divine Entertainment, said that the greatest stumbling block for Linden artistes was the fact that Linden was so distant from the capital coupled with the foreign mindedness of Lindeners when it comes to music.

“Yes we have talent, yes we are doing well when it comes to the music industry, but sadly we are in a box.

We are in a boundary all by ourselves, we are basically entertaining ourselves,” Sears articulated. In his opinion, Lindeners are supportive of their artistes when they perform well in national competitions but on a regular day, such excitement dwindles.

To boost Lindeners’ confidence in their artistes, they must first be cognizant of who they are and what songs they produce. Sears has commended the local media houses, especially 104.3 FM in promoting Linden music every day for one hour. In addition to this, promoters have birthed a “Mike up” initiative which focuses on taking music to the streets. According to Sears, this initiative strives to build confidence and explore new talent via street performances and has been deemed successful thus far. As the talent continues to be unearthed through various initiatives, Sears along with other music producers have observed the lack of originality in Guyanese music, describing the artistes “as good impressionists,” sounding like other Caribbean artistes. This has created a tremendous blow, not only for Linden’s music industry but Guyana’s as well, coupled with the breakdown in the

quality of music.

“Somewhere along the line we fell back significantly….we have lost our way significantly we have lost who we are when it comes to standing out and putting a signature mark and say that this is Guyanese music,” he said.

To tackle this ill, Sears in his effort to bring originality to Guyanese music through Linden artistes, created an original genre called “Boom Drop”, which is the fusion of reggae/soca/ dancehall.

“Nobody has that kind of sound,” boasted the young producer. The first song to be produced under the genre was “Chapping Grass” by a Lindener Anthony “Chini” Abrams who continues to produce songs in that genre.

Sears revealed that the song did well with a lot of views and commendable responses on You Tube and other social media sites and so forth.”

The music industry has produced several winners in national competitions such as Timika Marshall, Malika

Artiste Anthony Abrams

Boyd and Brandon Harding who copped the GTT Jingle and Song Competition, Dianna Chapman and Niossi Alsopp who won the Junior Calypso Competition and Lester Charles who repeatedly won the Senior Calypso Competition. These however can be no match to international artiste Gregory Parkinson who represented Linden on the international arena, even in Vietnam years ago.

Local producers however realized that for the industry to flourish the focus should be placed on teenagers. This idea birthed the recently concluded High School Super Nova Competition. “If you wanna make a greater impact in the music industry, the teen group is who you have to target and if you wanna nurture or look at the prosperity of the Linden’s music industry you

as a hobby but a business.

In the next 10 years, as a vibrant music producer, Sears is hoping that the Industry attracts more professional recording studios as they are presently only two and the establishment of a music school to produce more professional music artistes.

“We have so much unexplored talent, sometimes what a person needs is just an opportunity,” Sears said confidently.

Producer Devin Sear

have to start from the school level…introduce music in schools,” posited Sears.

Super Nova, which means “shooting star” was the first ever music competition which challenged participants to write and record an original piece before producing a music video. The competition took several stages moving from the auditions, quarter finals, semi-finals and finals.

The winner who hails from Christianburg Wismar Secondary School Melca Garraway along with the two finalists were signed by Devine Entertainment has commenced their music career.

They will be making an appearance in New York later in the year to perform for Guyana Day and will be entering their music videos in the Caribbean music competition as well. According to Sears, this competition has been a great boost to the music industry and many young people are more enthusiastic to unveil their talent.

With the upsurge in music production in Linden over the past months, Devin Sears is of the opinion that artists will not fully benefit from this if the copyright law is not enacted.

Presently it is still in Parliament, but in the interim, it is suggested that the municipality implement a regional policy to have local music protected from piracy. “In Linden what we can do in the interim is to establish policies as it relates to Linden music, video and content, the new municipality can set policies…we can have a regional copyright policy,” Sears reasoned. With this materializing local sellers will only sell the original copy of the artiste’s music with them having the bigger share of the profit.

With the support of fellow Lindeners and those in the diaspora, Linden’s music industry will see progression and the artiste will not only see music production

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Rain washes out opening day’s play COUVA, Trinidad – Not a ball was bowled in any of the matches in the Regional Girls’ Under-19 Invitational Twenty20 Tournament, due to rain.

The tournament organ-

isers, in conjunction with the management of all four teams, have agreed to use the free-day today to attempt to play the matches that were rained out yesterday.

“So far, the weather has improved and it is hoped that it will hold for the balance of the week,” said Ann Browne-John, a member of the organising committee.

The RGU-19, which is being staged by the T&T Cricket Board, was made a part of the WICB official calendar earlier this year and is part-sponsored by the regional governing body.

Barbados Girls’ Under-19 team, under the captaincy of West Indies Women’s opener Hayley Matthews, will be defending the title which they won in the previous edition of the tournament two years ago.

