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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Rivers View to develop community playground THE riverine community of Rivers View has big plans for the $3M it has been allocated in this year’s budget under the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs Presidential Grant scheme. While teachers of the Holy Name Nursery and Primary Schools would have liked it to be used for a school playfield, the majority of the residents have opted for a community playground, and have already begun clearing the land where they propose locating it. The residents aired their views during a recent meeting with regional officials. Plans were also made to have the playground equipped with bleachers, a sanitary block and a security hut. A decision was later taken to have a simple play area constructed in the compound of the two schools for children to recreate. Teachers had complained that children are forced to walk great distances to access an open field to practise for sports and other outdoor competitions. They also revealed that besides a playground, the schools not only lack other necessities, but are in dire need of urgent repairs as well. OTHER NECESSITIES The necessities at reference include fencing, better lights, a storeroom, a security hut and a teachers’ washroom. Of priority, however, is the need for a

– with MIPA presidential grant

The two toilets at the Holy Name Primary School being used by 118 pupils and teachers

new sanitary block at Holy Name Primary, since the entire school population is forced to rely on just two toilets.

There is also an inadequate water supply for the two schools, since the only source of water is from the rains.

The team of regional officials, including Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira and Regional Chairman Renis Morian noted the concerns of the residents, and promised to have them addressed with funding from the Region’s 2017 Budget. The team was also told of two bridges in the community that are in such disrepair, they could collapse at any moment. In their present condition, teachers say, they fear for the lives of the children who have to traverse those bridges every day, especially the nursery school ones. YET TO BE PAID They also disclosed that the boat captain and the boat hand hired to carry the children to Bartica for school are yet to be paid for their services. Meanwhile, given the difficulty in sourcing electricity via the single solar panels available to the schools, calls were made for the establishment of a solar farm that can provide power not only to the schools but other Government buildings and offices in the area. These include the toshao’s office, the community’s recreational centre, and the health post. The toshao and councillors, as well as the residents thanked the regional officials for the visit and noted that they look forward to their bringing them relief at the earliest opportunity.

No. 104805

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Price: $80

AFC top guns in leadership race Regional officials and community leaders at the meeting in Rivers View

(VAT Inclusive)

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‘Build bridges, not walls’ – President Granger says CELAC on threshold of new era in global relations P1age 0

President David Granger with Ambassador Colin Granderson, Assistant Secretary- General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Director- General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Audrey Waddell at the Fifth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC)

Nandlall in attempt to block law school set up – AG says

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M&CC dismantles gates, pavement of Teleperformance Page 2 parking lot

Gunmen pounce on South Ruimveldt supermarket Page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

M&CC dismantles gates, pavement of Teleperformance parking lot …says they were constructed without permission By Telesha Ramnarine A TEAM from the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) swooped down Wednesday on the plot of land that Teleperformance has made into a parking lot for its employees and broke down its gates, along with the elevation of the pavement, which leads to the entrances. The M&CC claimed that since November of last year, when Teleperformance was in the process of fencing the land, the Council advised the company that it would first need to apply for the requisite permission to continue with the project. Public Relations Officer of M&CC, Debra Lewis, who was on site, said there are no records of Teleperformance ever sending its application. The team, headed by Superintendent of

Works in the City Engineer’s Department, Eartley King, therefore had no choice but to turn up and dismantle the structures at the corners of Church and Camp Streets. Incidentally, Teleperformance had also elevated the pavement in front of its office at 51 Camp and Robb Streets, Lacytown, but had been granted permission by the Council to do so. One major concern, King highlighted, was the fact that elevating just one portion of the pavement could prove disastrous to persons who are visually impaired and who would have become accustomed to walking on the pavement for years without the elevation. Hence, in this case, the company would have needed to elevate the entire pavement in front of the parking lot. Lewis also chipped in that the M&CC has to be

sensitive to the needs of the differently-abled community. Explaining the reason for the exercise, Lewis told the Guyana Chronicle that, “The land belongs to them, but if you are going to make a parking lot, you ought to ask permission from council; even if you want to paint your house, add to your house, take off a part, extend it, you need to apply to the council so that you can have the requisite technical advice and benefit from the competencies of the Engineer’s Department.” Lewis said a similar exercise was carried out on Tuesday in Subryanville, opposite the Mae’s School, and that even more are on

Superintendent of Works Eartley King (in blue shirt) speaks with staff of Teleperformance

the cards to be executed. “It’s not that we’re stepping on anybody’s toe, but

law is law and order is order. And for a long time we have been in a state of chaos,

The pavement elevation in front of the entrance to the Teleperformance parking lot, being dismantled by workers of City Hall [Delano Williams photos]

where persons have been doing whatever they like when it comes to the council’s thoroughfares and spaces. The Council has decided to repossess all city spaces and thoroughfares; and if you know that you have built without permission, we have been asking that you come in and talk to us. Don’t let us have to come to this position,” she expressed. The Guyana Chronicle visited and telephoned Teleperformance, but was still unable to secure a response from the company. A staff member, who was on site, did say that he doubted the company had received any warning about the exercise.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

AFC top guns in leadership race THREE of the top guns of the Alliance for Change (AFC) have been nominated for the leadership post of the party, which will hold its National Conference on January 28, 2017. Vying for the position will be Moses Nagamootoo and co-founders of the party Khemraj Ramjattan and Raphael Trotman. Ramjattan is the current leader of the party. These three individuals were also nominated for position of Chairman, along with a lone female candidate, Catherine Hughes. For the position of Vice-Chairman, the incumbent Moses Nagamootoo, along with Valerie Garrido-Lowe, Catherine Hughes, Audwin Rutherford, and Raphael Trotman were nominated. Nominated for the position of General Secretary were; Michael Carrington, Alison Mohamed and Marlon Williams and the incumbent, David Patterson. The AFC said that, in addition to these nominations, there is also keen interest in and competition for the 12 National Executive Committee (NEC) positions with a total of 73 nominees. Apart from those 12 elected members of the NEC, each Regional Management Committee and overseas chapter, along with the party’s women’s arm, Women-For-Change and its youth arm, Youth-ForChange, are entitled to send

a representative to the NEC meetings. Additionally, the NEC can co-opt up to five members, if the need arises, for additional representation in particular areas. The AFC has an Electoral College voting system comprising 275 delegates, which span the ten administrative regions. The women’s arm of the party Women-For-Change (WFC) has 10 delegates, while its youth arm, YouthsFor-Change (YFC) has 10 delegates. The diaspora has 25 delegates; nine from the USA Chapter, six from the Canada Chapter, six from the Caribbean Chapter, and four from the United Kingdom Chapter. The Returning Officer for the elections will be Mr. Clayton Hall. The party noted that the National Conference will also consider over a dozen Motions and Resolutions on a wide array of matters. The submitted Motions and Resolutions are currently being reviewed by a Special Committee set up by the party’s Management Committee. AFC WILL REMAIN UNITED Meanwhile, Trotman, the current Minister of Natural Resources told reporters on Wednesday evening at a reception at the Chinese Embassy on Mandela Avenue, that the AFC will

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

remain united, despite the outcome of the elections. He said that he has been nominated by several persons and he plans to represent them to the best of his ability. The founding member noted that he will serve in whatever capacity he is elected within the party, noting that his nomination provided him with added confidence to serve the AFC. Of importance, Trotman said that the elections will capture the vision of the AFC, noting that the party brings strength and value to the Coalition government. “And we meet the people’s expectations, the people expect us to be a strong and vibrant party,” he said. Trotman added that the AFC‘s vision is not premised on race but rather a “commonality of purpose,”

Raphael Trotman

Khemraj Ramjattan

Catherine Hughes

noting that whoever presents the best possibilities to the party will become eventual winners. Meanwhile, Hughes told the Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday evening that the elections will provide the party with an opportunity to regroup and “get back out on the road”. She said that she is honored to be nominated for the Vice Chair and Chairmanship of the party. She described the AFC as “a baby,” noting that she is committed to the development of the party. Hughes said the party has an important role to play in the political landscape of Guyana, as she noted its 11 years in existence. She said the elections follow a democratic process, and the results will be up to the membership to decide. Hughes noted that the

philosophy of the AFC is to bridge the racial divide, noting that there is a history in Guyana of looking at race during elections processes. “I would like to think we represent a wide cross section of Guyanese,” she said, noting that competency and commitment is of more value to the AFC. She also refuted suggestions that the AFC has “died “or is “swamped” by the APNU. Asked what she brings to the table for Saturday’s elections, Hughes believes that there are not many women participating at the political level in Guyana. She said the constant negatives and personal attacks could be a factor, noting that politics here has not really matured. She noted that certain situations require a woman’s perspective. According to Hughes,

the party is young and its members sit around a table and discussions are open for anyone to make an input. Hughes said it has not been easy transitioning from opposition to government, noting that the party has done research and remains committed to the governance of the country. Hughes also spoke to the women’s arm of the AFC, ‘Women for Change,’ which she said is looking to expand its reach. As it relates to the road ahead, she expressed hope that the thinking within the AFC continues being one which is “out of the box”, as she recalled the party being considered the ones who “will push the envelope.” She said being in government is different, noting that the party has a responsibility to play its role within the government.

Murder accused hospitalised after beating at Lusignan prison when the man awoke, he was given a sound thrashing by other inmates at Lusignan after they recognised him. The man reportedly had several fights with the prisoners several months ago and on recognising him on Wednesday, he

Collin Alleyne

MURDER accused, Colin Alleyne, who was charged with the murder of a 77– year–old Montrose, East Coast Demerara woman in August 2015, has been hospitalised after he received a severe beating at the Lusignan Prison on Wednesday. Reports are that Alleyne, 23, has been described as disorderly and was moved to the Lusignan Prison on Tuesday after several altercations with other remand prisoners at the Georgetown Prisons on Camp Street. On Wednesday morning,

was dealt a severe beating. He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and remains hosptialised under police guard. Alleyne of Lot 7, Cemetery Road, Timehri, East Bank Demerara, appeared before

Magistrate Zameena Ali at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court on August 25, 2015, charged with the murder of Montrose caretaker, Danrasie ‘Carmin’ Ganesh. The prosecutor stated that on August 1, 2015 at Mon-

trose in the Sparendaam Magisterial District, he murdered Ganesh. Prior to being arrested for the capital offence, Alleyne worked as a Welder and resided at Timehri. Ganesh was found dead in the two-storey building

where she had been the caretaker. The entire attack was caught on CCTV cameras in the house, showing a man continuously beating and strangling the woman, in what was first thought to be a robbery.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Nandlall in attempt to block law school set up – AG says By Ariana Gordon

ATTORNEY GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, has claimed that People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Parliamentarian, Anil Nandlall, has written to the Council of Legal Education (CLE), seeking to prevent the establishment of the J.O.F Haynes Law School here. At a press conference on

Wednesday, Williams said that the letter was sent by the former Attorney General ahead of his [Williams] visit to Jamaica, slated for Friday, when he will meet the executive committee of the council. The Attorney General told reporters that Nandlall has “written the CLE maliciously seeking to prevent the establishment of the law school in Guyana.” The Government of Guyana (GOG) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University College of the Caribbean and Law College of the Americas in a public-private partnership to establish a law school here. This partnership will see government owning 30 percent of shares and providing only the land to build the school, while the private interest will cover all the costs and hold the

Attorney General Basil Williams S.C

remaining 70 percent. “I haven’t seen the letter, but I have been informed by the Chairman of the Council of Legal Education and Senior Counsel Reginald Amor of Trinidad and Tobago that he has done so. In fact…the matter would be addressed at the council meeting. It would not be a substantial agenda item, but it will come under any other business,” said Williams, who questioned Nandlall’s agenda. He continued, “I am not

sure what Mr Nandlall is trying to achieve; he must know that the Council years ago had given permission to establish a law school in Guyana, his government didn’t get it done. In fact, all the problems that our law graduates are facing right now at UG ---lie on the PPP.” With the establishment of the local law school, holders of a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree would be able to acquire their Legal Education Certificate (LEC) without travelling to the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago. Guyana was given permission to establish the school over two decades ago by the Caribbean Legal Education Accreditation body, but this was never done by successive governments. The country has, however, over the years resorted to sending 25 of its LLB holders to the Trinidad-based Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS), while the others have been unable to practise law, because of their inability to acquire the LEC.

