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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

Celebrate cultural differences

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

–– Dr Norton urges at opening of Harmony Village

SOCIAL Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton, has called on Guyanese to move away from merely tolerating each other’s cultural differences and to begin accepting them as part of the diverse Guyanese identity. These differences, he said, must be celebrated rather than be seen as a means of separation and segregation. The minister was at the time delivering remarks at the launch of the Ministry of Social Cohesion’s Harmony Village, which was opened Thursday by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo on Main Street, Georgetown. Dr Norton in his remarks said that the Harmony Village showcases the culture and diversity which exist in Guyana

and socio-economic status are just some of the forms of diversity,” Dr Norton said. In this respect, Minister Norton said that the Harmony Village will create an environment for a wide cross-section of society to depict Guyana’s rich culture. It will allow, he said, Guyanese to have a greater appreciation for their culture and to learn more about the culture of their brothers and sisters. “We are also here to unveil our floating gallery, which will remain for an extended period, beautifying a section of this avenue with the images of Guyanese from varying backgrounds. These images depict the beauty which lies in the diversity of our people and the evolution

country and while Guyana is popularly known as the “Land of Six Peoples,” it is imperative that they see each other as one people. Referencing the same phrase, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said Guyanese must remember that they are all one as the motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny,” states. “We have transcended the history of those who came from Africa and Asia. We have left behind the distinction and embarrassment of caste in who we are and by what we are Guyanese. We are proud of our ancestry, free from the bondage of the past and blessed to be Guyanese… Our diversity is what makes us rich and it is our diversity,

“This is a movement and it is not an urban-based movement. It must be national and take roots in the countryside, so that all can receive the message that irrespective of race, culture, politics or whatever, our differentiating features are, we must build bridges,” he said. Sharon Patterson, Programme Coordinator at the ministry, said that the idea to create a Harmony Village was born out of a desire to showcase the collective mixture of differences, as well as similarities of the various religious and cultural practices. EMBRACE RICH CULTURE “It is an opportunity to look at who we are; what we have and to celebrate. It is to allow us to look at how we have evolved. Today we are not only embracing our rich cultural diversity but that of others. It is an opportunity for diverse groups to share a common space and while the space is being shared, the ministry seeks to create an environment of enhancing social interactions, integration and harmony within the various cultural and religious groups across Guyana. It is an opportunity to celebrate what is unique to us while embracing the differences,” she said. Penda Guyan of the Ghana Day Organisation, in an invited comment, praised

Social Cohesion Minister, DR George Norton, addressing the gathering the initiative, noting that it brings the various religious and ethnic groups to work and coexist in one space. “I encourage people to go to each booth… because if we learn and understand each other’s history, we will be able to have the cohesion that we want. If we don’t learn and know anything about each other, then we can go away with a lot of misconceptions. So this is very wonderful, it is very uplifting and I hope that we can have many more of these,” she said. Aisha Shaheed shared similar comments, stating that initiatives such as these will aid the process of social cohesion. “Without social cohesion we are nowhere, so this is a great initiative.” TD Bhutia of the Indian High Commission, said he is happy to see projects such as

these being executed in Guyana, as the country possesses great wealth in its people and their cultures. “This is a step in the right direction,” Bhutia said. The event features some 30 booths, which are promoting local and international cuisine, cultural wear, dance, poetry, folklore and the display of art, artefacts and literature. It was also attended by Vice-President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan; Vice-President and Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock, other Ministers of Government, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the National Assembly and heads of religious and social organisations. (Ministry of the Presidency)

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and wife Sita Nagamooto at a Chinese booth in Harmony Village (Cullen Bess-Nelson photos) and noted that it is imperative for all Guyanese to be cognisant of the fact that there is beauty in diversity. “It’s my distinct pleasure to have each and every one of you here this morning to celebrate with us, the beauty which lies in the diversity of our country and its people. A variety of flowers make for a beautiful garden where each flower is equal in value. Each of us is unique in our own way and we should value each other, not despite our differences, but because of them. Our ethnicity, religion, gender, age, political affiliation

of our society. Every Guyanese should take the opportunity to view this gallery. Harmony Village is a pilot event, which we hope to build on in the years to come. It sets the stage for the 2017 campaign of the Ministry of Social Cohesion, which will see various activities being hosted in order to foster national unity,” he said. BE ONE The Minister of Social Cohesion said every Guyanese has a role to play in the process of building a unified

whether by way of ethnicity or our culture, that makes us strong. This is what allows us to forge a bond irrespective of our differences and, therefore, again I wish to commend this initiative, which has been long due and absent in our lives,” Prime Minister Nagamootoo said. He noted that it is his desire to see the initiative taken across the country, so that the ordinary Guyanese can be targeted and become involved in the process of promoting national unity and working towards the achievement of social cohesion.

Residents of St Cuthbert’s Mission performing a cultural item at the launch of Harmony Village

First Lady flags fictitious scholarship fund THE Office of the First Lady has raised an alarm regarding a flyer being circulated, which includes an image of President David Granger and First Lady

Sandra Granger soliciting $200,000 towards a fictitious medical scholarship fund. This scam is targeting residents of Barima-Waini (Region One) and other

hinterland communities, a statement from the Ministry of the Presidency said. “The Office of the First Lady categorically states that there is no such fund set up in the name or the

Office of the First Lady, nor the President of Guyana. This has been reported to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and they are investigating the matter. “Guyanese are asked

to be vigilant and if anyone asks for funds in the name of the Office of the First Lady to report this matter to the GPF immediately,” the statement concluded.

First Lady Sandra Granger

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

Guyana extends condolences to Haiti, St Lucia and UK

THE Government of Guyana has extended condolences to Haiti, St Lucia and the United Kingdom, which have recently experienced unfortunate events. In a statement, Guyana said it stands in solidarity with the people of the Republic of Haiti, who are mourning the loss of 34 lives following a fatal vehicular crash on March 12. “We extend our sincere

condolences to the loved ones of those who were killed and we pray for the speedy recovery of those who suffered injuries. The spirit of strength and perseverance of the Haitian people is an inspiration to the world and we are confident that this spirit will aid in the nation overcoming this tragedy.” Guyana also expressed sincere condolences to Prime

Minister Allen Chastenet, the Government and people of St Lucia, on the tragic loss of four lives on the island on Tuesday, March 21, following an explosion in the Cul de Sac area. Over 20 injured in blast. “The Guyana Government especially extends deepest condolences to the families, relatives and friends of the persons whose lives were lost. The Govern-

ment and people of Guyana extend a hand of comfort to all St Lucians at this most difficult time of mourning. “We pray for the complete and quick recovery of all those who were injured and for their families and relatives to find comfort and strength, as they provide care and cope in this time of immense distress.” Apart from Haiti and St Lucia, Guyana said her

thoughts and prayers are with the people of the United Kingdom, following the attack at Westminster which resulted in the deaths of three persons and injuries to several others. “We offer condolences to those who are in mourning and to those who have been affected by this heinous attack. The Government and people of Guyana stand in solidarity

with the British people and call for the perpetrators of such attacks to be condemned and defeated in their repugnant agenda of perpetuating fear, hatred and uncertainty. The Government and people of Guyana reject and condemn cowards who seek to use violence and terror to create panic and mayhem,” the statement concluded.

Group continues protest against VAT on private education A GROUP of persons on Thursday mounted a protest in front of the Ministry of Finance calling for the 14 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on private tuition fees to be rescinded. The group, which has held several smaller protests in the past in support of their position, had submitted to the Government a petition against “VAT on education” signed by 14,000 persons. Students, teachers,

Persons gathered in front of the Ministry of Finance on Thursday parents and members of civil society braved the mid-morning sun as they turned out again yesterday to voice their concern in a “silent protest”.Most of them displayed placards reading “No to 14% Vat on education” and “Welcome the movement against VAT on education.” “The majority of students attending private educational institutions in Guyana are from humble backgrounds and can only attend these places of learning as

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a result of the sacrifice of family members,” one of the protestors,Andy Singh,told Guyana Chronicle. Some of the protestors say they have children who attend private educational institutions and the VAT on education is a “burden” that is too much for them to handle. Asked whether they intend to continue the protest action, many said it will go on until their efforts bear success. President David Granger has said that the 14 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on private institutions will stay for now. As of February 1, 2017, private education institutions are required to pay a 14 per cent VAT as a result of the removal of certain zero-rated items in the 2017 budget. Finance Minister Winston Jordan had said of some 57 private institutions in Guyana, only eight are tax-compliant.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

Mathematics sensitisation outreach at Bath Settlement

PARENTS and relatives of pupils in Bath Settlement Village, West Coast Berbice and its environs, recently participated in a Mathematics sensitisation outreach, aimed at helping them to understand the importance of the subject. The exercise which was held at the Market Square at Bath, was organised by the Regional Education Department of Region Five. Regional Education Officer (Primary Education) Sherry GrantWhite, said that it was the first of a series of such public/parent sensitisation programmes being undertaken within the context of the Emergency Mathematics Intervention Programme

(EMIP) launched by the Education Ministry late last year. The EMIP targets Grades Five and Six students preparing for the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) examinations with the aim of improving students’ performances in Mathematics at this year’s examinations. S t u d e n t s ’ p e r f o rmance in Mathematics countrywide is far from flattering. Staffers at the Region Five outreach set up a booth displaying various teaching/ learning materials that parents and relatives of Six Graders can make and use to encourage children to develop competence and love for Mathematics.

Visitors at the Region Five Mathematics sensitisation exercise

Editorial

THE attack in London on Wednesday is a sure reminder that terrorism continues to pose challenges to governments and wreak havoc in people’s lives. When the knife-wielding, British born, 52-year-old Khalid Masood drove a SUV vehicle over the Westminster Bridge and into that crowd, it was clearly meant to be a weapon to kill or maim. The extremist Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS/ISIL) has since taken credit for it, calling Masood “a solider.” The attack resulted in the fatal stabbing of a police officer who sought to corral the knife and prevent the attacker from storming the Parliament Building, and he was fatally shot by the police. Two other persons died and several were injured. The British Parliament represents the oldest En-

glish-speaking government. As members had to be on lockdown, reporters and politicians seeking cover within, the Scottish parliament aborted its debate for its independence. The targeting of this area would influence thinking that the act was designed to send a message to this seat of power and system of governance. Guyana and Britain share a relationship that goes back centuries. It is one, notwithstanding some unsavoury experiences, that is valued and cherished. Guyana can call the United Kingdom friend and ally, and in this momentary setback our hearts are with the people. The mindset behind this form of terrorism the world is witnessing is home-grown and has its grassroots in an ideology that disdains or dislikes western culture.

Careful observation will notice that these senseless acts are not only confined to targeting western countries. Middle Eastern societies and Muslims are also victims of this chaos if they are considered progressive or adapting to western culture. Terrorists take extreme measures to make a statement and casualties are immaterial to them. The new matter-of-fact or barbaric approach to instill terror or fear into the hearts of the western world could cause undue panic. Today, everyone is on high alert and tense around areas and things once taken for granted. There is fear of going about activities of daily living and it seems as though there is no limit to the terrorists’ method to creating chaos and violence. Unlike World War I and II, where the enemy

was known, now it can be anybody, from a child to an elderly person. This brings into question how diplomacy can bring an end to terrorism, or is it better to see such acts as having to be treated as a cancer, where the cure and prevention become eradication. Evidently, it would pose difficulty to reason with those who are prepared to mindlessly follow a mission for a cause that results in the destruction of others. These vile acts also create anguish in the targeted societies, and where fear would be instinctive reaction, such fear can give fodder to the new wave of far-right populism that views such acts as unique to, or the responsibility of a particular group, deserving to be ostracised and annihilated. Xenophobia still remains the most ineffective

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

weapon to fight terrorism, given that terrorists use it as a recruiting tool to further their destructive agenda. Understandably, given that the purveyors of this chaos have no strategic plan but to instill fear, it makes it very dangerous not knowing when it will end. The funding for the masterminds behind these barbaric acts come from oil, etc., where mercenaries take a country’s natural resources as means of organising around their vision and putting structure to their plans. The internet has be-

come a major recruiting tool for terrorism. And while it remains a great resource of the modern era in that persons can access knowledge, information and ideas, and transact business anywhere around the world, persons with evil thoughts use it to do bad things. And unfortunately, with this technology even after the masterminds are dead their plans live. Evil has no limits and the challenge for governments is staying one step ahead of it.

