Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 26 11 2016

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Shomari Wiltshire has Olympics in sight

More jobs No. 104747

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

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–– Exxon to expand workforce, already pumped US$100M into economy

Reopen aluminum plant Page

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–– Granger urges at bauxite Centennial Arch unveiling

Lindeners converge under the Centennial Arch, which was constructed by Bosai Minerals Group (Guyana) Limited in celebration of the 100 years of bauxite mining in Linden. (Adrian Narine photo)

Bandits empty Chinatown’s cash register

A plea Dataram’s for Wales trial stalled Page

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… unions urge Gov’t to rethink Wales estate closure

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

More jobs –– Exxon to expand workforce, already pumped US$100M into economy

By Svetlana Marshall JEFF Simons, the Country Manager of ExxonMobil’s local subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, has said that Guyanese are already reaping the benefits of the developing oil industry.

In a presentation during the Guyana Manufacturing and

Services Association (GSMA) Awards and Dinner, Simons ruled out the prospects of constructing a refinery here, explaining that though there is a high potential of producing 100,000 barrels of crude per day within the Stabroek Bloc, it is not economically viable to build a refinery.

He noted that after a period of four to eight years has

elapsed, the amount of barrels will reduce. “…you need more oil, you need a really big refinery to be competitive; and right now that doesn’t look like an attractive (venture),” Simons said.

Nevertheless, all hope has not been lost. In a detailed presentation, the country representative said though Shell backed out of the partnership with ExxonMobil during the

earlier stages of the project, the discovery of the Liza well in the Stabroek Block was not only surprising, but is very attractive.

ExxonMobil is now working in collaboration with Nexen Energy and Hess Corporation on the Liz well.

Simons said that efollowing the discovery, the company sought to have several seismic surveys done in the process of

collecting seawater samples, geotechnical data and subsurface information. Simons pointed out that it was only in June 2016 that the second well was drilled.

“The second well has given us the confidence to be able to say ‘now we can do forward with the Liza Phase Development’,” Simons said, while further pointing out that the Liza well has the equivalent of a billion barrels of oil, meaning an accumulation of gas and oil.

As it gears up for production, Simons explained, a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) unit will be constructed for production of the 100,000 barrels per day.

Within the next two months, the company is hoping to submit its investment plan to the Government of Guyana, before a final investment decision is made by mid-2017.

“What we hope is that within the six months of 2017, that mid-2017, we are all on the same page and the approvals are in place, so that we can begin cutting steel and doing the fabrication for the FPSO,” he explained. Production is anticipated to be in full swing by 2020.

However, in clearing up a perceived misconception, Simons told those present at the GMSA Awards and Dinner that Guyanese have already been benefiting from the developing sector.

He said there is a common “misconception that we don’t want to have local content, and

we want to bring people; but that is definitely what we don’t want to do”.

It was pointed out that ExxonMobil operates in 50 countries, and in all of these countries the operations are dominated by locals. “The same thing will happen here as well,” the country representative assured.

To date, he said, the company has pumped US$700M into the project, with US$100M spent locally. In the 3rd quarterly report submitted to the Government, he said, it was indicated that 670 persons were working on the project here, 325 of whom were Guyanese.

Additionally, it was pointed out that the company would have received invoices from 115 Guyanese suppliers, who have been supplying fuel, food, accommodation, security, waste management, medical and aviation services.

“The local content is going to expand,” he further assured.

In submitting its development plan, Simons said, the company would also submit a local content plan to indicate how Guyanese will benefit.

“We need to work with our contractors and Government to develop the training apprenticeships and curriculum in the local institutions that will support the skills and talents that we need,” he said.

Earlier this month, ExxonMobil officially gave Government notice of its find of commercial quantities of oil here. The notification is required by Section 31 of the Petroleum Act.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

We’ll be ready for 4th round –– AG assures Guyana AML/CFT regime stronger

ATTORNEY General Basil Williams has rubbished claims by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo that Guyana is not yet out of the woods in regard to its anti-money laundering compliance.

Deeming the former president paranoid, the AG says it was the Bharrat Jagdeo government that had plunged this country into a “black hole”, and he assured that this country would not wait until the last minute to put its house in order for the fourth round of assessment, due in 2022.

JAGDEO’S TAKE Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, Jagdeo had said: “If we lull ourselves into a sense of false security, then we are going to repeat a lot of the mistakes made by the Attorney General, and we are going to put major sectors of our economy in jeopardy, particularly the economic sector. I (saw) the AG statement to Parliament; it is not a report on progress… it is an admission that what was said to the country -that we are free and clear -- that it is not so.”

Saying there is still a lot of work to be done, Jagdeo said: “We may very well find that we are not compliant with applying this Act.” The Opposition Leader

also told the news conference that while Guyana has, in fact, concluded its thirdround of evaluation, it was now subject to a fourth round of evaluation, which would entail more rigorous compliance measures, including the actual prosecution of money-laundering offences.

“What will happen is (that), under this review, they will be required to go after actual cases,” Jagdeo said. He added that the fourth round of evaluations relates to technical compliance, and not simply adhering to recommendations made; and that would be difficult to attain. “We may very well find that we are not compliant in applying this (AML/CFT) Act when we are again evaluated. We still have a lot of work to do,” he opined.

AG RESPONDS But responding on Friday, the AG said Jagdeo is again misleading the nation. He said what the APNU+AFC government had inherited was a country that was “tied up…and we were able to free this country in one year. They had us bogged down since 2010.”

Williams said the concerns now being expressed

by Jagdeo were addressed when he (Williams) came back from the Caribbean Action Task Force meeting

recently. “It’s nothing new!

I said it when I returned: that we have to prosecute people; so I don’t know what Mr. Jagdeo is trying to say.”

Williams argued that the PPP does not want to acknowledge the successes of this government, “so they are clouding this issue.

We have been freed up… instead of saying congratulations they are trying to hide it.”

PREVIOUSLY STATED At a press conference on October 26, Williams had told reporters that Guyana must now produce more convictions to show sufficient progress on effectiveness.

“Guyana cannot be complacent as the fourth round Mutual Evaluation beckons.

The test there is whether Guyana would have shown “sufficient progress on effectiveness; for example, having more convictions for offences of money laundering, terrorist financing and the purloining of state assets,” the AG had said.

Asked how equipped the government was to go after persons suspected of money laundering based on the new development, Williams said the first money laundering Act was passed in 2000, but no one was ever investigated or charged.

“Between 2000 and the

time we took office, no one was ever prosecuted for any money-laundering offence in Guyana. It is only when we took office (that) people were not just investigated, but they were also charged and taken to court.”

Williams said a lot of those cases have not resulted in convictions, and in some situations, money as well as gold bars were returned.

However, he explained that this will not be sufficient in the fourth round. “In the fourth round, we will have to show effectiveness and that we are making FATF report.”

To back up his case, Williams released copies of the two letters written to him by both CFATF and FATF. Juan Manuel Vega-Serrano, President of the FATF, in a letter dated October 28, 2016, wrote Williams informing him of the discussion at the FATF meeting on 16-21 October 2016 in Paris, France in regard to Guyana’s anti-money and combating the financing of the terrorism (AML/CFT) regime. Vega-Serrano also thanked Williams for his attendance at the meeting, “where you reiterated your government’s commitment to continue implementing AML/CFT reforms.”

The FATF President told the AG that the organisation discussed the result of the onsite visit that was undertaken

by FATF representatives of the International Cooperation Review Group (ICRG) to Guyana on 15 and 16 September 2016.

“The FATF welcomed the significant actions by Guyana to address the strategic deficiencies in its AML/CFT regime, including the adequately criminalising money laundering and terrorist financing; establishing and implementing adequately criminialsing procedures for the confiscation of assets related to money laundering; establishing and implementing an adequate legal framework for identifying, tracing, and freezing terrorist assets; establishing a fully operational and effectively functioning financial intelligence unit; establishing effective measures for customer due diligence and enhancing financial transparency; strengthening suspicious transaction reporting requirements; and implementing an adequate supervisory framework,” Vega-Serrano told the AG in his letter.

He said it was on the basis of the on-site visit report that the FATF decided it would no longer monitor Guyana under the ICRG process. “The FATF recommended that Guyana continue working with CFATF to further improve its AML/ CFT system and strengthen compliance with internation-

al standards.”

For their part, CFATF indicated that the November 2016 Plenary in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Island, recognised that the jurisdiction has made significant progress in addressing the deficiencies identified during the Third round of Mutual Evaluation conducted by the CFATF, and has exited the following up process.

The organisation stated that Guyana has addressed the deficiencies identified in the mutual Evaluation Report adopted by the CFATF Council of Ministers on 25 July 2011, and has exited the follow-up process of the third round of Mutual Evaluations of CFATF. The CFATF said Guyana enacted several pieces of key legislation, comprising statutes and regulation in 2015. These legislative measures significantly improved the level of compliance in the Ninth Follow-Up, in which Guyana had addressed all issues in the sixteen key and core Recommendations originally rated PC/NA, and a significant number of other similarly rated recommendations in the Tenth follow-Up Report. By then Guyana was recommended to apply to exit the follow-up prosecco once it had exited the FATF ICRG process.

Bandits empty Chinatown’s cash register

The Chinatown Store located at Number Two Village, East Canje, Berbice

ARMED bandits stormed the China Town store located at Number Two Village, East Canje, Berbice and assaulted a Chinese national before carting off the day’s sales.

The robbery took place at 20:35hrs Thursday night, while the entire East Berbice was experiencing a power outage. The Guyana Chronicle understands that three masked men entered the store, powered by a generator at the time, and demanded cash.

Zhou Chunmin along with his aunt Lan Hong Zhou, and four customers

were in the store at the time of the robbery. The bandits entered through an eastern door and at the time Zhou Chunmin was in the cashier booth.

One bandit pointed a gun at him and demanded cash. Chunmin handed over all the cash (the day’s sales) which was stored in a drawer. He was also relieved of other valuables.

The two other bandits picked up a quantity of phone cards which were on a table, and dealt Lan Hong Zhou a lash to her face before escaping through an eastern door unto Bristol Street, No. 2

Village, East Canje, Berbice.

Lan Hong Zhou was taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where she was treated and sent away. No arrests were made but investigations continue.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Final CoI report into aircraft found at Yupukari handed over

Saturday November 26th, 14:30 - 3:00 hrs Sunday November 27th, 14:30 - 3:30 hrs Monday November 28th, 14:30 - 4:00 hrs

THE final report into the illegal aircraft found near Yupukari, Upper Essequibo- Upper Takutu, Region Nine, was on Friday handed over to Minister of State Joseph Harmon by Brigadier (Ret’d) Edward Collins.

The CoI commenced in early October and the report was originally slated to be handed over on November 16, but an extension was granted on the instruction of President David Granger, following a request by Brigadier Collins.

Collins said the decision to host public meetings in several villages such as Katoka, Kaicumbay, Yupukari and other villages, along with the Regional Chairman and Regional Executive Officer of Region Nine, proved to be a worthwhile exercise, since it allowed for greater insight into the facts discovered during the probe. Brigadier Collins noted as well that through that process a number of eyewitnesses have stepped forward.

“There has been additional evidence, which have caused us to firm up our findings into the circumstances under which this aircraft came into Guyana illegally. I wish to thank the

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Toshaos, the senior councils, and the village leaders in nearby villages for their cooperation. Since they got involved, there have been more revelations [and] more

who may have knowledge of the aircraft.

Brigadier Collins also said, “One thing that came out of the inquiry that we did not recongnise earlier

Brigadier (Ret’d) Edward Collins, Commissioner of the Commission of Inquiry, hands over the report pertaining to the discovery of an aircraft near the village of Yupukari, Upper Essequibo-Upper Takutu to Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon residents came forward voluntarily. They did their own investigations,” Brigadier Collins said.

Upon further investigations, members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) were led to an abandoned camp at Yupukari, which is believed to be connected to persons,

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was the involvement of a woman, and this [revelation] was because of the voluntary evidence presented by the residents.”

He disclosed that a recommendation was made for the establishment of a Village Intelligence Committee, whereby Toshaos and

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other village leaders could pass on information on any suspicious activity to a relevant authority. However, the Brigadier added that the maintenance of public trust would be critical to ensuring that villagers are forthcoming with such information.

Meanwhile, Minister Harmon said that the report will provide valuable insight into the security framework, particularly in the hinterland regions. “This report will form the basis of a careful analysis of our security architecture and will advise as to what forms of security action we need to take to ensure that our territorial integrity is preserved and that the security of our citizens in those hinterland areas are properly taken care of,” he said.

On September 13, 2016 a plane, bearing registration number N767Z, was first brought to the attention of officials by residents of the area. A joint army and police team, inclusive of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), was dispatched to the location to conduct investigations launched into the sighting of the aircraft. The CoI was appointed on September 28, 2016.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Dataram’s trial stalled –– magistrate apologises for not being ready for commencement

COMMENCEMENT of the trial against convicted drug lord Barry Dataram and his reputed wife Anjanie Boodnarine in relation to a quantity of ammunition found at their home in 2015 was on Friday stalled by City Magistrate Judy Latchman.

Magistrate Latchman apologized for not being ready to commence the trial, and adjourned same until December 13. At that hearing, Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor Konyo Sandiford-Thompson was ready to proceed with the trial, and had two witnesses present.

Dataram, of 13 Vriesland, West Bank Demerara, and his 20-yearold reputed wife Anjanie Boodnarine, of 79 Patentia Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara, are jointly

Convicted drug lord Barry Dataram charged with having 180.23 rounds of ammunition in their possession at Diamond, East Bank Demerara on April 16, 2015, without either of them being the holder of a firearm licence.

The couple was charged on October 18 for forgery; wilfully attempting to defeat the administration of the law, and departing Guyana without present-

ing themselves to an immigration officer. These charges were laid against them three days after they were recaptured in Suriname, having fled Guyana, abandoning a drug trafficking trial.

Boodnarine had pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Dataram was jailed for two years, having pleaded guilty to the three charges, which run concurrently. He has been fined $164,268,000 and a 60 months’ jail sentence was imposed on him after Magistrate Judy Latchman found him guilty in absentia for trafficking over 100 kilograms of cocaine.