Just last year, the Attorney General brokered a deal to have the 25 Guyanese students accepted into the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) after inheriting a situation of uncertainty, as it relates to placement of those students. “Guyanese had long suspected that Nandlall and his party, the PPP/C, had no interest in the welfare and well-being of our University of Guyana law graduates and the travails they suffer to

Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall

enter and study at the Hugh Wooding Law School,” he said, noting that the “corrosive efforts of the opposition cannot [stop] an idea whose time has come,” the Attorney General said. When contacted on Wednesday, Nandlall told the Guyana Chronicle that he has written to the CLE, but will withhold the contents of his letter until he sees what has been said by the Attorney General. “I will wait until what he [the Attorney General] says is published tomorrow,” he told Guyana Chronicle briefly. The existing agreement with the institution will expire next year and efforts are being made to have the law school completed the same year with the aim of providing a long-term solution to the problem. Additionally, many students who completed their LLBs have been unable to take up the first 25 spaces at Hugh Wooding, because of the substantial increase in fees at the institution.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

GRA to contest Banks DIH $28B law suit THE Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Wednesday said it is prepared to “vigorously contest” the lawsuit filed by local beverage company, Banks DIH Limited, for over $28B for overpaying consumption taxes between 2001 and 2006. The entity in a statement to the media noted that as the second- named defendant, it is “fully prepared to vigorously contest this matter and looks forward to a thorough ventilation of the issues in a court of law.” The entity however noted that it will respect the court’s jurisdiction in not litigating issues of the law via the media in relation to the lawsuit made by Banks DIH Limited. Banks DIH has sued GRA for what it deems to be an overpayment of consumption taxes. According to the court documents filed on Decem-

ber 16, 2016, Banks DIH is claiming that it paid $12.8B in consumption tax, but that $9.09B of that amount was overpaid. The payment of the total amount was made between 2001 and 2006. In a statement to the media, Commissioner-General of the GRA, Godfrey Statia, acknowledged being served on the said date by Banks DIH Limited and noted that the company is seeking declarations that consumption tax paid between 2001 and 2006 was paid under a mistake of the law. As a result, Banks DIH is seeking an order for repayment by the government of the said taxes. “To date, the company has not filed its Statement of Claim in the matter,” said Statia, who noted that a Statement of Claim is a written statement by the plaintiff, in which he/she must state their case: the facts on which they

intend to rely and the relief they seek, to the defendant and for the public record, for which they seek a civil trial and judicial determination. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, told reporters that companies must understand that in tax matters, the statute of limitation applies. “You can’t sit on your rights and hope that the cost would keep increasing and then you come 10 years later… if you are overpaying tax, you have three months you must bring an action,” the Attorney General said. The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has ruled that the GRA is an independent institution and not a government department, so the Attorney General whose remit it is to represent government departments cannot be named a party to any action.

“That’s why that case in fact was being handled by GRA – it is not a matter within my jurisdiction. I am not in a position to say whether it was proper or not when in settling matters there are many different considerations. I would trust that Senior Counsel Stoby had the right and proper considerations upper most in his mind when he and the GRA team

dealt with that matter,” he said, referring to the Banks DIH lawsuit in which he was named as a defendant in the matter. Asked whether by virtue of the CCJ ruling on the jurisdiction of the Attorney General in GRA matters, whether he would be assisting the Revenue Authority in their case, Williams said, “I would give all, any assistance

that is necessary in protecting the government’s coffers, the taxpayers’ coffers and we are very confident that the case would be a proper case.” He said a team of GRA attorneys visited his office on Wednesday and met with attorneys there but emphasised, “I don’t have custody of the case; I see they sued me ---I am not the proper party, the GRA is.”

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

“We’re no itinerant miners”

Dear Editor,

REPRESENTATIVES of the small miners who attended the meeting held on January 16, 2017 with Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, and officials of GRA are very disappointed with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners’ Association (GGDMA) for a press release it had issued. First of all, the GGDMA has been treating all Small Miners as ITINERANT MINERS and the days for such treatment are over. Fact 1: We were invited to that meeting and we attended. 2: We were the ones who attended that meeting with a positive plan and recommended solutions for small miners.

3: When asked at the meeting by the minister to speak, the GGDMA and GWMO were very undecided as to who will speak first, because they had nothing of substance or truth to say. 4: When asked by the minister “What are your proposals?”, They had nothing to say except embarrassingly, “we will get back to you minister.” 5: The Small Miners declared that they were not enjoying the benefits from concessions received by GGDMA. Because of the presence of the representatives of the Small Miners, there were some fruits: 1: A help desk is to be set up at the various GGMC offices to assist miners in educating them of their taxes.

2: Once miners are tax-compliant, they can enjoy rebates and tax concessions. 3: Small groups can now form syndicates and apply for lands. So the big fishes wouldn’t be the only landlords. Small miners did not derail the meeting, because we came out with results for us. The fact that we were told the big ones were the defaulters and robbing the Government of their taxes by being untruthful with their declarations of production, while at the same time expanding their personal assets. It is time the GGDMA stops manipulating small miners and stop claiming lands in the name of SMALL MINERS,when it is for their personal enrichment. The

President of the GGDMA needs to tell small miners what is the process used to receive fifteen (15) blocks for himself and twenty (20) blocks for the GGDMA in the name of SMALL MINERS. The GGDMA has been very disrespectful to Minister Broomes, but we would like to commend her for her hard work and dedication towards the upliftment of Small Miners. To the GWMO executives, you need to focus on the MOTTO and OBJECTIVES of the organisation and stop being hypnotised by the GGDMA. JUDITH BLAIR Representative of Small Miners

GAWU says in the dark about sugar investors Dear Editor,

NEXT month, Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) will be meeting in Georgetown for the second time in less than a year for their annual inter-sessional conference. Guyana -- by default -- played host to the regular summit last July, owing to the fact that Dominica was wracked by a hurricane, rendering its government both financially and logistically hamstrung to undertake this task. President David Granger has since assumed the chairmanship of this bloc and said in his New Year message, that 2017 holds great promise for the Region to advance the integration process, which can only be possible through the involvement and participation of all. He also called for CARICOM to resolve to play its part in strengthening the Community and to making regional unity a living, breathing experience. President Granger also noted that this year marks the mid-point of our Five-Year Strategic Plan for the period 2015-2019, a foundational element in the Community’s reform process. That process, he said, is geared towards ensuring that “our people feel the impact of the integration movement in their daily lives. Integration is not merely about systems and institutions. It is mostly about people,” he had said in the message.” Next month’s summit will no doubt entail some of these issues about which Mr Granger spoke, as well as examining the work and progress of the community, and making plans on the way forward. However, leaders will have to confront the reality of the Donald Trump presidency. Theirs is not only the task of trying to understand what would be U.S. policy towards the Caribbean, but also finding ways to navigate any fallout. President Trump has made it clear in his inaugural speech that he will be pursuing an “America-first” policy- a position that has left world leaders “jittery.” The U.S. is the Region’s largest trading partner and our powerful neighbor; America matters to us. According to Ambassador Sir Ron Sanders, CARICOM as a collective is hardly likely to be a focus of the new president’s perspective on trade. He said one very good reason is that the U.S. enjoys a signif-

THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), though a stakeholder, is now forced to depend on media reports to be aware that the Government and the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc (GuySuCo) are engaging more than one foreign investor who have, reportedly, expressed interest in investing in the sugar industry. The current visit and engagements mentioned by the media, we note, are taking place a month after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked with a Trinidadian firm regarding the divestment of the Skeldon Estate. That MoU, as it turned out, was signed December 8, 2016 and its existence was only made known on Decem-

ber 31, 2016, when certain ministers met with representatives of our union, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE). On this matter, we believe, there is still much more than what meets the eye and which, eventually, would come to light. The GAWU as an important stakeholder urges, at this time, that the Government and GuySuCo seek to update all stakeholders regarding the ongoing developments since the meeting of December 31, 2016. We make this call in the firm belief that GuySuCo, as well as the Government, has a responsibility to the employees of the industry who are threatened with joblessness and an uncertain future. We

are also mindful of the stance of President Granger who recently committed to have unanimity and consensus in arriving on the future direction of the sugar industry. In the meantime, our union awaits the receipt of a number of requested documents and other information it has sought through Minister of State, Joseph Harmon. GAWU also takes this opportunity to reiterate its strong belief that the industry can overcome its current travails and have a viable and sustainable future. Estate closures and sell-outs are not wise choices and it will hurt workers as well as the economy, an observation made by several organisations and many patriotic and competent Guyanese. Divestment in Jamaica, we wish to point out, has had

painful consequences for the people there when some of the investors simply walked away from the industry last year. Moreover, moving along such a path (closure and sell-out) is a grave departure from commitments made by the contesting parties during the 2015 National and Regional elections campaign. Several proposals by the Commission of Inquiry, the Trade Unions and serious-minded persons to turn around the sugar industry have been made and, we are convinced, deserve the resources and general support of the Government and GuySuCo in the interest of the thousands of sugar workers and the country.

icant balance of trade surplus with CARICOM countries collectively. According to Sir Ron in 2014, the U.S. trade surplus was $3.24 billion, rising to $4.17 billion in 2015. Only two CARICOM countries have trade surpluses with the U.S. and in both cases the surpluses are declining – Trinidad and Tobago’s surplus slipped from $3.58 billion in 2014 to $1.8 billion in 2015; Guyana dropped from $131.4 million in 2014 to $63 million in 2015. President Obama had vis-

ited our Region and showed an interest in improving relations and increasing much-needed developmental aid. We would hope that President Trump maintains that policy and even improves it. Meanwhile, CARICOM will be celebrating 44 years as a functioning and unified body this year and notwithstanding challenges from within and out, it is deserving of commendation for the peoples and leaders. Where CARICOM was founded on the principle that the

peoples stand to gain more through collective involvement, exploitation and development of the resources within the Region, this year amidst global challenges and increasing competition, it behooves intensified focus on the principles that established the community. The success of CARICOM beyond its establishment and attendant arms is dependent on the involvement of the peoples. It may help to remember when the conceptualisation

of such a feat was being thought of and apprehension existed among the peoples, the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) which in 1972 was first hosted here, provided the surety of the peoples’ abilities and endless possibilities. Given the intent to harness the unique cultural skills and talents within the Region in a unified way, it set in train not only the celebration of, but also employment and economic opportunities.