Nazir Mohamed not au fait with sugar industry Dear Editor, MR Nazir Mohamed, from his letter appearing in the March 22, 2017 Kaieteur News, seems to be not au fait with the sugar industry and thus arrived at a number of incorrect conclusions. The industry’s cost of production is not where it should be, but we need to examine why this is so. A high proportion of the industry’s costs are fixed, around 70 per cent. A first-year accounts or economics student would tell us that higher output translates to lower unit costs, given the significance of fixed costs to overall costs. Certainly, last year’s production of about 183,000 tonnes would equate to high unit costs. To correct the cost imbalance in sugar, the answer is simple – the industry must produce in keeping with its capacity. Were 300,000

tonnes sugar being produced, there would be no debate about costs. The letter writer also says that Guysuco is receiving US12 cents per pound of sugar. Again, he is sadly misinformed. The corporation in its lowest price market is receiving US21.5 cents a pound. If the corporation had produced 300,000 tonnes and sold all its sugar at that price, sugar sales would have yielded $29.5B and that sum taken together with molasses, revenues would have seen the industry at least breaking even. The author then goes on to label the Skeldon factory as ‘scrap iron.’ But how does he explain the ready, and according to the Government, unsolicited expressions to purchase the factory. Mr Mohamed may be interested to know that the Indian investor, introduced by the PM’s son-in-law, advised that with

some changes, they can make the ‘scrap iron’ profitable in the short term. At this time, globally, there is a move away from non-sugar sweeteners and back to natural sugar on account of health risks. We see major companies such as Pepsi are embracing this movement and having their products marketed as made from real sugar. This is no doubt playing a role in the consistent rise in sugar demand over the last few years. Mr Mohamed’s view that re-capitalisation would entail large sums is also misplaced and it speaks possibly to his lack of knowledge. The Sugar Commission of Inquiry pointed out that the industry, for critical capital, requires around $14B in the years leading up to 2020. Clearly, the situation painted by the author is far from the reality that prevails. Ironically, the industry is re-

fusing assistance for capital works as evidenced by its decision not to accept a CDB loan to further mechanisation. Seemingly, the author is confused about the industry’s ratooning system when he says that as a result of incidents in the 70s and 80s, the entire system was in disequilibrium and is a contributing factor to today’s state of affairs. He seems to forget that the industry produced nearly a million tonnes of sugar between 2002 and 2004, and a proper ratooning system would be an integral element in reaching such feats. The author then calls to attention the ethnic composition of the industry’s hierarchy. On this score, he is urged to become acquainted with the ethnic composition of the industry’s recent departures and recruits. His experience will be an eye opener. He also may want to enlighten the public as to what EU prefer-

ential market GuySuCo failed to take advantage of. Mr Mohamed then makes reference to the quality of equipment used at Skeldon. Here he is urged to ask his leaders why is it they have employed a CEO who took responsibility for the factory in 2009 without any successful performance trial being completed. Was it a case of the CEO being beholden to his former employers, who were paid extravagant sums to ensure that the factory was properly built and the right equipment was supplied and installed properly? The author goes on to assert that Guysuco should have insisted on market value for its assets. But had the sugar corporation steadfastly held on to that notion, many poor, ordinary, working-class Guyanese would have been denied an opportunity to own a home. It seems that Mr Mo-

hamed is living in a fool’s paradise when he intimates that sugar workers are overpaid. Then again he is guided by the misinformation spouted by his leaders. It is his leaders and the GuySuCo ‘new’ recruits who are enjoying the fruits of the workers’ labour. The author’s swipe about the workers willing to give their lives is unfounded. Mr Mohamed may want to walk a day in their shoes, especially at this time, when there is grave uncertainty and a bleak future for them and their families. GuySuCo can overcome its challenges and have a viable future through the production of higher-value products such as electricity and white sugar, among other things. Yours truly, Patricia Persaud

Where is this man? - search continues for Cedric Richardson 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

THE Attorney General’s Chambers continues to seek Cedric Richardson, the citizen who filed the motion challenging the presidential term limit. On Wednesday, the Attorney General’s Chambers said several attempts were made to serve Richardson a copy of the Notice of Application and Affidavit in Support of Application for leave to appeal to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in the said matter but those attempts were unsuccessful. Guyana Chronicle was told that though the Notice of Application and Affidavit in Support of Application for leave to appeal to the CCJ were not served on Richardson, they can be served on his lawyers. Attempts to contact Shawn Allicock, one of the lawyers who represented him at the Court of Appeal on Thursday proved futile. This publication understands the attorney is currently abroad. Office Assistant Shaun

Cedric Richardson Mearns who is working at the AG’s Chambers said he visited Richardson’s known place of abode located at Lot 4 West Ruimveldt on March 17 but was told by a female that Richardson does not reside there. According to Mearns, the female also denied knowing of Richardson ever living at that address. “I return to the said premises on the 20th day of March, 2017 between the hours of the 4/4.30 and no one answered. On the 21st day of March, 2017, I returned to the said address between the hours of 4.30 and 5.00pm and again no

one answered,” said the Office Assistant who then reported his findings to the chambers. Richardson, just before the May 2015 General and Regional Elections sought to challenge the amendments made to Article 90 of the Constitution that were enacted in 2000 following a bipartisan Constitutional Reform Process.Justice Chang ruled, among other things, that the presidential term limit was unconstitutional without the approval of the people through a referendum. Richardson had also argued that the term limit infringes on Articles 1 and 9 of the Constitution wherein Article 1 states that “Guyana is an indivisible, secular, democratic, sovereign state in the course of transition from capitalism to socialism and shall be known as the Co-operative Republic of Guyana” and Article 9, states that “Sovereignty belongs to the people, who exercise it through

their representatives and the democratic organs established by or under this Constitution.” Former Chief Justice Ian Chang had in July 2015 ruled in favour of Richardson which prompted the Attorney General and Speaker of the National Assembly, the named parties, to appeal against the ruling. Justice Chang had said Article No.17 of 2001 is without legal effect because it does not comply with other articles of the constitution dealing with repugnancy, democratic society and sovereignty belonging to the people which require a referendum for any alteration. He had reasoned that Article 1 and 9 underpin the republican commitment to the fundamental concept of popular sovereignty or imperium populi thereby safeguarding against elective despotism by the elected representatives of the people. “Thus, while the Con-

Support for Judith David-Blair Dear Editor,

I AM in support of the President of the Karrau Syndicate, Mrs Judith David-Blair, who was blasphemed by Mr. Sherwyn Delano Downer in the Monday, March 20th edition of the Kaieteur News, in which he said, that “she as a non-resident of Karrau is heading the Karrau Syndicate.” The fact is that the Karrau mining syndicate is a Bartica syndicate. Firstly,

Mr Delano, the reason why the syndicate wasn’t named “Bartica Mining Syndicate” is because when the madame president and other executives approached The Deeds Registry, they were informed that the word “Bartica” is redundantly used by other mining associations, so they were forced to name the syndicate after Bartica’s neighbour ,”Karrau.” Secondly, Delano, the Honourable Minister Simona Broomes (my godmoth-

er) was never part of the formation or registration of the syndicate. If I can keenly remember, you were not present at any and I repeat any,of the mining meetings. As disrespectful as you are to madame president and madame junior Minister Broomes, I personally think that you should be penalised for “defamation of character and character assassination.” My third and final point is that Sherwyn Downer is not a resident of Karrau and

if the toshao had a problem and needs clarity, he/she can contact the president of the Karrau Mining Syndicate. And I take this opportunity to enlighten and encourage all miners to be part of the Karrau mining syndicate. Remember, it’s not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country. Yours faithfully, O’shea Mingo

stitution provides for representative democracy, such representative democracy cannot entrench on popular sovereignty from which it derives and which is entrenched by the requirement of the referendum,” Chang had said. The former Chief Justice had determined that the two-term limit of Presidents indeed dilutes the rights of citizens to elect the person they wish to govern their country regardless of the number of times they wish that person to be Head of State. In his affidavit, Cedric Richardson had argued that the purported alteration of the Constitution by Act 17 of 2001 would curtail or delimit the electorate’s choice of Presidential candidate by rendering ineligible for the candidature any person who has been re-elected once as Presi-

dent e.g. Former President Bharrat Jagdeo. Meanwhile, last month, the Court of Appeal by a two-one majority upheld the High Court ruling that the presidential term limit is unconstitutional and void. Now retired Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Carl Singh, and Justice BS Roy upheld Chang’s ruling, while Chief Justice (ag) Yonette Cummings-Edwards disagreed. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams, the first-named appellant and former Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman, the second-named appellant, have both indicated that they will file an appeal to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) within 30 days of the conclusion of the Court of Appeal decision.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

Stop hoarding foreign currency –– Bank of Guyana urges exporters

THE Bank of Guyana (BoG) has accused exporters of hoarding foreign currency, resulting in the devaluation of the Guyana dollar. The Central Bank in response to calls made by the Guyana Manufacturing Services Association (GMSA) for the Government and the bank to take steps to stabilise the value of the local currency, said the hoarding of foreign currency by exporters is “evidenced by the large foreign currency balances that are being held in their exporters’ retention accounts”. “Instead of using these balances to complete their transactions, they have been sourcing foreign currency in

the market. This has added further pressure on the demand for foreign currency and reduced the supply to the market. Both of these factors have contributed to the instability and depreciation of the rate,” the bank said in a statement Thursday. On Wednesday, the GMSA expressed disappointment and worry over what it has described as the “rate of deterioration” of the Guyana dollar. In a statement to the media, the body representing manufacturers said it deliberated deeply on the woes of the manufacturing sector and members expressed concern about the devaluation of the

Guyana dollar and “the real exchange rate”. The GMSA said it estimates that the real exchange rate when available being used for the purchase of foreign exchange is $230 for the replacement of imported inputs into the sectors. “We are concerned that our ability to keep prices stable will be limited and guided by this new rate. The burden of the changes in the VAT regime will also cause production costs to move upwards,” the statement to the media said. But notwithstanding the concerns raised by many in the private sector about the exchange rate of the currency

and the value of the Guyana dollar, the bank maintains that there is no shortage of foreign currency here and that the exchange rate is stable. “The Bank of Guyana (BoG) notes with concern a statement by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), which contained a number of inaccuracies.

MISLEADING First, the claim by GMSA that the ‘‘effective rate for the US dollar is G$230’’ is not only misleading, but is of a kind that does nothing more than add fuel to the rising speculative and destabilising activities in the foreign exchange market, all of which could be harmful to the economy,” Central Bank stated.

Additionally, the bank said the rate quoted by the GMSA is not a uniform transaction rate; rather, it is the online rate charged by one of the largest commercial banks in Guyana for its credit and debit card transactions, which represent a very small share of the cambio market transactions. For the week ending March 14-17, 2017, the weighted average buying rate was G$214 while the weighted average selling rate was G$218. The turnover for the week was US$40.0 million. Total purchases and sales at the bank cambios were US$19.6 million and US$20.4 million respectively, the statement noted. Moreover, the bank said that the aggregate working balance at the bank cambios was US$13.7 million at the

end of business on March 17. One bank accounted for 32.8 per cent or US$4.5 million of the total working balance. Demand at the end of the week stood at US$8.0 million, with two banks accounting for the bulk of the demand. “The Bank of Guyana wishes to advise businesses not to depend solely on one bank, but to pursue other banks to meet their demands for foreign currency at a competitive rate. “The BoG continues to reiterate that there is sufficient foreign currency in the market to meet legitimate demand. The patience and co-operation of stakeholders are needed, therefore, to ensure that there is no undue speculation and further deterioration in the rate,” the statement said.

She said McGarrell wished her well and told her that she cannot be a part of the seminar. She took the opportunity to pack her items and left. Bowen refused to comment on what might have prompted her dismissal, but did say that she is seeking advice. “I would not say; I have thoughts, I do not want to preempt anything, I would not say. At this point I would ask for advice, the necessary advice on the way forward,” the former town clerk said. According to Bowen, when she was reinstated, she was requested to attend meetings every morning with the mayor with which she complied but last Wednesday, the meeting took a bitter turn when an administrative issue came up for discussion. “He started raising his voice at me and I said to him Mr Mayor I do not appreciate the condescending language that you are using. He continued to raise his voice and I said Mr Mayor, I am not your child and I do not appreciate the condescending language; he continued and the next thing he said to me is ‘leave my office now!’” Bowen spoke of some operations of the council being in contravention to the law and claimed that the mayor was getting involved in the administrative aspects of the council; a role mandated to her, according to the Municipal and District Council Act 28:01. She said this led to several of the workers making both verbal and written complaints about the mayor’s attitude. Those letters were forwarded to the relevant authorities. “The letters had to do with

the way the mayor treated them as women, the way he spoke to them, the way he belittled them, the tone he used….. he was giving instructions to administrative staff and they were not comfortable about it.” Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland, opted not to comment on the issue, when contacted by the Guyana Chronicle. In 2016, a no-confidence motion was presented by the council and passed against Bowen. It was the view of the council that Bowen’s conduct and attitude were stymieing its progress and by extension the town of Linden. An investigative committee was set up to investigate these accusations, while Bowen was sent on administrative leave. The committee’s findings highlighted the fact that the motion was moved in contravention of the law and therefore recommended that Bowen be reinstated to her position. The committee however in its findings, noted that out of the 10 issues raised by the council which resulted in them having ‘no confidence’ in Bowen, several of these showed that the current temperament and attitude of Bowen in carrying out her functions as chief administrator and advisor of the council was not working in a positive way for the council. Bowen was appointed on June 28, 2012, by former Minister within the Ministry of Local Government, Norman Whittaker. Her employment became effective on July 3, 2012. Deputy Town Clerk Orleena Ombermulla will now handle the administration of the council.

Linden Town Clerk fired –– Min Bulkan cites continuous disruptive attitude By Vanessa Braithwaite

THREE weeks after she was reinstated to her substantive position as Town Clerk of the Linden Mayor and Town Council, Jonellor Bowen’s appointment was revoked with immediate effect by Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan on Thursday. Prior to being reinstated, Bowen was sent on five months administrative leave to facilitate an investigation into several allegations levelled against her. A statement from the Ministry of Communities on Thursday noted that the minister took the decision based on the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01. Sections 118 (1) which states: “The power, save as otherwise provided hereinafter, to appoint persons to hold or act in any local government offices the emoluments of which exceed eighteen thousand dollars per annum (including the power to confirm appointments), the power to exercise disciplinary control over any persons holding or acting in such offices and the power to remove any such persons from office shall vest in the Commission.” Although this section cites such powers being vested in the Local Government Service Commission, Minister Bulkan is legally allowed to carry out this mandate in the absence of the Commission. Bowen was issued a letter on Thursday informing her of the minister’s decision to revoke her appointment as town

clerk. The letter, which was seen by this newspaper, advised Bowen to make arrangements for a smooth transition. “You are further informed to make arrangements for an orderly and accurate hand-over of all assets, keys and documents pertaining to the administration and Council to the Deputy Town Clerk of the Linden Mayor and Town Council,” stated the letter. BOWEN’S DISRUPTIVE ATTITUDE Meanwhile, when contacted, Minister Bulkan told the Guyana Chronicle that he had reinstated Bowen against the recommendations of the investigative committee to give her a chance of redeeming herself, but her continuous disruptive attitude disappointed him. According to the minister, within the three weeks, Bowen had intensified her disrespectful attitude instead of rehabilitating herself. “I have been able to satisfy myself that Miss Bowen’s actions were disruptive, divisive and disrespectful to the mayor and to the council. In addition, she lacks an understanding of her role as the Clerk of the Council which should be the servant of the Council,” Bulkan said. He further noted that two weeks ago, Bowen had sent him a letter, in which she complained about the mayor’s actions which convinced him that she sees herself as equal to the mayor.