The Barbadians face competition from Guyana, Windward Islands and hosts Trinidad & Tobago.

Jamaica and Leeward Islands have indicated that they do not have Under-19 girls’ teams at present, but are actively developing squads in a bid to participate next year.

Record-breaker Messi...

From back page

2-0 up.

There was little for the U.S. to cheer in the remainder of the half, with only a single raid by DeAndre Yedlin down the right flank and into the area offering hope on 35 minutes.

The right back's cross was easily cleared though, and that was as good as it got for the U.S., who failed to test Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero once during the first 45 minutes.

Klinsmann introduced Borussia Dortmund teenager Christian Pulisic at half-time for the ineffective Wondolowski but within five minutes it was 3-0.

Once again, the U.S. coughed up possession in midfield and from the left flank Lavezzi picked out Higuain in the penalty area.

South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:35 hrs Drifting Dusk 09:10 hrs Seeking Venus 09:45 hrs Kanonkop 10:20 hrs Rain Shadow 10:55 hrs Just A Gigolo English Racing Tips Newcastle 08:50 hrs Alcazar 09:20 hrs Hyperfocus 09:55 hrs Grand Canyon 10:30 hrs Our Kylie 11:00 hrs Mont Ras 11:35 hrs Can’t Change It 12:10 hrs Its Only Mossy 12:40 hrs Kafoo Newmarket 09:00 hrs Wahash 09;30 hrs Hearty 10:05 hrs Frenchman 10:40 hrs Edward Lewis 11:10 hrs Marmalady 11:45 hrs Tukhoom 12:20 hrs Guishan Nottingham 09:10 hrs Mister Blue Sky

Higuain's first shot was saved by Guzan, but the Napoli striker was on hand to tap in the simplest of rebounds.

With hope ebbing away, the remaining 40 minutes became an exercise in damage limitation for the Americans.

The hosts earned a brief respite from the onslaught when play was held up after Lavezzi injured himself falling over a hoarding, but Argentina were quickly back in control.

The only surprise was that it took until 86 minutes for Argentina to grab their fourth, Messi pouncing on yet another U.S. mistake to burst into the box before squaring for Higuain to finish with aplomb. (AFP) 09:45 hrs Perigee 10:20 hrs De Veer Cliffs 10:50 hrs Carbutt’s Ridge 11:25 hrs Times Legacy 12:00 hrs Misu Moneypenny 12:30 hrs Framley Garth Irish Racing Tips Leopardstown 12:50 HRS Glenamoy Lad 13:20 hrs Midnight Crossing 13:50 hrs Venezuela 14:25 hrs Drill Master 14:55 hrs Canary Row 15:30 hrs Twin Falls 16:00 hrs Pirolo American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Imslopokerodriguez Race 2 Frostie Anne Race 3 Scout Leader Race 4 Tracking Stock Race 5 Dahven With Dooley Race 6 Cap’s Vow Race 7 Robillard Race 8 Runaway Posse

28

IOC offers Rio lifeline to Russian track and field athletes

President of the Russian Olympic Committee Alexander Zhukov attends the Olympic Summit in Lausanne, Switzerland June 21, 2016.

(Reuters/Denis Balibouse)

By Karolos Grohmann L A U S A N N E , S w i t z e rland,| (Reuters) - Individual Russian track and field athletes assessed as clean will be able to compete for their country in Brazil, the Olympic Games' top official said on Tuesday, diluting a blanket ban the sport's global federation had called for.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach also said all competitors from both Russia and Kenya would, given their countries' recent history of doping, have to be screened individually before being allowed to participate in the Games.

He did not elaborate on what the evaluation would include.

The Russian track and field team remains suspended from Rio de Janeiro after

the IOC supported the ban, for systemic doping, which world athletics federation IAAF had extended on Friday.

But Bach, speaking at the end of a summit on doping, offered a limited number of Russian athletes the chance to race under their flag.

In a decision welcomed by the sports ministry in Moscow, he said those cleared by the IAAF or the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) as clean and eligible would be able to compete in Brazil.

The unsatisfactory record of anti-doping bodies in Russia, as well as Kenya, had put "very serious doubts on the presumption of innocence" of their athletes, Bach said.

But they had the right of appeal and "if there are (Russian) athletes qualified then they will compete as members of the Russian Olympic Committee team," he told reporters.

The IAAF had said on Friday that any Russian athlete would have to compete under a neutral flag, a recommendation it reiterated on Tuesday following Bach's comments.

"This decision has been unequivocally supported across sport and the IOC Summit today unanimously agreed to fully respect the IAAF decision," the federation said in a statement.

'SWIFT ACTION' The Russian sports ministry, which had criticised the IAAF ban, said its Olympians were "ready to go over

and above all the normal anti-doping tests to show their commitment to clean and fair sport."