Regards Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Parking grace period to end soon EVEN as motorists continued to park on Wednesday without paying via the parking meters, Smart City Solutions (SCS) still has not said definitively when the adjustment grace period will end. In the meantime, though, staff members of SCS were yesterday pasting stickers on the windscreens of vehicles in breach, reminding them that they were violating the laws and that it was only because of the grace period that they were being spared. The sticker read: “Attention! This vehicle can be subject to a parking fine due to lack of parking payment or by parking in a prohibited area! Please note that you have not been fined, because the adjustment grace period is currently in effect, but after this period, any further violations of parking regulations shall be subject to the lawful enforcement measures.” Contacted yesterday, SCS Public Relations Consultant Kit Nascimento told the Chronicle that at least the parking meter system is serving one of its intended purposes, which is to reduce congestion in the city. He informed this newspaper that the company is in receipt of information that a number of parking meters have been used, and that there has been a “significant and heavy” sale of the prepaid parking meter cards. This, he said, tells him that people are preparing themselves to use the meter. Nascimento would not say how many more days remain for the grace period,

but insisted that enforcement will begin very shortly. Drivers’ vehicles could therefore be towed away on a day that they do not expect. Meanwhile, motorists were expected to begin paying to park as of Tuesday morning, but no one paid heed to the meters and hence parked as normal. For example, about 10:00 hrs, in excess of 20 vehicles were parked near the New Building Society (NBS) and not a single one of them bore any payment receipts on the dashboard. The same was with those parked on Main, Church, Regent and Robb Streets. Complaining mostly on the streets were taxi drivers, who are adamant that they need to be granted some form of concession. A group, most of whom have been plying the trade for more than 30 years, told the Chronicle in front of Guyana Stores Limited that they have no idea what approach they will take in order to meet the new costs. For instance, if a customer hires a taxi for one hour and needs to make several stops, the driver is not sure if he will attach the parking costs to the customer or if he will bear it himself. If he chooses the latter option, then, “What really I wukkin fuh?” one taxi driver lamented. The parking meters were installed between Water and Camp Streets and Brickdam to Quamina Street. The second phase of the meter project, though, will see an extension of the boundaries from Camp Street to

NIS implements Pension Readiness programme

Dear Editor,

REFERENCE is made to the letter published in the Monday, January 23, 2017 edition of the Guyana Times and Kaieteur newspapers. The National Insurance Scheme has noted with concern the discrepancies mentioned therein. Please be advised

that the management of the Scheme is now adequately equipped to urgently address these concerns, since the Pension Readiness P ro g r a m m e h a s b e e n implemented to accommodate such issues. Regards DIANNE LEWIS-BAXTER PRO, NIS

Vlissengen Road and from Brickdam to Lamaha Street. Prepaid parking cards are said to be available at over 100 places, including pharmacies, gas stations, MoneyGram offices, post offices and the City Hall. The intention is for them to become as available as phone cards are. The cards will be available in $500, $2,500, $5,000 and $10,000 denominations. The $5000 card will carry a one-hour free parking bonus, and the $10,000 card will carry a two-and-a-half hours free parking.

Gunmen pounce on South Ruimveldt supermarket FOUR armed bandits at- served one of the men standing to the upper flat of the building tacked the newly opened outside of the supermarket, where they reside. They were Convenience Supermarket, while the other three pretended ordered to bring out the cash located at Lot 49, Aubrey to shop inside. Once the scene which amounted to $700, 000. Barker Street, South Ruim- was clear, the one outside Upon hesitating to do so, one veldt Gardens, on Wednes- closed the grill and entrance of the Chinese nationals was day morning. door afhit in his head with a gun. An employee of The gunmen then rethe supermarket, turned downstairs where who prefers to they ransacked the cashier’s have their identity section and also carted off withheld, told this phone cards and cellphones. newspaper that the The police were called to gunmen pretended the scene and responded to be customers in less than five minutes; and waited until they subsequently obtained the supermarket a copy of the surveillance was occupied footage. only by staff, One of the gunmen seen inside the One of the gunmen covbefore carrying ered his face with a towel, store, after closing the door. out the robbery. while the others were not The incident occurred around ter he pulled out his gun. masked. Other staff mem09:05hrs and lasted for apThe other men, who were bers, who seemed to still proximately 25 minutes. also armed with guns, ordered be in a state of shock, were This newspaper was able the staff comprising a sales unable to comment. The suto view the surveillance foot- girl and three Chinese nation- permarket opened its doors age of the robbery and ob- als, who own the supermarket, less than a month ago.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Nurses frustrated but patient – waiting on Public Health Ministry to pronounce on examination papers By Ariana Gordon ONE month after former Public Health Minister, Dr George Norton had instructed the General Nursing Council to mark the examination papers of some 250 nursing students from both the public and private sectors, who had sat the State examinations on October 18 and 19 last year, the nurses remain in the dark. The student nurses across the country were told on November 11 that the Nursing Council had decided to have them re-sit the examination because it was leaked. Dr Norton’s instruction was by virtue of a directive he said he received from Cabinet, but the Council failed to act. On Tuesday, several nurses attached to the Georgetown School of Nursing vented their frustration, while seated at Durban Park, Georgetown, after a failed attempt to meet with Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence. According to the students, they met with Minister Lawrence last Monday and were asked to wait an

additional seven days for a response from her Ministry. The nursing students explained that they have waited on the minister’s response but to no avail. On Tuesday, they met with Minister within the Public Health Ministry, Dr Karen Cummings, who pleaded with them for an additional seven days to have the matter sorted. The students said they have been more than patient with both the Ministry of Public Health and the General Nursing Council and will act accordingly if they receive no response at the end of seven days. Afresha Hollingsworth, a student registered nurse, told Guyana Chronicle that she is fed up of the situation and the inaction by the Public Health Ministry. The frustrated woman asked: “What is the Government doing to help us?” She said in a bid to ensure that there are properly trained nurses in the health care sector, it is necessary for the Public Health Ministry to intervene with urgency.

ANXIETY “Their inability to make a decision is causing sleeplessness, people aren’t eating, there is no joy in anything because of the instability of our lives. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring.” Hollingsworth, who was backed by her colleagues, said they have been working on the wards of the Georgetown Public Hospital some six months after enlisting in the nursing programme three years ago. “They are asking us to work, we are working but how is it that you are going to send nurses who are emotionally unstable to care for patients; how is it we are supposed to just smile and go to work when people call us names and the Government is sitting there doing nothing — we have been fulfilling our clinical hours for the past two and a half years and it is going on to three years that we are being paid $16,000 a month.” Similarly, Markita Witter believes that mischief is afoot and noted that the length of time taken to investigate the leaked paper is unheard of. “They claim the exam

was compromised but they have no strong evidence the exams were compromised. If the exams were compromised why is it taking so long? It is going on to three months now and all we been hearing is wait seven days, the investigation is still going on, study, study, study.” Witter noted that if the examination papers were compromised then the student nurses should re-sit the exams once sufficient evidence is produced. “We need an urgent decision,” the frustrated student nurse said. She told Guyana Chronicle that student nurses are fearful of victimisation by those who sit on the Nursing Council. She said all those who sit on the Council also lecture to them. “My future is being jeopardised,” stated Witter. URGENCY Meanwhile, a vocal Vibert Forde told Guyana Chronicle that they were recently informed that the decision on the matter rests with the Public Health Minister and called on Minister Lawrence to show some compassion

and address the matter with urgency, while recognising that she only took office recently. “The Nursing Council must have ways to deal with leaked papers and other compromises… students are in an emotionally disturbed state and we want the Ministry of Public Health to review the criteria for the setting of these examinations and those who set them…the Nursing Council needs to deal with their housekeeping matters.” The Nursing Council had announced that all students who had sat the examination would be required to re-sit it because of an allegation that the examination papers were leaked to some of the nursing students. The decision had resulted in protest from nursing students of the Georgetown and the New Amsterdam Schools of Nursing, the Charles Rosa School of Nursing in Linden, and the St Joseph Mercy Hospital. An investigation was launched by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) but thus far

there has been no word of progress in the matter. Meanwhile, in a November 15 dispatch to the Registrar of the Guyana Nursing Council, which has been copied to Principal Tutor (acting) Cleopatra Barkoye of the Ministry of Public Health, Permanent Secretary, Trevor Thomas and Dr Norton, Attorney Anil Nandlall reminded the body that the nursing students are on a scholarship contract for three years, and that contract has expired on or about June 24, 2016. “Currently, the Government of Guyana is in breach of this arrangement. In the circumstances, these students are demanding that their examination papers be marked and the results disclosed. I am to convey to you that, at this point in time, they are unprepared to sit another set of examinations,” the letter stated. Nandlall, who is representing the interest of the students, called on the Public Health Minister and the Guyana Nursing Council to have the matter amicably resolved in order to avoid litigation. Attempts to contact the Ministers of Public Health for an update on the situation were unsuccessful.

Several students of the Georgetown School of Nursing sit at Durban Park following a meeting with Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings and other officials on Tuesday

4 years jail for ‘Mad Max’ …admits to possession of illegal gun, ammo By Clestine Juan RAWLE Franklin called ‘Mad Max’ was sentenced to four years imprisonment by City Magistrate Judy Latchman after he pleaded guilty to the illegal possession of a gun and ammunition. Franklin 29, of Prince William Street, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara was o n r e m a n d s i n c e O c t ober 2016, after pleading

not guilty to having a .40 Smith and Wesson Pistol with 14 matching rounds. The gun and ammunition were found during a police ‘stop and search’ exercise on October 22, 2016 in the East La Penitence, Georgetown area. His trial was almost completed when Franklin opted to change his plea to guilty. Magistrate Latchman re-read the charges to him and imposed a fine of

$60,000 along with four years’ imprisonment on each of the charges, which will run concurrently. According to reports on October 22, 2016 about 22:00h, ranks of a mobile patrol observed the men in a white Toyota Premio, in the La Penitence area, acting suspiciously, and decided to stop and search the vehicle and its occupants. During the search, police said a .40 Smith

and Wesson Pistol with 14 matching rounds were found in the possession of Franklin, who had several criminal charges, inclusive of robbery under arms, pending before the court. Franklin is currently before the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court for over 17 armed robbery charges and the attempted murder of Jomo Thompson, whom he allegedly shot on July 26, 2015 at a dance in Plaisance, East Coast Demerara.

Rawle Franklin called ‘Mad Max’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Attorney General dismisses criticism – says judiciary was ‘emasculated’ by of interference PPP/C Administration By Ariana Gordon

Dismissing criticisms that he has been interfering in matters of the Judiciary, Attorney General Basil Williams has made it clear that the dysfunctional judiciary was “emasculated” by the former People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Administration. Speaking at his first press conference for the year, the Attorney General said the criticisms made against him and the APNU+AFC Administration have no merit as it relates to the alleged interference in the Judiciary. He believes that the critics are confusing the concerns of letter-writers and others with that of the Attorney General and the Government. “For my part, I don’t have to do anything; the acting Chancellor himself established a precedent in the case of the acting Chief Justice Ian Chang last year,” he said, adding that it was Justice Singh who advised him that the former acting Chief Justice needed to proceed on pre-retirement leave and then demit office upon attaining age 65.

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Carl Singh

“The acting Chancellor Carl Singh gave me the particulars for Mr Chang… that is how we were able to determine [his pre-retirement] because of the advice given by the acting Chancellor Carl Singh… The acting Chancellor who is Chairman of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) supplied me with all that information, so it would be strange to me that having done that in the case of acting Chief Justice Chang, in his case that it would be different,” the Attorney General said.