“I am satisfied that she lacks a fundamental misunderstanding [sic] of her role which is to basically be a servant to the council and I am satisfied

day of hard work, because she found so many things wrong, though she see some major changes and that the market stinks.’ This is an insult to the staff who was working hard while she was away on leave and being paid for doing nothing,” the

Jonellor Bowen speaks to the media at Freedom House on Thursday that the information that I received, I am convinced that she is disruptive, she was an equivalent of a Carol Sooba, so her time has run out,” Minister Bulkan affirmed. An administrative staff member of the Linden Mayor and Town Council, who requested anonymity, shared the sentiments of the minister and noted that she was unhappy with Bowen’s autocratic leadership style and unthankful attitude. “Would you believe she insulted us in her first statement to the staff on her first day back at work? She told the staff at a welcoming meeting, ‘welcome to the first

employee revealed. BOWEN SPEAKS OUT FROM FREEDOM HOUSE After receiving her dismissal letter, Bowen visited Freedom House, headquarters of the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP), where she sought advice on the issue. She told reporters there that on Friday last, she attended a Town Clerk’s seminar at the Ministry of Communities where she was asked to meet with Permanent Secretary, Emil McGarrell, after she was issued a correspondence from the minister’s secretary.

‘Jail her’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

–– parents, classmates of young accident victim call for justice

–– female taxi driver that allegedly caused accident yet to be charged By Fareeza Haniff RESIDENTS of Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, came out in their numbers on Thursday in support of the relatives of four-year-old Ramkaran Mohan, known as “Ram,” who was struck down near his home on March 14. It has been 10 days now since the incident occurred and the female driver, Grace Alves, is yet to be charged for the fatal accident; as a matter of fact, less than 24 hours after the accident, Alves was released on $20,000 station

bail. The car involved in the accident, a silver-coloured Toyota Premio bearing the number plate PVV 5084, was also released by the police and is back on the streets. The victim’s parents, grandparents, other relatives, residents and classmates staged a protest action on Thursday, pleading for justice. The mother, Anna Persaud, told reporters that since the accident occurred, the woman has not offered condolences to the family. “I need justice for my baby! $20,000 can’t bring back me son. I need justice

Dead: Ramkaran Mohan, known as “Ram”

Mother of the victim, Anna Persaud, leads the protest outside the Tuschen Police Outpost

The four-year-old victim’s classmates also joined the protest. (Samuel Maughn photos) for me son. She don’t have any licence, the car don’t have any insurance plus she say [she] is untouchable. I need justice. I don’t want no money,” a passionate Anna said. The family believes that the woman is being protected by the police, given the fact that her father is connected to the Guyana Police Force. “She drag me baby like a dog. I need justice for my baby, this is just the starting. She is walking free on the road,” the grieving mother noted. TIGHT-LIPPED Meanwhile, the child’s father, Raysho Lall, said that the police are tightlipped on the matter and are not very cooperative with the family. “I went to the station the night after the accident occurred and ask the police wuh is the update with the lady, the police tell me that he ain’t got a crystal ball and he is lance corporal… he can’t give me no information,” Lall said. Additionally, the grandmother, Bibi Khan, vowed that the family will continue to protest until justice is served.

“She hit my grandson like a dog and dragged him and killed him and now she say she is untouchable. I need justice for my grandson and I will go as far as I could, she must be jailed! I want her in jail for my grandson. The entire community is backing me for justice.” The protestors bore placards which read: “We want justice for baby Ram,” “We need answers,” “Our lives are at risk on the road,” “Who’s next?”, “Justice or injustice?” and “We mourn his death, we will fight.” They walked down the narrow street where the toddler was killed and indicated the spot where the driver stopped after the accident, which is some 100 metres away. Efforts by the Guyana Chronicle to contact Commander of ‘D’ Division, Leslie James on Thursday,proved futile; however on Tuesday, the commander had said that the file concerning Alves will be sent to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice on the way forward. THE ACCIDENT On March 14, at approximately 11: 30hrs, Ram and his seven-year-

old brother, Komal, were being accompanied by their uncle, Michael Plass, to a shop near their Lot 1088, Tuschen residence, to purchase a ball to play cricket when he was struck down. According to Ram’s grandmother, they were waiting to cross the road and the boy was holding onto his uncle’s hand when the car turned from the corner and “hooked” him out of the uncle’s hand, dragging him several feet away before coming to a halt. The child was rushed to the Leonora Diagnostic Centre and was subsequently transferred to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he succumbed a few hours later. Commander James had told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday last that the police received conflicting reports as to how the accident occurred. He said two witnesses reported that the child ran into the path of the car while another witness stated otherwise. However, the victim’s family alleged that the witness was bribed by relatives of the female driver. The child was cremated on March 19.

Pakistani refugees busted with fake passports at CJIA TWO Pakistani refugees appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Thursday, charged with having forged passports in their possession. The men were recently nabbed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri. Arshad Mughal, 40, and Ashad Mughal, 30, were charged separately with the offence, which alleged that on March 21, 2017 at CJIA,

they uttered to airline representative attached to Fly Jamaica, Collin Lovell, fake passports bearing their photographs, knowing that they were false. They were unrepresented and pleaded guilty to the charges. They were fined GY$100,000 with an alternative of serving eight weeks in prison. The magistrate also ordered that the passports be confiscated and that the duo

be escorted to the nearest port of exit upon payment of the fine or upon serving the default prison term. The men claimed that they were granted refugee status in Brazil. Arshad Mughal presented an Italian passport under the pretext that it was issued to him by the Government of Italy, while Ashad Mughal presented a Spanish passport, under the pretext that it was issued to him by the Govern-

ment of Spain. Prosecutor Arvin Moore told the court that the men were outgoing passengers to Canada and that they were detected by Canadian Customs Border Protection at the CJIA, after it was found that the passports were found to be lost or stolen. Checks made to Italy via INTERPOL revealed that the real owner of the passport is Marian Denallo of

Rome, while checks are still being made with Spain to ascertain the original owner of that passport. According to the prosecutor, the duo entered Guyana on February 28, 2017, via Lethem from Brazil, where they were granted a one-month stay in the country. Arshad Mughal told the court that he had bought the passport in Dubai for $US9,500.

Arshad Mughal

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

Parking meters parked for now By Svetlana Marshall

MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon has said that Government has no fixed position on the future of the Parking Meter Project, but hopes that the 90-day suspension will allow good sense to prevail. “We have not taken a position as to what happens after the three months, but we do believe that good sense will prevail and will be able to get a favourable outcome,” Minister Harmon told reporters on Thursday during the post-Cabinet media briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency. The minister of state said, on Tuesday, Cabinet had deliberated on the actions taken by the Georgetown City Council subsequent to its decision to have the Parking Meter Project suspended for three months, to allow for

the review of the agreement. Disappointed with the decision of the majority of the Council to vote against the suspension, Minister Harmon said the Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan was instructed to formally suspend the operation of the by-laws governing the Parking Meter Project with effect from Tuesday, March 21. “The Minister of Communities acted on the advice of the learned Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams,” the Minister of State pointed out, while adding that he is convinced that Minister Bulkan acted in keeping with the law. Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan was also instructed to advise the commissioner of police to ensure that as of Wednesday, March 22, citizens and their vehicles would receive

the protection of the Guyana Police Force to prevent them and/or their vehicles from being unduly hindered or restrained in any way,

Government has no fixed position on the future of the project, but hopes that the 90-day suspension will allow good sense to prevail whatsoever, by the City Council or its agents. Minister Harmon reiterated that it is the hope of the Government that during

The hidden contract

… 22 months on, Patterson yet to see Berbice River Bridge contract By Zena Henry AFTER almost two years at the helm of the country’s Public Infrastructure Ministry, Minister David Patterson is still to see documentation surrounding the “controversial” Berbice River Bridge project. Patterson, who was speaking on the radio show “Hot Seat” days ago, could not provide any real update regarding the crossing since he said the relevant information is not being released by the Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI). The minister revealed that in a recent meeting with the Government consultant addressing the Berbice River Bridge matter, it was noted that the consultant was “getting difficulties in finding out the financial modelling for the Berbice Bridge …” Patterson said he has thus asked the consultant to formally write him on the matter, while an initial move has already been made whereby the ministry’s permanent secretary has written to the Bridge Company to ascertain the reason for not releasing the contract. He said the letter has inquired whether there are confidential pieces of information, or whether it is specifically stated that the contract cannot be made public. Patterson said he is yet to receive an update on the matter, but his permanent secretary “has indicated unofficially that they may have an issue with us releasing it

[contract] publicly.” The minister described his utterances as a confession, revealing that, “I as minister, in 22 months, have not seen that [Berbice River Bridge] contract.” The minister said there is no copy of the contract in his

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson ministry, and while he refuses to speculate why that is so, he has recognised that it is a continuing search process to get the relevant information. Patterson said he has tried seeking information from the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), but has got no response. The Berbice River Bridge Project became a matter of contention when speculation surrounding the financing of the bridge showed that the infrastructure was more privately owned in what was supposed to be a balanced

this period of suspension, the parties involved would participate in a meaningful process of negotiation and consultation.

Public-Private Partnership agreement. Public funds from agencies such as the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) were injected into the project with alleged unfavourable returns coming back to the entities. Notably, the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Company (GPC), whose owner is said to be close to the former Government, was able to secure a large share in the bridge, thus causing public criticism. Apart from that, the high cost of utilising the infrastructure brought more attention to the bridge as citizens were finding it financially burdensome to utilise. The A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government had spoken extensively on the matter and vowed to ease the strain on commuters once in office. The Government said it wanted to increase its control over the bridge, so it could have a better say on behalf of the State. It was reported that Government had even purchased the shares of one of the investors to add a 10 per cent increase to State shares. The Government was also able to negotiate lower prices for using the Berbice Bridge. Whereas passenger vehicles once paid $2,200 to cross the bridge, they now pay less than $2000. The Government also provides subsidised water transport to ease the cost of getting across the Berbice River.

Town Clerk Royston King is expected to meet with the Minister of Communities on this issue. DEFIANCE On Monday, the Council voted in favour of a motion that sought to defy Bulkan’s “order” to have the parking meter by-laws suspended for three months.

The councillors, who did so, did so on the basis of a document containing legal advice that was sought to counteract the minister’s order, felt they needed time to “study” such advice. According to the legal advice City Hall received from lawyer Roger Yearwood, the Municipal and District Councils Act “does not permit the honourable minister to direct the Council to suspend any contract or by-laws enacted by it as the honourable minister purports to do by his order dated 17th day of March, 2017.” Yearwood, in the document, said it is important to note that the minister’s order does not suspend the by-laws, but directs the Council to do so. “As such, if the Council accedes to this mandate, it is the act of the Council that will be effective to suspend the by-laws and not the order of the honourable minister. This would necessarily leave the Council susceptible to a claim for breach of contract by Smart City Solutions (SCS).” Before the minister’s direction, Town Clerk,

Royston King, had written to Minister Bulkan asking him to consider that there is no provision in the contract between M&CC and SCS to suspend it in part or in its entirety. “The suspension of the contract operates as a breach of contract and would therefore trigger the compensation clause.” Chairman of the Finance Committee, Oscar Clarke, who is also the General Secretary of the People’s National Congress (PNC), offered that after the minister communicated Cabinet’s recommendation, the City Council thought it necessary to seek legal advice. This, he said, is due to the fact that the decision regarding parking meters has to be taken by the Council and not the minister. Clarke said it is clear that everyone will want to know of the legal implications of suspending the by-laws, including Minister Bulkan himself. He said the City Council will not want to follow the route that Cabinet has recommended without legal advice.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

Board for Power Producers and Distributors Inc soon

CABINET has signalled its approval for the appointment of a Board of Directors for the newly formed State-controlled company, Power Producers and Distributors Inc (PPDI), which is now providing operations and maintenance services to the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL). The appointment comes approximately three months after GPL cut ties with Wärtsilä, which had been providing similar services since 1994 up until the contract ended in December 2016. At the helm of the board is Mark Bender, the Chairman, who will be supported by the Vice-Chairman Aaron Fraser, Secretary Attorney-at-Law Ronald Burch-Smith, and board members, Chartered Accountant Harriram Parmesar and Attorney-at-Law Stephen Fraser. Additionally, there are four other board members including permanent secretary of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and an Opposition People’s Progres-

sive Party (PPP) member. In making the announcement on Thursday at the Ministry of the Presidency, Minister of State Joseph Harmon said that access to spares will not be affected by the formation of PPDI. The transition, he posited, will enable GPL to conserve on its financial resources. “The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) will be saving, because the sums of money which were paid to Wärtsilä will definitely see an improvement in the remuneration for the persons who are in this new company and still be able to provide a saving for the GPL,” he explained. In response to critics last month, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, said that GPL will now be able to save US$2.4M annually. In 2008, GPL had paid Wärtsilä US$6.2M, but by 2016 when the contract ended, the figure had jumped to US$10M after gradually increasing over the years. In going forward, Minister

Patterson said Wärtsilä was proposing an average cost of US$20.51 per megawatt hour. “This would have equated to approximately US$13.3M per annum, based upon a consumption of 650,000 megawatts per year. Compare this figure to the proposed fee of US$16.78 megawatts per hour from PPDI. This would equate to savings of US$2.4M, based on the same consumption rate for an enhanced service,” the Public Infrastructure Minister explained. “With savings of this magnitude, it would be possible to buy a brand new 5.5MW Wärtsilä engine every three years. Additionally, when it came to spare parts prices, the agreement was that GPL would be charged at a discounted price. However, the records show that GPL was paying the global list prices up until the contract termination with Wärtsilä,” he added. PPDI will be purchasing spares for all parts at equal or better prices, Minister Patter-

son assured. He said the former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government was in the dark on the large sums of monies paid out to Wärtsilä during the period 2010-2015, when Winston Brassington served as chairman of the board. Minister Patterson is con-

vinced that the shift from Wärtsilä to PPDI was necessary. “Upon its entry into Guyana, Wärtsilä had no prior successful operations and maintenance of power plants and its management was unwilling to offer any guarantees of its services,” he contended.