"We have long stated that individual athletes in Russia are willing to demonstrate their innocence and prove they are clean," it said.

In Nairobi, Kenyan officials said they would cooperate fully with the IOC's stipulation.

"If that is the requirement for us to go to Rio, we shall fully cooperate. We have always done our best in the fight against doping," said Jackson Tuwei, the president of Athletics Kenya.

The IOC also ordered international federations to swiftly ban athletes found positive in re-testing of samples from the 2008 and 2012 Olympics.

A total of 55 athletes had tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs in those re-tests in recent weeks, none of whom would compete in Rio, the IOC said.

Bach also said the summit, including sports federations and national Olympic committees, had decided to review the anti-doping system, calling on the World Anti-Doping Agency to hold a global conference next year.

The IOC president said they had not discussed the potential participation in Rio of whistleblower Yulia Stepanova, a former drugs cheat whose revelations sparked the scandal, after the IAAF gave her hope of competing at the Games.

Wolf’s Challenge Cup softball results Wolf’s Challenge Cup softball results for matches played last Sunday. Wellman def: Albion Masters by 9 wickets. Albion 147 All Out in 20 overs. H. Hassin 37, J. Bojh 31, Lakeram Singh 3-25, L. Kallicharran 2-20. Wellman 150-2-13 overs.

Lloyd Ruplall 65 and Ramnauth 53.

H.S Masters def: Floodlights by 6 wickets. Floodlights 143 All Out. Clive Canterbury 34, Ricky Deonarain 31, R. Persaud 29 & Ricky Persaud 2-12. H.S Masters 148-416 overs. R. Samaroo 38, Danny Samaroo 38, D. Mohanram 33, C. Hoyte 24, Heralall 23 N.O and Richard Persaud 2-7.

Floodlights def: Tropical Springs by 1 run. Floodlights 215-3-20 overs. Wayne Jones 76, Ramesh Narine 42 N.O, Imtiaz Mohamed 39 N.O, R. Persaud 30. Tropical

Springs 214-9-20 overs. Lalta Gainda 45, Vijay 35 and Clive Canterbery 3-28.

Wellwoman def: 4R Lioness by 6 wkts. 4R 104-3-15 overs. Tameka Wilson 44. Wellwoman 105-4-11.4 overs. Latoya Smith 47 and Z. Telford 30.

Blue Divas def: Enterprise Divas by 111 runs. Blue Divas 146-9-15 overs. Sangetta Sawh 39. Enterprise Divas 33 All Out. S. Sawh 4-2 runs.

Regal def: Speedboat by 7 wkts. Speedboat 136-9-15 overs. Delroy Perrera 3-22.

Regal 141-3-14.5 overs. Samuel Kinston 39 and Chien Gittens 31.

Parika Defenders def: Fisherman Masters by 42 runs. Parika 196. Aftab Khan 46 and Belam Singh 45. Fisherman 154. S. Dyal 33.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Former champion says IOC intimidating Kenyan athletes

By Isaack Omulo NAIROBI, Kenya (Reuters) - By forcing Kenyan athletes to undergo additional drugs tests before allowing them to compete in Rio, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is trying to intimidate his countrymen, a former running champion said yesterday.

The IOC said on Tuesday that every competitor from Russia and Kenya will have to be evaluated individually for doping and be cleared by their sport's international body, because of those countries' poor anti-doping records.

“Kenyan athletes undergo various doping tests all over the world – in Diamond League and other international competitions.

This special test announced

by IOC does not sit well,” Noah Ngeny, winner of 1500m gold in the Sydney 2000 Olympics, told Reuters.

“This, to me, sounds like international bodies are intimidating Kenyan athletes.

And that’s annoying,” said

Former Olympic champion and Kenyan athletes' representative Noah Ngeny

Ngeny, who stepped down as athletes’ representative within the Kenyan athletics ruling body, AK, two months ago, after accusing it of various shortcomings.

Kenyan officials have accepted the IOC's ruling.

“It is up to us Kenyans to prove that we are doing enough to eradicate doping among our athletes. We don’t have to wait for international bodies to come knocking on our doors for us to wake up,” AK executive

committee member Barnaba Korir said.

“We must prove that we are doing what we are supposed to do. How do we prove this? By continually testing our athletes. Let us not wait for them (the World Anti-Doping Agency) to come and do it for us.”

The head of Kenya’s mission to the Rio Olympics, Stephen Arap Soi, said he had requested government funds to conduct tests on the 90-member delegation to the Games, which comprises track and field, boxing, archery, rugby, judo and swimming athletes.

“We want to send a message that, yes, Kenya is against any unfair play in the Olympic movement and that we don’t encourage or condone doping in sports,” he said.

The east African nation known for its middle- and distance-running prowess has been under intense global scrutiny over doping, with up to 42 athletes failing tests in the past four years and 18 of them serving sanctions totalling 55 years.