He said by the establishment of the precedent, the Chancellor would have to proceed on pre-retirement leave and then on his birthday, which is February 23, he would have to demit office as was the case with the former Chief Justice. “There is no need for me to make any noise. I have seen the writers and I benefited from reading the papers, but I didn’t need to do that because Chancellor established that precedent,” said Senior Counsel Williams. Justice Singh is expected to proceed on pre-retirement leave at the end of this month. Additionally, Williams addressed the criticisms made by both former President now Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and former Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran about the independence of the Judiciary. UNFAIR “It is under the tenure of Mr Jagdeo that our judiciary was emasculated – our judiciary you’d recall, the powers were removed from the Chief Justice’s Office

Men found with AK 47 to be charged today

Captured: Lloyd Roberts

Captured: Teon Alleyne

Captured: Andre Pollydore

THE three men who were arrested Sunday night at a house in Campbellville with one AK-47 assault rifle and one 9mm handgun will be charged and placed before the court today, police said. They are expected to be charged with illegal possession of an AK 47 rifle and the unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition. They have been identified as Teon Alleyne, 30, a miner

of Long Creek, Soesdyke Linden Highway; Andre Pollydore, 29, a miner of Lamaha Place, Georgetown and Lloyd Roberts, 35, a miner of North Ruimveldt and 81, John Street, Campbellville. Police had placed the men on an identification parade to ensure that they are not wanted in connection with any other crimes. Swift action by ranks of the Guyana Police Force resulted in the

apprehension of the men in the John Street, Campbellville house where the lawmen found two illegal firearms and eighty rounds of ammunition. This newspaper was told that the owner of the house is a UK-based resident and the house was rented through a local real estate firm to what was believed to have been a couple for $150,000 a month.

and reposed in the Office of the Chancellor and then what they did, whenever there was a meeting of the Opposition Leader, Jagdeo always asserted Carl Singh to remain.” He said it is important

Former House Speaker Ralph Ramkarran

that there is a dichotomy between the Chief Justice’s Office and the Chancellor’s functions in terms of sharing the work of the judiciary ,“so that one person alone would not be in charge of the entire judiciary.” The lack of separation

between the two offices has affected the country significantly, the Attorney General stated, while noting that a situation was created whereby the Chancellor appointed those who should be magistrates, judges and those who sit on the Court of Appeal, an unhealthy situation occurred. “How could that be healthy?” questioned the Attorney General. “At the end of the day, it means he would be sitting on appeals of decisions of the people he actually handpicked to sit on cases; that couldn’t be well for the administration of justice,” the Senior Counsel added. Williams noted that there were several misgivings under the former President’s watch and reminded that the Constitution is premised on the separation of powers: the Judiciary, Executive and Legislature. “They all have independent roles and no one should tread on the work of the other. What he have under Jagdeo – we had a marauding of the judiciary, so the complaint is not that there

is interference with the judiciary, the judiciary under Jagdeo is interfering in the work of the executive and that is happening till now.” He called out former Speaker Ramkarran who at one time was a member of the PPP/C. “Where was Mr Ramkarran who was part and parcel of that?” he asked, as he pointed to the interference of the judiciary in the hiring of persons at the Deeds and Commercial Registry which has an independent board and pays itself. “The judiciary is over-reaching -- we will correct it. The judiciary cannot be concerned with the offering of legal services in Guyana; with transports, fees for transports, deed of gift, Power of Attorney, only the Executive could offer legal services and you see clearly how dysfunctional the judiciary was made under Jagdeo. “It has chronic backlog of cases; we inherited a dysfunctional judiciary, so I don’t know what Jagdeo is talking about… we are going to correct it,” he declared.

Suspected strippers fined, deported SIX women, believed to be strippers, who were taken into police custody after the raid on Rio Inn night club in Queenstown, Georgetown appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Wednesday. The women, who are from the Dominican Republic and Cuba, were charged with overstaying their permitted time in Guyana, forgery of an extension arrival stamp in their passports, along with illegal entry. The three women from the Dominican Republic have been identified as Visleini Ferrier, Carmen Carela and Branelly Montero; they were charged separately with conspiring with persons to forge an arrival stamp on their passport, purporting to show same was issued by the Guyana Immigration and Passport office between November 2016 and January 20, 2017. Carela and Montero were charged with overstaying in Guyana between November, 2016 and January 20, 2017. Ferrier was charged with entering Guyana by sea on November 12, 2016 at Springlands, Corentyne and failing to present herself to an immigration officer. The women pleaded

Cuban National, YaShely Boeza

Visleini Ferrier is from The Dominican Republic

guilty to all of the charges and were fined a total of $80,000 or serve 10 weeks imprisonment, after which they will be deported. Twenty–nine-year old Cuban national, YaShely Boeza confessed to the charge of passport forgery and overstaying her time in Guyana. Boeza admitted that between December 30, 2016 and January 20, 2017 at Georgetown she conspired with persons to forge an arrival stamp on her Cuban passport, purporting to show same was issued by the Guyana Immigration and Passport office. The woman further admitted that between December

30, 2016 and January 20, 2017 at Georgetown, while being permitted to stay in Guyana from November 29, 2016 and December 29, 2016, she overstayed in the country. She was fined a total of $80,000 or serve 10 weeks imprisonment after which she will be deported. According to reports, the women were arrested on January 20, 2017 when the police descended on the Rio Night Club. The ladies, who are suspected to be strippers at the club, were asked to present their passports when it was discovered that their arrival stamp in Guyana was forged.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

‘Build bridges, not walls’ – President Granger says CELAC on threshold of new era in global relations PRESIDENT David Granger on Wednesday noted that the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) stands at the threshold of what promises to be a new era in global relations, the emerging era of the South. At the same time, the President called on the regional integration bloc to satisfy the needs of all its members, if it is to become an authentic vehicle for regional integration in the 21st century. The Head of State made the pronouncement during his address to participants on Wednesday at the Fifth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the CELAC at Punta Cana in The Dominican Republic.

Noting that the body is a partnership, the President noted that CELAC is a partnership of small and large states of the Region and of importance, he said that it must operate as a “community of citizens”, one which “must protect and respect all of its citizens, whoever and wherever they are.” According to the President, CELAC brings together many different and diverse strands and historically, he said that the indigenous peoples of the Americas were joined by Europeans, Africans and Asians. “The New World is a polyglot sphere,” he said. The President noted that the regional body is a means and opportunity to break with

this past, one which must distance itself from the culture of the conquistadores. He said it must reject the ways of the sword and “condemn gunboat diplomacy.” According to President Granger, CELAC must represent the promise of the new world in a new age, noting that the body is not a mere collection of states, but also a community of citizens. “This is a community of citizens who have inalienable rights, including the right to statehood, the right to the protection of the law, the right to life and the right to liberty,” he said, noting that it is one in which there can be no such phenomenon as a ‘stateless’ person. He called on CELAC to defend the rights of all of its

citizens, adding that it must ensure the safety of the lives and the security of livelihoods of the citizens of this Region. He told heads of states that CELAC is an expression of the aspirations of the citizens of 33 countries of the Caribbean and Latin America, describing the body as a vehicle for deepening regional integration, multilateral cooperation and bi-regional relations. According to the President, CELAC is a forum for articulating common interests, shared principles and values and noted that it must go beyond the generation of declarations but rather, it must create mechanisms which will advance, in practical and tangible ways, the aims of the community it represents.

Consultations on Metrology Bill conclude By Rabindra Rooplall THE Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) will now move to finalise consultations on the Amended GNBS Act of 1997 and the Metrology Bill as stakeholder gathered Wednesday at the National Library for the final time to share their inputs. The gathering was addressed by GNBS Marketing and Communications Director Lloyd David, National Standards Council Chairperson Allison Butters-Grant, GNBS Executive Director Candelle Walcott Bostwick and Attorney Teni Housty. Bostwick said in a diverse, global and competitive environment, the bureau has recognised the need for Guyana to have a recognised national quality assurance structure which is harmonised with regional and international structures. “We need to benefit at the national level so that we can be competitive… the role of the national quality infrastructure is a country’s institutional framework that establishes and implements practices of standardisation, conformity assessment services, metrology and accreditations. It includes public and private institutions and a regulatory framework,” she said. Emphasising that all weight and measuring devices

At head-table, from left: National Standards Council Chairperson Allison Butters-Grant; GNBS Communications Director Lloyd David; GNBS Executive Director Candelle Walcott Bostwick and stakeholders at Wednesday’s consultation

should be verified twice per year, Bostwick said all sectors are being targeted to ensure that consumers fully benefit from services offered. “This bill had to be update because it will give the GNBS the authority to perform its civic duty,” she noted. According to Council Chair Butters-Grant, the approval of the Metrology Bill will strengthen the operations of the GNBS to facilitate the implementation of a recognised National Quality Infrastructure to facilitate trade and improve the quality of good and services on the local market. Participants at the consultation provide their comments and inputs and these are included in the draft bill as necessary. In addition, the general public and key stakeholders, including manufacturers, ser-

vice providers and regulators were encouraged to review the document and submit their comments to the GNBS. Attorney Housty explained that one of the main objectives of the newly-proposed legislation is to ensure that measuring devices such as scales, weights and measures used in trade are verified and accurate. This is necessary to give consumers confidence and satisfaction in the quantity of service they receive. He said parts of the new bill include and address the sale of goods, weighing and measuring for trade, administration as well as offences and penalties. GNBS Communications Director Lloyd David noted that the proposed bill was birthed in 2010 through funding under the Support for Competitiveness Programme (SCP) to develop a National Stan-

dardisation Strategy, which included the establishment of the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) in Guyana. One of the pillars of an effective NQI is metrology – the science of measurement. Hence, the revision of the 1981 Weights and Measures Act which the new bill will replace began with aim to address deficiencies in the Principal Act. In 2012, the GNBS along with a legal consultant extensively promoted the content of the draft bill in Guyana. Subsequently, the proposed Metrology Bill was also reviewed by the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) to ensure it is aligned with recently revised metrology legislations in the various CARICOM member states, and where necessary, adjustments were made.

President David Granger and El Salvadoran Foreign Minister Hugo Martinez in discussion during a break in the Fifth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC)

BUILD DOORS NOT WALLS “CELAC must build doors not walls; gates not fences; bridges not blockades,” he said. President Granger reminded the gathering and the CELAC members that Guyana, where the Caribbean community is headquartered, assumed the chairmanship of that regional body this year. He said the small states of the Caribbean have been engaged, for 44 years, in an enterprise to deepen, widen and strengthen their integration movement. According to the President, CARICOM looks to CELAC to complement this integrative process, especially in light of the varied economic, environmental and security threats which the Region faces. “CARICOM needs CELAC to help protect our countries from aggression and our citizens from abuse,” he said. The President said that the Political Declaration of Quito of January 2016 recognised the need to intensify efforts at building economic, social and environmental resilience. He said that the attainment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is premised on the simultaneous response to the varying interrelated challenges each country faces. Regarding climate change, the President said that the small states of CARICOM “are extremely vulnerable” to rising sea levels and extreme weather patterns caused by global warming. These pose a threat to coastal households

and livelihoods. He said tourism assets such as coral reefs, beaches and marine life, including vital fisheries stocks are threatened in that regard, adding that flood and droughts imperil coastal agriculture. COLLECTIVE ACTION “The Caribbean cannot overcome these challenges without cooperative action,” he added. Closer to home, President Granger said Guyana is committed to a low-carbon, low-emission course of development. He said that the country is on an irreversible course towards the establishment of a ‘green state’ which sees emphasis being placed on several areas. These include protection of the environment, including Guyana’s rich biodiversity, the provision of environmental, eco-educational and ecological services and well as the promulgation of practical measures to ensure climate adaptation. He also listed the production of energy from renewable sources and the promotion of social cohesion and the building of an inclusive economy. President Granger expressed Guyana’s deep gratitude to the Government and people of The Dominican Republic for their warm reception, gracious hospitality and efficient arrangements made for hosting the summit. He also expressed appreciation to President Danilo Medina for his leadership of the CELAC over the past year and also extended best wishes to incoming Pro-Tempore Chairman, President Salvador Sánchez Cerén of El Salvador.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Miner jailed for theft A MINER was sentenced to nine months imprisonment by Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan, on Wednesday after he confessed to breaking into a mining camp. Rawle Lewis, 39, admitted that on January 23, 2017 at Arinu Backdam, Cuyuni River he broke into the mining camp of Robson Fillo and stole a fuel pump, electric water pump and a digital amplifier totaling $360,000. The unrepresented Bartica resident begged the court for a second chance as he stood in the prisoner dock wiping tears from his eyes. The court heard that on

the day in question at about 06:30h, Fillo secured his mining camp and went away, however when he returned, he noticed the camp’s door wrenched open and the articles missing. He reported the matter to the police and an eyewitness recalled seeing Lewis around the mining camp acting in a suspicious manner. A radio massage was sent to the Itaballi Police Station for the man’s arrest, and during a stop and search at the Station checkpoint, Lewis was nabbed with the amplifier in his possession.

