Guyana chronicle e paper 28 05 2017

SEE INSIDE

Gavin wants to contribute to the preservation of Guyanese culture through his music

I wanted to be a

Guyanese rock musician – Gavin Mendonca

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Rush for duplexes Performing with “Feed the Flames” band at the Skyy Rock Festival in Trinidad last month

No. 104926

SUNDAY MAY 28, 2017

Price: $140

(VAT Inclusive)

– as persons reconsider their housing applications

Page 3

The line at the CH&PA’s booth at the “Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond” exposition Perseverance, East Bank Demerara (Delano Williams photo)

Couple busted Growing interest with guns, in ‘going green’ ammo, cocaine Page 9

– farmers call for greater promotion of agriculture

Page 123

Housing expo contractors warned against overpricing Page 3

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

Mabaruma generator down – township without power for two weeks

By Alva Solomon RESIDENTS of the town of Mabaruma have expressed frustration at the regional authorities since the town has been without power for the past two weeks.

Reports from the Region One township are that the generator at the powerhouse

became unserviceable two weekends ago, but residents have been left in the dark regarding the situation. According to reports the operations at the power station at the town ground to a halt suddenly and it was later revealed that the operations staff was not servicing the machine.

Later checks were made

and technicians discovered that the bearings within the generator have been damaged beyond repair. The damaged parts have since been dispatched to the city but persons told the Guyana Chronicle that the situation left much to be desired.

It was noted that the authorities have said nothing much on the issue, with the

exception that the town and its connecting communities will be without power until further notice.

As the situation remains grim, persons have resorted to operating their small generating sets, while those without have been in the dark.

Members of the business community have since ex-

pressed disgust at the situation, noting that perishables, including frozen foods have been dumped as a result of the situation.

Mabaruma has experienced power woes on many occasions in the past. In 2012, a new P750E5 generator set, valued at $18.03M, was dispatched and later setup at the town following years of power issues.

Last year the government announced that a mega-solar farm was on the cards for the

Region One town. As part of its green agenda and the 2017 national budget, a sum of $264M was announced for the ambitious large-scale solar farm.

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, told the National Assembly during his budget presentation in November that when operational, the 400-kilowatt solar farm would afford an additional 17 hours of electricity to the 3,000 residents of Mabaruma.

Our culture and people, our greatest assets – Trotman tells Region Six Independence celebration GUYANA’S people and their culture are the greatest assets of the nation, says Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, as he joined Region Six in celebrating the country’s 51st Independence anniversary on Thursday.

“Tonight (Thursday) cultural performances must not only cause us to applaud the dances and stomp our feet at the music played, but they must attain deep within our psyche as we ponder the question: What is Guyana?

Who am I as a Guyanese and what is my contribution to building the State that we know as Guyana and how can I work with others in doing so?” Trotman told the

Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, addressing the Region Six gathering

gathering at the celebration themed: “Unity in diversity, in a Green Economy”.

He said there will be dif-

ficult times in achieving the government’s agenda for a good life for all Guyanese, and that will require difficult

and necessary decisions.

Minister Trotman also told the residents that their cooperation with the government will help guarantee the development of their community, especially with the use of cohesion in thought and action.

It was highlighted that Independence is a display of memories from great leaders such as the late Presidents Cheddi Jagan, and Forbes Burnham, who fought for the freedom of the country and its people.

Regional Chairman, David Armogan, said there have been many developments within the region that are beneficial to residents, and expressed hope that there

Region Six Chairman, David Armogan, also spoke at the flag-raising ceremony

would be continued developments, especially since there is a struggle in regaining the sugar industry’s viability in the region.

The regional chairman noted that provision must be made in providing employment to those who were involved in the sugar industry.

Mayor of New Am-

sterdam, Kurt Wynter was among other government officials who attended the flag-raising ceremony.

The other administrative regions also celebrated the country’s Independence on Thursday evening, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

Rush for duplexes

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

– as persons reconsider their applications

By Navendra Seoraj DUPLEXES seem to be “catching the eyes” of Guyanese who are turning out in their hundreds to participate in the “Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond” exposition, being held at Perseverance on the East Bank of Demerara.

The talk among persons at the exposition is focused on the duplex houses that are fairly new to the local market.

A duplex house is de-

fined as a dwelling having apartments with separate entrances for two households. This includes two-storey houses having a complete apartment on each floor and also side-by-side apartments on a single lot that share a common wall.

The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) has six duplexes and two single units of about 600 to 800 sq. ft. on display.

Persons have already started asking for more of the houses. When the

Guyana Chronicle visited the Expo the duplexes were swarming with people who were enquiring about the dimensions of the houses and how they could acquire one.

An official of the CH&PA told this publication, a number of persons have shown an interest in the duplex houses.