While operating in Guyana, Wärtsilä was managed solely by Guyanese and it is the intention of PPDI to maintain this model. PPDI’s top management comprises Guyanese with more than 60 years of combined experience with Wärtsilä, both locally and regionally.

Woman remanded for possession of large ammo cache CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Thursday remanded a 27-year-old South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, woman after a cache of ammunition was found inside her apartment. Alana Edwards, who works in the mining industry, was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleged that on September 16,2016, at Lot 3272 Lamaha Place, South Ruimveldt, she had 50 rounds of .40 ammunition and 19 rounds of 7.62 by 51 ammunition in her possession, when she is not the holder of a firearm licence. Her lawyer, Leslie Benjamin, in her bail application, explained that Edwards’ home was not searched in her

presence, since she was in the interior. The lawyer told the court that her client had informed police that the bag was given to her by a friend and that she had no knowledge of what was inside. Police Prosecutor, Arvin Moore, objected to bail and revealed that police ranks acted on information, visited the home and conducted a search, during which the ammunition was found in a bag inside the bedroom of the accused. The prosecutor said that the accused was only arrested earlier this month after police failed to locate her since she had fled to the interior. The court heard that Edwards’ roommate was at home during the search and

Alana Edwards was arrested. However, the roommate was released after 72 hours. According to prosecutor Moore, Edwards told police that the bag was given to her by an individual named “Blackboy” of La Penitence, with whom she was in a relationship. Bail was refused and Edwards was remanded until April 21, 2017.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

Overseas training for several senior public servants

GUYANA will participate in the United Nations Development Programme-sponsored Crime Observatory Study Tour and technical exchange to be held in Belize from March 27 to 29, 2017. The study tour will enable participants to gain skills in resources and technical expertise in the areas of citizen security, and the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) to improve case and data management within the Criminal Justice System. Cadet Officer Devon Gordon and staff of the Ministry of Public Security, Courtney Samuels, Head of the Policy and Research Unit and Observatory Officer, Michelle Baptiste, will attend the event. This was stated by Minister of State Joseph Harmon at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday, at the Ministry of the Presidency. Minister Harmon said that at Cabinet’s latest meeting, approval was given for the attendance of Marcel Hutson, Chief Education Officer (acting) to participate in the Caribbean Safe Schools Ministerial Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda from March 4 to 9, 2017. The objective of the forum will be to promote and raise awareness on the three pillars of school safety of the world wide initiative on Safe Schools in the Caribbean. Another objective will be to identify national and joint regional achievements regarding school safety, and to adopt the declaration and road map on school safety and be committed to its implementation. The meeting will enable Ministers of Education and senior advisors to meet with relevant support groups involved in school safety in the Caribbean. Guyana will also participate in a Caribbean Technical Distance Training Workshop on Public /Private Partnership to manage fiscal costs and risks to be held in in St. Kitts from March 29 to 31, 2017. The workshop will address the effective management of costs and risks involved with Public/Private partnerships in which the

public sector is required to deal with the issues, while the private sector supplies infrastructural assets and services for joint projects. Bernard Lord, Department Head Project Cycle Division and Miguel Cho Kang, Head of Regional Planning, of the Ministry of Finance, will attend the workshop. Guyana will be represented at the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation Meeting

Minister of State Joseph Harmon (ACTO) of the Forest Authority under the project under Forest Covers, which will be held in Suriname from March 30-31, 2017. The meeting will seek to develop and implement Forest Covers management in the Amazon Region by strengthening existing regional cooperation and coordination in deforestation management. Hannah Jose, Project Officer of the Planning and Development Division and Hansrajee Sookdeo, Project Officer, REDD Secretariat, both of the Guyana Forestry Commission, will attend the meeting. Additionally, Minister Harmon said a Guyana delegation will attend the Amazonian Seminar on Social Protection organised by the Brazilian Government in partnership with the World Bank and the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to be held in Belem, Brazil, from

March 27-31, 2017. The seminar will provide a platform for the representatives of government academia, Indigenous peoples, civil society and international agencies to share experiences regarding social protection in the context of the Amazonian Region. Participation in this seminar will assist in providing experience and knowledge needed for the formulation of public policies to guarantee the involvement of the Amazonian population development process. The Guyana delegation will include, Mervyn Williams, Ministerial Advisor, Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs; Tenesha Williams-Corbin, Coordinator, Counter-Trafficking in Persons Unit, Ministry of Social Protection; David James, Special Assistant to the Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs on Legal Issues; Nicholas Fredrick, Toshao, Tunac village, South-Central Rupununi, Region Nine; Elesha Jerome-Reece, Ministerial Advisor, Ministry of Social Protection and Florence La Rose, Management and Development Officer, Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs. Minister Harmon said that Cabinet had approved the attendance at the Training for Trainers’ Workshop on Public Procurement, which was held in Jamaica from March 20 to 21, 2017. The workshop was held under the European-Funded Project for Capacity Building and targeted mid to senior-level procurement personnel in CARIFORUM states. The Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) is a subgroup of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States which was established in 1992 and serves as a base for economic dialogue with the European Union. Adel Clarke, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education and Christina Singh, Procurement Officer of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, attended the workshop. (GINA)

60 months jail, $6.9M fine … for man guilty of having 5 kilos of ganja

A RESIDENT OF Westminster, Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment and fined $6.9M after he was found guilty of trafficking over almost 5 kilos of cannabis. City Magistrate Judy Latchman convicted Mo-

raino Wilson, 23, of having 4.624 kilograms of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking on January 7, 2017. According to reports, on January 7, 2017, around 13:20hrs, ranks of the Police Narcotics Branch intercepted two boxes with cannabis at a Sussex Street wharf.

The boxes were slated to be shipped to Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD). The boxes were searched and the packets containing cannabis were discovered. Wilson, when arrested, reportedly confessed to owning the drugs and told the police, “It’s a small hustle I trying to do.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

Breaches identified in GCCI elections –– chamber seeks legal advice on way forward By Ariana Gordon

EXECUTIVE Director of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Kirk Hollingsworth has acknowledged that there were several breaches in the procedures employed to elect members of the GCCI’s Council last Thursday and has suggested that independent legal advice be sought. Guyana Chronicle had carried an article on Monday, March 20, where some members have expressed concern about the handling of the body’s election of the 2016/2017 Council last week and have called for a re-run of the election. According to the aggrieved members, the Constitution of the body has been breached by the holding of the Council Election on the same day of the Annual General Meeting (AGM). GCCI’s 127th AGM was held last Thursday at Roraima Duke Lodge in Kingston where the president’s report, auditors’ report and financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2016 were read and the election of the 2016/2017 Council done. Those who contend that

the election was flawed argue that the rules of the Constitution do not permit for elections to be held on the day of the AGM, and deem the move “illegal”. They further contend that the act would “permit the elements of destruction to hijack the GCCI as a junior Private Sector Commission (PSC) corporation”. In the missive written to the Executive Management Committee and seen by this publication, Hollingsworth said “In light of media reports today and discreet inquiries by some members about the conduct of last Thursday’s elections for new Council members, a Special Executive Management Committee meeting was convened at the chamber’s offices this afternoon.” BREACHES He continued: “At today’s Special Executive Management Committee meeting (Minutes attached), it was established that there were four material breaches of the chamber’s rules in the conduct of elections to the Council of the Chamber at last Thursday’s (16 March) AGM. The specific breaches are as follows:

Rules -7.2C, 8.1, 8.5 and 8.6 (Amended Rules of Chamber attached).” The executive director noted however that the Special Executive Management Committee acknowledged that the procedures followed at the elections (most likely inadvertently) were hardly different from those followed at previous elections (since 2014 or thereabouts). “Nevertheless, given the now evident material breaches, the Executive Committee suggested that independent legal opinion (Ronald Burch Smith or Mark Waldron suggested) should be sought regarding the way forward in terms of the elections of the new GCCI Council,” the letter said. On Sunday, President of the GCCI Vishnu Doerga told Guyana Chronicle that the allegations are inaccurate, since the election followed standard practice, based on the established rules that govern elections. Doerga explained that no-

tice was sent out three weeks before the AGM to all members; a requirement he said is mandatory. He noted, too, that nominations and elections are to be done on the same day as the AGM and voting is done by secret ballot. “The ballot box was empty and it was verified to be empty…. It was empty and verified, then locked and then opened for counting,” a surprised Doerga said, adding: “There were no more than 21 options; the votes were tallied, and one week from now there will be elections for the executive. The rules state that elections are to be held no later than March 31, and notice was done 21 days before.”

ELECTION TRANSPARENT Contending that the information the media has been fed is misleading, Doerga said: “The election was done in full sight of all members present by secretariat staff.” As he went on to explain, he has been a member of the GCCI for four years, and that the very rules and procedures

that were employed in the past were employed at last Thursday’s election. Moreover, Doerga stated that the attendance at the AGM was the highest in recent times, “capping a year where every single key performance metric was at an all-time high for 128 years. Membership, projects, surplus, advocacy, members support, training activities etc.” When asked why he believes some members of the GCCI would make such allegations against the organisation, Doerga said: “A lot of members showed up who generally do not show much of an interest in the activities of the chamber and seem to have been instructed to vote in a particular way to move the chamber in a different direction.” Doerga said though encouraged by the turnout, he is, however, concerned about “this new-found interest” but quickly pointed out that the situation illustrates democracy at work and noted that “persons will get the leadership they deserve”. Meanwhile, Hollingsworth sought agreement to seek independent legal advice

about the way forward in terms of the conduct of elections of the Council. Members were asked to submit objections to the suggestion in writing with reasons by March 21 at 16:00h. It is unclear how many persons questioned the suggestion but former GCCI President, Captain Gerry Gouveia asked a few question. WHO IS PAYING ? Gouveia asked: “Who is paying for this legal advice? while making the point that the executives are no longer office holders. “As far as I know, the lifelong procedures were followed in these elections certainly since I was president,” he said but questioned whether anyone tampered with the results of the Council election. Additionally, Gouveia cautioned that members must be careful so as not to embarrass the chamber. As such, he reportedly recommended a general meeting be held to discuss the matter as the chamber is currently in a transition phase.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

Some 50,000 people in Americas have TB –– but do not know it, says PAHO/WHO

THE countries of the Americas have dramatically reduced new cases and deaths from tuberculosis (TB) in the past 25 years. Despite this, nearly 270,000 people contracted the disease in 2015, and some 50,000 do not know they have it. On World TB Day, 2017, the Pan American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) is calling on governments, communities, civil society and the private sector to join efforts to end TB and leave no one behind. “Tuberculosis is associated with poverty and poor living conditions, which, combined with the difficulties of access to health services, represents a problem that must be addressed by society as a whole,” said Marcos Espinal, director of

PAHO/WHO’s Department of Communicable Diseases and Health Analysis. The populations most at risk of TB in the Americas are people living with HIV, those who are homeless, urban slum dwellers, and people with addiction problems. These populations

generally have limited access to health care or, if they do have access, are less likely to be promptly diagnosed as having TB. This year, PAHO/ WHO’s World TB Day campaign has the slogan: “Unite to end TB: Leave no one behind “ and seeks

to promote access to quality health care for people with TB. Currently, more than one in three people with TB worldwide lack access to good care. The campaign promotes cross-sector action to prevent new TB cases by combating poverty, a major determinant of TB, and by improving diagnosis and treatment, promoting research and innovation, and ending stigma and discrimination, which are key barriers to accessing health care. ENDING TB IS POSSIBLE The region of the Americas accounts for only 2.6 per cent of all new TB cases worldwide, compared with 61 per cent in Asia and 26 per cent in Africa. In the Americas, 88 per cent of new TB cases are concentrated in 10 countries.

The number of new cases in the region has declined by 1.8 per cent annually since 2000, and the number of deaths by 2.9 per cent, largely due to the implementation of measures recommended in WHO’s global TB strategy and PAHO’s Plan of Action for the Prevention and Control of TB. Nevertheless, efforts need to be stepped up to meet the goal of ending TB by 2030, as called for in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Ending tuberculosis is possible,” said Mirtha Del Granado, PAHO/ WHO’s regional advisor on TB. She said efforts need to be focused on reaching the groups at highest risk, addressing social factors that influence health, and expanding access to quality diagnosis and treatment for all who need it. NEW CHALLENGES

Although TB is a preventable and curable disease, it claimed an estimated 25,000 lives in the Americas in 2015. Immuno-compromised people, such as those with HIV, malnutrition or diabetes, and tobacco users are among the groups at greatest risk of developing the disease. In 2015, 32,000 people with HIV developed TB in the region. One of the major challenges for the fight against TB is the emergence of new strains that are resistant to medications that have been used for decades to treat the disease. PAHO/WHO estimates that there were some 7,700 cases of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in the Americas in 2015, of which 59 per cent were diagnosed. Of these patients, only 75 per cent are currently receiving effective treatment.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

Simulation exercise tests cops’ alertness

THE Joint Services on Thursday staged a simulation exercise titled “Exercise Snapper 3,” designed to prepare ranks to be alert in the event of a robbery. The exercise held at the John Fernandes Limited, Water Street, Georgetown wharf, aimed at implementing joint-command coordination, planning and tasking;

response to armed robbery and joint operations; passage/ dissemination of information; emergency response; emergency evacuation drills; safety marshals’ responsibilities; and communications and changing of security levels. John Fernandes Limited Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Philip Fernandes,

Cop, two others charged with cocaine bust at airport THREE MEN, including a police officer, appeared before city Magistrate Leron Daly on Thursday charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). The police officer, Constable Louie Dublin, was charged separately for allegedly having 558 grammes of cocaine in his possession at the Lotus Restaurant and Bar located at the CJIA, Timehri, on March 17, 2017. Constable Dublin strongly denied the Police Constable charge. However, the Louie Dublin court was told that a sting operation was conducted at the airport after police ranks became suspicious of Dublin’s actions. The prosecutor further told the court that upon his arrest, Dublin gave a caution statement to the police admitting that Delvor Bunbury Jr and Gavin Delvor Bunbury Harris had given him the bag. Bunbury Jr and Harris also appeared in court, jointly charged for having 558 grammes of cocaine in their possession at the CJIA for the purpose of trafficking on March 17, 2017. The men denied the charge. Their attorney Leslie Benjamin, explained that Bunbury Jr, 27, is the manager of Ivor Bunbury Furniture Store in Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, while Gavin Harris, 25, works as the office assistant at the same store. All three of the men were denied bail by Magistrate Daly. Dublin was ordered to return to court on April 8, while Bunbury Jr and Harris will return on April 10, 2017.

thanked all the stakeholders who participated in the exercise, noting that the event was professionally managed. “I think we had a successful exercise, no doubt in the debriefing there will be areas in the exercise that can be improved, but that is the whole purpose of the exercise, since if it was perfect, we didn’t need to do it,” the CEO said.