Gold miners accused of stealing dredge mats THREE employees of a gold mining company were granted $50,000 bail each by Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan, on a simple larceny charge. Terrence Richards, 37 of Karou Village, North Rupununi; Ryan Richards, 35 of Santa Mission and Jarred Stanly, 23 of Judge Creek, Pomeroon River, all pleaded not guilty to the joint charge. It is alleged that the trio, between January 20 and January 21, 2017, at Kumakuma Backdam, Mazaruni River, stole two dredge mats valued $150,000, property of Alfro Alphonso and Sons mining company.

According to the police Prosecutor, Neville Jeffers, on the day in question, the trio was working at the Kumakuma mining pit and stole the dredge mat. When the items were discovered missing, a report was made to the police and a search was carried out along the mining area and one of the mats was found in another mining pit. The Chief Magistrate released the men on $50,000 bail each after the prosecution made no objection to bail being granted. The matter was transferred to the Bartica Magistrate Court for February 9, 2017.

Mother, son robbed $2M in cash, gold …two in police custody A WOMAN and her son were robbed Tuesday night at Crane Village, West Coast Demerara of gold, cash and jewellery, totalling some $2M. According to a police report, 24-year-old Hanson Forde, who is an excavator operator and his mother Dawn Martin, 40 years, both of Crane Housing Scheme, were attacked around 20:20hrs. It was noted that the victims were in the bottom flat of their two-storey home conversing, when the suspects pounced on them through an eastern door which was left opened.

The police report noted that the act was carried out by four identifiable men, two of whom were armed with handguns. One of the armed men discharged two rounds towards the ceiling, after which they relieved them of the items and fled. The victims were relieved of several pieces of gold jewellery, two ounces of raw gold, two cellular phones and $60,000.00 cash, Guyana currency. Two suspects, both 19 years old, have been taken into custody and are assisting with the investigation. Two (2) .32 spent shells were retrieved at the scene.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

‘Anaconda’ fires attorney – results in adjournment of Bartica Massacre trial THE Bartica Massacre High Court trial has been adjourned to Thursday morning after one of the three accused Dennis Williams called “Anaconda” did not show up in court and discharged his Attorney, Saphier Hussain.

selves and those they associate with and should they be approached by anyone, it should be reported forthwith. The case has been adjourned for 09:00hrs on Thursday. On trial are Mark Royden Williams called “Smallie”, Dennis Williams called “Anaconda” and Roger Simon called “Goat Man”, each indicted for 12 counts for the murder of nine civilians and three policemen at Bartica on February 17, 2008. However, two of the five accused, Michael Caesar and Clebert Reece have since pleaded guilty to manslaughter separately and have been sentenced. Mark Royden Williams is being represented by Roger Yearwood, Dennis Williams’ Dennis Williams called “Anaconda” lawyer was Saphier Hussain and Roger Hussain told the court Simon’s attorney is Peter that his client asked that he Hugh. be excused from the trial on During the February 17, Wednesday and fired him 2008 rampage, 12 persons as his lawyer. This develop- were gunned down by a ment comes after an eventful group of heavily armed men, day on Tuesday in which who descended on Bartica at Dennis’ father Grantley Wil- nightfall. liams testified on behalf of Those who lost their lives the defence and gave con- were Bartica residents Edwin flicting dates as to when the Gilkes, Dexter Adrian and Bartica Massacre occurred. Irving Ferreira; policemen He told the court that stationed at the Bartica Pohis son was in the lockups lice Station, Lance Corporal on the night in question and Zaheer Zakir, Constables was also by his house drink- Shane Fredericks and Ron ing and conversing. Justice Osborne; Deonarine Singh of Roxane George SC, in re- Wakenaam; Ronald Gomes sponse, told the court that of Kuru Kururu; Ashraf Hussain will still have to Khan of Middlesex, Esseattend court but given what quibo; Abdool Yasseen and has transpired, as the trial Errol Thomas of Tuschen, judge, she will confer with East Bank Essequibo; and the Chief Justice Yonette Baldeo Singh of Montrose, Edwards-Cummings on the East Coast Demerara. matter. Rondell “Fineman” RawThe court heard that if lins, according to the police, the accused can retain anoth- led the gang on the rampage er lawyer for the duration of in Bartica, as well as the one the trial, it can be done; how- that converged on Lusignan ever if he cannot, the State on January 26, 2008. will assign an attorney, even Rawlins was killed Hussain, for the continuation during a Joint Services Opof the matter. eration on August 28, 2008. Meanwhile, a juror was With his death and the arill on Wednesday and was rest and prosecution of the absent from the trial, which five suspects, it appeared as is nearing an end. As such though the police had closed Justice Roxane George SC their investigation. admonished the members The State is being repof the jury to be careful at resented by Diana Kauleall times and watch them- sar and Stacy Goodings.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Over 100 Region 6 residents participate in cohesion workshop ONE hundred and seventy stakeholders from three East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six) communities participated in sensitisation sessions when Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton, on Sunday and Monday last, visited Orealla, Siparuta and Barakara, in order to advance his ministry’s mandate. In addition to the sensitisation sessions, the Minister also sought to address some needs within the communities. The meetings were facilitated by Director of the Region Six Regional Health Services Department, Mr. Jevaughn Stephen, whose Department hosted a medical outreach and blood donation exercise in the three communities. According to a release from the Ministry of the Presidency, Minister Norton told residents that while social cohesion is enshrined in the Guyana Constitution, the only way to truly foster solidarity is by erasing inequalities so that all sections of the population can benefit from available services. “We cannot talk about equality; about one people, if we have some enjoying more than others; if some are getting more benefits than others. It is only right that everybody be given an equal opportunity that we have an even or level playing field as much as we could. For that reason, you find that because things were not as [they were] supposed to be sometimes we

munity had allowed a factory to become defunct, when it was once known for its production of guava cheese. He expressed similar sentiments at Barakara, a farming and logging community located along the Canje River, which had stopped cultivating its lands. While residents from all the villages expressed concerns about a number of social and other problems that have plagued them, Barakara residents said that they had been marginalised under the previous administration and were pleased with the interventions that the current ad-

Dr. Norton presents a cricket pad to Mr. Andrew Henry of the Falcon Sports Club at Orealla

have to give more to certain sectors of our community so that we can play catch-up, so that we can reach the same level,” he said. Dr. Norton also pointed out that social cohesion acknowledges and celebrates individual identities and cultural differences, even as it promotes co-operation. In this vein, he urged the youth across all the communities to focus on their education to ensure productive futures. “One of the surest ways of creating a society where persons have equal opportunities is becoming educated… I want to implore… the parents and elderly brothers and sisters to insist that we take seriously our education. [President David Granger] has said that he … [has adapt-

ed] a principle where they should be no drop-outs. Everybody should be able to go to school and... not because they are compelled to do so, but because they see the value of going to school. We, as a Government are prepared to do all we could to… make certain that you attend school,” he said. The Minister urged residents to engage in meaningful extra-curricular activities, such as sport, which could accrue long-term benefits and possibly allow them the opportunity to obtain scholarships. At Barakara, he said that he was pleased that the youths had taken the initiative to start developing a section of land for community recreation, as these steps bode well for productive

New Chinese Ambassador meets Prime Minister PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo has received HE Cui Jianchun, the new Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Cooperative republic of Guyana, during a courtesy visit. The Ambassador was accompanied by Deputy Chief of Mission, Yang Chenqi, and Third Secretary, Guo Huaiguang, when he visited the Office of the Prime Minister at the Ministry of the Presidency, a release noted. Prime Minister Nagamootoo welcomed Ambassador Jianchun, who last served as Chinese Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, and assured him of Guyana’s firm commit-

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, (left) and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Cui Jianchun

ment to stronger friendly ties with China and respect for ancestral and cultural bonds. Ambassador Jianchun conveyed greet-

ings to Prime Minister Nagamootoo from HE Li Keqiang, the Premier of the People’s Republic of China.

engagement and for reducing the incidence of anti-social behaviours. ENTERPRISE AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Dr. Norton also expounded on the importance of enterprise and entrepreneurship in creating employment and augmenting village economies. He commended the youths at Orealla, who have pooled their skills and talents to maintain the village’s roads and are paid by the Government, and he called on others to emulate their example. At the same time, the Minister said that he was disappointed that the com-

ministration has made since their assumption to office in 2015. Minister Norton encouraged the residents to co-operate with each other, to support their village councils and to provide continued guidance to the youth. Meanwhile, Ms. Natasha Singh-Lewis, Technical Officer, Ministry of Social Cohesion, said that the Ministry plans to continue its Diversity Education and Inclusion workshops this year, with the view of providing awareness about behaviours that contribute to building cohesive societies.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

– with MIPA presidential grant

The two toilets at the Holy Name Primary School being used by 118 pupils and teachers

new sanitary block at Holy Name Primary, since the entire school population is forced to rely on just two toilets.

There is also an inadequate water supply for the two schools, since the only source of water is from the rains.

Regional officials and community leaders at the meeting in Rivers View

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Clock ticking for young Lindeners – they want to build, but can’t get land

L I N D E N r e s i d e n t s , e s p e c i a l l y t h e for my family,” he said. “But, how can younger generation, are at a loss as to you do that when yuh hearing no land is why it is so difficult for them to get land available? Why don’t they transfer all the when the National Industrial and Com- lands that NICIL own over to the Minismercial Investments Limited (NICIL) is try?” the custodian of hundreds of acres. Another young person, who, because The issue was reportedly raised last he’s employed at a government agency, year with Minister requested anonymwithin the Ministry ity, but he’s just of Communities, as frustrated as the Ms Valerie Patterothers. son, who has port“My opinion,” folio responsibility he said, “is that for such matters, too much bureauand her response cracy is involved; was that as far as and these things are she knew, there announced premaare no lands availturely, without any able in Linden for proper consultation low-income earndone, and so the ers. people’s expectaTheir dreams tions are raised and of ever owning a then months going home temporarily on to years pass, shattered, Lindenand nothing hapers are now won- Minister within the Ministry of Communities, pens. Ms Valerie Patterson dering what are “This angers the their chances, given people; this angers the government’s recent announcement me, because I need a land. These are the of plans to commence a comprehensive reasons people squat,” he said, alluding housing drive this year. the public consultation held by Minister One such person is 26-year-old Yanick Patterson last year March in Linden, when Copeland; and he told this newspaper that she announced that the Ministry of Comhe is sickened; that he’s tired of being munities is in the process of having lands given the royal runaround by the regional transferred to it from NICIL. housing authorities. “What is also upsetting,” the young “All yuh hearing when yuh go up there man said, “is that both the Minister and is that dem ain’t get land, dem ain’t get CEO of NICIL are Lindeners; therefore land... Is not like people ain’t get de mon- they need to put some pepper in their steps ey fuh pay fuh land, but how yuh paying for the people of Linden.” and they don’t have land to give you,” Copeland said, adding: NOT MUCH DONE “What hurting the most is that up Chief Executive Officer of NICIL, Mr Watooka and all these places, they have Horace James, when contacted, told the nuff, nuff land, but what they doing with Guyana Chronicle that the process has the land. commenced, but not much has been done. “Yuh hearing is NICIL land and they “It hasn’t gone anywhere as yet in terms transferring the land, but like the transfer of identifying specific lands; just a general gon take years.” description of lands was given. The process is in the very early stages,” he said. SIMILAR RESERVATIONS Minister Patterson, however, revealed Stephon Holder, 24, just got married, that instructions were given by the govand he has similar reservations. ernment to have the transfer completed by “I am a married man, and I would like December 31, 2016. to have a land so that I can build a home “I cannot say what exactly is the position, because it was supposed to be handed over from NICIL to Lands and Survey,” she said. R e g i o n a l Chairman, Renis Morian had a different take on the matter. “I think the time has come now for these lands that are owned by NICIL to be transferred to Lands and Survey and the Ministry of Housing; NICIL don’t own lands, and I support the call of residents in Region 10, because NICIL’s Mr Horace James we have hundreds