India squeeze past Zimbabwe in final-ball thriller ZIMBABWE came agoby three wickets and a 2-1 nisingly close to pulling series triumph. off a shock Twenty20 Maruma finished unseries win over India as beaten on 23 from 13 deyesterday’ss third and liveries, having also hit final match in Harare Jasprit Bumrah for six in provided sensational fithe penultimate over. nal-over drama.

With the exception of The hosts' hopes of Chamu Chibhabha, who chasing down a target of fell for five in the third 139 looked to have been over, all of Zimbabwe's dashed as they required batsmen made double fig21 runs from the last six ures, but Dhawal Kulkarni deliveries for victory.

(2-23 from four overs), However, Barinder Bumrah (0-23) and Axar Sran was then taken for Patel (1-18) played key six by Timycen Maruma roles in keeping the runbefore the India seamer rate in check. sent down a wide and a India's score of 138chest-high no-ball that was 6 owed much to Kedar hit for four.

Barinder Sran was almost the Jadhav, who came in at That left just nine villain for India, as Zimbabwe 27-3 and struck 58 from needed from five deliver- threatened to take 21 off the final 42 balls. Axar's unbeaten ies, although Sran regained over, only to fall just short.

11-ball 20 also proved his composure before an Chigumbura was unable to significant as Zimbabwe, edged boundary from Elton find the fence again from the for whom Donald Tiripano Chigumbura reduced the final ball, the former skipper returned 3-20, came up target to four from one. caught at cover off a low full just short in reply.

Sadly for Zimbabwe, toss to hand India victory (Omnisport)

29

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Ronaldo nets twice as Portugal, Hungary go through

By Zoran Milosavljevic LYON, France (Reuters) Hungary and Portugal reached the Euro 2016 knockout stages after a rip-roaring 3-3 draw in which Cristiano Ronaldo netted twice and became the first player to score at four European Championship finals yesterday.

The Portuguese came from behind three times as Ronaldo, who also set a tournament record of 17 appearances, finally rediscovered his touch to help Portugal make the last-16, where they will meet Croatia in Lens on Saturday.

Group F winners Hungary finished above Iceland, who also qualified after a last-gasp 2-1 win over Austria in Paris, and thirdplaced Portugal.

Hungary will play the Group E runners-up, which will be decided later yesterday between Belgium, Sweden and Ireland, while Iceland will face England.

Ronaldo equalised twice in the second half after Zoltan Gera's early strike was cancelled out by Nani just before the break. Hungary captain Balazs Dzsudzsak had twice put his side ahead before Ronaldo burst into life with a double strike.

"We're happy as we're still in the tournament. It was a tough game but we created chances and we scored goals," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos.

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo scores their third goal. (Reuters/Jason Cairnduff)

Portugal had promised the goals would flow and they did.

Like in their previous two matches against Iceland and Austria, Portugal enjoyed sterile possession in the early stages and rarely troubled their rivals with a flurry of crosses easily dealt with by the Hungarian defence.

With Ronaldo totally subdued, Hungary looked more likely to score through sporadic but dangerous raids.

In the 19th minute, the 37-year-old Gera took a halfcleared corner into his stride and unleashed a fizzing lowhalf volley past Rui Patricio from 25 metres.

Rocked by the setback,

Portugal nearly fell two goals behind several minutes later after Patricio was forced to parry a stinging shot by the hardworking Akos Elek.

However, Ronaldo, struggling for form at Euro 2016, released Nani with a defence-splitting pass and his strike partner beat Gabor Kiraly with a neat finish from inside the penalty area three minutes before the break.

The Hungarians were back in front in the 47th minute as Dzsudzsak beat Patricio with a free kick.

After throwing a reporter’s microphone into a lake earlier in the day during a morning walkabout, Ronaldo

produced his best moment of the tournament in the 50th, beating Kiraly with a clever back-heel after good work

by Nani.

Hungary took the lead for the third time.

Having had another free kick blocked by the wall, Dzsudsak took the rebound in his stride on the edge of the area and fired a speculative shot which sailed past Patricio.

Hungary’s joy was short-lived, however, as Ronaldo levelled with a thumping header after a superb cross by substitute Ricardo Quaresma, drawing an eruption of joy from the Portuguese fans behind Kiraly’s goal.

Ronaldo throws reporter's microphone in lake Lyon, France

By Zoran Milosavljevic VIDEO footage has emerged of Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo bringing an impromptu interview to a sudden halt - by throwing the reporter's microphone into a nearby lake yesterday.

The incident happened several hours before Portugal's decisive Euro 2016 Group F clash with Hungary in Lyon with a berth in the

tournament's last-16 at stake.

The 21-second clip shows Ronaldo, surrounded by security guards, strolling by a lake with his team mates.

When the reporter from Portugal's CMTV approached to ask if he was prepared for the game, Ronaldo grabs the microphone from him with one hand and pitches it into the water.