Dataram was charged with his reputed wife and their friends Trevor Gouveia and Komal Charran, for having 129.23kg of cocaine in their possession on April 16, 2015 for the purpose of trafficking.

Linden family in shock over teen’s suicide RELATIVES of the late 1 9 - y e a r- o l d M a u r i c e Summer, of Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden, who on Thursday was found hanging in his holding cell at the Mackenzie Police Station are still in shock as the teen had showed no signs of wanting to commit such as act.

His mother, who had not seen her son since he was six years old, flew into the country on the same day he died to give him support at his first court appearance that was slated for Thursday. Summer’s cousin, Ashanta Assanah, told this publication on Friday, that the situation had made his mother extremely sick, knowing that after 13 years, she would be meeting a dead son.

Ashanta revealed that the family was in complete shock at what had occurred.

Summer was very excited to see his mom and knew he would have been attending court on Thursday.

“That is the million dollar

question right now as to why he would do something like that, because he knew his mother was coming in the country,” she questioned.

She revealed that he

Maurice Summer was in custody since Monday following an altercation with his uncle whom he had chopped and who had to be hospitalised. She said that they were informed by the Commander of the Division that Summer had to remain

in custody until his court date, given the severity of the assault. His original court date which was Wednesday was suspended, as his uncle was not yet discharged from the hospital. According to Assanah, Summer was visited at the station but relatives were unable to have physical contact with him.

According to a police report, the teen was found hanging in his cell at the Mackenzie Police Station.

Summer was found during a routine visit by ranks, hanging from one of the cell’s grill bars with the jersey he was wearing. He was rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex and was pronounced dead on arrival. The body is presently at the hospital’s mortuary awaiting a post-mortem.

Summer had lived with his father and sold produce from a small farm on which he planted a few cash crops. He leaves to mourn seven siblings.

However, the charges were dismissed against Boodnarine, Gouveia and Charran after Magistrate Latchman ruled that there was insufficient evidence to convict them.

Dataram, a Guyana-born American, had successfully fought off efforts to extradite him to the United States of America to face drug smuggling charges. Dataram fled Guy-

ana to neighbouring Suriname before the trial ended. Dataram, 38, who gave his occupation as a farmer, had no legal representation.

On September 20, 2016, Dataram and his reputed wife departed Guyana for Suriname via the back-track route at Springlands. They used fake passports. The couple was arrested by Surinamese authorities and later hand-

ed over to police in Guyana. Investigations were launched, and it was discovered that there were no records of Dataram leaving Guyana at the Passport Office He forged the passport by inserting a photograph of himself on the bio-data page with the name David Persaud, while Anjanie Boodnarine used the name Christine Persaud.

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

THE palm trees being put down by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) on the East Bank are most welcome. These trees are not only pleasing to the eye, but would aid in improving the country’s aesthetics and play a role in preserving the eco-system.

It is hoped that this project is not a one-off exercise, and would see expansion to other areas and in different forms around the country. An idea that sparks positive action can lead to making significant changes for the better. Guyana is blessed with much greenery, and when we move to ensure our streets are tree lined as in the days of yore, such is not only pleasing to the eyes, but brings with it characteristics of the forest to the towns, villages and city.

Georgetown earning its name as the Garden City in large part had to do with its landscaping and greenery, which were major components of the city’s planning and development. And whereas it would be good to see City Hall restore these elements in town planning, outside of the MPI attending to the areas, it is responsible for a partnership which can be forged with the City and town councils.

Government: central, regional and local, can also examine the feasibility of forging transparent public/private partnerships in similar beautification projects. For instance, the technical expertise of environmentalists, landscapers, gardeners, and so forth can be tapped, along with credible private businesses, in conceptualising, developing, and implementing plans.

Some areas that need attention as a matter priority are the Timehri road, the medians on the East Bank and East Coast of Demerara, the Linden/Soesdyke highway, and the seawalls. The Timehri road takes us to and from our major airport, the Cheddi Jagan International. It forms the first and last impression of our country. It is not unfair to say its parapets are far from pleasing, and some areas are littered with garbage and have been the home of derelict vehicles and old parts. The parapets can do with a deserving facelift. This is also another means of improving our physical environment.

The nation can also find other productive ways of disposing with old tyres outside of burning and dumping.

These tyres can be used to enhance our landscaping by putting them around plants and, where possible, repainting them. While having the opportunity of enjoying nature and beauty, tree planting also helps to preserve the soil, minimise erosion, and assists in survival of man and plant, of which the former relies on the oxygen given off by the latter, and the latter the carbon dioxide emitted by the former.

The landscaping venture can lead to a whole new highway/road planting initiative, and open new supporting opportunities. Our citizens can get involved in the beautification on a mass scale, creating new avenues for employment and economic opportunities. Skills can be developed in landscaping; knowing which grasses, plants or flowers are better for which area; how to maintain them; how and what should be planted based on location and height; ensuring they do not hinder safe use of the road; and so forth.

Persons can also produce and supply what is needed. All of these, while they can create direct and indirect income, make direct contribution in improving our ecosystem.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 26, 2016

Help and Shelter urges action against violence against women Dear Editor, THE 16 days of activism against gender-based violence is a good time for us to assess the status of women as it relates to violence against women and girls, and generally. This month marks 18 months of a new APNU + AFC political administration, whose manifesto promises and actions as they relate to women have, by and large, not been delivered.

This is the first of several letters that we hope you will publish to mark the 16 days of activism.

No gender policy has resulted in spite of the hosting of a national women’s conference at great expense and further consultations with women’s groups, NGOs and in the regions. A year ago, Help & Shelter and Red Thread submitted written recommendations for Guyana’s gender policy to the Ministry of Social Protection’s Gender Unit. On enquiring about the status of the policy, we were told that the Gender Unit was awaiting a gender specialist, and was still consulting in the regions.

Recommendations were also made repeatedly to the Minister of Social Protection

by Help & Shelter that, in the interim, the National Domestic Violence Policy should be re-activated and implemented, as it is as relevant today as it was in 2008, when it was first introduced after countrywide consultations and the setting up of the multi-sectoral oversight committee for monitoring policy implementation.

During the past 18 months, domestic violence has continued to escalate, and femicide (killing of women by intimate partners) has continued to claim the life of at least one woman a month, making Guyana one of the countries with the highest per capita rates for women being murdered as a result of domestic violence, and leaving scores of vulnerable children not only motherless but fatherless, as many of the killers either committed suicide or are imprisoned.

This cannot be the good life promised for the countless victims and survivors of gender-based violence, including orphaned and at risk children.

It seems that the failure of government to deliver a national response to the problem of domestic violence, lumping it within the category of interpersonal violence and failing to deliver a coherent and in-

formed national gender policy, bodes no good for the advancement of women and girls and gender equality in Guyana.

It is inexplicable why the Ministry of Social Protection has also failed to convene the Sexual Offences Task Force, to which an entire section of the Sexual Offences Act is devoted. This failure occurs in the face of sexual offences continuing unabated in homes, communities, schools and workplaces, and affecting girls and women more than any other category of persons. As with domestic violence, there has been no coherent plan, policy or programme by the APNU+AFC government to address these heinous crimes.

This is even more perplexing when UNICEF’s recent situational analysis report states that ‘boys and girls in Guyana are exposed to elevated levels of sexual, psychological and physical abuse at home and in their communities, and that exposure to gender-based violence in the home ‘contributes to the aggravated situation of violence against children’.

Sexual abuse was identified in UNICEF’s situational analysis report as the second most frequent form of abuse perpetrated on children in Guyana.

The 2016 US State Department report on Guyana indicates that out of the 233 reports of rape received in 2015, only 36 persons were actually charged.

These numbers reflect either poor or no investigation by police, survivors opting, or being coerced, to drop charges - a frequent occurrence for child victims but one that is now a sexual offence, with penalties of 5 years and a fine of $1 million - or the slow working of the courts and the lack of adequate number of judges.

The UNICEF report identifies impunity as a major bottleneck in the system, with victims and witnesses afraid of reporting abuses. We note the recent establishment of a Sexual & Domestic Violence Unit in the Ministry of Social Protection, and sincerely hope that this would result in long overdue action being taken to address the deficiencies mentioned above.

Regards, DANUTA RADZIK MARGARET KERTZIOUS KEVIN MASSIAH GAITRIE SHIVSANKAR JOSEPHINE WHITEHEAD For Help & Shelter

FITUG rejects any proposal to sell Skeldon sugar factory Dear Editor,

THE Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) hereby endorses and supports the concerns and sentiments contained in a press release recently issued by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), a major affiliate of the FITUG grouping.

The release expressed our affiliate’s strong and unambiguous condemnation, bordering on outrage, regarding intimation to dispose by sale of the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc’s (GuySuCo) major asset, the Skeldon factory, and other related properties.

FITUG notes the potential dire effects on the employees’ lives of this unnecessary plan to sell an important national asset. Any sale of the Skeldon facility at this time would certainly impact negatively on the entire industry, and can only

aggravate the country’s economic plight. The factory and the estate’s extensive and rich land holdings have the potential to contribute to GuySuCo’s recovery, and indeed the nation’s economy.

FITUG sees much sense in the case made by GAWU for the retention, refurbishment, and sustained technical maintenance of the Skeldon flagship estate. Recent praise about the factory’s excellent sustained improved production performance coming from GuySuCo’s Chairman and the Agriculture Minister need to be emphasized.

Additionally, the Corporation’s last (2015) Annual Report also spoke to the factory’s excellent performance, and importantly, the constructive recommendations from the Government-appointed Commission of Inquiry must not be swept under the carpet, as they present a sound case for the retention of Skeldon with all its potential, includ-

ing its Co-Generation plant.

Further, FITUG wishes to raise concerns that are related to transparency in the proposed Government-Corporation ‘sale’ scheme. Firstly, as experienced when the Wales Estate closure was mooted early this year, there has been no consultation with the workers or their union.

Credible information revealed that at the level of GuySuCo’s Board of Directors the matter was not discussed, and the relevant decision(s) seem to be limited to a select few, at least up to this time. We are mindful of the fact that the industry, wholly or its many components, belong to the nation, and neither the administration of GuySuCo nor the Government should forget this.

FITUG considers it important to expose that no agency or auditor -- except Wartsila, which examined only the power generation aspect of the factory -- has

been identified in the new and sudden critique of Skeldon, made simultaneously when not-so-far-fetched rumours about a chosen buyer has been identified, though no bidding has been announced. FITUG urges the Government to tread warily, re-think hasty decisions, and consult every stakeholder, including the unions and the political opposition, on this ‘sale of Skeldon’, which we firmly believe will be disastrous.

FITUG recognises the anxieties gripping the workers and their families; it is felt in their communities. Once again, we see a high-handed callous treatment of workers and their Unions. This is a direction that is not leading to a hopeful future.

Regards, KENNETH JOSEPH General Secretary FITUG

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 26, 2016

Afro community has

a right to form

any association that would protect and

advance its interest

Dear Editor, AT T E N T I O N i s b e i n g paid to Roshan Khan’s objection in the media to some members of the African community launching a business chamber on the pretext that the existence of such is not in keeping with the government’s thrust regarding social cohesion.

Let me say from the outset that an element in social cohesion is respect for the fundamental freedoms and rights of the individual.

These are adumbrated in international declarations, conventions and charters.

The Guyana Constitution has enshrined some of these. Serious objection is taken to any individual or group who wants to deny another individual or group the right to freedom of association and economic self-determination.

The African community has a right to form any association that would protect and advance its interest, in this instance its economic interest. Such interest does not preclude them, having benefited from an association, from competing in the marketplace for their advancement.

The history of this country shows that Africans came together and pooled their physical, intellectual and economic resources to purchase plantations which they converted to villages; ran a village economy; sold their skills, talents and produce in the marketplace; and established a local government system to manage their day-to-day affairs. To now say to Africans that

forming an association, from which history shows aided their advancement, is being anti-social cohesion.

Social cohesion is also about economic mobility. When everyone has an equal chance at economic upliftment, it creates less conflict in society and contributes to welding the nation. It is very offending that every time Africans seek to do something progressive or stand up for their inalienable rights and freedoms, some seek to undermine such efforts and stance. Social cohesion will not happen when forces are allowed to mouth words and put in place actions to deny others what they are rightly entitled to.

By quoting Bharrat Jagdeo, whose record as president showed a penchant for marginalising the African community, to support his argument that an African business chamber is bad for the business community, Mr. Khan has placed his intent in further doubt.

Social cohesion is commitment to the principles of equality and justice, from which peace and harmony in society can be realised. If Khan is committed to these principles, then it would be expected that he would add his voice in demanding that these be respected.

A point that should not escape the society from Khan’s letter is the absence of knowledge on social cohesion, even among t h o s e w h o a re t a k i n g prominent role in advancing the programme.

Regards, LINCOLN LEWIS

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A plea for Wales … unions urge Gov’t to rethink Wales estate closure

THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), and the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) have called on Government to rethink its decision to close the Wales sugar estate.

“Our Unions, the workers and many Guyanese, among others, have strongly decried this decision, imposed in January this year (2016) by the APNU/AFC Government without consultation with us and the workers, who will be gravely affected,” the unions said in a joint statement.

They added: “It is widely felt, with justification, that the closure would have disastrous effects on the workers and their families; cane

farmers; the communities of the West Bank of Demerara, and naturally, the economy of the country.”

The unions say it is indeed regrettable that the Government and the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) are not listening to the anxious cries of many of our citizens and rescind the “infamous decision.”

“To compound the callousness of the decision-makers, it must be noted that they have not even bothered to pursue any known study to ascertain the likely impact (of the decision), and to consider alleviation measures, although some ten months have elapsed…” the unions decry.

The unions have said that, so far, just about 90 workers, in last September, got their redundancy pay-

ments after an unnecessary delay. “The remaining workers, at this time, are apprehensive about their fate. As the closure time draws closer, the workers have no intimation when the Corporation’s hierarchy (would) approve their redundancy payments.

It is so sad that some 1,600 of the State’s employees, taking into account those who have already received their redundancy pay, are being treated so shabbily, even as they face the grim prospect of being forced into the swelling ranks of the unemployed,” the unions claimed.