of young people; young people coming to my office looking for land. The lands

are there, hence we need these lands to be transferred,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Rockstone couple on a mission – to provide entire community with electricity A MARRIED couple of the small fishing community of Rockstone is on a mission to bring electrification to the entire community of approximately 200 residents, if only they could get past the stumbling blocks in their way. The Jonases, who own property in Rockstone, set out on their mission about three years ago to bring electrification to the community after realising that many of the families living there could not afford to purchase the diesel needed to run their generators. They also took into account that there were those who, because they could not afford the luxury of buying a generator and the daily expense associated with running one, opted to live a simple life; one without electricity. Of course, there are those fortunate enough to be able to afford solar-generated electricity, but this, too, has its own challenges, especially during the rainy seasons. CHANCE MEETING Ortex Jonas and her husband are miners, and while discussing their daily financial struggles one day with a contractor at Tumatumari, in Region 8 (Potaro-Siparuni), he told them of the hydropower system in the area and how it benefits the entire community. Right away the couple seized upon the idea as being a good project to invest in, not only for themselves, but for the benefit of the entire Rockstone. As such, having made up the minds, they teamed up with the same contractor, Conrad Niles, who revealed that the Paramakoushi Creek, a tributary of the Essequibo River which runs through Rockstone, can be used as the generating source. They next shared the idea with the residents of Rockstone who pledged their full support. By now excited, the Jonases began doing their research with the aid of the contractor and other experts in the field of hydro-electrity to ascertain the feasibility of investing in such a venture. Things started out smoothly, they claim, but then they began to get stiff opposition from the last administration which allegedly

on the coastland. “I’m depending on this administration to help us, because we try it during the PPP and didn’t get through,” Ortex Jonas said. CAN’T WAIT One resident told the Guyana Chronicle that he is eagerly awaiting the commencement of the project, as it will indeed bring the residents of Rockstone some measure of relief. “Yes! I think it is a very good venture, and I’m hoping that they get to do it! And I know they will get the support of the community; we are prepared to pay a monthly electricity fee to these people to provide us with electricity, because they done put their money into it, and we can’t get it for free,” he said. Another resident, one Shirley, posited: “We are all backing them, because not everybody get solar; and it will bring development to our community. The school, health post and other places will get light, and it will brighten up the place.”

Machines lying idle in the Jonases’ storeroom

gave them the royal runaround. “The PPP had we on a lot of push around,” Ortex Jonas said. “They send us letter saying we can’t put it in the creek, because we gon nasty the water and affect people and all kinds of thing.” Undaunted by the many challenges, however, the couple decided to house the machines and equipment they’d bought where they live, as they felt there was still a chance that the project could fly, and they could help their community. A PRETTY PENNY The entire process, they say, cost them a pretty penny; close to $8M. But the back-andforth and uncertainty was proving too much for their contractor friend, who began to show signs of strain. “One time yuh get he; another time yuh can’t get he. Then he just disappear,” Mr. Jonas said. Since then, the paraphernalia have been lying idle in the couple’s storeroom; all they can do is look at them and hope that

one day their dream will eventually come true. Meanwhile, they continue to spend huge sums of money on diesel, while they watch on helplessly as their fellow villagers, who are not so well off as they, struggle to make ends meet. Still optimistic, the Jonases have now turned to the regional authorities as well as the government for help, seeing that there’s a new administration in place, with having the project up and running, especially since it is the president’s mandate to provide equal service to hinterland communities as that which is available

The Jonases standing beside the water wheel that was constructed to provide Rockstone with electricity

Gospel group, YADAH, releases debut single THE young and energetic gospel group, YADAH has recently released their debut single, and already it is rocking the airwaves in the mining town of Linden. The song titled, “Your Will” was written by popular local gospel artiste Samuel Mendes, whose lyrics were beautifully vocalised by YADAH’s four members, Jévanah Chester, Judea Chester, Melissa Vandeyar and the lone male, Ronnel Gonsalves. The song is an expression of what YADAH really means, “First level of praise”. “The song is about being contended with where we are as Christians,” group member Ronnel Gonsalves explained. “We want to be more than just singers: We want to be worshippers for the Kingdom; we want to be confirmed to the will of God, and through Him do ministry to the world.” As young Christians, the quartet, despite facing the temptations of the world daily, gain strength from each other to live a clean and uplifting spiritual life, and express this through music. “We seek to just do what it is God called us

to do as youths,” Ronnel said, “and that is not only using our voices, but worshipping; being able to speak into people’s hearts through songs. “We’re a very enthusiastic, humbled, and fun-filled bunch of young people.”

cover of the Christmas Carol, ‘Little Drummer Boy’. They have also hosted several concerts in Linden, and made appearances at several gospel events countrywide. The team also did a ten-day tour of Mexico, where ELATED BUT HUMBLE they performed several gospel And though this accomplishment songs. of theirs, of releasing their first origIn the next five years, the inal single, is being celebrated, yet group hopes to win souls, the group remains humble as there is touch hearts and mend broken still much to achieve in developing spirits with their music. They the local gospel industry and putting also hope to make it big on not only Linden but Guyana on the the international gospel scene, international gospel arena. doing collaborations with “We’re still in the building prointernational gospel artistes. cess of getting ourselves known out “We want to be able to YADAH gospel group. From left are Jévanah Chester, Ronnel there in the gospel arena,” Ronnel do the assigned task that Gonsalves, Melissa Vandeyer and Judea Chester said, adding: God placed on us, and with “And now that we have our first Him, we are dear sure that soon we will have our first album done.” single out, we first have to give thanks to God for Last December, the group teamed up with we will accomplish it,” the group said in making it happen, and hopefully by God’s grace, Antiguan Gospel singer, Mahli Benjamin to do a unison.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Don’t need a degree to be successful – says Linden beauty, Tatum Grenville TATUM Grenville is one of the few young women, who, at the age of 23, already has her own business: A hair and nail salon. Despite being beautiful, Tatum does not subscribe to the theory that beauty is all a woman needs to survive. As a matter of fact, she does not subscribe to the theory that an education is the only key to success either, but rather that following your dreams can do it equally, providing one with an even bigger key to unlock material success and financial security. Not that this young woman is not an advocate of academic achievement; she did that successfully in the six years she spent at Linden’s premier secondary school, Mackenzie High. Having done well in the sciences at both the Caribbean Secondary Education Council (CSEC) and its advanced level (CAPE), Tatum had always wanted to be a surgeon but because of certain constraints, she’s had to put her aspirations on hold. “After I wrote CAPE, my intention was to attend the University of Guyana but things

“And, honestly, I didn’t mind, since it’s something I enjoyed doing in my spare time. A while after I got my certificate, I was employed at Sharmane’s Golden Touch Salon for over a year, where I got the opportunity to improve my skill and even learn a new one: Doing hair! “Eventually, I said to myself, ‘I want to work for myself.’ And I did.” With the help of her mom, Tatum was able to establish, a few weeks back, her very own hair and nail salon, “Ebony’s Creative Hands Beauty Salon”, where she also sells other items. “My mom was the one who came up with the name, and gave me a start; I’m so grateful for her,” Tatum said. BIGGER DREAMS Being able to achieve this dream has allowed for bigger dreams to evolve in Tatum’s mind, as her future should be much greater. “Five years from now,” she said, “I see myself owning a much bigger salon and spa; that is a dream right now. “I want people to be able to come and get their makeup and massages done there also.”

‘Be creative! Add your own touch and style to what you’re doing; don’t try to imitate anyone! And, be the best you that you can be!’ --Tatum Grenville didn’t go according to plan,” she revealed. NOT AN OPTION But that was not the end of the world for Tatum; and settling for any old office job was not an option either, so she at stayed home for two years, contemplating her next big move. And that’s where her mother came in, as, realising that her forte was in being creative, she decided to enroll her in a nail technician’s course. And today, she has no regrets. Said Tatum: “You see, while I attended the Mackenzie High School, when I had nothing to do at home I used to do my own nails. I had the acrylic powder, and liquid and everything that was needed to get them done. I think that’s what made my mother push to get me to do the nail technology course.

And despite the many challenges, Tatum is proud of herself for what she has accomplished, but continues to be humble as the road to success has just started. She’d like to encourage other young women who may have similar dreams. “I advise you to not give up. If this is what you have a passion for, stick with it, and make it work for you! “Be creative! Add your own touch and style to what you’re doing; don’t try to imitate anyone! And, be the best you that you can be! “It’s okay to grasp ideas and so on, but be sure to put your own spin on it; have a signature, so that when people come into contact with your work, they’ll know for sure that it’s you!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Ruthless Nadal reaches Australian Open semi-finals RAFAEL Nadal reached his first Grand Slam tennis semi-final since 2014 with a superb 6-4, 7-6(9-7), 6-4 victory yesterday over Canada’s third seed Milos Raonic. The 14-time Grand Slam winner, who has been troubled by injuries in recent years, saved six set points in the second set before dominating the third. Nadal, the 2009 champion, faces 15th seed Grigor Dimitrov tomorrow after the Bulgarian beat David Goffin. The Spaniard, 30, remains on course to meet Roger Federer in Sunday’s final. Federer, 35, will play his fellow Swiss Stan Wawrinka in the first semi-final today. Nadal is attempting to become the first man in the Open era - and only the third man in history after Roy Emerson and Rod Laver - to win each of the four Grand

Slam titles twice. The ninth seed’s victory means six of the eight players in the men’s and women’s semi-finals are over 30. Nadal lost here in the first round to Fernando Verdasco 12 months ago and admitted to wondering if he may never again challenge for major honours. “I think I am not a very arrogant person so I always have doubts,” he said. “Even when I was winning I had doubts and even more so when I had injuries. But doubts make you work hard-

er.

“I have had a great career but I had some tough moments so that makes me enjoy moments like this even more.” NADAL CLOSE TO HIS BEST Nadal last reached a Grand Slam semi-final when he won the French Open his last major title - three years ago. A wrist injury in 2016 raised serious concerns about his future but he looked close to his very best against Raonic. He broke the big-serving Canadian once in the first set to take the lead but Raon-

Rafael Nadal is trying to win the Australian Open for a second time.

ic, who was the highest seed left in the men’s draw, looked like he would level the match in the second. Raonic needed a medical timeout midway the set for an abductor problem, but seemed to come back stronger and had three set points on Nadal’s serve at 5-4. Nadal saved them all then saved two more in the tie-break before Raonic double-faulted on the sixth set point, and the former world number one took the set with his first chance. Nadal took advantage of Raonic’s lack of mobility in the third set to wrap up an impressive victory, his 50th since making his debut in the tournament in 2004, with a hold to love. His win came after two hours 44 minutes on court and he celebrated with a huge leap before falling to his knees as emotion took over. (BBC Sport)

Dickwella stars as Sri Lanka seal T20 series AB de Villiers scored a brilliant half-century on his South Africa comeback, but Niroshan Dickwella and Seekkuge Prasanna made their highest Twenty20 international scores to seal a five-wicket win and 2-1 series victory for Sri Lanka. The imperious de Villiers had not featured for the Proteas since last June after undergoing shoulder surgery and made up for lost time by top-scoring with 63 from only 44 balls in a total of 169-5 at Newlands yesterday. Imran Tahir claimed outstanding figures of 3-18 in Sri Lanka’s reply, but opener Dickwella (68 off 51) and all-rounder Prasanna (37

Player-of-the-match Niroshan Dickwella brought up his maiden T20I fifty.

not out from 16) starred as the tourists got home with one ball to spare to complete the fightback after losing the first game of the series. de Villiers made a century on his return for Northerns last weekend and hit the ground running back on the international stage, treating an expectant crowd to some ingenious strokes in a stand of 71 with Reeza Hendricks (41 from 34). Mangaliso Mosehle blasted a quick-fire unbeaten 32 to leave Sri Lanka, led by Dinesh Chandimal after Angelo Mathews returned home, with a victory target of 170. The outstanding Dickwella came up with some inven-

tive shots to keep the tourists on course and three dropped catches in as many balls from a Wayne Parnell over gave them a helping hand. Sri Lanka were 118-4 when the superb Tahir took two wickets for as many runs in the 16th over to make South Africa favourites, but Prasanna hit three sixes in as many balls and Asela Gunaratne struck the winning runs off the final over from debutant Dane Paterson. Lungi Ngidi was only able to bowl two overs for the Proteas after suffering what appeared to be a side injury just three days before the one-day international series gets under way.