The 31-year-old Real Madrid forward has been under pressure after refusing to

shake hands with Iceland's players following Portugal's 1-1 draw in their opening game and missing a penalty in their second group match a goalless draw with Austria.

Jose Delgado, a correspondent for Portuguese daily A Bola, told Reuters Ronaldo was frustrated by his poor performances.

"The hours before the game are always difficult for the players and I don't think it's a good idea they

mix with journalists because things like this may happen," he said.

"Ronaldo has been anxious in the last few days because he didn't play well in the opening two games.

Let's see what he can do against Hungary and if he can come to his usual level."

(Additional reporting

by Philip O'Connor; Editing by Adrian Warner and Ken Ferris)

Heroic Iceland set up last-16 clash with England (REUTERS) - Iceland wrote the most glorious page in their sporting history when a stoppage-time winner gave them a deserved 2-1 victory against Austria for a place in the knockout stages of Euro 2016 yesterday.

The tiny country, making their first appearance at a major tournament, will go to face England in the round of 16 and the team's spirited performance at the Stade de France on a stormy evening suggested they could give them a hard time.

"Our national holiday is on June 17," said Iceland coach Helmir Hallgrimsson. "I guess we need to change it now. That's what this means to us".

Substitute Arnor Ingvi Traustason scored from close range deep into added time after collecting a through ball from Elmar Bjarnasson following a swift counter-attack.

The last-gasp goal secured Iceland second place in Group F, level on five points with Hungary, who drew 3-3 with Portugal in an action-packed encounter in Lyon.

The Hungarians clinched top spot on goal difference while Portugal finished on three points and went through as one of the best third-placed teams.

Austria, who had come to France as dark horses after a qualifying campaign featuring nine wins from 10 games, finished last and will go home with just one point after a 2-0 defeat by Hungary and a 0-0 draw with Portugal.

The smallest country to qualify for a European Championship, Iceland had started the tournament by holding Portugal and Hungary to 1-1 draws through resilient displays.

They started well against Austria with forward Jon Dadi Bodvarsson putting them ahead with an angled shot from inside the box following a long throw-in from the right on 18 minutes.

Austria, needing a win to survive the group, levelled the tie on the hour mark when substitute Alessandro Schoepf raced into the box and surprised Iceland goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson with a low shot.

The Austrians had missed a great chance to equalise in the first half when they were awarded a penalty after David Alaba appeared to be held back in the box by left back Ari Skulason.

With a population of about 330 000, which is roughly the size of English city Leicester, home to the newly-crowned Premier League champions, Iceland were cheered on by a strong contingent of passionate fans wearing the side's blue colours.

"It's extra fun to do this beside my best friends and with all the supporters, 10 000 of them", said man-of-the-match Kari Arnason. "It's unbelievable.

It's like having your family at the game. It's extra sweet for us."

Late Brady goal sends Ireland through (REUTERS) - Ireland reached the knockout phase at a European Championship for the first time when Robbie Brady's late goal earned them a 1-0 victory against Group E winners Italy yesterday.

Brady made a brilliant run into the box and headed home Wes Hoolahan's right-wing cross to make sure Ireland qualified as one

of the four best third-placed teams with four points.

They will face hosts France in the last 16.

Italy made eight changes and it showed at the Stade Pierre Mauroy as the Azzurri looked a touch disjointed, although they had a huge opportunity 12 minutes from time when substitute Lorenzo Insigne's perfectly curled shot hit the post.

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Road Tennis being touted locally ... Barbadian team conducting training courses

By Stephan Sookram ROAD Tennis, a modified form of lawn tennis is being touted locally by the World Road Tennis Federation, whose representatives are conducting courses in Guyana.

Credited with the initial idea of the sport, a Barbadian team of instructors and players are trying to get the support of their sister Caribbean islands, starting with Guyana.

Sharing similarities to its table and lawn counterparts, road tennis is a smaller version that is played with two larger racquets and a compressed ball instead of the usual tennis balls while the net is replaced by a wooden shield.

The World Road Tennis Federation, through its member McArthur Barrow, yesterday spoke to Chronicle Sport during one of the workshops at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).

college because in order for a sport to succeed, you have to have a number of trained persons and there’s no better person than the PE teacher,” Barrow said.

The sport was dubbed cost-effective by Barrow who contended, “It really is one that is tailor-made for economies such as the Caribbean,” because of the

low cost to set up and the fact that it was conceptualised for the older folk (35 and older) who still have an interest in racquet sports.

“You’ll need some paint to paint the court; a piece of wood about eight inches tall and you need another piece of wood to cut into two racquets (table tennis like) and a preferred lawn tennis ball.

The most important thing is a willing body and mind,” he said.