They added: “It is opportune to enquire, too, about the future of the 2,500 hectares of cane lands and the soonto-be redundant sugar factory. Concern must be raised also about the farmers’ cane cultivation on their hundreds

of hectares of expensively prepared land, and the obvious hardships that (lie) ahead. So far, we hear that Wales would be the starting point for the Corporation’s non-sugar ventures. The nation (would) recall that similar ventures in the past were met with negative results. It should be again noted that there has been no published study by the Government or GuySuCo about the potential of the announced ventures which may be contemplated by the Government.”

On this score also, the unions drew attention to the Economic and Financial Report of the Sugar Commission of Inquiry (CoI) authored by current Chairman of GuySuCo, Professor Clive Thomas, who explicitly recommended that the other crops be first pursued outside of GuySuCo lands.

Moreover, the Agricultural Report of the CoI pointed out that the cultivation of other crops would not be able to absorb the displaced labour from the scaling down of

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016 cane growing.

“The Government and GuySuCo, in announcing the closure of Wales Estate, had committed that by October 01, 2016 at least one venture would have been established. That notwithstanding, we are still being told about plans and studies.

The latest venture coming to our attention is that a trial for seed paddy would be pursued on a portion of the cane cultivation, and thereafter, a decision would be made on full-fledged production.

We find GuySuCo’s entry into the rice industry very perplexing, given the current situation prevailing in the rice sector. Here, we wish to point to the Ministry of Finance’s Mid-Year Economic Report 2016, which advised that rice production for the first half of 2016 fell by 26.2 per cent when compared with the first half of 2015.

“Government and GuySuCo spokespersons have also spoken about ventures into aquaculture, cattle rearing and orchard fruits. These initiatives, it is said, are still being studied, so it seems that implementation, if at all, will be sometime from now,” the unions said.

The unions also say that many Wales workers are unsure of their future employment at this time. They note that GuySuCo is seeking the co-operation of many

workers to accept transfers to Uitvlugt Estate, some 22 miles away.

“The unreasonable additional travelling time, among other factors, will be burdensome for the workers, apart from the question of the absorptive capacity of Uitvlugt”, the unions contend.

The unions mentioned that, during an interaction between the Wales Estate management and some of the Union’s shop stewards of the estate a few weeks ago, a senior GuySuCo official was reported to have said that the future of Uitvlugt Estate would be reviewed in the future. This, the unions say, raises the question of the plans being contemplated for Uitvlugt in the near or medium terms.

“This is indeed surprising and of concern, especially since we are told that efforts are being made to safeguard sugar production at Uitvlugt. We, the Unions operating in the industry, again strongly urge the Government and GuySuCo that it is not too late to re-consider the closure of Wales Estate decision and thus avoid the harsh repercussions the closure will have on hundreds and hundreds of workers and their families; on numerous farmers, and on small vendors, apart from other effects,” the statement ended.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Greater stakeholder participation in LDN Target-Setting Programme needed – Harmon

THERE is a great need for a higher level of stakeholder participation in Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN), Minister of State Joseph Harmon

opined on Friday during the inaugural meeting of the LDN, Target-Setting Programme (TSP) and National Working Group (NWG).

Commissioner and CEO of the GL&SC, Mr. Trevor Benn

The Minister of State also announced that Cabinet has initiated a process that aims to settle issues related to indigenous land-titling and ancestral lands. Acknowledging the leadership that the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC) has demonstrated to fulfil Guyana’s commitment to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), Harmon, who is the political focal point for the UNCCD, said Guyana is one of few member states that have since taken steps to implement its mandate.

The country’s mandate which must be achieved within one year requires wide consultations and collaboration with all land agencies and stakeholders.

“More importantly, it is our responsibility to the people of Guyana to ensure that land is properly man-

Some of the attendees at the meeting. Mr. Reuben Robertson, Food and Agriculture Organisation Representative to Guyana, is pictured first, left

aged, that land is properly utilised for the…benefit and the development of this country; for the benefit and the development of individuals and for the benefit of that common good that we speak about; that good life,” he said.

Land-degradation neutrality, which aims to maintain and/or improve the amount of healthy and productive land resources over time, is an important aspect of the ‘green’ pathway that President David Granger has outlined for the nation.

As such, stakeholder participation in the NWG, along with technical support, is essential to achieving the overall objective of the LDN Target-Setting Programme.

Additionally, the Minister of State said Cabinet has taken steps to establish a Guyana Lands Commission, which will be tasked with addressing issues associated with indigenous land titling and ancestral lands. Persons have already been identified to serve on the commission, the Terms of Reference (ToR) have already been drafted and consultations are on-going with the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) and the groups that are concerned with ancestral lands. The consultations are expected to be completed by the end of next week and the data used to inform a final ToR for the commission.

Meanwhile, Commis-

Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon, delivers his address at the meeting sioner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Trevor Benn, echoed the minister’s call for more stakeholder participation to achieve the LDN and the Sustainable Land Management Project, the latter of which is being spearheaded by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in Guyana. Benn said too that the GL&SC continues to be hampered by a dearth of finances and appealed to persons, who have defaulted on land-rent payments to urgently bring their accounts up to date.

“It is affecting the work of the commission. It is affecting the liquidity of the commission. Many people

have received leases and for five, six years they have never paid… We are calling on those people to take appropriate action so that we could …capitalise the commission,” he said.

Reuben Robertson, Food and Agriculture Organisation Representative to Guyana, Mr. Durwin Humphrey, Policy Analyst, Mr. David Cole, Information Systems Manager, Ms. Andrea Mahammad, Senior Land Use Planner all of the GL&SC, Ms. Patsy Ross, National Consultant and managers and members of the GL&SC Board also attended the meeting.

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Reopen aluminum plant

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

––Granger urges at bauxite Centennial Arch unveiling

By Venessa Braithwaite UNVEILING of the Bauxite Centennial Arch erected in the mining town of Linden brought scores of Lindeners and dignitaries to the ceremony, held at Casuarina Drive, Mackenzie, Linden, the future site for the Centennial Industrial Museum and Recreational Park.

President David Granger, who addressed the unveiling ceremony, told a well-attended gathering that the arch represents a beacon of hope for the survival of the bauxite industry and for the sustainability of Linden’s economy.

“I see this arch as an ark of hope; a gateway to the future; an entrance to a new park, rather than an exit of an old enterprise. This arch is a promise to the future generations,” the President said.

Celebration of the happy and historic occasion testifies to the labour of generations who worked in the bauxite industry for 100 years. Those persons were lured to the industry as they sought decent employment, and saw a level of migration that has positively impacted Linden and Guyana culturally and socially.

“The contribution of this

industry to Guyanese society is impossible to calculate…

Persons came from all over the coastland; from the islands of the Caribbean: Barbados, Grenada, St Vincent, St Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, in search of regular employment and high wages offered by the bauxite industry,” President Granger said. He added that not only has the industry had a social impact, but it was responsible for training highly skilled engineers and industrial workers.

He urged Lindeners and bauxite miners to examine the benefits of manufacturing aluminum, as opposed to raw bauxite, since adding value to the mineral would be beneficial.

“The aluminum plant: past and future, added value to our bauxite. It lasted 20 years, and I hope that we won’t have to wait 20 years before it returns,” he said.

For this to be possible, President Granger affirmed, all have an integral role to play in the survival of the industry.

“We still have enough reserves to allow production for the next 100 years… the development of the industry requires significant investment, and that is why we

welcome our partners from the People’s Republic of China; people who are prepared to invest. We welcome them as collaborators to help to develop this important industry. Therefore, it is necessary that the region, the Upper Demerara-Berbice Region, must remain attractive to foreign investors,” he declared.

INNOVATE AND DIVERSIFY President Granger also noted that the region needs innovation to survive, to effectively process and market the bauxite with the use of cheap energy.

But he also stressed that Linden must not get comfortable with surviving on bauxite alone. “Linden must not be satisfied with being a mining town, it must be a manufacturing town… The people of Linden must begin to wean themselves off of excessive dependency on a single industry; and your Government is committed to supporting the diversification of the economy of Linden, to enable it to become more and more of a human community, and not just a mining town,” the President said.

Assistant General Manager of Bosai Group China, Ying Ma, assured President Granger and all the residents of Linden that the company has only good intentions for Guyana; and this, he said, is seen in the numerous contributions it has made to Linden and the country at large.

The arch, fully-funded by Bosai at a cost of $20M, is just a small fraction of what the company has done and will continue to do for the development of Linden and Guyana, Ma said.

He noted that the recent salary increases granted to workers, the installation of the dust collectors, numerous community donations and sponsorship; and most importantly, the provision of jobs for Lindeners as things the company has done for development of Linden and Guyana.

“Bosai has the best intention for Guyana…,” he said.

“Bosai has willingly undertaken the construction of this arch, which we see here today, which we are sure will be standing in the same spot for the next 100 years. It is a very historical site, since persons from all over the world want to visit Guyana and Linden. We encourage the community to

take good care of it,” Ma said.

Similar sentiments were echoed by Chinese Ambassador Zhang Limin, who commended Bosai for funding the arch, and posited that it is a national symbol that would go down in history.

UNBREAKABLE FRIENDSHIP “Bosai’s willingness to fund the construction of the Centennial Arch can only prove that it is not only a symbol for Bosai and its endurance, but also its unbreakable relationship with Guyana and China.”

Centennial Committee Chairman Horace James described the arch as an illustration of the bauxite industry as the greatest achievement for Linden, Region 10, Guyana, and the world at large; as, he said, 40 per cent of the aluminum needed to manufacture war planes for World War II came from Linden.

He spoke of the strategic location of the arch -- located at a point where three important communities in Linden meet: Mackenzie, Wismar and Watooka have close ties with bauxite, since the white expatriates who managed the company lived in Watooka,

while the employees lived in Mackenzie and the company was also located there.

When persons came to Linden to seek employment at the bauxite company, they resided in Wismar, as all other communities in Linden were restricted.

The Bauxite Centennial Arch has four components, which are the foundation, main frame, crown, and centennial steel. Information plates will be placed on the faces of the foundation’s pillars. These will include former Mayors of Linden, Regional Chairmen and local Olympians. The main frame stands tall at a height of 51 feet and 95 feet across the roadway.

The three-foot-high crown has eight faces, which carry the logos of all the bauxite companies, both past and present. It has four golden cacique feathers, and four national flags flying high.

A team of employees consisting of mechanics, masons, electricians and other tradesmen, over the past few weeks, worked assiduously to complete the installation of the steel structure that was constructed in Suriname.

They were commended and acknowledged for their dedication and labour.

Some of the activities hosted in observance of the occasion include the launching of the centennial stamps, a bauxite centennial symposium, a school debate and quiz competition, and a centennial dinner.

An industrial museum and centennial park, depicting equipment used to mine bauxite in the 1900s, is also under construction in proximity to the arch.

Friday’s unveiling ceremony had in attendance several Government ministers, including Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman and Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin; the Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Zhang Limin, along with several other Chinese dignitaries; Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland; Regional Chairman Renis Morian, and other regional officials were also present at the historic occasion.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Collison freed of illegal gun, ammo charges

A T W E N T Y- T H R E E YEAR-OLD man was on Friday freed of charges of illegal possession firearms and ammunition and discharging a loaded firearm at an off-duty officer by Magistrate Allen Wilson at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Collis Collison of South Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, had the three charges against him dismissed due to the prosecution’s lack of evidence. Collison was represented by Attorney-at-Law Melvin Duke.

The first charge had alleged that on October 7, 2015 at Kitty, Georgetown, Collison discharged a loaded firearm at Prem Narine, a detective attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID),

Freed: Collis Collison with intent to maim, disable, disfigure or cause him grievous bodily harm.

It was alleged that on the same day at Kitty, Georgetown, Collison had a .38 re-

volver in his possession, when he was not the holder of a firearm licence.

Further, it was also alleged that on October 7, at the same location, he had three rounds of .38 ammunition in his possession.

In May, 2011, Collison was also charged with the January 2011 murder of Linden businessman Albert Joseph, called “Bolo.” Joseph was shot during a robbery at his Sunflower Street, Linden, business place. He was freed of that murder charge in November 2014.

Also in May 2011, Collison was placed on two armed robbery charges which alleged that at Dageraad Avenue, Linden, being armed with a gun, he robbed Nigel Hescott and Rajindra Tiwari of one gold chain each valued $160,000 and $250,000 respectively.

Collison’s co-accused, Shawn Thom, was also jointly charged for the said offence and was remanded but died while receiving medical attention at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) in March 2016.

Thom was shot to his right foot during a confrontation with police.

The father of three during the prison unrest at the Camp Street prison complained about feeling weak and was rushed to the GPHC. However, he died at the hospital with officials unclear about the cause his death.

According to reports, the off-duty cop had gone to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) to pick up a relative when he noticed a yellow IST following him all the way from the airport.

It was reported that the rank contacted his colleagues and informed them about what he had noticed.

The police turned up close to the rank’s home in Kitty and waited for him to arrive from the airport. When the rank arrived in front of his yard, a car with three men stopped a corner away from his home.

Two of the gunmen reportedly exited the vehicle and were liming at a bridge, while one remained in the car. The gunmen and the police exchanged fire, which left both bandits injured.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Renal Failure underestimated –– Dr. Norton stresses that prevention is better than cure

MINISTER of Public Health Dr. George Norton has issued a warning that the burden of diseases from Chronic Failure in all populations tends to be seriously underestimated, given under-recognition of the condition.

During an address to a gathering at the Grand Coastal Hotel, he disclosed that conducting a quality-of-life survey on persons living with chronic renal failure was one of the best options to consider, since “we are living in the age where we are being plagued with such incidents.”

In Guyana, there are incidents of chronic kidney diseases among patients suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure and other non-communicable diseases.

“This condition damages a person’s kidneys and decreases one’s ability to live a healthy life. Our kidneys perform very varied and complex functions which are essential to preserve our health. Consequently, chronic kidney disease can in itself lead to high blood pressure, anaemia (low blood count), weak bones and poor nutritional health among others,” stressed Dr. Norton.

However, early detection and treatment can control the progress of chronic kidney disease. When this disease progresses, it may eventually lead to kidney failure, and may require dialysis or kidney transplant. Both are expensive and burdensome for the patients, caregivers and on the health budget.