Sixers beat Brisbane Heat in super over to reach BBL final SYDNEY Sixers beat Brisbane Heat in a super over to reach Saturday’s Big Bash League (BBL) final, where they will play Perth Scorchers. Moises Henriques

hit 18 runs as the Sixers scored 22 in their extra over, while the Heat made 15 in reply. Brendon McCullum had earlier scored 46 as the Heat compiled 167-9.

The Sixers looked well set after Henriques’ 64, but Ben Dwarshuis had to score two runs off the final ball to tie the game at the Gabba. Henriques then hit

two sixes and a four in the super over. The Sixers will play the Scorchers, who are two-time champions, in the final at the WACA in Perth. (BBC Sport)

Bolt and Jamaica team stripped of 2008 relay gold By Karolos Grohmann

ing retesting programme.

(REUTERS) - Jamaica’s Usain Bolt has lost one of his nine Olympic gold medals and his perfect triple treble of Games’ sprint victories, after team mate Nesta Carter was found guilty of doping at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Carter was found to have taken the prohibited substance methylhexaneamine, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said yesterday, meaning Jamaica’s 4x100 metres relay team must give back their gold medals. Bolt is considered one of the greatest sprinters of all-time, having won an unprecedented treble of consecutive gold medals in the 100m, 200m and 4x100 relay in three straight Olympics. Bolt was sleeping after a training session and unavailable to comment yesterday, but in June, when sources familiar with the case told Reuters that Carter had failed a doping test, he was philosophical about the prospect of losing a gold medal. “It’s heartbreaking (the positive test) because over the years you’ve worked hard to accumulate gold medals and work hard to be a champion ... but it’s just one of those things,” Bolt said. “Things happen in life, so when it’s confirmed or whatever, if I need to give back my gold medal I’d have to give it back, it’s not a problem for me.” Trinidad and Tobago are set to be promoted to gold in the Beijing 4x100, in which Jamaica set a then world record, with Japan moving up to silver and fourth-placed Brazil earning bronze. A reallocation of medals is subject to any further results from the IOC anti-dop-

POSITIVE TEST First-leg specialist Carter has been a vital member of Jamaica’s dominant squad, helping the Caribbean island win gold medals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics and the 2011, 2013 and 2015 world championships. Carter returned a positive result in re-tests of samples from the Beijing Olympics for the prohibited stimulant methylhexaneamine, the IOC said. Asafa Powell, who has himself served a six-month doping ban, and Michael Frater completed the Jamaica sprint team at the 2008 race. Nesta was unavailable to comment on yesterday’s IOC announcement, while Powell and Frater declined to comment. “The Jamaican team is disqualified from the men’s 4x100m relay event. The corresponding medals, medallist pins and diplomas are withdrawn and shall be returned,” the IOC said. “The (international athletics’ federation) IAAF is requested to modify the results of the above-mentioned event accordingly and to consider any further action within its own competence.” Methylhexanamine has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code prohibited list since 2004 although it was reclassified on the 2011 list as a “specified substance”. The IOC programme of revisiting samples uses developments in testing techniques to find traces of drugs that were undetectable in 2008 or at the London 2012 Games. More than 100 athletes have so far tested positive in re-tests from the Beijing and the London Olympics.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Serena leads semi-final charge of thirtysomethings By Nick Mulvenney | MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Only three women can now prevent Serena Williams from clinching a 23rd grand slam title on Saturday her sister Venus, a younger compatriot and a 34-yearold Croatian she last played nearly two decades ago. The quartet take to Rod Laver Arena today with Serena playing Mirjana Lucic-Baroni and Venus facing Coco Vandeweghe at the business end of an Australian Open where upsets have been a daily occurrence. The seedings have not proved much of a guide in the women’s draw this year, with world number two Serena the sole survivor of the top 12 at the start the tournament. T h e head-tohead will

we are, which I think is a really remarkable story.” As six-time Melbourne Park champion, Serena will be clear favourite, of course, more so because she has reached her 34th grand slam semi-final without losing a set. Lucic-Baroni’s path to the last four has been more of a battle, as befits a woman who has overcome huge adversity to get back to the top of the game after years in the wilderness. While Serena missed the back end last season with a shoulder problem, Lucic-Baroni has more immediate concerns about an injury to her left leg. “I’m going to be just fine,” said t h e w o r l d number 79. “I’m going to recover, do some therapy,

slam for the first time here by blowing opponents off the court with her booming serve and big winners. Venus might be hoping that the occasion gets the better of the world number 35 but promised nevertheless that the power tennis would not be coming from just one side of the net. Power is her game, her strength. She’s putting the ball in with it, it’s awesome to see really,” Venus said. “(But) I play a power game as well. I’ve been fortunate enough to play good defence and have

Serena and Venus Williams

not provide much help either when assessing Serena’s matchup against Lucic-Baroni, given their last meeting came in 1998 at Wimbledon when they were both 16. “It was on Centre Court. That’s all I remember. I remember winning. I was so excited because I was so young. She obviously was super young, too. That’s all,” Serena said yesterday after beating Johanna Konta in the quarter-finals. “We have totally different games now, the both of us. We both have gone through a lot. We both have survived, and here

and I’ll be fine. I’ll just put some extra tapes on and hopefully it will hold me together. I’ll fight hard. I’ll be okay.” The first semi-final is an all-American affair pitching Venus, the oldest woman in the draw, against 25-year-old surprise package Vandeweghe. Venus does not have an Australian Open crown in her collection of seven grand slam titles and has reached the final just once, losing to Serena in 2003. Vandeweghe has got to the last four of a grand

good movement around the court. Hopefully this will be a plus for me.” Vandeweghe was seven years old when Venus first played at the Australian Open and said it is remarkable to think she was about to face a player she once asked for an autograph. “It’s a dream to play someone you grew up watching,” she said. “To play an unbelievable player, future Hall of Famer, Venus, to be on the court with her but to do it at this stage of a grand slam is kind of crazy.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Farfan and Mendes renews sponsorship with RHTYSC U-15 team

THE long-standing and productive cricket relationship shared by the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC) and Farfan and Mendes Limited (F&M) was extended for another year last Friday when the Georgetown-based company renewed its sponsorship of the club’s Under-15 team. Twenty-one years ago, the company accepted the club’s offer to sponsor the team and over the years the RHT/Farfan & Mendes Under-15 team developed into one of the leading teams within the age group in Berbice, winning several championships while producing numerous national and Berbice players. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster noted that Farfan and Mendes Ltd is currently the longest-serving official sponsor of the club and over the last twentyone years has played a major role in the development of the club.

He praised the business entity for its continued investment in the club and the role it has played in the development of numerous young cricketers. Over the years, the RHTYSC Farfan and Mendes Under-15 team have won the Berbice championship five times and have produced a total of 17 Under-15 national players and 43 Inter-county players for Berbice, with players of the calibre of Assad Fudadin, Abdel Fudadin, Delbert Hicks, Royston Crandon, Shevon Marks, Abdel Fudadin, Shawn Perreira, Shemaine Campbelle, Plaffina Millington, Dominic Rikhi, Naresh Mahadeo, Parmanand Narine, Murphy La Rose, Arif, Junior Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson and Sylus Tyndall benefiting from the sponsorship. Campbelle, Crandon and Fudadin have since gone on to represent the West Indies at different levels over the years.

They are currently the defending Berbice champions. Farfan and Mendes Limited Marketing Executive, Onai Vasconcellos, in brief remarks, stated that his company was pleased to be associated with the RHTY&SC, as it has successfully represented the Farfan and Mendes brand with pride, passion and discipline. Meanwhile, Lucas Arthur has been appointed captain of the team for the 2017 season while Jonathan Rampersaud will serve as his deputy. As part of the club’s plan to expose younger members to leadership duties, Simon Naidu will serve as manager while veteran member Delbert Hicks is the coach. The sponsorship for 2017 is worth $240 000 and will provide for balls for game and practise sessions, transportation, snacks and cricket gear.

Australia’s Mennie suffers fractured skull during training (REUTERS) - Pace bowler Joe Mennie has suffered a fractured skull and some bleeding in his brain after being hit on the head by a ball during training but he does not require surgery, Cricket Australia (CA) said yesterday. The 28-year-old was struck by a ball hit by Sydney Sixers team mate Michael Lumb in the nets on Monday ahead of their Big Bash semi-final against Brisbane, which took place later yesterday. “After being struck on the head by a ball at training on Monday, Joe was transported to a hospital in Brisbane where he underwent a series of check-ups before being discharged later that evening,” CA’s Chief Medical Officer John Orchard said in a statement. “Joe was reviewed by a Cricket Australia doctor on Tuesday and had some scans performed that revealed a small fracture and associated minor brain bleed.

“Whilst this is a serious injury, Joe is feeling well. We believe that this is a stable injury and will not require surgery.” Mennie, who made his

Tameka Hiles of Farfan and Mendes hands over the sponsorship to Mark Papannah. Looking on are club members Sohan Harry and Simon Naidu.

GRFU trials set for this weekend FOLLOWING two XV simulation games over the last two weekends at the National Park, Guyana’s Green Machine will switch their focus back to the Sevens game with trials this weekend. According to correspondence from the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), they will host Saturday’s session

gether the team earlier, bring all the players who have to come in early so we can have that togetherness. We are basically doing fitness. Mr Barrington Brown is taking them through mostly strength and conditioning.” Grant-Stuart is also of the view that the squad requires more robust players.

“What I’ve encountered in December in Trinidad and Tobago … we realised that our game has to be more robust, more physical, going into Hong Kong because it’s a higher level of competition,” he commented. The Cathay Pacific/ HSBC Hong Kong Sevens series will take place from April 7 to 9. (Stephan Sookram)

Test debut for Australia against South Africa last November, remained in hospital under the care of a neurosurgeon for observation, Orchard added.