Meanwhile CPCE, Physical Education Lecturer Kurt Braithwaite contended that the introduction of a cost-effective sport at the facility can only help to grow its interest at a community level.

“Since Guyana is so vast, I think it would be easier for the teachers in training to be able to get the opportunity to learn the sport and take it

back to the various communities of the country,” he said.

“I think this is one that will take well to the communities simply because there’s not a lot of money that has to be spent,” Braithwaite believes, adding that those far-flung communities will improvise with the materials.

The number of willing persons in those communities was another factor why the CPCE PE teacher believes the sport will take off.

World Tennis Federation member McArthur Barrow

According to Barrow, who is also the manager of the team, they believe that it would make more sense to introduce the sport at the level of training institutions.

“We are here to introduce road tennis to Guyana. We feel that it’s very important to introduce it to the training

Road Tennis being demonstrated to trainee teachers at the Cyril Potter College of Education. (Cullen Nelson photo)

Farook Hussain blasts HACC to victory with brutal 81

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada -- A weekend that started on a gloomy note, ended in a blaze of glory as Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club (HACC) recovered from a 192-run thrashing at the hands of Victoria Park to cart off an easy five-wicket victory over Ambassadors Cricket Club when the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) inaugural Elite season continued here.

Led by a blazing 81 from debutant Farook Hussain, HACC strode to victory on Sunday at the Terry Fox ground after being set a modest 156 by their opponents who were shot out for 155 in 49.3 overs.

In a brutal display, the former Young Warriors Cricket Club (YWCC) player, who opened the innings with former Guyana and West Indies B player Krish-

na Arjune, slammed five sixes and seven fours in his 60ball knock which set tongues wagging at the venue.

The two featured in an opening stand of 82 in 13 overs before Arjune was dismissed for 23. By the time Hussain’s belligerent innings ended when he was adjudged lbw, victory was almost assured and this was achieved in 27.4 overs. Deoraj Amerish claimed three for 17.

Earlier, skipper Ronald Ramnarine led from the front for his team with a fine 54 which included one six and three fours while Richard Dias struck three fours in his 26. Left-arm spinner Imran Khan took three for 22, former Guyana captain Damodar Daesrath two for 24, Arjune two for 25 and Bhim Bodhoo two for 31.

On Saturday, at the same venue, HACC suffered their first loss of the season when they were thumped by Victoria Park in a one-sided

Reynold Tim was HACC best bowler with three for 38 while Iqbal Rahaman took two for 46.

HACC were in winners’ row the previous weekend, earning a 46-run win over rivals Highland Creek at the Ashtonbee Number One ground.

Set a challenging 217 for victory, after HACC had reached 216 for six in 50 overs, Highland Creek were bowled out for 174 in 43.2 overs with Zaheer Allard DEBUTANT Farook Hussain (left) receives a token of appreciation from Andrew Persaud for his brilliant knock.

affair, albeit fielding a second-string team due to the absence of several key players.

Chasing a daunting 288 for victory, after Victoria Park had soared to 287 for seven in the allotted 50 overs, HACC were shot out for a paltry 95 in 32.5 overs with only Arjune (30) and Bodhoo (22) putting up any

resistance. They were undone by the spin of Vishnu Pothugunta (four for 24) and Nirmaul (three for five).

Victoria Park’s innings was bolstered by an opening stand of 127 from Krunal Patel (80) and Daren Benta (54) while former Guyana and Berbice Under-19 all-rounder Eugene LaFleur chipped in with a useful 53.

(three for 18), Imran Khan (two for 25) and Daryl Narine (two for 18) doing the damage.

HACC were led to their winning total through consistent knocks from Arjune (40), Allard (39 not out), Bodhoo (28 not out), Narine (25) and Azhad Amidon (22).

HACC will be back in action again on Sunday when they oppose TP Tigers at Ashtonbee Number One.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Bruce Laird-117* (Sydney, 1981-82) (2) Australia won by 6 wickets (24.2 overs remaining)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) How many ODI centuries Hashim Amla has scored in South Africa?

(2) Where and when did the WI and SA contest an ODI in the Caribbean for the first time?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 23, 2016

Overseas athletes impressed with local synthetic track A NUMBER of the overseas athletes who participated at the recently concluded Aliann Pompey (AP) Invitational noted how pleased they were with their performance on the synthetic track of at the National Track and Field Centre in Leonora.

USA’s Philippe DeRousier, who has been competing since early 2000, says Guyana’s only synthetic track facility holds a lot of potential for the future hosting of more international meets.

“The track is very nice, this could turn out to be a really world class meet, once (Guyana) lays the infrastructure. I’m very impressed with the track I think it has a little push in it, and I’m glad I came.” DeRousier

Trinidadian Kyle Greaux at the AP Invitational

commented.

DeRousier won the Digi-

cel’s men’s 100m final in a time of 10.25 seconds. One of our Trinidadian neighbours, Kyle Greaux, was so impressed he’s really looking forward to returning.