Nevertheless, he lamented that even when undiagnosed, it impacts on health resource utilisation in its early stages through its associated hypertension, anaemia and other complications As such, the Ministry of Public Health

has also developed strategic partnerships with international universities and hospitals.

In 2014, a team of medical experts from the University of Calgary visited Guyana and engaged our local health professionals in a number of Continuing Medical Education (CME) sessions in the area of Chronic Kidney Diseases.

Subsequently, a team of general medical practitioners from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), headed by a Guyana-born transplant surgeon from Canada, performed a successful kidney transplant on a 24-year-old man.

The team was spearheaded by transplant surgeon, Dr. Kishore Persaud, who is a product of the University of Calgary in Canada. Ever since, Dr. Kishore Persaud and his team have been doing great work at the GPHC’s Nephrology Department.

“Just this year also, the department received eight dialysis machines from the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension of the University of Vermont’s Medical School,” said the minister.

Nevertheless, issues relating to Chronic Kidney Disease and Kidney Failure will continue to be addressed at a national level through initiatives to support treatment and management of renal-related problems.

The minister, however, alluded to the fact that prevention was better than cure, noting early detection and healthy lifestyles in children, starting at birth and continuing through to old age, were crucial in preventing kidney damage or kidney diseases.

Even in adults, adapting healthy lifestyles can reduce one’s chance of developing medical conditions which can later lead to chronic kidney failure.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Seized ‘coke’ dumped into Atlantic Ocean

THE GUYANA Police Force (GPF) on Friday afternoon dumped into the Atlantic Ocean 55 kilogrammes, 286 grams (kg) of cocaine which had been seized by the police over a two-year period, thus taking off the streets illicit drugs with a local street value of Gy$49M. Ranks from the Police

Marine Section and the Narcotics branch, accompanied by the media, a representative of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) and the Ministry of Public Security, boarded police boat Baramani at the Police Marine Section at Ruimveldt, and went more than six miles offshore in the Atlantic Ocean.

Cocaine being dumped by the police on Friday

The solid cocaine was already emptied from packages and made into powder which was placed in a salt bag, while the liquefied cocaine was in four bottles of various brands of rum.

Head of the Police Narcotics Branch, Superintendent Wayne DeHearte, said the bulk of the cocaine was netted on March 19, 2015 when 40kg of the illicit substance were found in false bottoms of buckets at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

He related that of the total amount of cocaine, 6kg in liquefied form was seized at Guyana’s ports of entry. The cocaine was already placed in bottles of rum destined for export to the United States.

Earlier this week, 294 kilograms, 232 grams of cannabis sativa with a local street value of $147,115,950.00 was destroyed by fire at the Princes Street Incinerator by ranks of the GPF Narcotics Branch, the police said.

The destroyed narcotics represented mainly exhibits from court cases concluded over a two-year period, besides those amounts found during police raids in which no arrests were made.

Police ranks disposing of cocaine into the Atlantic Ocean on Friday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Embrace, not beat and embarrass women ––Minister Lawrence urges

MINISTER of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence, has called upon all to “break the silence” and make it their business to join the fight against domestic and intimate partners violence by speaking out against these social ills which continue to bedevil society.

She made the call as Guyana joins countries the world over in observing the United

Nations dedicated ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women’ under the theme: “Orange the World: Promoting Equality; Ending Gender-Based Violence.”

Yesterday, orange became the dominant colour in offices and through streets as many consciously participated in lighting up the world ‘in orange’ to symbolise the end of a dark act and a bright future

Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence

for women and girls.

Investments by individuals and organisations advocating the end of violence have come a long way as today women and girls are more aware of their rights and more seek help in dealing with violence.

Organisations such as the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Red Thread, the Guyana Women Miners Organisation and the religious community have all been at the forefront in tackling the problem.

More women today have access to help than before.

Minister Lawrence called on more individuals and groups countrywide to actively participate in the movement to end violence.

“I want us all to break that silence, to lend all our voices throughout all the regions of our country in unison against domestic and intimate violence, to become involved and demonstrate our commitment to the elimination of this social ill which is so rife in our society… I want us all to make it our business, make it our responsibility to shatter the glass and speak out loudly and strongly against the high incidence of violence that prevails in our villages and communities.”

COLLECTIVE VOICE With many lives already lost, she maintained that in order to tackle the problem from its root, a collective voice is needed and collaboration of all government ministries, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), police, legal practitioners, community leaders, victims, women and men is required.

Amicable resolutions to disputes should also be sought, she said.

“We need to initiate the change from within us and then set about eradicating the prevalence of violence in our society… we ourselves have to free ourselves from the violent acts that are etched in our minds. Violence has become embedded in our daily routine. We are no longer willing to resolve matters amicably; a dispute is settled with a blow or the flash of a weapon,” Minister Lawrence pointed out.

She is concerned that domestic matters escalate into violence even in the midst of children, who tend to copy what they see and hit out violently at each other.

The minister also mentioned that regular manifestations of intolerance and impatience on the roadways put fellow motorists and pedestrians at risk, but these are not all.

“Our women and men folk are sexually harassed; we intimidate and harass those with alternative lifestyles; we are all exhibiting some form of violent action.

Yes, in our psyche, violence has become an acceptable way of life and this is perhaps the reason why our responses are not vocal, appear luke-warm, and are sometimes indifferent to the

extreme forms of violence that are being perpetrated,” Lawrence stated.

SEEK HELP Women who are abused should seek support and guidance through education and training from empowerment agencies, the minister said.

“Help stop the perpetration of violence by arming yourself with the requisite skills and knowledge which are available in your community… try to acquire leadership skills, entrepreneurial skills, digital skills, because in this era of globalisation and technological advancement… with the acquisition of these skills, you can begin to shape and fashion your world; you can build bridges and realise your vision for transforming your lives.”

She encouraged such women to end their victimisation, share their stories, connect and engage in empowerment training and let their ingenuity and expertise move them “out of the vicious claws of violence.”

Minister Lawrence also said that men need to understand that they were created

by God and assigned the roles of protector, lover and companion, father-figure and breadwinner, among others.

The same God, she said, fashioned woman to complement man and endowed her with the gift of motherhood for the replenishing of the earth. “… Why then has man become the aggressor, the perpetrator of violence?

Why the degrading, the dehumanising of women, when it’s the same women who are responsible for life, for providing you with the opportunity to build your future and establish your niche in society?” she asked.

She also urged men to allow women equal opportunities for development.

“When the woman sets out to improve her well-being through education and training, it’s not to become the boss, but to add to the economic soundness, so that the benefits can filter through to the children, to the community and to the society in general. Woman is there to complement, not control.

So why do you attempt to destroy lives, to perpetrate acts of violence that leave the family traumatised?”

Men who are not perpetrators of violence should begin to break the silence and talk to fellow men who are perpetrators, Minister Lawrence urged.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

More charter operations for Fly All Ways airline

MINISTER of State, Joseph Harmon, on Thursday announced Cabinet’s approval for additional charter operations for Surinamese airline Fly All Ways, and for Guyana Sun Tours Inc. The air carrier is, for a period of one year, expected to operate non-scheduled charter flights to Paramaribo Suriname; Georgetown, Guy-

ana; Bridgetown, Barbados; St. John’s Antigua; and Portau-Prince, Haiti.

“It would be recalled that Cabinet had granted approval to Fly Always NV to operate multiple scheduled routes out of Georgetown to the Caribbean and South American destinations, for a period of two years with effect from February 2016. This is an additional approval. It is

expected that the additional charter operations approved for this airline (would) benefit the tourism industry and other sectors within Guyana that depend on air transportation for the movement of people, goods and services,” Minister Harmon explained.

Fly All Ways, based in Paramaribo, Suriname, started operations on January 10, 2016 with the launch of its

New airstrip for Aramata, Region 7 GOVERNMENT has granted its no-objection to the construction of an airstrip at Aramata, in the Cuyuni mining district of Region Seven, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, revealed on Thursday.

The new airstrip will facilitate mining and geological exploration activities being done by Innovative Mining Incorporated.

“Innovative Mining Incorporated, a registered company under the Com-

panies Act of Guyana, is involved in the business of mining and geological explorations, and has been granted several mining permits in the hinterland,” Minister Harmon revealed.

inaugural flight. Its first commercial flight, to São Luís, capital of the state of Maranhão in Brazil, took place on January 22, 2016. The first charter flight to Barbados took place on February 5, 2016. Later in February 2016, the first flights followed to Willemstad, Curaçao; and Philipsburg, Saint Maarten.

In the same month, the Government of Guyana granted the new airline rights to operate scheduled flights to Guyana, with connections to Brazil and the Caribbean.

Businessman remanded for cannabis in water pump EAST Ruimveldt businessman Eon Brian was on Friday remanded by Bartica Magistrate Delon Best for being in possession of 369 grams of cannabis.

Police allege discovering the illegal substance in a water pump the 32-year-old had in his possession as he was seated in a speed boat at Bartica, Region 7, on Thursday morning.

Police say that, acting on information, ranks swooped down on Brian as he was about to depart the Bartica Stelling in a speed boat, and conducted a search on his person and belongings, during which the illegal substance was found hidden in the water pump.

He is to return to court on December 1.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE SaturdAy november 26, 2016

New GECOM chair soon –– Opposition to begin consultations before submitting nominees

THE selection process for a new chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is likely to commence shortly as President David Granger has indicated to Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo that his administration is ready to start the process.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday, Minister of State Joseph Harmon confirmed that President Granger is in receipt of a letter from the Office of the Leader of the Opposition on the subject.

“Well, basically, the letter was asking that we commence the process and I think… the president would have said to him, ‘Yes, we are prepared to commence the process’ and, therefore, he [Jagdeo] must know what he has to do,” said Harmon.

In a letter dated November 15, 2016, and signed

Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira, the government was urged to act promptly as November 30 was fast approaching. “l am writing you, on behalf of the Leader of the Opposition, seeking to be advised on the approach His Excellency President David Granger[’s] Government intends to take in filling the vacancy as provided for in Article 161 of the Guyana Constitution.”

Harmon made it clear that President Granger has responded to the letter sent by the Leader of the Opposition and will soon indicate to him when the government’s nominees are to be submitted. However, if the President has an objection, then Opposition Leader Jagdeo will be required to submit additional names.

“There is a process which requires the president’s eventual agreement

with the names submitted by the Leader of the Opposition,” the Minister of State told reporters.

On Thursday, Jagdeo told reporters at Freedom House that his party will begin consultations with civil society next week and will thereafter submit its six nominees. Consultations he said will begin on Tuesday.

GECOM’s Chairman Dr. Steve Surujbally who had initially said he would demit office on November 30, 2016, recently told the Guyana Chronicle that circumstances may not permit him to demit office on November 30 as intended.

Dr. Surujbally, who has been at the helm of GECOM since 2001, had formally informed President David Granger, Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo and the Commission of his intention to demit office on November 30, 2016.

–– Board of Inquiry finds

“That was my intention. [But] There are developments and occurrences that dictate that I might have to stay on for a week or two,” Dr. Suru-

jbally told this newspaper earlier this month. The Government has accepted Dr Surujbally’s resignation and asked that he ensures a smooth tran-

sition. Additionally, the government had said that when Surujbally demits office, the new Chairman of GECOM would be appointed.

Passport Office opens in New Amsterdam

FROM Monday, November 28, 2016, residents of Berbice will be able to submit applications to the Central Immigration and Passport Office, at the Central Police Station, New Amsterdam, Berbice, for their passports.

The applications will be collected only on Mondays and Tuesdays, while passports can be collected from the said location on the other working days (Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays).

“However, this process only applies to persons who are already in possession of a machine-readable passport that is lost, damaged or filled,” a statement from the Guyana Police Force said on Friday.

First-time applicants are required to apply at the Georgetown Branch of the Central Immigration and Passport Office.

The move to have persons apply and collect their passports within their respective regions is part of the APNU+AFC’s commitment to decentralise immigration services across the country.

In August, the Ministry of Citizenship launched passport services in Linden, Region 10 and committed to implementing similar services in Mabaruma, Region One, Anna Regina, Region Two, Corriverton, Region Six, Bartica, Region Seven, Mahdia, Region Eight and Lethem, Region Nine.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday november 26, 2016

Government vetting nominees for Local Government Commission

THE APNU+AFC Administration is currently vetting its nominees to serve on the Local Government Commission, Cabinet Secretary Joseph Harmon told reporters on Thursday.

The Minister of State said background checks are being conducted on persons who have been shortlisted to function as government

commissioners on that Commission, in accordance with the law.

Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan submitted the list of nominees to Cabinet recently, and those persons are being vetted to ensure they meet the requirements to hold the office and to carry out the roles and responsibilities contained therein.

The law requires that those identified are of “high integrity” in order to ensure that, once they are called to function, they are able to perform.

Harmon noted that the process is somewhat delayed because of Government fulfilling all checks and balances before naming its appointees for the long-awaited

Two arrested for unlicensed semi-automatic pistol POLICE ranks acting on information conducted a search on an East La Penitence Squatting Area home, and in presence of its 52-year-old vendor occupant, unearthed an unlicensed semi-automatic pistol.

The suspect alleged that the gun was

given to him by a cousin; and when contacted, the cousin admitted to ownership of the weapon. Both men were thus arrested.

A ballistics test will be conducted to determine whether the weapon had been used in the commission of any crime, as police investigations continue.

Commission. He made it clear that the Minister of Communities is not at fault for the delay.

However, whilst the Government is still yet to name its appointees, it has been taking steps to ensure the operations of the Commission.

“We have actually started taking steps with the acquisition of building and office equipment for the Commission,” Harmon told reporters The Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) had

in July named Carol Sooba, Norman Whittaker and Clinton Collymore as its representatives to the Local Government Commission.

Once established, the Local Government Commission, provided for under article 78A of the Constitution, would, as it deems fit, deal with all matters related to the regulation and staffing of local government organs, and with dispute resolution within and between local government organs.

When operational, the Commission is expected to reduce the influence of Central Government by placing the oversight of local democratic organs under the purview of a commission, and not a government ministry.