Marine police patrolling the Demerara River, responding to a mock robbery/ hostage situation at the simulation exercise at the John Fernandes Wharf, Water Street, Georgetown

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, Wednesday, March 24, 2017

Finding your right shade

GUYANA’S local makeup industry continues to churn out scores of makeup artists, until it seems as though there are more MUAs than clients these days. Nevertheless, makeup continues to enjoy a prolific lifestyle, as MUAs continue to switch things up with their presentation and packaging of their services. But more than that, increased knowledge in the art of makeup puts MUAs in a position to help makeup users to learn more everyday use of products and other beneficial tips. One such area includes the use of foundation, powder and the importance of finding the right shade. Too many times, women are misled into purchasing shades of makeup that do not fit their complexion, which leads to an unnatural look. But MUAs have continued to advise persons on how to go about choosing products that are best for their skin. For 23-year-old Clinton Duncan, he believes that in 2017, natural is in; so it is important for women to show their natural beauty rather than have a caked-on appearance with the use of makeup. MORE TO MAKEUP “When you look at the history of makeup, in Egyptian times and earlier periods, it was more than an enhancement; makeup was something that was worn to prove wealth and to be noticed,” Clint told The Buzz. “In the early days of Hollywood, they would blank out the face with a cake of foundation then outline features they thought were beautiful,” he said. “This way, it became acceptable for exaggerated colours and tones to be worn. But the time for this has long gone,” he said. “Coming out of the 70s and 80s, makeup moved into a place where beauty makeup is more of an enhancement rather than a transformation. Beauty experts today just try to cover flaws. Even bigger makeup artists who do makeup for celebrities like Beyoncé and Iman apply it in a way that you have breathable skin. “So that is what we should aim for when looking for shades that match our skin.

Black-and-Gold: Clinton Duncan uses his makeup artistry to challenge beauty standards and provide social commentary

Even if we exaggerate the eyes, lips or cheeks, your foundation should blend with your skin.” For makeup novices, Clinton suggests that choosing the right foundation is something that

should take time before purchasing. For those who can afford it, he suggests that they visit a professional MUA to be tested; and for women purchasing their makeup at drug stores, he suggests that they use the skin on

Savage Beauty

their neck as a guideline. “The skin on the neck is a bit darker than on your face, and many persons usually try to blend their makeup from their face into their neck and that is not necessary,” he said.

“If you find a foundation that blends with your neck, you can just focus on the face,” he added. DARKER SHADES But one of the issues that

The Greenhouse Effect

women of colour have encountered with the makeup market is the inability to find shades for darker complexions, a problem that Clinton says goes beyond just Guyana. He notes too, that most times, it is the inexpensive brands that do cater for darker shades, and while this is not necessarily a racially-charged decision on the part of the expensive brands to carry lighter shades, Clinton believes that it is perhaps that many brands underestimate the spending power of coloured women. “Black women are known to be loyal for life to a brand that they find that matches their skin. So, while there may not be a large number, there is longevity on the part of customer loyalty,” he said. It is this need for more inclusion of darker shades that has also led to some of Clinton’s most recent work. He has received much acclaim from his clients and other followers following recent posts on social media showcasing darker women, and other women of colour, in contrasting shades of makeup. The makeup is also painted on to portray various abstract concepts. “Most times when we see MUAs put out work locally, it has become monotonous; you see countless variations of cut crease, smoky eyes, winged eye liners... “But, coming from a background in theatre makeup, I got bored of the portrayals. I wanted to do something that was beauty, but more than regular posts you would see on your timeline; things that would have more meaning. “When you start with theatre, you’re open to a wider range of possibilities, and the rules are less restrictive than beauty makeup,” he said. Each portrayal carries a different theme, and also a subliminal message, with names such as “Black-andGold”, “Savage Beauty”, and “Greenhouse Effect”. “They serve as puns for current issues and current affairs,” Clint said, adding: “I wanted to, in my own artistic way, contribute to social activism of certain issues like climate change and race issues that garner much attention today.”

Curly & Boujee

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

--A runaway success! WHEN, last year, Tamika Henry and Denisha Victor launched Curlfest Guyana, it was to provide a space for the natural hair community to congregate and learn about their hair, while also providing Guyana with a different type of entertainment. So, last weekend when Curlfest Guyana hosted an intense fourday natural-hair event featuring the services of US curly hair expert, Vincent Lauretta, aka “Vincenzo, The Curl King”, it was no surprise that the event once again surpassed expectations, garnering support from naturalistas from all across the country. The weekend opened with ‘Curly and Boujee’, which served as an introduction to Vincenzo, who answered questions

from a curious audience about some issues surrounding curly hair and other useful bits of information about kinky hair textures. The crowd was also treated to a demonstration of Vincenzo’s skill as he trimmed and styled the hair of three models throughout the show. The entire show was punctuated with various cultural performances, and also featured giveaways as well as natural-hair product displays from various retailers. CUT, COLOUR AND CARE The following day, Vincenzo met with prebooked clients at Kavita’s Signature Cuts & Spa, at the City Mall to treat and style their hair. followed by a Master Class for businesses

and individuals to teach techniques on how to cut, colour and care for natural hair. Curlfest Guyana Coordinator, Tamika Henry, said that the entire weekend went well, especially since stylists were able to learn new techniques with regard to colouring and cutting natural hair. “It’s not that they didn’t know from before, but they have received a new set of skills to improve their repertoire,” she said. Tamika added that many persons have since approached her to ask about salons where they can treat their natural hair, and she has referred them to some of the salons that participated in the Master Class. “One of the things we are proud of is the fact we were able to have an exchange of ideas in the Master Class. It wasn’t just Vincenzo lecturing to all the other stylists; there was a meaningful

Vincenzo poses with stylists after the Master Class

exchange, and a commitment to helping each other to grow,” she said. “And I thought it was useful because, even though those businesses compete, they still got to gether f or th is p u rpose.” Tamika said that she is also pleased to see the success of Curlfest Guyana as a business, since they are still relatively new. “For us to have successfully hired an international act our second time around speaks volumes about the importance of the movement. So that is something my team and I are certainly proud of,” she said. VERY SUPPORTIVE She’s eternally grateful for the support of the business community, as this shows their confidence in Curlfest Guyana. “We can never be too confident or too empowered or too sure of who we are, because

every day we have a different challenge to deal with,” she said, adding: “So, we plan on continuing those events until we can reach more people and help more people to feel more confident. “So, every time we do an event that promotes curly hair, as long as we reach one woman and help her, we are happy. “So I think we have achieved that this weekend, and look forward to doing even more of it.” In spite of their success, however, Curly & Boujee and its accompanying weekend of events did attract some opposition from a small section of the natural-hair community who feel that tutorials on black hair should be taught by persons of African descent

for authenticity. This view of the need for cultural appropriation has been shared on social media by some persons who attended the event, who feel that having someone of another race “teach” black women about how to handle their hair --Vincenzo is an Italian-American -- is not right. But this is not the first, nor will it be the last time that ‘The Curl King’ receives such opposition. In response, however, Curlfest Guyana is focused on encouraging diversity, and having all persons of all races appreciate each other. They also believe that Vincenzo, who is professionally trained in curly hair textures, has genuine appreciation for curly hair.

Vincenzo during a demonstration at Curly and Boujee

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, Wednesday, March 24, 2017

The secure cultural bridge

--across which all things must traverse CULTURE is the archive of our being. Culture traces from whence we came to where we are, and the substance that helps guide the course to what our life quest intends to achieve. Culture also evolves. The metaphors that guided us yesterday to where we are today now have other interpretations within the present realisation of self that our shadow answers to. Like all areas where specific knowledge is required, culture cannot be bluffed; nor can borrowed facades interpret the cultural memory of the tribes-folk against what they know. Now that the above has been said, let’s get down to the development and serious articulation of the profound achievements of our ancestors, as those elements apply to our time, so we can stand before the excellence of others and say, “We too have stories to tell and places to show you.” With reference to the arts, there are some initiatives that I had conceptualised that could be applied, through a secular meaningful medium, to enhance the public consciousness to the visual arts. This was intended for a discussion with the arts community and the architects and construction community preparing working- class housing. That arts/architect gath-

ering is still to happen, but the public awareness is never to be taken for granted, so here is that proposal I came up with. THE PROPOSAL In May, there will be a housing ‘expo’ intended to reach low-income Guyana. I had spoken to one contractor who informed me of this. The original idea was to have the National Gallery acquire a printmaker and have a team trained to produce prints. At every display of architecture presented to our public, there will be a chance to hang a framed local print with its certificate which carries a brief about the artist on the wall. This would earn the Gallery some income, and the Artist or his or her relatives some royalty on prints sold. The intention is to allow this to grow and edge into the general market where, for too long, we have allowed cheap, variety-shop reproductions to proliferate; coming from all over the world with images external to our own social and historical experience. This is not to say that the appreciation of great art is flawed because it’s not Guyanese. But we must begin a realistic experience of involving our population with their aesthetic self; to inspire them about their own story, in this case, captured by Guyanese artists.

As far as I know, there is no fine-art printmaker machine and operation in our country. And why should one exist if no State initiative embraces the concept outlined above? But the artists are there, if art works are needed! Unless the psychological-cultural bridge is built that extends beyond the political opportunism that intrudes, regardless of how senseless the logic they spurt, ignorance will continue to saturate our national consciousness, prolonging the venom-driven propaganda that has eclipsed enlightenment in so many areas.

revolution that occurred in Berbice, exploring how Kofi wanted to establish the first non-colonial state in Berbice. This was not a rebellion that merely sought to burn plantations and flee to maroonage in the rainforests. Going into details about all that our historians had presented, much of it from the Diary-Letters of the Dutch Governor Van Hoogenheim, and from my own research into the Akan Peoples that Kofi had come from, I explained that this event was one of the leading revolutions of its time; before George Washington in North Amer-

held in 2014, and has since grown tremendously. To be eligible, the child must be a resident of Guyana and be present if they

OUTDOOR THEATRE The other concept I wish to publically share is related to the dramatisation of historical landmarks like ‘1763’. We now have the elegant space of the Jubilee Stadium that can provide outdoor theatre with some manipulation for stage management. Here is a venue within the walking

reaches of large populations that can well house any historical drama. I am sure patriotism can be squeezed out of the successful private sector to participate. Any such drama can be visually recorded; this can be a new feature for that venue that will not in any way undermine the National Park or the Providence Stadium. But, if considered, its execution will not be fulfilled by the ‘shirt-buttons’ who flock every national breath of air with only their airs to add; this will firmly require Guyana’s cultural corps at its best.

and receive a beautiful hamper full of goodies, compliments of Pampers. Interested parents or guardians should submit two high-quality photos (one for the competition and one with the baby posing with any Pampers product) along with the following information : •Baby’s full name • Nickname • Birth date • Gender • Birth weight • Favourite toy • Favourite baby food • Parents’ names • God parents’ names • Contact information to baby@gemmagonline.com. Finalists will be chosen

based on poise, quality of picture, completeness of the required information and the most ‘LIKES’ from the Facebook phase of the contest. Each child will be judged by a closed panel of judges comprising of representatives from the sponsors. The submission deadline is midnight of Friday, April 7, 2017. For more information on the contest rules, terms and conditions, please send an enquiry email to baby@ gemmagonline.com and keep checking the media and Facebook for updates.

BRIDGING THE GAP Here is an example of what I’m referring to. I was asked to talk at a school about Mashramani this February past; a cultural day event, which, I think, is a great idea. I began the session by addressing the topic from its root. One of the questions I asked was, “Why February 23? A teacher enquired if it was not because that day was the birthday of the late President Burnham? I wasn’t prepared for that answer, so a great part of the presentation was shifted from Mashramani’s genesis at Linden to the historical foundations of our Republic status. I had to explain the February 23, 1763 Rebellion/

Cutest-baby photo contest IF you think your baby is the cutest, then now is your time to prove it as GEM Magazine launches its 4th Annual Cutest Baby Photo Contest. The contest, which is being held in collaboration with Pampers, distributed by Ansa McAl, has become one of the most anticipated events for parents, relatives and friends of babies 18 months of age or younger. The contest was first

ica; Toussaint in Haiti; and Bolivar in Venezuela. It was exhausting but rewarding going over all this that is common knowledge that is taken for granted, but in fact just rests with a learned handful of citizens.

are among the top ten finalists collecting prizes. This year is a little different, since two picture submissions are required.

The First Prize is a cover appearance on GEM, plus six months’ supply of Pampers. All ten finalists will be featured in the magazine,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

MWG casting call...