“The track is fast! I’m definitely looking forward to coming back. I love it in Guyana, the weather is good, the facility is good.

It’s an open track and the atmosphere is nice.” said Greaux, who finished second behind DeRousier in the men’s 100m final.

It wasn’t even just the track. The athletes also had nothing but love for the Guyanese people and atmosphere especially those who supported the meet.

“Incredible atmosphere!

These beautiful people!”

DeRousier exclaimed.

A smiling Tawana Meadows from United States had nothing but love for the crowd, which she even gave a little credit for helping her win when she clocked an Olympic qualifying 11.32 seconds in her heats of the Fly-Jamaica women’s 100m.

“It was a great track, great track. I loved the crowd, the crowd was amazing. They cheered me on for the last 20m and that helped me kind of push through; the crowd always helps me.” expressed Meadows.

Meadows went on to finish third in the final with a time of 11.37s, a race that was won by Guyana’s Brenessa Thompson in a national record of 11.14s.

Last-16 Euro ties decided (Goal.com)- Hosts France topped Group A and, as a reward, will take on Republic of Ireland, when the round of 16 gets going in the Euro 2016.

Didier Deschamps's men will play their round-of-16 tie in Lyon on Sunday.

The winner of that game will take on either England or Iceland after the latter's late, late winner against Austria lifted them into second place in Group F to set up a showdown with Roy Hodgson's men in Nice on Monday.

Switzerland, who fin-

ished as runners-up to France in Group A, must now prepare for a game against Poland, who came in second in Group C, to take place in Saint-Etienne on Saturday.

Also playing on that day will be Croatia and Portugal, who scraped through Group F in third, and the winner of that meeting in Lens will take on Switzerland or Poland in a Marseille quarter-final.

Wales roared to the top of Group B, inspired by the prolific Gareth Bale, and are rewarded with an all-Brit-

ish match against Northern Ireland, the third-placed finishers from Group C, in Paris on Saturday.

For whichever of the two progresses, it would mean a quarter-final against Hungary (who won Group F) or Belgium (second in Group E) following their last-16 encounter in Toulouse on Sunday.

Germany were one of the few favourites to do as expected and win their group and will consequently take on Slovakia, third-placed finishers from Group B, in a knockout game in Lille on

Sunday.

Meanwhile, Italy will take on Spain on Monday in the highest-profile game of the round thanks to the holders' failure to top Group D. The winner will be expecting to face Germany in Bordeaux on July 2.

It was bad news for Turkey and Albania, however, whose poor goal differences saw them miss out on taking slots for the best third-placed teams.

They join Romania, Russia, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Sweden and Austria in exiting the tournament.

Digicel Schools Football Championships Region 10 leg

Johnson hat-trick leads defending champs to victory

By Joe Chapman REIGNING Digicel Schools Football Championss Christianburg/Wismar Secondary began their 2016 campaign in ominous fashion as they trounced Linden Foundation Secondary 7-0 yesterday at the Wisburg Secondary School ground.

The Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Berbice) championship leg entered its second day after Tuesday’s 1-0 win

by Mackenzie High over Harmony at the same venue.

‘Multi’ took the lead as early as the 2nd minute through Keshawn Dey and almost doubled 10 minutes later after a swirling shot from Anthony Gill crashed on to the crossbar with the Linden Foundation Secondary goalkeeper Cleveland Jonas beaten.

The eventual second goal came from a Jonnel Williams cross which linked up with Brian Johnson, who completed the play in the 15th minute. This was followed one minute later as Johnson fired a flat rasping shot that beat the opposing goalkeeper Jonas who was guarding his near post.

Johnson returned in the 25th minute to complete his hat-trick and to take his team to a 4-0 lead which stretched till the half.

Two minutes after play resumed the defending champions got goal number five through a penalty from Hubert Adams after defender Malcolm Layne handled the ball in the box.

The Christianburg Wismar Secondary team then added goal number six when Omar Brewley collected a neat, squared ball and calmly controlled it before slapping it past the hapless Jonas to score in the 58th minute.

The game was wrapped up in the 70th minute for the champions, as Shaquille Campbell got his name on the scorer’s sheet after the play developed from the left to inside right where he completed the play with a crisp shot.

Speaking to reporters after the game head coach Anthony Stephens (Jr) said that his team experimented with their forward line which featured basically their substitutes.

The coach admitted his team generally moved somewhat away from their game plan in the second half and they missed quite a number of scoring opportunities but was quick to say, "I am satisfied with the performance as normally we do start these tournaments shakily".

Asked if his team felt pressure as defending champions for the fourth straight year he responded:" The pressure is not on us. We have been in the final for five years and the young players now in the team as rookies are hungry to live up to that reputation.that will put our opponents under pressure."