The Commission would comprise eight members, four nominated by Government, one nominated by the unions operating in the local government sector, and three nominated by the Opposition.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE SaturdAy november 26, 2016

Fogging to commence in Diamond/Grove

IN an effort to rid the East Bank Demerara communities of Diamond and Grove of the Aedes Aegypti and Culex mosquitoes, the Ministry of Public Health Vector Control Service (VCS) has commenced fogging a n d i n d o o r re s i d u a l spraying, According to a release from the ministry, in light of the recent complaints by residents of an increase in mosquitoes in the area, the VCS will be conducting the fogging exercise on November 28 and 29 from 17:30 hrs, while indoor residual spraying will commence between 08:00hrs and 16:30hrs.

This exercise is expected to kill the aedes aegypti and culex mosquitoes,

most frequently found in tropical and sub-tropical areas.

To ensure that these exercises are most effective, residents are reminded to open their windows to allow the fog mist into the buildings to kill the adult mosquitoes. They should remove, empty or cover all artificial or natural water storage containers and flower pots; discard old tyres, plates under potted plant, cemetery vases, buckets, tin and cans and remove clogged rain gutters, ornamental fountains, drums and water bowls used for pet birdbaths.

The ministry is also reminding citizens that unhealthy environments are ideal larval habitats for the

Aedes aegypti mosquito.

To avoid any health problems residents are reminded to cover all

drinking water and secure all foodstuff (Uncooked and Cooked) to prevent possible con-

tamination, secure all domestic animals and poultry, and to keep persons who suffer from

asthmatic conditions, young children and the elderly away from the direct flow of the fog.

Good Hope teen missing NINETEEN-year-old Indira Jaipersaud, called “Indy,” of Good Hope, West Coast Demerara (WCD) has been missing since Wednesday, and her mother, Deowattie Singh, is appealing to anyone with information on her whereabouts to kindly make urgent contact with the family.

The teen was last seen on Wednesday at the head of Tuschen Village, East Bank

Essequibo (EBE).

A distraught Singh told the Guyana Chronicle on Friday that her daughter was last seen wearing the clothing with which she left for work at an internet café at Tuschen.

Singh said Jaipersaud would usually return home from work at approximately 18:30h; and when she did not do so on Wednesday, Singh decided to contact her via her mobile device. The

mother recounted that on every occasion she attempted to call her daughter, she was unreachable; her mobile was going straight to voicemail.

The worried woman told Guyana Chronicle she had spoken to her daughter earlier on Wednesday and the teenager told her that she was going to run an errand. However, checks to that location proved futile.

Singh noted that her daughter had no issues at home, and she is unaware of her having a boyfriend residing on the local shores. She said her daughter is engaged to someone who resides overseas. Jaipersaud also did not

remove any of her belongings from the family’s WCD home.

The frustrated mother is pleading with her daughter to return home, or at the very least, to let her family know that she is alright.

“Indy, call us to say if you are okay, because we love you and want you to be safe and return home to us,”Singh pleaded.

A missing person’s report has been made to the police, and any person with information on the whereabouts of Indira Jaipersaud is asked to contact the nearest police station, or her parents on 682-7058.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

The Public Procurement Commission, transparency and the re-establishment of public trust

GEORGETOWN, Guyana – (November 22, 2016) RE-ESTABLISHMENT of public trust has been a key commitment of the current administration. Fundamental to that public trust is a transparent process for allocation of resources and spending from the public purse.

Transparency empowers citizens to hold governments and public administrations accountable, and allows the public sector itself to monitor and audit its own activities.

Additionally, it is the basis of good governance and the first step in tackling corruption.

One core area of governance within which transparency is essential is pub-

lic procurement, a process which speaks to the awarding of contracts to qualified contractors, suppliers and service providers. Public procurement plays a unique role in the execution of democratic government, as public awareness and understanding of government practices helps to improve the public’s confidence in governing systems.

Article 212W of Guyana’s Constitution holds: “There shall be a Public Procurement Commission the purpose of which is to monitor public procurement and the procedure therefore in order to ensure that the procurement of goods and services and execution of works are conducted in a fair,

Chairman of the Public Procurement Commission, Mrs Carol Corbin, as she takes the oath of office equitable, transparent, competitive and cost effective manner, according to law and such policy guidelines as may be determined by the National Assembly”.

The Procurement Act was passed in 2003, but the Commission was officially established only in October 2016, following the approval by the National Assembly of the five nominees submitted by the Public Accounts Committee.

Establishment of this Commission is a significant one for this administration, as, while in opposition, both A Partnership for National

Unity and the Alliance for Change had lobbied for the removal of Cabinet’s “no-objection” role in the procurement process.

Prior to establishment of the Commission, Cabinet held full powers in the procurement process, a method that did not allow for decentralisation in the awarding of contracts. The previous administration had held that Cabinet should still play a role in spending sums from the public funds, which contributed to the years-long delay of the Commission’s establishment.

President David Granger has said that establishment of the Commission indeed creates more transparency in regard to the award of contracts for public projects.

“This is very important. It will remove from Cabinet the obligation of sorting out contracts, so it will be a transparent process. I think the public can be assured that, under our administration, there will be greater vigilance and scrutiny of projects and less cronyism…

It is something we fought for, and which will work for the benefit of all Guyanese,” the President said.

The five members of the Commission were sworn in by President Granger on October 28 last. Those members are: Chairman of

the Commission, Ms. Carol Corbin; former Programme Manager of Administrative Services and Procurement at the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat, former Minister of Labour Dr. Nanda Kishore Gopaul; Principal of the Critchlow Labour College, Mr. Ivor Burnette English; Senior Lecturer at the University of Guyana, Mr. Sukrishnalall Pasha; and Attorney-at-Law Ms. Emily Dodson.

The President has charged the members of the commission to uphold the sacrosanct tenets of the Constitution, and to be independent, impartial and fair in the execution of their duties.

He noted that the selection of the members by both sides of the House is testimony to the greater need for the Commission, despite political differences.

“The Government of Guyana iterates its commitment to the principles of accountability and transparency in the conduct of public business. The establishment of the Commission evinces the importance of ensuring equity and fairness in public procurement,” the President has said.

Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, expressed at the ceremony that the establishment of the

President David Granger hands over instruments of office to Mrs. Carol Corbin

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

President David Granger and members of the Public Procurement Commission at the swearing in ceremony: (from left) Chairman of the Commission, Mrs. Carol Corbin, Mr. Sukrishnalall Pasha, Mr. Ivor Burnette English, Dr. Nanda Kishore Gopaul and Ms. Emily Dodson.

Commissioner on the Public Procurement Commission, Dr Nanda Kishore Gopaul, takes the oath of office commission was one of the campaign promises of the coalition government, and he said it is an accomplishment to have the commission up and running.

“This is one of our biggest lobbying points -- to get proper accountability in this country; and I am so proud that it has happened in the first half of our term, after waiting for more than a decade,” he said.

The PPC is an oversight body which monitors the procurement of goods, works and services to ensure the process is fair, equitable, transparent, and competitive; and that it functions as has been laid out in detail in the Constitution.

Speaking on the importance of transparency to the procurement process, Mr. Pasha, during a panel discussion with some members of the Commission, stated that transparency would induce confidence in the procurement system, and this would further reduce financial and

non-financial hardships.

“The way we would go about ensuring transparency is by ensuring all established procedures are followed by the procuring entities,” he said. Such established procedures, Mrs. Corbin added, include the implementation of standard documentation and that the bidders understand these documents.

Moreover, Dr. Gopaul, said, the road to transparency requires that notices of tenders are published, that the results following the decision-making process is communicated to all applicants, and that these applicants are given a chance to raise any complaints or dissatisfactions they may have. Such methods, the members of the Commission believe, would provide for true fairness and confidence to be developed in the system.

“We have been meeting since the swearing in, and I am really impressed and pleased with the quality of discussions and the knowl-

edge of the members and the leadership we have been given,” Dr. Gopaul said.

With administrative tasks at the top of the Commission’s immediate agenda, he said the work that has so

far been achieved within a two-week period is impressive. “I think the personalities on the Commission and the quality of leadership speak well to the future of the Commission,” he said.

These administrative tasks include the recruitment of senior officers to staff the Commission, seeking a permanent location to house the Commission’s head office, and meeting with key stakeholders, such as the National Tender Administration Board, the Auditor General, and over 40 procurement entities.

“The National Tender Administration Board (have) been executing the functions of the Commission pending our establishment, so it is very important that we meet with them, to get clarity as to what they were doing, where they are now, and to organise the transition,” Mrs. Corbin said.

She added that the meetings with the procurement entities would seek to establish the methods through which they procure goods, works and services; whether they are adhering to the

guidelines of the Act; what their practices are; if they are properly staffed to undertake these functions; and if there is proper training of officers.

“We are therefore responsible for conducting training programmes (for) procurement officers as well as contractors, to ensure they understand the rules and receive proper documents,” she said.

The establishment of the PPC is evidence of this Government’s commitment to the principles of accountability and transparency. The Chairperson assured that the Commission has a very robust public procurement system planned, and that once persons are properly trained and there is adherence to the law and regulations, there will be equity, transparency, fairness; and that persons would be satisfied with the process.

Moreover, Mr. Pasha believes that once the public confidence is ensured, any concerns surrounding public procurement would be reduced. “We are confident that by inducing confidence in the system, all the stakeholders will be more confi-

dent,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Gopaul has said that now that the Commission is established, the public is now naturally looking on to ensure that the system runs smoothly and with integrity, and that there is adherence to regulations and the Constitution.

“The public can look forward to get justice, and that the country will benefit tremendously from the transparent process. Once we have a transparent process, everyone is a winner: the procurement entities, the contractors, (nobody has anything) to fear. We will make Guyana proud,” he said.

Together, the members of the Commission possess rich professional experience in areas such as public service, procurement and financial management, economics, law, human resources and other core areas that would assist in effective management of the Public Procurement Process, thus they would be greatly empowered to effectively execute their tasks.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

End violence against women and girls –– suggestion boxes installed at UG

By Shauna Jemmott THE Women and Gender Equality Commission installed a suggestion box at the University of Guyana (UG), Turkeyen Campus, on Friday, as it continues its efforts to raise awareness and end violence against women and girls.

The orange-toned suggestion box was unveiled amid a small crowd comprising mostly executives and mem-

bers of the commission and the University of Guyana, along with a few students and media operatives.

The suggestion box project was done under the theme, “Violence a g a i n s t Wo m e n a n d Girls! If you can’t say it; Write it” and offers opportunities also for cases to be reported.

Such boxes have been erected at the University of Guyana, Tain Campus, Berbice; the Wo m e n a n d G e n d e r

Persons holding up some of the posters to be on display at the Turkeyen Campus Equality Commission office at Human Rights building in Queenstown, Georgetown; the National Library; the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) on North Road (Bourda), and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Commission Diana Swan-Lawrence said the suggestion boxes are part of measures to end the sad social ill.

“The suggestion boxes are a means of persons reporting incidents of abuse, and also to make recommendations to end abuse against women and girls,” she said.

U G D e p u t y Vi c e - C h a n c e l l o r f o r academic affairs, Dr Michael Scott, who addressed the small outdoor gathering at the Education Faculty, said the university welcomes the life-saving initiative.

“We are committed to ensuring that the University of Guyana be that zone for the ‘no-tolerance,’ ‘0 tolerance’ attitude” towards violence against women and girls, he said.

He is hoping that the contributions of the university are lasting, and “will not only go a far way in signalling the mere intent of the higher educational institution of learning … but every constituent here… will be putting their hands and hearts together” to end violence, Dr Scott said.

And to set an example, he read a poem he wrote entitled “Hands of violence.”

At the request of Chairperson of the Wom-

en and Gender Equality Commission Indra Chandarpal, he gave permission for the commission to use his poem in its campaign against violence against women.

Chandarpal said about two years ago, the commission signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Guyana to make the campus a “no tolerance” zone for violence against women and girls.

She said the commission is pleased to have collaborated with UG as it has allowed it the opportunity to install the suggestion boxes at Tain Campus in Berbice on Monday and at the main campus at Turkeyen on Friday.

She urged students to see the suggestion boxes and posters as constant reminders that no one should be allowed to sexually harass them.

Several posters were presented to Dr Scott to be displayed on campus, including those with messages speaking out against sexual harassment and family violence.

“Sexual harassment is any unwelcome act, comment, gesture or physical contact of a sexual nature”, “Family violence leads to despair, destruction and death” and “Sexual Harassment is unacceptable, unwanted, unfair, unlawful” read some of the posters displayed.

Chandarpal said the commission also aims to erect billboards in all regions and distribute posters at schools and other public places countrywide by the end of this year.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

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English Racing Tips Newcastle 08:05 hrs Elgin 08:35 hrs Nietzsche 09:10 hrs Just Georgie 10:20 hrs Calett Mad 10:55 hrs Petit Mouchoir 11:30 hrs Bishops Road Doncaster 08:15 hrs Minel;la Rebellion 08:45 hrs Mister Don 09:20 hrs Snow Leopardess 09;55 hrs Viens Chercher 10:30 hrs Unison 11:05 hrs Kalondra 11:40 hrs Eskendash Newbury 08:20 hrs Dusky Legend 08:55 hrs Thistlecrack 09:30 hrs Antony 10:05 hrs Born Survivor 10:40 hrs Ozzie The Oscar 11:10 hrs Native River 11:45 hrs Fou Et Sage South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:15 hrs Heaps Of Fun 08:55 hrs Kangaroo Jack 09:45 hrs Babbling Brooke 10:20 hrs Doosra 11:10 hrs Master Sabina 11:50 hrs Negroamaro 12:25 hrs Storm Warning 13:00 hrs Artica Irish Racing Tips Gowan Park 08:25 hrs Dakota Moirette 09:00 hrs Invitation Only 09:55 hrs Without Limites 10:10 hrs Catcher Again 10:45 hrs Zabana 11:15 hrs Bellshill 11:40 hrs Show And Go American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Baby Bera’s Soup Race 2 Heavy Meddle Race 3 Lewis Bay Race 4 Moonlit Garden Race 5 Nonna’s Boy Race 6 Elandess Race 7 Orino Race 8 Takaful Race 9 Manitoulin Race10 Anchor Down

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Linden retain Nationals ...