The fun is on! --as the seach begins

SUNDAY is looking rather quiet this weekend, but you’re going to need all the quiet you can get after all the events packed into Friday and Saturday! There are even a few all-weekend events with the Wedding Expo at Roraima and Woman-In-Law at the NCC! It’s a soca overload on Saturday, and it’s going to be a tough time deciding which one to be at! Bang Bim singer, Marville is making an appearance at Punter’s Place on the East Coast, while 704 has an interesting concept with their Colour Party. And then, there is the party-of-all-parties: The Lystra Adams Fab Life birthnight! It is no doubt going to be off-the-hook up in Palm Court! For those looking for something a little more toned down, there’s a “Wine, Art and Fashion Show” at the Georgetown Club! Also on the elegant evening side will be the School of the Nations’ pageant at the Princess Hotel! Go forth and weekend until you drop! TODAY The annual Wedding Expo at the Roraima Lodge starts off this afternoon, and runs straight through until Sunday when it culminates with the grand wedding of the Race-to-the-altar winners, Kerron Boston and Akeem Peter! Over 40 businesses will be on display at the event! Admission: $500 at the gate, and children free! Let the laughs begin, as the much anticipated theatre production, “Woman-inLaw” commences tonight at the National Cultural Centre! The production continues through to Sunday, and the powerhouse cast includes Michael Ignatius, Sonia Yarde, and Mark Kazim among other thespians! The night will also feature a special performance by Reggae-Dancehall girl, Jackie Jaxx! Tickets are: $2000, $1500 and $1000. TOMORROW The School of the Nations Interact Club is having their annual Mr & Ms Nations Pageant in the ballroom of the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel! Tickets: VIP (with dinner): $6,000 VIP (without dinner): $3,000 Front row, regular: $2,000 Middle and rear, regular: $1,000. Single, independent and stress-free or looking out? Then say it in colour at the at the Soca/Dancehall “Colour Party” at Club 704! Wear Black if you’re “Single”, White if you’re “Looking Out”, Pink if you’re “Wotless With Secrets”, Yellow if you’re “Taken”, and Red for “Independent and stress-free”! Drink specials all night! Unity Family, DJ Shizzle, and Mix Master Tony are going to be on board to set the music just right! Admission: $2000. Are you ready for a night of elegance? Then the Wine, Art & Fashion: Final Edition at the Georgetown Club is where you need to be! Come and be awed by the various visual-art pieces by our very own local artists, whilst sipping on exquisite wine and enjoying displays of local fashion and performing arts. Tickets cost $2500; doors open from 19:00hrs! All roads lead to the Palm Court for “Fab Life Part 2: The Champagne Edition” as Guyanese-born British queen Lystra celebrates her birthnight! Fab sounds by Selector Diamond, Gully Ras, and DJ Energy!

ELEVEN of the young ladies hoping to vie for the Miss World Guyana crown turned up for the first casting call two Sundays ago at the Cara Lodge. And from the looks of things, even if some of them don’t make it past the first round, with all the laughs and tears, the girls are already beginning to take something away from the experience. “It was amazing! It was fun and challenging,” said Nitifah Thompson, who admits that she decided to try out for the pageant to get a little confidence boost. “I applied for the pageant because I was told that it can make me a better person. I was scared, but I still managed to complete all that we had to do on that day. “We laughed, some cried, but I felt better at the end of it; I wasn’t as nervous at the end.” The girls were taken through a number of segments to test their readiness to be the queen, including sports training with Space Gym’s O’ryan Joseph. There were also talent tryouts, modelling tryouts, and making their “Beauty With A Purpose” pitch. And the girls enjoyed every moment of it. “It was fun for me; I learnt a lot from the couple hours I was there, and I’m looking forward to being selected,” said Hemwantie Seodat. BEAUTY WITH A PURPOSE

Many of the girls were particularly in love with the “Beauty with a Purpose” segment. “The Beauty with a Purpose segment really peak my interested,” said another one of the girls, who will be advocating Ending Sexual Abuse. “I’ve spent most of my life volunteering, and I saw this pageant as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of persons, mainly because of what it represents,” she said. “I’ve always had a love for glamour and fashion, as well, so those other segments are just a bonus. Also, I’m into fitness and health, so, all in all, I think that I can be a positive role model, and this platform will provide me with such an opportunity.” Nitifah Thompson is also looking forward to the “Beauty with A Purpose” segment. “I always love being there for the less privileged, and now I have the chance to help the people in my country, and the world in general, as I make myself a better person,” Nitifah said. “I have learned that Miss World is not just about your pretty looks, but what you can give to the less privileged, or anyone suffering from some form of trauma that may have affected them,” she added. The “Beauty with a Purpose” platform has been a big part of the Miss World Pageant. Over the years, suicide prevention has been a recurring theme for the Miss World Guyana queens.

Reigning queen, Nuriyyih Gerrard’s platform on Mental Health Awareness speaks a lot about suicide prevention. It was also an area that former queen, Lisa Punch, focused on. Punch went on to launch her own suicide prevention organisation, POTS, short for the Prevention of Teenage Suicide. FIRST OF TWO Last Sunday was the first of two casting calls opened for delegates to attend as they aspire to the throne. The other is set for this Sunday, also at the Cara Lodge at 10:00hrs. Time was a challenge for some of the girls at the first casting call, however, really giving a bad first impression. Two of the girls arrived late, even though the need for timeliness was emphasised to them. Also, three of the girls who confirmed to come did not show up. Judges at the last casting call were official hairstylist, Quincy Roberts; the official MUA, Renee Chester; Rohsanne Butcher; Franchise Holder, Natasha Martindale; Paul Charles; Rico Tumilang; and Brian Backer. The pageant is opened to Guyanese girls based both locally and overseas, between the ages of 16 to 24. Thus far, five girls residing overseas have submitted applications to be in the pageant. Measures are put in place for them to be evaluated separately before the list is narrowed down to the the top ten that will be in the final pageant.

East Coast partyholics: This one’s for you! The “Bang Bim” man himself, Marzville will be at Punter’s Place, Ann’s Grove as Deejay Akelo and Father Moey bring you “Soca Therapy”! Stereo Sonic and Determine Sounds will provide the best prescription of endless soca music! Drink specials all night long, and several giveaways! Admission: $1000 B4 23:00hrs! SUNDAY Stabroek Sports Bar is having a Pools Competition, and if you’re good at the table, you could win as much as $60,000! The Second Place prize is $30,000, and there’s $20,000 for third place, not to mention that each winner will be getting a trophy and a case of Banks Beer! To those not in the winning circle, the Banks Special includes 5 Banks or GT beers for $1000 all day long! Competition starts at 14:00hrs!

The 11 young ladies all lined up at last Sunday’s casting call (Photos courtesy of Miss World Organisation

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 24, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

Brathwaite, Hope centuries put Barbados Pride in command BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) - Test batsman Kraigg Brathwaite carved out his 18th first class hundred to surpass 7 000 first class runs as Barbados Pride dominated leaders Guyana Jaguars on the opening day of their eighth round game here yesterday. He was joined by West Indies teammate, Shai Hope, who gathered his fifth first class hundred as Pride, choosing to bat first at Kensington Oval, ended the day on 293 for two. Brathwaite struck 143 while Hope entertained with an unbeaten 118, the pair putting on 205 for the second wicket in a partnership that pulled the hosts around from 45 for one after left-hander Anthony Alleyne perished cheaply for eight in the first session. Playing only his second game of this season’s Regional four-day championship, the 24-year-old Brathwaite immediately

made his presence felt. All told, he struck 17 fours in an innings lasting 236 balls and just over 4-3/4 hour, passing the 7 000-run landmark when he reached 36. Hope, meanwhile, extended his rich vein of recent form, counting 15 fours and two sixes in a knock spanning 257 deliveries and just under five hours at the crease. For Hope, it was his third hundred in seven games, following his back-to-back efforts in the semi-final and final of the Regional Super50 last month. Brathwaite combined with Alleyne to add 45 for the first wicket and to safely navigate the first hour for the hosts. However, Alleyne seemingly lost concentration following the drinks break and fell to the second delivery, wafting at a short ball from left-arm seamer Raymon Reifer and nicking a catch behind to wick-

etkeeper Shane Dowrich. Any hopes Jaguars had of slicing through Pride’s top order were then dashed, however, as Brathwaite and Hope combined to keep the visitors wicket-less for the remainder of the session and the entirety of the post-lunch period. At lunch, Pride were 75 for one with Brathwaite on 43 and Hope, 16, and the pair added a further 88 in the second session to push the hosts up to 163 without further loss at tea. Brathwaite raised his half-century off 108 balls with his fifth four - a punch to the cover boundary off left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie and achieved triple figures in the fifth over after tea off 177 deliveries with 11 fours. Hope, meanwhile, brought up his half-century in style by clearing long-on with the ineffective West Indies leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo to move to 49 before driving Reifer square in the next over.

GRFU names 12-man ... The Green Machine head coach is of the opinion that his team, collectively, is on-par with several of the world’s top rugby-playing nations,

but more exposure at the top level is required. Meanwhile, for Gonsalves, it will be a return to familiar territory, with the team’s captain highlighting, “This is no strange place for me, and for some of the guys on the team. We all know what it takes to excel in Hong Kong. It’s no easy place because those teams are more regularly invited

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to the Sevens’ circuit when we (Guyana) have to wait an entire year to play and we have to actually qualify.” “It’s going to be tough, so we’re going to see how much practice games we could get with teams out of our group and we’ll try to get up with the speed of the game because that’s one factor that works

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Unbeaten on 55 at tea, Hope reached three figures in the final hour of the day when he hoisted Bishoo to the mid-wicket boundary to move to 99 before taking a single. Brathwaite eventually perished with 150 beckoning, playing back to fast bowler Romario Shepherd and going lbw. Hope and Shamarh Brooks, unbeaten on 14, then steered Pride safely to the close in an unbroken third-wicket stand so far worth 43.

SCOREBOARD PRIDE 1st innings K. Brathwaite lbw b Shepherd 143 A. Alleyne c wkp. Bramble b Reifer 8 Shai Hope not out 118 S. Brooks not out 14 Extras: (lb-4, w-1, nb-5) 10 Total: (2 wkts 94 overs) 293 Fall of wickets: 1-45, 2-250. Bowling: Reifer 19-4-51-1 (nb4), Pestano 16-2-56-0 (nb-1), Shepherd 17-4-65-1 (w-1), Motie 20-3-55-0, Bishoo 22-4-62-0. JAGUARS – L. Johnson, S. Hetmyer, R. Chandrika, V. Singh, S. Chanderpaul, R. Reifer, A Bramble, R. Shepherd, D. Bishoo, G. Motie, C. Pestano.

From back page against us. “Our chances are good and despite our showing the last time, we’re going out there to show that we belong at the top level and we’re not an underdog team,” Gonsalves added. Head coach is Shane Grant-Stuart, team manager is Robby Roberts and physical trainer is Barrington Brown.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

Stage set for Dharamsala’s blockbuster Test debut By Amlan Chakraborty NEW DELHI, India (Reuters) - With India and Australia clashing in a winner-takes-all finale to an enthralling series, the picturesque town of Dharamsala in the Himalayan foothills could hardly have asked for a better debut as a Test venue. Both hosts and tourists emerged with their share of glory from the drawn third Test in Ranchi to leave the four-match series on knifeedge at 1-1 going into the decider, which starts tomorrow. While popular wisdom has it that Test cricket must produce more results to survive the onslaught of the limited-overs game, there can be little doubt that the drawn third Test, also at a new venue, produced the best contest of a thrilling series. Cheteshwar Pujara’s more than 11 hours

Pat Cummins of over-my-dead-body and Bengaluru, Ranchi also defiance for India was embarrassed the pitch punmatched by a game-saving dits by yielding four cenfinal day rearguard action turies, including Pujara’s from Australians Peter epic 202. The teams have since Handscomb and Shaun moved to the HimalaMarsh. Australia paceman Pat yas and, with so much at Cummins also made a roar- stake, the expectation is ing return to Test crick- that the level of cricket et, while India’s Ravindra will be just as high when Jadeja claimed nine wickets the top two sides in the to suggest that he is no lon- world rejoin the fray unger content playing second der Dharamsala’s snowfiddle to spin colleague capped mountain peaks. Australia skipper Steve Ravichandran Ashwin. After just one hundred Smith believes the momenin the first two Tests in Pune tum is with his team, who

Cheteshwar Pujara only need a draw to retain the Border-Gavaskar trophy but will have their eyes on a first series triumph in India for 13 years. “I’m sure they’re hurting a little bit in their change room,” Smith, who made an unbeaten 178 in the first innings in Ranchi, said after Australia’s great escape. “If there’s anything with momentum in cricket it’s probably on our side at the moment. It’s 1-1 all and we have a decider in Dharamsala which is really exciting.”

Virat Kohli has rarely seen eye-to-eye with Smith on any issue in what has been a fractious series and the India captain predictably differed on the matter of momentum. “It’s a matter of individual perception ... we’re happy where we positioned ourselves,” Kohli said, pointing out his team were not required to bat again after racking up 600-plus runs in their first knock. Keeping in mind the pace and carry associated with the Himachal

Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium, India are pondering welcoming back fit-again paceman Mohammed Shami. For Australia, the immediate concern is the recovery of their bowlers from their staggering 210over toil in India’s first innings in Ranchi. Kohli will be eyeing an element of personal redemption in the final match of India’s 13-Test home season, having managed 46 in his five innings against Australia after scoring a double century in each of the preceding four series. The 28-year-old has been in the eye of a storm since his broadside on Smith after the Australia captain’s gesture to the dressing room for advice on whether to review a decision in the second Test in Bengaluru. Kohli missed much of the Australian first innings in Ranchi because of injury but his wild celebrations at the fall of every visiting batsman indicated the shoulder problem was not overly debilitating.