Rugby will return to the National Park this weekend for the Sevens trials. (Delano Williams photo)

Joe Mennie (right) made his Test debut in November. CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday January 26, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Reginald ‘Tip’ Foster-287 (ENG vs AUST, Sydney, 1903/04) (2) Desmond Haynes-148 (WI vs AUST, ARG, 1978) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who is the first player to hit a century on his Test match debut? (2) Who is the first player to score a century on his ODI debut? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

from 15:30hrs. Rondel MacArthur, Avery Corbin, Rockford Cummings, Sean Phillips, Ryan Gonsalves, Peabo Hamilton, Godfrey Broomes, Claudius Butts, Patrick King, Dwayne Schroeder and Elwin Chase are among some of the names called. Also called to trials are: Jamal Angus, Osei McKenzie, Lancelot Adonis, O’Neil Charles, Ryan Dey, Troyton Braithwaite, Kevon David, Akeem Fraser, Akieno James, Daniel DeAbreu, Kevin Wills, Lloyd Anderson, Rashad Butcher, Glenroy Poole, Quacy Kendall, Kesto Mars and Michael Barrow. In an invited comment recently, head coach Kenneth Grant-Stuart had called for an earlier squad selection in order to build cohesiveness in the unit heading to Hong Kong. “It is for the union to put to-

South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:40 hrs Rain Shadow 08:50 hrs Wild Brier 09:25 hrs Revelation 10:00 hrs Vulcan 10:40 hrs Analyse This Irish Racing Tips Gowan Park 08:50 hrs Bon Papa 09:20 hrs Ardera Cross 09:50 hrs Clondaw Warrior 10:25 hrs Wood Breizh 11:00 hrs Monty’s Meadow 11:35 hrs Great Field English Racing Tips Warwick 08:55 hrs Hestina 09:25 hrs Rosie Mc Queen 10:00 hrs Yanmare 10:35 hrs Court Frontier 11:10 hrs Dolatulo 11:45 King Of Realms 12:20 hrs Talkischeap Southwell 09:05 hrs Miss Macchiato 09:35 hrs Fiery Spice 10:10 hrs Berlios 10:45 hrs Dream Team 11:20 hrs Moondust

11:55 hrs Zoravan Wolverhampton 13:50 hrs Doce Mountain 14:25 hrs Boychick 15:00 hrs Charismatic Man 115:30 hrs Captain Swift 16:00 hrs Night Poetry 16:30 hrs Sir Jamie 17:00 hrs Fire Diamond Arab Emirates Racing Tips Meydan 10:30 hrs Handassa 11:05 hrs Prize Noney 11:40 hrs Master Of The World 12:15 hrs Megnaas 12:50 hrs Muffri’ha 13:25 hrs Heavy Metal 14:00 hrs Final Venture American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Frozen Angel Race 2 Formal Summation Race 3 Read the Dreams Race 4 Catcher in the Sky Race 5 Zeppole Race 6 Renwick Race 7 Lead Us To The Bar Race 8 Indulgent Race 9 Enduring Warrior

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 26, 2017

Volcanoes survive scare before beating … Guyanese Yadram and Paul impress Windies Under-19s by 21 runs NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) – Windward Islands Volcanoes survived a scare before posting a 21-run victory over West Indies Under-19s in their opening game of the Regional Super50 here yesterday. Sent in at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Volcanoes were dismissed for 221 off 46.2 overs, with Sunil Ambris top-scoring with 54 and captain Liam Sebastien getting 31. Guyana’s seamer Keemo Paul was outstanding, finishing with four for 31 while left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop picked up two for 34. In reply, the Windies Under-19s were struggling on 34 for three before recovering through Guyana’s Bhaskar Yadram’s 52, while Kirstan Kallicharan struck 25

Bhaskar Yadram hits 52 off 80 balls with seven fours.

and Keemo Paul, 22. But seamer Mervin Matthew tore through the innings to finish with four for 38 while left-arm seamer Delorn Johnson supported with two for 33. Entering the contest as heavy favourites, Volcanoes failed to get a grip of the game and struggled from the

outset, sliding to 55 for four. However, two partnerships then bolstered the innings with Ambris at the centre of both. The 23-year-old right-hander faced 84 balls and counted three fours and a six, adding 70 for the fifth wicket with Sebastien and a further 41 for the seventh wicket with Kyle Mayers whose 28 came from 38 balls. However, once Ambris perished, Volcanoes lost their last four wickets for 54 runs. In reply, the Under-19s were in early trouble when they lost openers Shian Brathwaite (2) and Emmanuel Stewart (3) along with Alick Athanaze (1), cheaply. But Yadram struck seven fours in an 80-ball knock, posting 45 for the fourth wicket with Shamar Springer who made 13, to revive the

innings. Man-of-the-Match Matthew made key strikes, however, reducing the innings to 161 for eight before Joshua Bishop carved out a breezy unbeaten 22 off 24 balls, in a 36-run, ninth-wicket stand with TeShawn Alleyne (11), to rattle Volcanoes near the end.

Seamer Keemo Paul returns outstanding figures of four for 30

SCOREBOARD

Volcanoes innings J. Charles c wkp. Stewart b McCoy 12 D. Smith c wkp. Stewart b Springer 8 T. Theophile c Athanaze b Paul 10 A. Fletcher c McCoy b Paul 4 S. Ambris c Springer b Bishop 54 L. Sebastien c wkp. Stewart b Yadram 31 D. Sammy c Yadram b Bishop 1 K. Mayers b Paul 28 S. Shillingford not out 19 D. Johnson c McCoy b Alleyne 26 M. Matthew c wkp. Stewart b Paul 0 Extras: (lb-6, b-22) 28 Total: (all out, 46.2 overs) 221 Fall of wickets: 1-29, 2-30, 3-45, 4-55, 5-55, 6-126, 7-167, 8-189, 9-221. Bowling: McCoy 5-0-36-1 (w-5), Springer 5-1-17-1 (w-7), Paul 8.2-1-31-4 (w-3), Alleyne 9-0-52-1 (w-2), Bishop 10-0-34-2, Yadram 7-0-31-1 (w-1), Patrick 2-0-14-0.

W.I. UNDER-19s innings S. Brathwaite c Sammy b Johnson 2 E. Stewart c wkp. Fletcher b Matthew 3 B. Yadram lbw b Shillingford 52 A. Athanaze c wkp. Fletcher b Mayers 1 S. Springer c wkp. Fletcher b Sebastien 13 K. Kallicharan c wkp. Fletcher b Johnson 25 K. Paul c wkp. Fletcher b Matthew 22 M. Patrick c Hodge b Matthew 15 J. Bishop not out 22 T. Alleyne b Matthew 11 O. McCoy not out 2 Extras: (b-8, nb-3, w-21) 32 Total: (9 wkts, 50 overs) 200 Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-22, 3-34, 4-79, 5-89, 6-129, 7-147, 8-161, 9-197. Bowling: Sammy 5-0-21-0 (w-2), Johnson 10-0-33-2 (w-6), Mayers 7-1-28-1 (w-2), Matthew 10-2-384 (w-6), Shillingford 10-1-34-1 (w-1, nb-1), Sebastien 8-0-38-1. Points: Volcanoes 4, Under-19s 0.

Marian Academy Schools Relay Fair

Registration period extended to tomorrow By Stephan Sookram

SCHOOLS in Georgetown and the outlying regions have until tomorrow to register for this weekend’s Marian Academy Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Schools’ Relay Fair. The project, which is the brainchild of students using it as their Physical Education (PE) assessment during the 2017 examinations, will take place on Saturday at the Guyana Police Force ground, Eve Leary. According to PE teacher Keith Smith, 16 schools have already confirmed their participation for the event, but those interested can still contact him at 675-5566 or 650 -2928. “This is where we invite as many secondary schools as possible and it’s a relay championship. It’s not an ordinary championship,” he said, adding, “for children to pull off such a project for CSEC, it’s powerful.” The project’s Competi-

tions Director Jahleel Young told Chronicle Sport that initially, the plan was to have a volleyball tournament but after consultations the relay fair was decided on. “This term we are really pulling a lot of the work; we were really behind but we’ve caught up to where we want to be,” He added. Competition manager Sheniah Grant spoke of early issues but commented on how the group progressed, dubbing them ‘peas in a pod’. “We didn’t get along at first but in order to get the work done we needed to hold one head and get all our priorities, brief everyone on what needs to be done in order to get where we want to go in terms of grades and CSEC projects,” added Grant. Alyssa Persaud, the project’s competition secretary spoke of the logistics of the event, with assurance, “We’ve done multiple letters to the AAG judges, the Red Cross and all of them who are going to help in the success of the competition

and we’ve also organised all the equipment that we needed to get.” “What we are going to do on the day itself is try to get it broadcast on TV so people can see that a school is pulling off this event. We are also going to be livestreaming the event as it’s happening,” Leah Lachmansingh, the project’s Sport Journalist explained. There will be three age classes of action; the U-14 which will feature 4x100m males and females as well as a 1500m boys medley and a 800m girls; while the U-16 and U-18 classes will have 4x100m and 4x400m for both boys and girls. Trophies will be given to the top three overall schools as well as medals for individual race winners. The event is sponsored by Digicel, Fly Jamaica, Sterling Products, Banks DIH, Da Silva’s, BEV processors, Mr Gabriel Lall, the Hardware Depot and the Maharaj family. Admission for the 09:0017:00hrs event is $100.

The Marian Academy Physical Education Class of 2017 Relay Fair Committee from left: competition manager Sheniah Grant; Leah Lachmansingh, the project’s sport journalist; Alyssa Persaud, the project’s competition secretary; competitions director Jahleel Young and PE teacher Keith Smith (Stephan Sookram photo)

THE 2017 cycling season will pedal off on Saturday at the inner circuit of the National Park with the 24th edition of the Ricks & Sari Agro Industries Limited-sponsored 11-race

meet from 09:00hrs. Organised by national cycling coach Hassan Mohamed, the event, as is customary, will have the BMX age group races, including the 6-9, 9-12, 12-14 Boys

and Girls and Open. After that the Junior/ Juvenile, Mountain Bike and Veteran categories will show off their skills, before the final race of the day - the 35-lap School-

boys and Invitational. Last year’s main event was won by Team Evolution’s Michael Anthony in one hour 18 minutes 38.90 seconds (01h: 18m: 38.90s).

Cycling season pedals off at the National Park on Saturday Other winners last year were: Ronaldo Narine, Junior Niles, Andrew Spencer, Monty Parris, Romello Crawford, Seon Budhan, John Niles, Simon Chee and Adealie Hodge.

R e p re s e n t a t i v e s o f Ricks and Sari Agro Industries will be on hand to witness the races and assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion.

Volcanoes survive scare ... See Pa

ge 27

Bolt and Jamaica team stripped of 2008 relay gold See story on Page 24

(L-R) Nesta Carter, Michael Frater, Usain Bolt and Asafa Powell celebrate Jamaica’s 4x100m relay victory in 2008. (GettyImages)

2017 Limacol Round-Robin Knock-Out Football

Western play N.A. United, Santos battle Ann’s Grove FOOTBALL action continues tonight in the 2017 Limacol Round Robin Knock-Out tournament at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, Bourda, with a double-header. Fans are hoping for a winner when the first match gets going from 18:30hrs when Georgetown side Western Tigers take on the ancient county’s New Am-

sterdam United in an all-out brawl. In the second game, the ever-improving Santos will challenge Ann’s Grove just over an hour and a half later. In the opening round of matches on Monday, Police drew with Mahaica Determinators 2-2 while Riddim Squad had to settle for a 1-1 draw with Camptown.

After tonight’s matches, the event will move to the Leonora Stadium where Uitvlugt will play Eagles United and Pouderoyen will oppose Den Amstel. The following day the event will move to the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) ground in Linden with Milerock battling Northern Rangers and Winners Connection facing off with

Grove Hi-Tech in Group A. The final matches of round one on January 29 will pit Uitvlugt against Eagles United in Group B and Pouderoyen against Den Amstel in Group C at a venue to be announced. The winners of the tournament will take home $500 000 and a trophy while the second-, third- and fourthplaced teams will receive $250 000, $125 000 and $75 000 respectively. Additionally, the winners of each group will receive $100 000 while the respective finishers will pocket $50 000, $30 000 and $20 000. (Stephan Sookram)

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Part of the action last Monday night when Police drew with Mahaica Determinators 2-2 at the GFC ground. (Delano Williams photo) THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017