From back page

broke out in screams of celebrations last evening and many participated in a victory lap around the track after it was officially announced that, as expected, the team had retained their title, once against ousting arch rival, North Georgetown (District 11). In the process they became the first District to attain 15 titles at the esteemed event.

Things started out looking good for the yellowand-black team when they finished second behind North Georgetown in the swimming competition on Monday.

As the five-day competition continued they put on a good showing in the cycling competition, also positioning second.

It was only in the teachers’ competition that the Lindeners really took blows, ending all the way down in seventh position. It was the 20 points from their athletics win that truly buoyed them.

In the athletics competition District 10 finished

with 666.75 points for the win, almost 200 points away from second-place finishers Corentyne (District 6), who ended with 483 points.

Despite finishing fifth in the athletics competition, after taking just 440.5 points, North Georgetown were only six points behind District 10, thanks to their third-place in the teachers’ competition and the top spot in the swimming.

In the cycling North also finished fifth, after gaining only 93 points in that competition.

Taking third place overall were South Georgetown (District 13) with 55 points. The team may have stood a chance of coming in second if they had done better in athletics, where they finished in 8th place.

West Demerara (District 3) dominated the teachers’ competition, and finished third in the athletics, enabling the team to finish fourth overall. In the cycling the team placed eight and in swimming they were 10th among the districts.

The full results for the districts are as follows 1st - Upper Demerara/Kwankwani (District 10) 65 points 2nd - North Georgetown (District 11) 59 points 3rd - South Georgetown (District 13) 55 points 4th - West Demerara (District 3) 53 points 5th - Corentyne (District 6) 50 points 6th - East Georgetown (District 12) 44.5 points) 7th - Bartica (District 7) (41 points) 8th - East Coast Demerara (District 4) (40.5 points) 9th - North West (District 1) 40 points 10th - Essequibo Coast/Pomeroon (District 2) 32.5 points 10th - New Amsterdam (District 15) 32.5 points 12th - East Bank Demerara (District 14) 31 points 13th - West Coast Berbice (District 5) 30 points 14th - Rupununi (District 9) 18 points 15th - Potaro/Siparuni (District 8) 15 points.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 26, 2016

Shomari Wiltshire has Olympics in sight

By Tamica Garnett LAST year the World Squash Federation (WSF) was once again denied in their bid to have the sport of squash added to the roster of the Summer Olympic.

Nonetheless the body continues to keep its hopes high and is now looking towards 2024.

Many squash players are looking forward to that historic year when the sport will be included though, and

When the time comes around there is no doubt that Shomari would merit his selection to the national team. At just 13 years old Shomari has already represented Guyana both regionally and internationally, not to mention several local titles he has under his belt.

Apart from being the Boys’ Under-13 Caribbean champion, Shomari is also the National Under-13, Under-15 and Under-17 squash champion.

Shomari Wiltshire

they will have the esteemed privilege of representing their country at the world’s most esteemed multisport event.

Here in Guyana local squash star Shomari Wiltshire, is among the world’s players anxiously awaiting that moment.

The junior Caribbean champion says that once squash makes it to the Olympics he’s hoping to do the same. In the interim he’s looking at the Commonwealth Games, the next edition of which is set for 2018 in Australia.

“I would hope to represent Guyana at the Commonwealth Games and possibly the Olympics if squash becomes an Olympic sport,” young Wiltshire says.

His Caribbean champion title won earlier this year was his second consecutive win at the annual tournament.

Shomari has also played in the St Vincent and the Grenadines Squash Open, as well as at the international Junior U.S. Open and the Junior Canadian Open. In the Junior Canadian Open in 2015 he finished sixth in the Under-13 category.

Shomari was encouraged to get into the sport after most of his family members were already into the sport – Shomari is the son of former Caribbean champion Garfield Wilshire and brother of fellow junior Caribbean champions, Akeila and Larissa Wiltshire.

He started out in the sport

in 2009 at just six years old.

In 2010 he started competing at the national level and in 2012 he became a part of the national junior team at the Caribbean competition.

“The enjoyment of sports motivates me to continue playing and participating even if it isn’t in a competition. Some of the most advantageous things that I have taken away from being a part of sports are: I get exercise and it is a form of recreation. I have also been able to travel to many different countries,” he said.

His inaugural performance on the regional scene impressed many, and saw his peers giving him the nickname ‘Shomwow’ because he just wowed the crowd.

Shomari has been a recurring component of the national junior team at the CASA ever since.

And last year, when the event was held in Barbados, he won his first individual Caribbean title. Next year Shomari will graduate to the next age level – the Under-15 – and already has his sights set of going for the title in this new category.

As a matter of fact Shomari is aspiring to hold a title in all of the age categories he passes through.

“My goal for the near future is to win every Caribbean squash title until the Under-19 level which is the final level for the junior tournament,” Shomari shared.

He attributes his success to all those who’ve been a part of his training and who helped him one way or another throughout the years.

“I would like to thank my coaches, especially national coach Carl Ince, my dad, Robert Fernandes, Nyron Joseph, my fitness trainer Kezqweyah Yisrael, and my massage therapist Cathy Paul, as well as my sisters, mother and other team members and their parents for their support,” Shomari said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 26, 2016

Khawaja hits ton as Australia take the lead in Adelaide

(REUTERS) - Usman Khawaja hit his country’s first century of the series and Peter Handscomb a half-century on debut as Australia reached 307 for six with a lead of 48 at end of the second day of the day-night third Test against South Africa yesterday.

Khawaja’s magnificent 285-ball 138 not out was the glue in Australia’s innings, the left-hander putting on 137 with Steve Smith until his captain was calamitously run-out and then 99 with Handscomb.

Sean Abbott (3-38), who took two wickets in the first hour, returned to dismiss Handscomb before Kagiso Rabada bowled another debutant, Nic Maddinson, for a duck and Vernon Philander removed Matt Wade for four.

Khawaja will resume with Mitchell Starc (16 not out) on day three, as the hosts look to extend their lead and put themselves in a commanding position to get the result they need to avoid a first-ever 3-0 series

sweep on home soil.

Now 29, Khawaja has been recalled and discarded with regularity since his debut in 2011 but was retained for Adelaide despite the clear-out that followed the humiliating innings and 80-run defeat in Hobart.

After opening in place of David Warner in the wake of South Africa’s declaration on 259-9 on Thursday, he negotiated a difficult opening hour yesterday before mixing fierce concentration with some typically elegant strokes.

He brought up his 50 with back-to-back fours and his fifth Test century with a 10th boundary cut through point, whipping off his helmet to take the applause of another big crowd at Adelaide Oval.

Smith, dropped earlier

by Hashim Amla, had departed for 59 just before his partner reached the milestone, tearing off for an optimistic single and left stranded as Khawaja stood his ground and Quinton de Kock removed the bails.

Handscomb, brought into the side on the back of a double-century for Victoria, proved a more than able partner, however, and any prospect of another Austra-

Australian batsman Usman Khawaja lian batting collapse quickly dissipated.

The 25-year-old survived a scare when he just dived back into the crease ahead of a direct hit from Temba Bavuma but opened the following over with two drives and a pull for three fours that got him to his fifty and gave Australia the

DRS in spotlight as NZ recover on rain-affected day (REUTERS) - The decision review system (DRS) was the major talking point at the end of a rain-shortened first day’s play in the second Test between New Zealand and Pakistan in Hamilton yesterday following the dismissal of the home side’s captain Kane Williamson.

New Zealand, put in to bat on a green wicket by Pakistan’s stand-in skipper Azhar Ali, were 77 for two when the umpires ended the day’s play just before 16:30hrs. local time (0330 GMT) after light rain had forced the players off before lunch.

Opening batsman Jeet Raval was 35 not out, while Ross Taylor, who will have eye surgery next week and will miss up to six weeks of action, was on 29 from 20 deliveries, having taken the attack to Pakistan’s fourpronged pace battery.

But it was the controversial dismissal of Williamson that proved the main talking point at Seddon Park after he was given out for 13 after a review.

New Zealand were 39 for one when the Pakistan fielders appealed for a catch by wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed, adamant Williamson had got an inside edge to a Sohail Khan delivery.

When the appeal was turned down Azhar asked for a review, and while none of the evidence appeared overly conclusive, with TV relays

suggesting the ball had hit his elbow, third umpire Ian Gould said he believed Williamson had got an inside edge and reversed the original decision.

The New Zealand captain looked bemused as he walked off and appeared to tell on-field umpire Simon Fry he had not hit the ball.

New Zealand batting coach Craig McMillan said Williamson was so convinced he had not hit the ball that had he initially been given out, he would have reviewed the decision.

“He didn’t think that he’d hit it,” McMillan told reporters. “He was going to review it. But it was one of those tough ones that we accept.”

Apart from an impressive opening spell from Mohammad Amir, the visitors looked to have squandered the best of yesterday’s bowler-friendly conditions.

The first over from Amir saw Raval nick through the slips for a boundary, beaten outside off stump twice, dropped by Sami Aslam at first slip and produced a leading edge for a lucky single before Tom Latham was caught by Aslam for a golden duck.

Amir had figures of one for 15 from six overs, though he was not supported by his fellow pace bowlers, who did not get the same movement and bowled either too short or too full.

McMillan, however, said the rain and the fact the covers would force the pitch to sweat overnight would ensure there were still issues for his side to overcome when the second day begins 30 minutes early today.

“We know we’re just going to have to be as precise tomorrow morning as we were today,” he said.

“That’s the challenge for us.”

SCOREBOARD NEW ZEALAND1st innings J. Raval not out

35 T. Latham c Aslam b Amir

0 K. Williamson c S. Ahmed b So. Khan 13 R. Taylor not out

29 Extras:

0 Total: (for 2 wickets, 21 overs) 77 Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-39.

Bowling: M. Amir 6-2-15-1, So. Khan 7-1-35–1, I. Khan 7-119-0, W. Riaz 1-0-8-0.

lead.

It was the outstanding Abbott who ended Handscomb’s maiden Test innings by bowling the Victorian through the gate an hour into the night session.

The 29-year-old, who came into the side in the second Test for the injured Dale Steyn and took 6-77, started the day with a brilliant exhibition of disciplined seam bowling, finishing with figures of 2-7 and six maidens in his first 10-over spell.

Australia resumed on 14-0 but debutant Matt Renshaw was only able to add two runs to his overnight tally before he was brilliantly caught for 10 at third slip by Dean Elgar.

That brought to the crease Warner, who was unable to open as usual on Thursday after Proteas

skipper Faf du Plessis’s calculated declaration caught him off the field having treatment on his shoulder.

Warner failed to thrive at number three and was

dismissed for 11 when he got an edge off an Abbott delivery that was seaming away from him with Elgar once again snaffling the catch in the cordon.

SCOREBOARD

SOUTH AFRICA 1st innings 259 for 9 decl (F. du Plessis 118 n.o.; J. Hazlewood 4-68) AUSTRALIA 1st innings (o/n 14-0) U. Khawaja not out

138 M. Renshaw c Elgar b Abbott

10 D. Warner c Elgar b Abbott

11 S. Smith run-out

59 P. Handscomb b Abbott

54 N. Maddinson b Rabada

0 M. Wade c de Kock b Philander

4 M. Starc not out

16 Extras: (b-3, lb-7, nb-3, w-2)

15 Total: (for 6 wickets, 102 overs) 307 Fall of wickets: 1-19, 2-37, 3-174, 4-273, 5-277, 6-283.

Bowling: V. Philander 24-4-82-1 (nb-3), K. Abbott 25-11-38-3, K. Rabada 20-3-61-1 (w-2), T. Shamsi 24-4- 79-0, J. Duminy 6-0-25-0, D. Elgar 2-0-11-0, T. Bavuma 1-0-1–0.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 26, 2016

DMW lights up National Gymnasium on night two THE voluminous Thursday evening crowd at the National Gymnasium was given much to cheer for when local champs, the Pepsi Hikers, took on Queen’s Park of Trinidad and Tobago in the men’s division of the Diamond Mineral Water (DMW) Indoor Hockey Festival.

The highly anticipated feature match of the evening lived up to its billing as both teams began their quest for victory at a blistering pace.

Queen’s Park captain Daren Cowie changed the game in the 5th minute with an opening goal to put his side up by one, but Hikers captain Robert France responded in the 7th minute through a rebound off goalkeeper Reiza Hussein.

This exchange signalled the true nature of the match and Queen’s Park striker Jordan Vieira brought the crowd to its feet yet again with a deft spin to evade one defender, weave by another and slot home his shot in the

far corner of the goal.

The Hikers, however, refused to fade and France netted his second in as many

ahead with a pair of goals for Queen’s Park in the 13th and 14th minute respectively, before Randy Hope pulled the

ford released one of his trademark lightning bolt penalty corner flicks into the Queen’s Park net in the 24th minute

Queen’s Park Jordan Vieira scores on night two of the Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey Festival. minutes when he deflected a Jamarj Assanah pass from the left into the open goal behind the beaten Hussein in goal.

Vi e i r a a n d D o m i n i c Young managed to surge

Hikers back within one from a penalty corner strike three minutes before halftime.

The second half produced fewer goals but even more excitement, as Aroydy Bran-

to tie the game for the third time at 4.

Queen’s Park’s Jordan Vieira stunned the local crowd by completing his hat-trick through a penalty

corner in the 33rd minute to give his side what was surely expected to be the winning goal before Branford drew level again just seconds from the final buzzer to see the game end at 5-5.

In the opening fixture of the night, the Pizza Hut GCC ladies’ long-standing win streak against the Woodpecker Hikers, spanning several years, came to an end as the Hikers managed to tie the game at 2, in the final minute through guest player Allana Lewis.

Canadian ladies, the Toronto Toros, cruised to an easy 6-0 victory over Old Fort with Kaelen Watson and Jaslan Stirling scoring doubles and Angela Lancaster and Danica Jayme adding one each.

The Toros seemed unsettled in the opening minutes despite having the edge on Old Fort in possession, but as the match progressed they tightened their grip and rallied off five unanswered second half goals after a first-

half that only produced one.

Bounty GCC men scored three early goals in their clash against Carib Hockey Club of Trinidad.