Clarke says Maxwell’s place not secure in Test team (REUTERS) - All-rounder Glenn Maxwell’s future in the Australia Test side is far from secure, especially if captain Steve Smith does not consider him as a regular spin bowling option, former skipper Michael Clarke has said. Maxwell scored his maiden century in the third Test against India at Ranchi on his return to the longest format of the game after more than two years last week but bowled only four of Australia’s 210 overs. Clarke believes playing conditions, particularly in Australia where England are touring at the end of the year, may force Steve Smith to pick a fast bowling all-rounder ahead of Maxwell. “Conditions will dictate which way they go when they get back to Australia,” Clarke said in a live chat on his Facebook page. “Will they want the fourth fast-bowling option as the all-rounder, or will they stay

Glenn Maxwell with Glenn Maxwell? “Especially if Steve Smith is not bowling Maxi, then he becomes a legitimate batsman so he’s got to be making a lot of runs to stay in the team.” Clarke also derided an Australian newspaper report which compared Indian captain Virat Kohli to U.S. President Donald Trump because of his “continual perpetuation of fake news”

The report, which focused on a row over whether Smith had mocked Kohli’s shoulder injury during the second Test, was laughable, Clarke said. “I find it quite funny and am sure Virat will also find it quite funny,” said Clarke. The four-match Test series between India and Australia, which is tied at 1-1, concludes with the final encounter in Dharamsala starting tomorrow.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF)

Extra Time

INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL RETURNS TO LINDEN 30-man provisional squad named

• 13 overseas players from US, Canada, England, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname • Wayne Dover steps up to Interim Head Coach role, Charles Pollard as assistant • Two Lindeners in squad, including U-17 international Jonathan Copeland The Guyana Football Federation has called up 30 players to the provisional Guyana Senior Men’s National Squad ahead of the international friendly match against Martinique on Tuesday, 28th March in Linden. The squad features 13 players from clubs outside of Guyana, including U.S. Major League Soccer midfielder Warren Creavalle of Philadelphia Union and United Soccer League midfielder Brandon Beresford of Rochester Rhinos. One player from the Guyana under-17 squad that performed with distinction at this month’s Tournoi Paul Chillan in Martinique also features in the provisional squad – 16-year-old Milerock goalkeeper Jonathan Copeland.

BELOW IS COMPLETE LIST OF PROVISIONAL SQUAD #

Name

Position

Club

Country

1/ Akel Clarke Goalkeeper Central FC 2/ Andrew Durant Goalkeeper San Juan Jabloteh FC 3/ Jonathan Copeland Goalkeeper Milerock FC 4/ Adrian Butters Defender York Region Shooters 5/ Christopher Bourne Defender Islington Admiral United FC 6/ Kester Jacobs Defender Den Amstel FC 7/ Quincy Adams Defender S.V. Nishan 42 8/ Samuel Cox Defender Wealdstone FC 9/ Solomon Austin Defender Fruta Conquerors FC 10/ Delroy Ferdinand Defender Guyana Defence Force FC 11/ Travis Henry Defender Guyana Defence Force FC 12/ Shamar Smith Defender Fruta Conquerors FC 13/ Brandon Beresford Midfielder Rochester Rhinos FC 14/ Clive Nobrega Midfielder Eagles United FC 15/ Daniel Wilson Midfielder S.V. Nishan 42 16/ Eusi Phillips Midfielder Guyana Defence Force FC 17/ Kelsey Benjamin Midfielder Caledonia AIA FC 18/ Trayon Bobb Midfielder Uitvlugt FC 19/ Vurlon Mills Midfielder San Juan Jabloteh FC 20/ Warren Creavalle Midfielder Philadelphia Union 21/ Curtis Kellman Midfielder Georgetown FC 22/ Job Ceasar Midfielder Santos FC 23/ Ryan Hackett Midfielder Fruta Conquerors FC 24/ Shaquille Agard Forward Durham United FC 25/ Pernell Schultz Forward Fruta Conquerors FC 26/ Marcel Barrington Forward Hendon FC 27/ Olvis Mitchell Forward Guyana Defence Force FC 28/ Ralph Parris Forward Georgetown FC 29/ Delon Lanferman Forward Den Amstel FC 30/ Eon Alleyne Forward Fruta Conquerors FC

Rawle Adams Wayne Dover Charles Pollard Anson Ambrose Eon DeVeira Denzil Hernandez Trevor Burnett

TECHNICAL STAFF

Team Manager Head Coach Assistant Coach Physical Trainer Goalkeeper Coach Physio Kit Manager

Trinidad & Tobago Trinidad & Tobago Guyana Canada England Guyana Suriname England Guyana Guyana Guyana Guyana USA Guyana Suriname Guyana Trinidad & Tobago Guyana Trinidad & Tobago USA Guyana Guyana Guyana Canada Guyana England Guyana Guyana Guyana Guyana

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES: •GUYANA vs MARTINIQUE INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY DATE: Tuesday, 28th March, 2017 VENUE: MSC Ground – Linden @ 20:00hrs ADMISSION: $1,500 •STAG ELITE LEAGUE (Season 2) DATE: Sunday, 2nd April, 2017 VENUE: Buxton Ground ADMISSION: $500.00 GAME #1: Monedderlust FC vs Buxton United FC @ 16:00hrs GAME #2: Victoria Kings FC vs Fruta Conquerors FC @ 18:30hrs Lucky patrons will win prizes compliments of Church’s Chicken, Jialing, Impressions, GFF and Ansa Mc Al

•Start of the GFF-Pele Alumuni Frank Watson Intra-Association National U-15 Tournament – April, 2017 •Restart of GFF-NAMILCO ThunderBolt Flour Power National U-17 Tournament – April, 2017

PRODUCED BY THE GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF) AND DESIGNED BY THE GUYANA CHRONICLE

For further Information or should you have questions/comments , please contact: General Secretary Guyana Football Federation (GFF) 17 Dadanawa Street, Section “K” Campbelville, Georgetown TEL: +1 592 227 8758 ext. 102 FAX: +1 592 225 2096

e-mail: gff@networksgy.com WEBSITE: www.gffonline.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/GuyanaFootballFederationInc INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/guyana_football_federation_inc/ SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/guyana-football-federation-inc LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guyana-football-federation-inc TWITTER: @GFF_Inc_

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

Corporate Guyana on board with Blairmont Cricket Club THE Blairmont Cricket Club has benefited from four business entities as part of the club’s ongoing efforts to enhance the development of youths. Those entities to support the club are: Baksh Travel Service, Bel Air

Farm Equipment and Machinery Supplies, Handin-Hand Insurance Company, and New Building Society. Both the Baksh Travel Service and the Bel Air Farm Equipment and Machinery Supplies

have donated 15 sets of uniforms to the Blairmont Under-15 and Under-17 teams respectively, while Hand-in-Hand Insurance Company has covered the Under-19 team. New Building Soci-

ety has played its part by donating an undisclosed amount of monetary support towards the club. Dubbed the ‘Year of Youths’, president of the club, Shabeer Baksh, while thanking the business entities for their time-

ly support, pointed out that the initiative is to ensure all youth teams are fully attired with proper cricket uniforms. Meanwhile, the club will continue its developmental programmes, with a number of summer camps and education field

trips. Further, the club’s annual awards ceremony is scheduled for May 19, where not only its members will be awarded but outstanding members of society will also recognised for their contribution to the club.

The Blairmont Cricket Club, Under-15 captain Marvan Prashad collects one of the jerseys from a representative of Baksh Travel Service.

Uncapped Iyer called in as Kohli cover

(REUTERS) - India have called up uncapped batsman Shreyas Iyer for the fourth and final Test against Australia as cover for captain Virat Kohli who has not recovered fully from a shoulder injury. Kohli damaged his right shoulder when he dived to save a boundary on the first day of the penultimate Test in Ranchi and was off the field during most of Australia’s first innings in the drawn game. The 28-year-old did come out to bat at his usual number four position and

Uncapped batsman Shreyas Iyer took the field for Australia’s second innings. There is no suggestion he has yet been ruled out of the winner-takes-all fourth Test in Dharamsala. “Shreyas Iyer is join-

ing the squad as back-up,” an Indian cricket board (BCCI) source told Reuters. India’s batting mainstay Kohli has scored only 46 runs in his five innings against Australia after scor-

ing a double century in each of the previous four series. The decision to call up Iyer has more to do with the difficulty involved in flying out a last-minute replacement to Dharamsala, which is situated in the Himalayan foothills. Iyer, 22, was Mumbai’s highest scoring batsman in the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy and struck an unbeaten 202 in a first-class match for India A against Australia last month. The four-match series is level at 1-1 going into the decider which starts tomorrow.

Blairmont Cricket Club president Shabeer Baksh receives the cheque from NBS representative.

GCA cricket tournaments continue this weekend CRICKETERS who are members of clubs affiliated to the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) can gear themselves for another action-packed weekend when play in the Carib Beer T20 first division tournament continues along with the final of the Noble House Seafoods second division two-day cricket tournament. In the Carib Beer T20 first division tournament tomorrow; Police will host UG in Zone A, while in Zone B Everest will play

host to Malteenoes Sports Club. On Sunday there are two Zone B games. GDF will play GYO at Malteenoes, while Everest come up against GCC at Everest. All games start at 13:30hrs. Meanwhile, Transport Sports Club and GNIC will battle in the final of the Noble House Seafoods second division two-day cricket tournament. The game is scheduled for the Georgetown Cricket Club ground from 11:00hrs on both days.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

Sheldon Charles focused on becoming professional cricketer

By Elroy Stephney

HE is highly ambitious, intelligent and has an insatiable appetite for the sport he loves dearly. The quiet-spoken yet affable Sheldon Charles was born in Region No. One in the village of Kariaku, Barama River before migrating to Region 2 where he now resides at Lima on the Essequibo Coast. The Form Three student of Anna Regina Secondary plans to attend the University of Guyana to become a mechanical engineer. But for now, he is seriously devoted towards enhancing his skills as he dreams of playing cricket at the highest level. He was recently appointed

Sheldon Charles captain of the Essequibo Under-15 team to become the first cricketer of Amerindian descent to be at the helm of the team. While this is a significant achievement, the ele-

gant batting all-rounder, who represented Guyana at the Under-15 level last year in Grenada, is focused on more success, as he is in the form of his life. Charles registered impressive back-to-back centuries of 102 not out and 149 during the recently held trial matches that were organised by the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB). T h e n a t i o n a l Yo u t h all-rounder has also recorded seven half-centuries during his emerging career. He attributed his fine form to being engaged in daily intense physical training, simulation exercises, practice sessions and the constant motivation he receives from his two brothers including Zavier

McDonald who was a former national Under-15 fast bowler. While Charles had a moderate inter- county tournament, he topped the batting aggregate for his team. He also plays senior division cricket for Gunners Sports Club where he has already made a delightful impression as a quality player. It was no coincidence therefore that he named Australian Steve Smith and India’s Virat Kohli as his favourite cricketers. It is those inherent qualities which those two great batsmen possess that have inspired him to believe in his ability and to set high standards for himself.

Charles is now hoping to retain his place on the national team, having played three matches during last year’s tournament. Thereafter he intends to firmly build on such foundation and to secure a place on the national Under-17 team as well. With such aspirations and his ambition to represent Guyana at the senior level too, the sky is the limit for the talented cricketer. Charles is only the third player from the Amerindian community to have represented Guyana after Lance Roberts who played last year with him and Mark Gonsalves who did so at the Under-17 level. He is also the first to achieve the feat as a resident

of Region No.1. He is also the youngest Essequibian to play at the national youth level and will become the first to play in back-to-back national Under-15 tournaments should he do so this year. The budding all-rounder also acknowledged that Essequibo’s cricket can rise above the ashes of the past given the abundance of potential in almost every corner of the region, including in the Amerindian communities. Charles’ rapidly growing reputation will no doubt send chilling fears to any opposition, but he is not distracted and is now focused on building a successful career as a professional cricketer.

GCB Inter-School cricket …

Lower Corentyne face West Demerara Secondary in final today

NEW champions will be crowned today at the conclusion of the Guyana Cricket Board/ Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society/Ministry of Education/National Secondary Schools Cricket League (GCB/ DMLAS/MoE/NSSCL) inter-school final. Lower Corentyne will face West Demerara Secondary at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground from 09:30hrs. The game will be a

Kevlon Anderson

50-overs fixture, according to GCB’s Territorial Development Officer Colin Stuart. Both teams reached the final after contrasting victories over their respective opponents during the semifinals phase. Lower Corentyne Secondary had home advantage to last year’s National inter-school champions Chase Academy and at the end of the game they were victorious by six wick-

Off-spinners Vijay Gopilall (right) and Junior Sinclair are expected to play a major role today.

ets while West Demerara Secondary edged Anna Regina Secondary by one wicket. But the game today is evenly poised. Both sides have a number of match-winners in their line-ups. The Ancient County side will depend heavily on Kevlon Anderson, Vijay Gopilal and Junior Sinclair while the West Side will look to Nicolas Holder, Aftab Basir and Aaron Seepersaud.

A number of new British jockeys to be cut to focus on quality (REUTERS) - British jockeys will face tougher entry criteria after the governing body announced a significant overhaul of its development and licensing programme to focus on quality rather than quantity. A three-year review by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and other key stakeholders has concluded that the sport is spending considerable resources training jockeys who may not become successful. “Currently 30 percent of licensing course attendees do not ride a winner,” the

BHA said in a statement. The BHA added that from April 1 anyone applying to join a course for apprentice or conditional jockeys will have to undergo a pre-licence assessment. Fewer training places will be available this year, with a reduction from 48 to 24 for apprentices and 40 to 16 for conditionals. Nick Rust, the chief executive of the BHA, believes the new approach will also enable jockeys to be better equipped with the necessary technical skills in the early stages of their career. “The changes announced

Ladies Day! The Ribblesdale Stakes winner Even Song (Reuters/Andrew Boyers)

today ensure that our jockeys will have access to significantly enhanced technical, personal and professional training,” Rust said. “A more efficient and extensive assessment process can help aspiring jockeys who have a genuine chance of success to receive the first class levels of support and guidance they require.” The Professional Jockeys Association (PJA), National Trainers Federation (NTF) and the Jockeys Employment and Training Scheme (JETS) were also actively involved in designing the new strategy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

Beckenbauer questioned by Swiss prosecutors over World Cup bid

FORMER German soccer great Franz Beckenbauer was questioned by Swiss prosecutors on Thursday as part of their investigation into his country’s successful bid for the 2006 World Cup. The Swiss Attorney General’s Office (OAG) opened criminal proceedings against Beckenbauer and three other former high-ranking German soc-

Franz Beckenbauer, president of Germany’s World Cup organising committee, holds a golden soccer ball during a presentation next to the Brandenburg gate in Berlin April 18, 2006. REUTERS/Tobias Schwarz/File Photo

cer officials last September. The proceedings related to allegations of fraud, criminal mismanagement, money laundering and misappropriation. The OAG confirmed in a statement to Reuters that “Franz Beckenbauer has today been interrogated by federal prosecutors of the Confederation... in Berne” adding that the 71-year-old had been “co-

operative.” Beckenbauer has previously admitted to making mistakes but has denied wrongdoing. Widely regarded as one of the game’s finest players, he captained the West Germany team that won the 1974 World Cup and was coach when they won again in 1990. The German football federation’s own report into

alleged irregularities over the awarding of the 2006 World Cup was published in March last year. It said that, while there was no evidence of Germany paying FIFA members in return for votes, payments were made to at least one former FIFA official through a web of accounts involving several other firms or individuals, including Beckenbauer.