This afternoon New Silvercity Secondary will oppose Harmony in another game of the Linden leg from 15:30hrs.

Overseas 31 athletes impressed with local synthetic track P.

By Stephan Sookram A 10-MAN St Mary’s side made light work of city rivals St Stanislaus College when the Digicel Schools Football Championships continued in Georgetown.

Playing at the Tucville ground, St Stanislaus College enjoyed the bulk of the shots but opted to shy away from the basics for a more ‘flashy’ style of play, something that they will definitely work on in the years to come. They were, however, the first to concede as an Alyne Haynes 28th minute shot put St Mary’s ahead.

In the 32nd minute, Mary’s were reduced to 10 men after Fabian Abrams was sent off for a lunging tackle on the touchline, leaving things looking positive for the St Stanislaus College side but conversely things got worse.

In the 38th the Mary’s lead was doubled by James Walcott after he slotted past the outstretched keeper.

The ‘flashy’ style of football that St Stanislaus College was playing had no effect on their opponents and while there were flashes of brilliance, they often fizzled out or were blocked by St Mary’s defence.

The half ended in favour of Mary’s with two goals and a man down and it seemed the second would be a repeat of the first when Mary’s tucked in their third goal - an Oneil

Digicel Schools Football Championships

10-man St Mary’s brush aside St Stanislaus College 4-2

The victorious St Mary’s team celebrate after their 4-2 win over St Stanislaus College.

(Stephan Sookram photo)

Glasgow shot which found the back of the nets in the 70th However St Stanislaus College finally converted one of their numerous chances in the 75th thanks to Alvin Andres and seemed on the road to a late comeback when Kenroy Earle netted in the 81st, much

to the pleasure of the handful of vocal supporters.

That celebration, however, was short-lived as just two minutes later, substitute Dominick Battse blasted his shot past the keeper as the defender stood rooted to the spot.

The score-line remained

Record-breaker Messi fires Argentina into Copa final Argentina midfielder Lionel Messi (10) scores a goal on a free kick during the first half against the United States in the semifinals of the 2016 Copa America Centenario soccer tournament at NRG Stadium on Tuesday. (USA TODAY Sports)

unchanged at the final whistle.

Meanwhile, at GDF ground, St Rose’s High crushed Marian Academy 5-0 thanks to a double from Kegan Howard (1st and 26th), Akil Vaughn (23rd), LaPhonso Austin (40th) and Victor Rogers (55th)

Meanwhile in other matches yesterday Leonora Xenon defeated Friendship 4-3.

In Essequibo, at New Opportunity Corp (NOC) ground, Cottonfield Secondary dismissed NOC 7-2.Anna Regina defeated Abram Zuil 3-0 at

HOUSTON, USA - Lionel Messi became Argentina's all-time record goalscorer as the two-time world champions outclassed the United States 4-0 to reach the Copa America Centenario final here Tuesday.

Messi curled in a magnificent 32nd-minute free-kick to become Argentina's all-time record scorer with 55 goals as the United States' campaign ended with an emphatic defeat in front of a 70 858 crowd at Houston's NRG Stadium.

The five-time world player-of-the-year now has five goals in this Copa America as he aims to lead Argentina to their first title in 23 years.

The Barcelona superstar also created Argentina's opening goal for Ezequiel Lavezzi and was involved in the build-up for their third, scored by Gonzalo Higuain in the 50th minute. Messi then laid on the pass for Higuain's second four minutes from time.

Argentina will now face either Chile or Colombia in Sunday's final at East Rutherford, New Jersey.

A disastrous start for the United States saw the hosts fall behind after only three minutes when they gifted possession to Messi on the edge of the area.

The Argentina captain instantly spotted that Lavezzi was unmarked and lofted a first time pass

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the Anna Regina Multilateral ground.

And over at the Mahaicony ground, Novar Secondary defeated Belladrum Secondary 4-3 on penalty kicks after normal time ended 1-1.

Matches continue today at the various venues.

through to the China-based midfielder to head home.

MESSI MAGIC Argentina might have doubled their lead five minutes later, when Ever Banega backheeled to pick out Marcos Rojo, who crossed for Messi, only for the Albiceleste skipper to shoot over.

Messi was again on the prowl in the 14th minute, seizing upon another American mistake to burst clear from near halfway before firing a shot which Brad Guzan managed to gather safely.

With Argentina monopolising possession, it was only a matter of time before the South Americans scored again.

The second goal almost came on 22 minutes when Messi released Higuain with a quick freekick into the penalty area, only for Geoff Cameron to snuff out the danger with a desperate tackle.

But just after the half-hour mark the U.S. defence buckled, Messi causing panic on another foray before being bundled over with a crude challenge by Chris Wondolowski, who was promptly booked.

From the ensuing free-kick, Messi stepped up to curl in his magnificent record-equalling effort and Argentina were Turn to page 27 ► THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 2016