The Bourda side seemed to throttle back a bit too sharply as Carib managed two goals to reduce the deficit to one before GCC stepped up their game with two more late goals for the 5-2 win.

Kevin Spencer was the leading marksman for GCC scoring 4 of their 5 goals while Kareem McKenzie scored the 5th. Dylan Francis and Kern Ramsammy were the goalscorers for Carib.

The two Carib veteran division matches of the evening saw Queen’s Park destroy Antonio’s Hikers by 5-1 and the Bal-Wash-ers (comprising players from Baltimore and Washington in the USA) edging past Carib HC by 5-3.

Matches continue throughout the weekend with the finals being played from 16:00hrs tomorrow.

ICC disappointed at du Plessis ball-tampering appeal RSTC horse race meet postponed (REUTERS) - The International Cricket Council (ICC) have expressed disappointment at South Africa captain Faf du Plessis’s decision to lodge an appeal after he was found guilty of a ball-tampering in the second Test against Australia. du Plessis, who was fined his entire fee for the match in Hobart, was cleared to play in the third Test in Adelaide and scored a defiant century on Thursday’s opening day after walking to the wicket to a chorus of derision from the crowd.

Cricket South Africa (CA) said in a statement on Thursday he would appeal the decision, which

prompted the ICC to respond before the second day’s play in Adelaide.

“The ICC is disappointed that Faf du Plessis has cho-

Faf du Plessis sen not to accept the findings of Match Referee Andy Pycroft and will instead exercise his right to appeal,” the world governing body said

in a statement.

“A Judicial Commissioner will now be appointed to hear the appeal at the earliest opportunity.”

The 32-year-old, standing in for injured regular captain AB de Villiers, was charged after television footage showed him applying saliva to the ball while sucking on a sweet.

The ICC said yesterday the action breached the rules of cricket in relation to applying a foreign substance to the ball.

“The ICC understands that to include, but is not limited to, sunscreen, lip ice and residue from sweets,” it said in the statement.

“The ICC does not wish to prevent players from using these substances for legitimate purposes. However, any deliberate attempt to apply such substances to the ball, as was the case here, will not be acceptable.” du Plessis had earlier denied cheating and said he had been made a “scapegoat”.

“I still completely disagree with (the verdict). I felt like I’ve done nothing wrong,” he said before the third Test.

“It’s not like I was trying to cheat or anything, I was shining the ball. It’s something that all cricketers do.”

CBIS Inter-Agency Softball cricket competition tomorrow THE seventh Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association’s (BCCDA) Corporate Business in Sports (CBIS) Inter-Agency Softball cricket competition and fun day has been confirmed for tomorrow at the Rose Hall Community Centre in Canje.

The one-day event was originally scheduled for last Saturday but was cancelled due to the inclement weath-

er which had left the venue unplayable.

According to information received, the original fixture remains the same.

BBCI will take on Massy Industries followed by Oldendorff Carriers versus Hand-in-Hand.

Republic Bank, New Amsterdam Branch will then clash with Ansa M c A L Tr a d i n g , w h i l e Massy Distributors will match skills with Permaul

Trading in the final firstround encounter.

Republic Bank Rosignol Branch have drawn the bye.

However, they will play the first match in the next round.

Meanwhile, the winning team with the highest score in the first round will draw the bye to the second. If two or more teams have the same score then the team that lost the least wickets will advance.

The winning team is expected to pocket $40 000.

Second-placers will take home $20 000 while thirdand fourth-place finishers will receive $10 000 and $5 000 respectively.

All the funds raised from the project will go towards charity.

The defending champions are the Nand Persaud Group of Companies.

However, they will not be participating this year.

HORSES, who were down to compete in the (RSTC) Rising Sun Turf Club/Alliance for Change horse race meet, which was scheduled to run off tomorrow at the Club’s Arima Park, Rising Sun, West Coast, Berbice entity, will have to wait in their paddocks a bit longer as the meet has been postponed until further notice.

According to information received, the one-day event is beyond the control of the organisers.

However, it is also confirmed that the eight-race card will remain the same whenever the race meet is staged.

The feature event will

be for animals classified D and Lower. The race is a 1400-metre affair, with the winning stable set to be $800 000 richer.

Other events on the programme are: D and Lower, G Class and Lower, H3 and Lower. There is also a race for three-yearold West Indies-bred maidens one year and Lower open animals, Guyana-bred two-year-olds, J Class, L Class, while there is a second L Class event which will involve maiden horses.

Interested persons can contact Fazal Habibulla at Chester Fry Bush Lot, West Coast, Berbice on 232-0232 or 657-7010 for further information.

Santos Under-17 team to take on Den Amstel in three-match tourney AS part of his mandate in preparing his charges to defend their Caribbean Children Charity Shield Soccer Classic title next year, coach of the Santos Football Club Under-17 team, Lloyd Smith, has organised a three-match tournament against Den Amstel Under-17 team.

The tournament kicks off tonight from 20:00hrs

at the Georgetown Football Club ground.

According to Smith, the tournament will move to the Den Amstel ground for game two on December 3.

The tournament is sponsored by Payless Variety Store and Star Party Rentals.

37

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 26, 2016

3rd Annual Smalta Girls schools football tournament kicks off today

By Stephan Sookram

FOOTBALL action at the Pee Wee level is not taking a break with the 3rd annual Smalta Girls schools tournament set to kick off today at the Ministry of Education Ground.

Starting at 10:00hrs today, St Pius will take on St Agnes while St Gabriel’s will have to dig deep if they are to overcome South Ruimveldt Primary.

From 10:45hrs, Stella Maris will go toe-to-toe with Mae’s Primary while F.E. Pollard do battle with St Angela’s. Tucville will oppose St Margaret’s from 11:30hrs on field one while across the ground North Georgetown will face Smith Memorial.

Petra Organisation co-director Troy Mendonca (L) poses with sponsors’ representatives (L-R) Joy Gravesande, Sean Abel and Nicholas Fraser, and young participants yesterday at the National Library

India’s Kohli gives thumbs-up to DRS

By Amlan Chakraborty MOHALI, India (Reuters) - India Test captain Virat Kohli gave a thumbs-up to the Decision Review System (DRS) yesterday, signalling cricket’s financial powerhouse might permanently embrace the technology aimed at curbing umpiring errors.

It took a lot of cajoling to convince India, a staunch DRS opponent, after their bitter 2008 initiation in Sri Lanka to use the technology on a trial basis in the current five-Test series against England.

Kohli did not get it always right in the first two Tests but the India captain sounded pretty much a convert on the eve of the third match against England.

“I’m pretty happy with it ... I think it is pretty fair for the game,” Kohli told reporters at the Punjab Cricket Association stadium yesterday.

The Indian board has been particularly suspicious of the ball-tracking technology but agreed to try it following a presen-

tation by officials from the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Kohli appreciated how the ball-tracking technology improved leg-before decisions without challenging the authority of the on-field umpires. “... They (umpires) are the people given the job to make decisions and their call is respected even in the DRS. I think that’s pretty fair,”

India captain Virat Kohli Kohli said.

“If it is really, really off target, then DRS corrects it but if it is marginal, then you got to respect the umpire’s call. That’s all it does.

“I think it clarifies the decision that is made on the field. I think that’s absolutely fine.”

The India players are

yet to master the nuances of the technology.

“We as a team have only played two Test matches with DRS and I can’t analyse the progress in a span of eight days. It is a pretty fair thing to have happened and we are going to get better with using it, for sure,” Kohli said.

An excellent lesson was how England teenager Haseem Hameed, fielding at short leg, convinced skipper Alastair Cook to review a not-out decision and get India opener Lokesh Rahul caught behind in the second innings of the second Test in Visakhapatnam.

“Obviously, the wicketkeeper and the bowler are the main people involved, who have the best sight of where the ball hit the pad or if they heard a sound of the bat,” Kohli said.

“The close-in fielders as well play a massive role as well, as you saw with KL’s (Rahul) dismissal. It was Hameed who actually convinced the bowler that he heard something which someone else might not have.”

West Ruimveldt will take on Winfer Gardens from 12:15hrs while St Stephen’s battle Redeemer.

During the tournament launch earlier this week, co-Director of Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca, lauded the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) for its intention to be integrally involved in the tournament since it fits into their plans to develop the sport from the grassroots level.

He urged that parents continue to support their children, especially the girls in the sport.

Ansa McAl’s representative Sean Abel said that having accepted the Platinum sponsor tag since the

tournament’s inception, his company is happy to be involved once more.

Ministry of Public Health personnel Joy Gravesande congratulated the participants, reminding them that all of them are winners while and Head of Physical Education within the Ministry of Education Nicholas Fraser wished the tournament the great success.

The teams will be divided into four groups of four and will be played on a round-robin basis with the top two finishers from each group advancing to the knockout phase.

All matches will be played at the Ministry of Education ground.

Berbice Educational Institute win NA/Canje Zone

BERBICE Educational Institute (BEI) held their nerves to record a tense two-wicket victory over

overs after they were inserted

by BEI. Nicholas Haywood was the only batsman to offer any

Andrew Southwell and Isiah Anderson came together with the team precariously placed at 68-8, and batted sensibly,

The victorious Berbice Educational Institute cricket team New Amsterdam Secondary School (NASS) in the New Amsterdam/Canje zone final of the 2016 edition of the Guyana Cricket Board, National Secondary Schools Cricket League.

The final, which was played recently at Cumberland ground, saw NASS bundle out for a mere 94 runs in just 27

resistance, with a top score of 24. Pacer Geevan Shultzs was the pick of the bowlers for BEI, with 3-15 off six overs. Randy Ramnauth also had a 3-wicket haul to finish with 3-16.

BEI in response required a match-winning ninth-wicket partnership of 20 to get them across the line in the 27th over.

with Southwell ending unbeaten on 24.

Haywood (2-21) and Steffon Peters (2-19) were the best bowlers in a losing effort.

BEI now join an elite group of Zone winners and will be eagerly awaiting the resumption of the League, which is scheduled for early January 2017.

T&T the site for Caribbean Gold Cup playoff ATO Boldon Stadium in Couva, Trinidad & Tobago, has been named as the site for a threeteam Caribbean playoff that will determine the region’s representative to face the fifth-place team from Central America for the last berth in the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Host Trinidad & Tobago, Haiti and Suriname

will play each other once from January 4-8, 2017, with the group winner keeping alive their Gold Cup hopes.

The sides were the three best second-place finishers in their respective 2016/17 Scotiabank CFU Men’s Caribbean Cup third-round groups.

Trinidad & Tobago is aiming for its 10th Gold

Cup appearance and Haiti its seventh, while Suriname has never qualified for the biennial event.

Tw o y e a r s a g o , French Guiana represented the Caribbean in a two-game playoff against Honduras, falling 4-3 on aggregate, after winning the first leg at home, 3-1.(Sportsmax.com)

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 26, 2016

Zimbabwe into Tri-Nations final after rain wipes out Windies

BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe (CMC) – West Indies were dumped from the Tri-Nations Series here yesterday after rain, combined with careless cricket, condemned them to a shocking five-run loss to Zimbabwe under Duckworth/ Lewis in a must-win contest.

Chasing a modest 219 at Queens Sports Club for a place in Sunday’s final against Sri Lanka, West Indies slumped to 93 for five in the 23rd over, as they failed to cope with left-arm spinners Sean Williams (2-18) and Tendai Chisoro (2-23).

When the rains finally arrived midway the 28th over, West Indies were 124 for five but unfortunately short of the 130 runs required under the Duckworth/Lewis system.

Left-hander Jonathan Carter was unbeaten on 43 and captain Jason Holder, 22, while opener Kraigg Brathwaite had chipped in with 24 earlier.

The Caribbean side’s sloppiness had earlier cost them dearly when they allowed the hosts to recover from 127 for eight in the 37th over, to reach 218 for eight off their allotted 49 overs.

Off-spinner Ashley Nurse claimed three for 27 in a brilliant 10-over spell and leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo picked up three for 30 in his first game, to wreck the innings after Zimbabwe opted to bat.

But Sikandar Raza produced a superb unbeaten 76 and found an ally in Chisoro, who struck a career-best 42 not out as they

defied the Windies in a fabulous, record 91-run, unbroken stand for the ninth wicket.

Hamilton Masakadza, who made 20, joined the pair as the only three batsmen to get into the 20s.

The result meant Zimbabwe finished second in the standings on eight points, just one ahead

Leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo returns figures of three for 30

of the Windies who will rue the narrow results in their two last outings when they tied with the Zimbabweans last Saturday and then lost by one run to Sri Lanka four days later.

West Indies were on top from as early as the fourth over when Chamu Chibhabha, in his 100th One-Day International, played across a full-length delivery from seamer Holder and was comprehensively bowled for nine with the score on 18.

Masakadza and opener Brian Chari (19) put on 30 for the second wicket to steady the innings but the promising stand was broken in the first over fol-

lowing a near hour-long break for rain when Bishoo bowled Masakadza with a Yorker-length delivery.

Nurse and Bishoo then scythed through the innings accounting for the next five wickets to fall for 30 runs, as Zimbabwe tumbled to 89 for seven in the 26th over.

Under pressure, Sikandar anchored the first of two key stands to give Zimbabwe hope, putting on 38 for the eighth wicket with Donald Tiripano who made 15.

When Tiripano top-edged a short one from Holder to wicketkeeper Shai Hope in the 37th over, West Indies would have fancied their chances of bundling Zimbabwe out for under 150 but Chisoro arrived to dash such hopes.

Sikander faced 103 deliveries and counted three fours while the left-handed Chisoro, in only his 11th ODI, delivered a stinging cameo off just 35 balls with two fours and two sixes, in a partnership which was the country’s highest for the ninth wicket in ODIs. With Nurse and Bishoo bowled out, Zimbabwe cashed in on the Windies seamers, to pummel 75 runs from the last ten overs.

Still confident of chasing their smallest target of the tournament, West Indies were set back in the opening over when out-of-form Johnson Charles chipped a simple return catch to Chisoro off the first ball he

faced, to depart with just one run on the board.