George says T&T fully focused on Panama World Cup qualifier today PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) - Even though Trinidad and Tobago are eyeing wins in both upcoming World Cup qualifiers in the space of five days, midfielder Kevan George said they will be fully concentrating on the first assignment against Panama today. “Right now it’s not an option,” said the 27-yearold, who plies his trade in the North American Soccer League.

“We have to come together as a unit and get a result on Friday (today). It’s a mandatory battle for us on Friday.” T&T face a tricky double-header, with CONCACAF giants Mexico the next opponents next Tuesday. After suffering defeats in their opening games of the confederation qualifying final round last November, the hosts know that only two positive results will revive their flagging campaign.

Neither Panama nor Mexico are yet to lose in the competition, with both winning one and drawing one to sit third and second respectively on four points. George, who has been capped over 20 times for T&T, said the key would be the mental approach to the contest at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. “We are all competitors but we have to learn how to separate things and create a

Kevan George says T&T are fully focused on the first game against Panama.

balance,” the Jacksonville Armada defensive midfielder noted. “We need to think about the performance and with a good performance there is a greater probability of us winning the game,.” George is one 13 overseas-based included in the squad along with the likes of the Major League Soccer (MLS) trio of former captain Kenwyne Jones, Kevin Molino and Cordell Cato.

FIFA looks to ease the fixture burden on players By Brian Homewood

ZURICH, Switzerland (Reuters) - FIFA needs to take care of the players when it plans the next international match calendar, the head of a key committee at soccer’s governing body told Reuters yesterday. Victor Montagliani said that the international calendar and the transfer system were among the priorities for the football stakeholders committee, which brings together representatives of the players, clubs and leagues. The current match calendar runs until 2024 and allows for around eight to 10 international matches per year in addition to major tournaments such as the World Cup, European

FIFA committee member and president of CONCACAF Victor Montagliani championship and Copa America. Top players can easily play 60 to 70 matches in a season for their clubs and national teams. “It’s a pretty busy match calendar, so we need to take care of the players, all of us, because at the end of the day, that’s what

we’re all here for,” said Montagliani, who is also president of CONCACAF. “The FIFA staff have started collecting data in terms of people’s opinions ... they have started to talk to coaches, they have talked to players, they have talked to all the stakeholders.” The new committee,

which met for the first time yesterday, was set up after soccer’s governing body FIFA was engulfed by a series of corruption scandals. Its members include former international players Cafu and Edwin van der Sar, AS Roma chief executive Umberto Gandini, Bundesliga CEO Christian Seifert and Philippe Piat, head of the world players’ union FIFPro. The committee’s role includes advising the FIFA Council on “all matters relating to football, particularly the structure of the game, as well as on all technical matters.” Relations between FIFPro and the clubs have sometimes been tense, with the union regularly complaining of clubs who do not

respect players’ contracts. In 2015, FIFPro made a legal complaint at the European Commission against the transfer system which it said was fundamentally flawed. However, Montagliani said there was a positive mood at the meeting. “Everybody under-

stands that if people are coming to the committee with a zero sum game mentality, nobody is going to win,” he said. “The game needs to be better so if the game gets better, everyone will win. “I thought it was very good, very positive and the right attitude was there.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday March 24, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Shiv Chanderpaul (WI vs NZ, Auckland, 2006) (2) Imzamam-ul-Haq (PAK vs ENG, Bristol, 2006) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who is the first WI to lead the team in a T20 International against Pakistan? (2) Who is the first Pakistani to lead the team in a T20 International against the West Indies? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 24, 2017

Mills, Cox and Creavalle named in Golden Jags provisional squad

By Rawle Toney

PHILADELPHIA Unions defender Warren Creavalle along with San Juan Jabloteh FC’s Vurlon Mills and Samuel Cox of Wealdstone FC were named in the Golden Jaguars’ 30-man provisional squad that was named by coach Wayne Dover as Guyana prepare to face Martinique on Tuesday, March 28, at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. This will be the second meeting between the two countries, with the first being played five years ago (2012) in Martinique where the Jamaal Shabazz-coached Golden Jaguars drew 2-2 in a friendly contest. Creavalle made his Golden Jaguars debut during the CFU Caribbean Cup, where Guyana were booted by Jamaica. The Major League Soccer (MLS) stand-out defender vowed to return once called upon by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF). Mills, who recently made a return to the Trinidad and Tobago Pro-League with San Juan Jabloteh during the club’s run in the CFU Club Championship, along with usual team captain Cox, is a part of 13 overseas players called by Dover. Akel Clarke - Central FC (Trinidad & Tobago), Andrew Durant - San Juan Jabloteh FC (Trinidad & Tobago), Adrian Butters - York Region Shooters (Canada), Christo-

The French territory will play their first game against Haiti or Nicaragua (pending play-off game between the two countries) on July 8, the USA on July 12 and Panama on July 15. The match, scheduled for kick off at 20:00hrs, brings international football back to Linden for the first time since 2011.

Warren Creavalle pher Bourne - Islington Admiral United FC (England), Quincy Adams - S.V. Nishan 42 (Suriname), Brandon Beresford - Rochester Rhinos FC (USA), Daniel Wilson S.V. Nishan 42 (Suriname), Kelsey Benjamin - Caledonia AIA FC (Trinidad & Tobago), Shaquille Agard - Durham United FC (Canada) and Marcel Barrington - Hendon FC (England) are other players called from outside of the local football landscape. Benjamin, National U-17 goalkeeper Jonathon Copeland of Linden, Job Caesar (Santos FC), Ralph Parris - Georgetown FC (Guyana) and Ryan Hackett - Fruta Conquerors FC (Guyana) have all been given their first senior national call-up by Dover.. The Golden Jaguars will also have some familiar faces, as Trayon Bobb (Uitvlugt FC), Solomon Austin (Fru-

Vurlon Mills ta Conquerors FC), Pernell Schultz (Fruta Conquerors FC), Delon Lanferman (Den Amstel FC) and Eon Alleyne (Fruta Conquerors FC) were called to vie for a spot to face the French next Tuesday. Meanwhile, former national captain Charles ‘Lilly’ Pollard will make a return to the National team. This time however, as an assistant to Dover. “This is a strong, diverse national squad, with a rich mix of home and overseas-based players and some promising young players,” said GFF Technical Director Ian Greenwood. “We are all looking forward to Tuesday’s clash in Linden, and will be well prepared and ready for the challenge ahead. “It is going to be a great opportunity to measure our progress against what is likely to be an impressive Martinique side. We are urging the

Sam Cox whole country to get behind the Golden Jaguars.” Greenwood added. As an overseas department of the French Republic, Martinique is not a member of FIFA and is therefore not eligible to enter the FIFA World Cup or any competition organised firsthand by the organisation. Martinique is, however, a member of CONCACAF and CFU and is eligible for all competitions organised by both organisations. While Guyana, despite being a powerhouse in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU), have never qualified for the Gold Cup (male version), Martinique are preparing to make their fifth appearance at the CONCACAF showpiece this year. Martinique will be placed in Group B of the 2017 Gold Cup alongside fivetime champions USA, Panama, and Haiti/Nicaragua.

GOALKEEPERS Akel Clarke - Central FC (Trinidad & Tobago), Andrew Durant - San Juan Jabloteh FC (Trinidad & Tobago), Jonathon Copeland - Milerock FC (Guyana) DEFENDERS Adrian Butters - York Region Shooters (Canada), Christopher Bourne - Islington Admiral United FC (England), Kester Jacobs - Den Amstel FC (Guyana), Quincy Adams - S.V. Nishan 42 (Suriname), Samuel Cox - Wealdstone FC (England), Solomon Austin - Fruta Conquerors FC (Guyana), Delroy Ferdinand - Guyana Defence Force FC (Guyana), Travis Henry - Guyana Defence Force FC (Guyana), Shamar Smith - Fruta Conquerors FC (Guyana) MIDFIELDERS Brandon Beresford - Rochester Rhinos FC (USA), Clive Nobrega - Eagles United FC (Guyana), Daniel Wilson S.V. Nishan 42 (Suriname),

Eusi Phillips - Guyana Defence Force FC (Guyana), Kelsey Benjamin - Caledonia AIA FC (Trinidad & Tobago), Trayon Bobb - Uitvlugt FC (Guyana), Vurlon Mills - San Juan Jabloteh FC (Trinidad & Tobago), Warren Creavalle Philadelphia Union (USA), Curtis Kellman - Georgetown FC (Guyana), Job Ceasar Santos FC (Guyana), Ryan Hackett - Fruta Conquerors FC (Guyana) FORWARDS Shaquille Agard Durham United FC (Canada), Pernell Schultz - Fruta Conquerors FC (Guyana), Marcel Barrington - Hendon FC (England), Olvis Mitchell - Guyana Defence Force FC (Guyana), Ralph Parris - Georgetown FC (Guyana), Delon Lanferman - Den Amstel FC (Guyana), Eon Alleyne - Fruta Conquerors FC (Guyana) TECHNICAL STAFF Rawle Adams - Team Manager Wayne Dover - Interim Head Coach Charles Pollard - Assistant Coach Anson Ambrose - Physical Trainer Eon DeVeira - Goalkeeper Coach Denzil Hernandez - Physio Trevor Burnett - Kit Manager

GT Beer Brand on board with Petra Futsal championship Russell appeals one-year ban BANKS DIH Limited under the GT Beer Brand is on board with the Petra Organisation Futsal Championship following a presentation ceremony, staged yesterday at its Thirst Park Boardroom. Troy Peters, Communications Officer of Banks DIH Limited, during the feature address said the company strives to stage sporting events that target communities, noting, “We are extremely pleased to be a part because we know the players in those communities want something to do Troy Mendonca, co-Director of Petra Organisation said, “The Petra Organisation is once again happy to have Banks DIH on board for another programme. The relationship between the two goes back many years and we have recently concluded the GT Beer/Limacol Knockout Football Tournament. In trying times to have Banks (DIH) on board must be applauded.” According to Mendonca, “It just shows their continued commitment to sports and

Mark Allen is seen collecting the sponsorship cheque from Banks Communications Officer in the presence of Troy Mendonca. The event will kick off social responsibility to the that will benefit the football tomorrow at the National public at large. On behalf of fraternity.” the football fraternity, the He further added that the Gymnasium with the seccommunities at large and the competing teams should be ond-round group matches. GFF,I say thanks to the ex- applauded for the manner in At 19:30hrs, Tiger Bay opecutives of Banks DIH for which they have displayed pose Agricola while Tucville coming on board to deliver a high level of discipline engage West Back Road from 20:15hrs. another grassroots programme throughout the tournament.

WEST Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has appealed for the dismissal of a one-year ban issued earlier this year for a doping whereabouts violation. The 28-year-old T20 star has at the same time called for a Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO) appeal, which seeks to extend his current one-year ban to the maximum two years, to be dismissed. According to reports the cricketer submitted the appeals in two separate filings on March 20 and called for the JADCO appeal against him to be dismissed as there was no basis for it. Russell was hit with a one-year ban in February of this year after being found guilty of negligence in submitting his whereabouts for anti-doping tests on three separate occasions within a 12-month period in 2015.

Andre Russell The cricketer’s ban is set to expire on January 30 of next year, but Russell could be out of the game for an additional year if the appeal is successful. The appeal brought against Russell by JADCO is set to be heard by an Anti-Doping Appeal Tribunal on the 8th of May. (Sportsmax)

Mills, Cox and Creavalle named in Golden Jags provisional squad

See story on page 31

Brathwaite, Hope centuries put Barbados Pride in command See story on page 25

Kraigg Brathwaite celebrates his century on the opening day of the eighth round match between Barbados Pride and Guyana Jaguars at Kensington Oval, (Photos by WICB Media/Kerrie Eversley)

Shai Hope hits out during his unbeaten 118 on the opening day at Kensington Oval.

GRFU names 12-man squad for Hong Kong Sevens By Rawle Toney THE Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) Wednesday named what they are calling a strong 12man team for next month’s Hong Kong Sevens Rugby Tournament, one of the premier events on the International Rugby Board’s (IRB) calendar. This is Guyana’s second outing at the event (first in 2012). Head coach Shane Grant-Stuart told the media that his team is 85% ready for the April 7-9 IRB spectacle. Ryan Gonsalves was named captain of the team, and will be joined by Claudius Butts, Richard Staglon, Ronald Mayers, Avery Corbin, Patrick King,

Vallon Adams, Blaise Bailey, Rupert Giles, Rickford Cummings, Peabo Hamilton and Rondell McArthur. Robby Roberts will serve as the team’s manager and Barrington Brown their physical trainer. Guyana were placed in Pool G, alongside Spain, Uruguay and Papua New Guinea. The ‘Green Machine’ as they are more popularly known, will open their account on April 7 against Spain and would wrap up day one of the tournament facing the team from Southwest of the Pacific Ocean (Papua New Guinea). The men from the Land of Many Waters will play their South American neigh-

bours Uruguay on April 8 in their final Group stage game. The team will depart next week for New York, where they will play several warm-up matches to finetune preparations before heading to the East Asian city. “We’re pretty confident heading into this tournament,” Grant-Stuart told a gathering of the media yesterday, as he also pointed out that while he’s yet to get the full complement of players, “the five-day camp in New York will give us the much-needed time to gel as a team, and work on our strategy for the up-coming games.”

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Some members of the National 7s rugby team: (L-R) Blaise Bailey, Ryan Gonsalves (captain), Patrick King and Avery Corbin FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 2017