His opening partner Evin Lewis, a century-maker in the last game against Sri Lanka, followed in the next over lbw to Chisoro for nine, playing back, and when Shai Hope (14) edged a drive at a wide delivery from Williams to Masakadza at slip, West Indies were stumbling badly at 35 for three in the 10th over.

Carter and Brathwaite combined in a 30-run, fourth-wicket partnership which seemed to put West Indies run-chase back on track.

While Carter faced 56 balls and counted four boundaries, Brathwaite faced 45 deliveries and struck two fours in a measured stand.

It ended disastrously, however, when Craig Ervine at cover conjured up a direct hit at the striker’s end to find Brathwaite well short of his ground as the batsman gambled on a quick single with Carter in the 18th over.

Carter, let off on 32 by wicketkeeper Peter Moor of Williams in the 23rd over, kept the scoreboard ticking over with boundaries off leg-spinner Graeme Cremer and Sikander’s off-spin, but Rovman Powell struggled to get going and eventually holed out in the deep off Williams for six at 93 for five.

Understandably, Holder entered with a sense of urgency and gathered three boundaries off seamer Chris Mpofu’s sec-

Pride, Hurricanes frustrated by rain on opening day

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Leaders Barbados Pride and Leeward Islands Hurricanes were left frustrated after rain forced the abandonment of the opening day of their third-round

contests in the Regional Four-Day Championship yesterday.

Pride had been scheduled to square off with hosts Jamaica Scorpions at Sabina Park in Kingston while

Hurricanes were set to battle Trinidad & Tobago Red Force at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, but wet conditions at both venues, caused by heavy rain, ruled out play without a ball bowled.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday November 26, 2016) 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) Sri Lanka & Zimbabwe (2) Bulawayo Today’s Quiz: (1) Who scored most runs in the preliminary round of the current Tri-Nations ODI series?

(2) Who took most wickets in the preliminary round of the Tri-Nations ODI series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Both Pride and Hurricanes pulled off resounding wins in the last round to propel themselves to the top of the table.

While Pride hammered Red Force by 292 runs at Queen’s Park Oval last week, Hurricanes pulled off a record run chase to beat two-time reigning champions Guyana Jaguars by four wickets.

Pride are currently top of the standings on 24.4 points while Hurricanes are slightly behind on 24.2.

Jaguars, third on 24 points, take on Windward Islands Volcanoes starting at the Darren Sammy National Stadium in Gros Islet today.

More rain has been forecast for today’s second day in Kingston and Port of Spain.

ond over which leaked 12 runs before clearing the ropes back overhead in the bowler’s next over.

But West Indies could only

garner seven runs off the last nine deliveries of the game before rain shattered their hopes of a berth in the championship contest.

SCOREBOARD

ZIMBABWE innings B. Chari b Bishoo 19 C. Chibhabha b Holder 9 H. Masakadza b Bishoo 20 C. Ervine lbw b Nurse 7 Sikandar Raza not out 76 S. Williams c wkp. Hope b Nurse 0 P. Moor b Nurse 13 G. Cremer b Bishoo 1 D. Tiripano c wkp. Hope b Holder 15 T. Chisoro not out

42 Extras: (lb-4, w-9, nb-3) 16 Total: (8 wkts, 49 overs) 218 Fall of wickets: 1-18, 2-48, 3-59, 4-63, 5-63, 6-86, 7-89, 8-127.

Bowling: Cummins 10-1-40-0 (w-3, nb-3), Holder 10-0-58-2 (w-2), Bishoo 10-1-30-3 (w-1), Nurse 10-0-27-3, Brathwaite 8-0-52-0 (w-2), Carter 1-0-7-0 (w-1).

WEST INDIES innings E Lewis lbw b Chisoro 9 J Charles c & b Chisoro 0 K Brathwaite run-out 24 S Hope c Masakadza b Williams 14 J Carter not out 43 R Powell c Ervine b Williams 6 *J Holder not out 22 Extras (b4, lb1, w1) 6 Total: (5 wkts, 27.3 overs) 124 Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-12, 3-35, 4-70, 5-93.

Bowling: Chisoro 6-1-23-2, Sikandar Raza 6-1-26-0, Williams 7-1-18-2, Cremer 5.3-0-28-0, Mpofu 3-0-24-0.

Points: Zimbabwe 4, West Indies 0.

Lomachenko hopes to live up to Ali comparisons WBO super feather weight champion Vasyl Lomachenko will hope to live up to comparisons made to a younger Mohammad Ali when he enters the ring against Jamaican Nicholas ‘Axeman’ Walters tonight Lomachenko is widely regarded as one of the best pound for pound boxers in the world by many pundits.

In fact the Ukrainian’s record could place him among the greatest amateur boxers in history, after going 396-1 in the unpaid ranks, winning two Olympic gold medals for Ukraine (2008 and 2012) and two world amateur championships (2009 and 2011).

Even so living up to comparisons to Ali made by Top Rank CEO Bob Arum, who is about to stage his 2000th fight, are no easy feat.

“It will give me another motivation because a lot of people may look at that or

Ukrain’s Vasyl Lomachenko hear that and think that maybe it’s not true,” Lomachenko said.

“When I hear that it gives me a lot of motivation to make me work harder in my training to prove that what Bob is saying. I don’t have the chance to make any mistakes. I have to prove that Bob is right.”

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 26, 2016

District Six make successful defence of championship title … Hicks, Teixeira are champion cyclists

By Mike DaSilva DISTRICT SIX (Corentyne) made a successful defence of the Ministry of Education/Guyana Teachers Union’s National Cycling Championship title they won last year, through outstanding performances from Andrew Hicks and Shenika Teixeira yesterday when the road race aspect of the championship was held.

Hicks, a seasoned national cyclist, made light work of the opposition in the Boys’ Open 40K road race, while Teixeira was unchallenged in winning the Girls’ Open 25K race.

The win for Hicks and Teixeira gave District Six a massive 20 points and when added to the sev-

en points of third-place finisher Curtis Dey for the District Six, the lead was unattainable for District 10 (Upper Damerara/Kwakwani) who, like last year, had to settle for second.

Apart from winning yesterday’s road race, Hicks, who is in tremendous form at the moment, having just completed the 2016 Guyana Cycling Federation-approved cycling season, also won the 1 000, 2 000, 3 000 and 5 000-metre track races which were staged around the inner circuit of the National Park on Tuesday.

Therefore, he is undoubtedly the Champion cyclist for the 56th annual event.

Last year, Hicks was also crowned Champion cyclist after winning the 1

Boys 40km winner, Andrew Hicks and Girls’ 25km winner Shenika Teixeira display their medals at the presentation ceremony last night at the Providence Stadium

000, 3 000 and 5 000-metre races as well as the `Devil Takes the Hindmost event and placed third in the 40K road race which was won by Akeem Agard.

Like Hicks, Teixeira who won yesterday’s 25K road race will undoubtedly be crowned Champion female cyclist after winning the Girls’ open 1500, 2 000 and 3 000-metre track races on Tuesday also. The four victories earned the District 40 valuable points.

According to Hicks, after being sent on their way from outside the Ocean View International Hotel yesterday morning for the road race, everyone was fighting for position while he sat calmly in the midst of the bunch biding his time to make a move.

As the bunch passed through Sparendaam, he jumped the pack and, as no one responded, he just

powered away at a moderate pace. But after turning back at Belfield, East Coast Demerara, he changed gears and built up his pace and crossed the finish line more than one minute ahead of the second-place finisher Adelie Hodge of District 11 (North Georgetown).

Dey was a short distance away in third, then came District 10’s Jernel Yearwood.

In the Girls’ event, the race went off at a snail’s pace judging from national standards and while on the upward journey to the turnback point at Strathspey, pre-race favourite Whitney Poyer (District Six) fell off her cycle and failed to reconnect to the leading group that was headed by Teixeira.

She failed to finish among the top four finishers.

She, however, secured a valuable five points in finishing fourth overall.

Windies Women clinch World Cup Sacking hard to swallow – Stephen Hart automatic spot after India hit with penalty SACKED Trinidad and Tobago head coach Stephen Hart has expressed disappointment at being denied the opportunity to turn the team’s fortunes around in its quest to qualify for the 2018 FIFA

West Indies Women have gained automatic qualification for next year’s 50-overs World Cup

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) – West Indies Women were breathing a huge sigh of relief after earning automatic qualification for next year’s ICC 50-overs World Cup in England.

Their bid to become one of the four automatic qualifiers had been left in tatters following a humbling 3-0 whitewash to India Women earlier this month, which left them fourth in the ICC Women’s Championship after their full complement of 21 games.

The top four in the Championship gain automatic qualification.

However, they were in danger of being overtaken

by India Women who were fifth on 19 points with three games remaining, and needing to win just two of their

remaining games to clinch the fourth automatic World Cup berth.

These remaining games were expected to be played against bitter political rivals Pakistan Women by October 31 but the games were never scheduled.

The International Cricket Council subsequently ruled this week that India Women had “forfeited each of the three matches it was due to play against Pakistan in Round 6 of the ICC Women’s Championship, and that the associated points should be awarded to Pakistan.”

“In accordance with the ICC Women’s Championship playing conditions, India shall be considered to have scored 0 runs in each of the 50 overs in each of the three matches and that its net run rate shall be adjusted accord-

ingly,” the ICC said.

“The Technical Committee was sensitive to the current state of relations between the nations of India and Pakistan, but concluded that the BCCI (India Cricket Board) had not been able to establish ‘acceptable reasons’ for not participating in this series.”

Australia Women won the Women’s Championship with 36 points with England Women second on 29 and New Zealand Women third on 26.

We s t I n d i e s Wo m e n clinched fourth place with 22 points, avoiding the tricky 10-team playoff in Sri Lanka next February which will determine the final four spots at the World Cup. The showpiece bowls off from June 26 to July 23 next year.

you feel you can turn things around, that is always the challenge you love and so we’ve had some bad results and the performances were sporadic but you have two home games coming

Sacked T&T Head Coach Stephen Hart World Cup in Russia.

Speaking with Sportsmax.tv Friday, Hart said the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) wanted to go in a different direction.

Their decision, he said, has denied him the chance to transform the team’s fortunes. Trinidad and Tobago has World Cup qualifying games coming in next March against Panama and Mexico, and Hart said he would have relished the chance to return the team to winning ways following consecutive losses in the hexagonal round in early November.

“That’s kind of hard (to swallow). As a coach

up in March and I was kind of looking forward to that opportunity but it was not to be,” said a disappointed Hart.

Hart was sacked following a meeting of the e x e c u t i v e o f T T FA o n Thursday. Sportsmax.tv was told that the decision was made following a meeting last more than two hours after which the TTFA released the following statement: “The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association senior men’s team coach Stephen Hart has agreed to part ways with immediate effect. This follows a meeting this afternoon between Mr Hart and member

TTFA Board of Directors.

President of the TTFA Mr. David John Williams on behalf of the TTFA thanks Mr. Hart for his services for the past three years and wishes him every success.

Trinidad and Tobago lost its first two games in the final Hexagonal Round. The Caribbean team went down 2-0 to Costa Rica at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on November 11 before losing 3-1 to Honduras at the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula on November 15.

The results mean T&T are fifth in the six-team round with only the United States beneath them. Now just days after the USA fired their head coach and technical director Jurgen Klinsmann, the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation have decided to follow suit.

Hart said he is not sure of what he will do next.

“I will take some time to digest all of this,”he told Sportsmax. tv. “A lot of time and energy was put into this project.

Obviously, we were going through a challenging period and the association felt that change was needed so I will take my time and see what happens.”

District Six make onSeepagestory39 successful defence of championship title … Hicks, Teixeira are champion cyclists

Linden retain National Schools championships … Skeete, Jordan go down in the record books

The Upper Demerara/Kwakwani District 10 team receiving their trophy last night from Digicel Events and Sponsorship Manager, Louanna Abrams

By Tamica Garnett PERFORMANCES like Deshanna Skeete’s record-breaking and the takedown of Kenisha Phillips helped orchestrate Upper Demerara/Kwakwani’s win of the athletics competition, and ultimately put together a successful defence of their title, as the overall

champions of the National Schools Cycling, Swimming and Track & Field Championships concluded last evening at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

After triumphing over Phillips in the 200m on Thursday, Skeete continued to prove to be more than 15-year-old Phillips could handle this year. Skeete fin-

District 10’s Deshanna Skeete making her way to a win in the girls’ under 16 200m in record time.

ished the Girls’ Under-16 quarter mile in 57.7 seconds, leaving an astonished Phillips to come in with a time of 57.9 seconds. Kissana Glen was third in 1:03.7s.

In another surprising upset of the day, District 11’s Samuel Lynch beat Boys’ Under-18 sprint double champion Daniel Williams in the 400m. Just outside of the standing 49.9 seconds record, Lynch ran 50.7 seconds for the win over Williams, who clocked 51.5 seconds.

Meanwhile, Skeete was not the only one to etch his name in the record books yesterday, Corentyne (District 6) Boys’ Under-18 high-jumper Samuel Jordan set the new high jump record at 191cm, obliterating the 184cm record that Parish Cadogan set in 2010.

Jordan was not the only one making it over the 184mark. Williams who finished in second place also cleared 191cm while Tortque Boyce cleared 188cm.

The District 10 camp See page 33

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Walters, Lomachenko make fight weight U N D E F E AT E D f o r m e r WBA lightweight champion Nicholas Walters and reinging WBO super featherweight champion Vasyl Lomachenko both easily made weight ahead of today’s showdown at The Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas.

Wa l t e r s w e i g h e d i n at 129.5 pounds, slightly lighter than Lomachenko who tipped the scales at the weight limit of 130 pounds.

The amount for Walters was identical to his last fight almost a year ago, when he battled to a draw with American Jason Sosa.

The 28-year-old Lomachenko, however, also came in heavier on the contract scale as reports indicate the Ukrainian will earn US$1 million for match-up, while the 30-year-old Walters will earn US$300,000 for the fight.

Nicholas Walters and Vasyl Lomachenko will step into the ring tonight Making the weight was also good news for the Jamaican who last year lost his title at the scales after failing to make the WBA featherweight title limit

of 126 pounds. Walters weighed in at 127 pounds and lost the crown ahead of a bout with Colombian fighter Miguel Marriaga.

(Sportsmax.com) SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2016