“Some of the persons are interested in the single-lot houses, but not as much as the duplexes, which seem to be catching the eyes,” said the official

One of the wooden duplex houses that were on display

A one-storey duplex house

who was in the CH&PA’s booth.

At the booth, persons lined up to enquire how they could change their applications for single lots to duplex houses instead, which range from $5 million to $7 million.

According to the official, persons who have an interest in the house and already have an application in place are required to go to the CH&PA or indicate their preference to a representative at the CH&PA booth so that it can be registered. Persons will then be contacted after a proper vetting is done.

So far, the houses have drawn the attention of

mostly elderly and middle aged persons, therefore, the CH&PA is calling on more youths to come out and make their decisions at an early age.

Meanwhile, although persons were overwhelmed by the houses which had modern designs, they indicated that the prices should have been on display. The housing expo will continue until tomorrow.

Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Adams-Patterson, had said at the opening of the expo on Friday that she would aim to hold a housing expo in every new housing scheme.

Patterson who birthed

the housing expo initiative, in a surprise announcement said that the housing ministry had lowered the land cost for the properties displayed at the Perseverance model village. The low-income earner would now pay $300,000 instead of the initial $500,000, while moderate and middle income earners pay $500,000 and $700,000 respectively.

The minister noted that potential home-owners can contact their contractor of choice to build the home they want from the model village. Singleunit homes were built by private contractors. They are allowed to price the properties.

Housing expo contractors warned against overpricing THE Central Housing and Planning Authority has cautioned private contractors participating in the Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Exhibition that prices of housing units should fall within the category they agreed to construct.

According to a release, the agency signed contracts with 14 private contractors to build hous-

ing units within three categories: low, moderate and middle-income.

“The Central Housing and Planning Authority is advising contractors that the prices of houses on display must be consistent with the categories they were contracted to build,” the release stated.

Below is a table outlining the category and square footage of the units.

Some of the houses at the exhibition which opened on Saturday

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

Trump son-in-law had undisclosed contacts with Russian envoy

– sources

U.S. President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and close adviser, Jared Kushner, had at least three previously undisclosed contacts with the Russian ambassador to the United States during and after the 2016 presidential campaign, seven current and former U.S. officials told Reuters.

Those contacts included two phone calls between April and November last year, two of the sources said.

By early this year, Kushner had become a focus of the FBI investigation into whether there was any collusion between the Trump campaign and the Kremlin, said two other sources - one current and one former law enforcement official.

Kushner initially had come to the attention of FBI investigators last year as they began scrutinising former national security adviser Michael Flynn’s connections

with Russian officials, the two sources said.

While the FBI is investigating Kushner’s contacts with Russia, he is not currently a target of that investigation, the current law enforcement official said.

The new information about the two calls as well as other details uncovered

by Reuters shed light on when and why Kushner first attracted FBI attention and show that his contacts with Russian envoy Sergei Kislyak were more extensive than the White House has acknowledged.

NBC News reported on Thursday that Kushner was under scrutiny by the FBI, in the first sign that the investigation, which began last July, has reached the president’s inner circle.

The FBI declined to comment, while the Russian embassy said it was policy not to comment on individual diplomatic contacts. The White House did not respond to a request for comment.

Kushner’s attorney, Jamie Gorelick, said Kushner did not remember any calls with Kislyak between April and November.

“Mr Kushner participated in thousands of calls in this time period. He has no recollection of the calls as described. We have asked (Reuters) for the dates of such alleged calls so we may look into it and respond, but we have not received such information,” she said.

In March, the White House said that Kushner and Flynn had met Kislyak at Trump Tower in December to establish “a line of communication”.

Kislyak also attended a Trump campaign speech in Washington in April 2016 that Kushner attended.

The White House did not acknowledge any other contacts between Kushner and Russian officials.

BACK CHANNEL Before the election, Kislyak’s undisclosed discus-

sions with Kushner and Flynn focused on fighting terrorism and improving U.S.-Russian economic relations, six of the sources said.

Former President Barack Obama imposed sanctions on Russia after it seized Crimea and started supporting separatists in eastern Ukraine in 2014.

After the Nov. 8 election, Kushner and Flynn also discussed with Kislyak the idea of creating a back channel between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin that could have bypassed diplomats and intelligence agencies, two of the sources said.

Reuters was unable to determine how those discussions were conducted or exactly when they took place.

Reuters was first to report last week that a proposal for a back channel was discussed between Flynn and Kislyak as Trump prepared to take office. The Washington Post was first to report on Friday that Kushner participated in

that conversation.

Separately, there were at least 18 undisclosed calls and emails between Trump associates and Kremlin-linked people in the seven months before the Nov. 8 presidential election, including six calls with Kislyak, sources told Reuters earlier this month.

Two people familiar with those 18 contacts said Flynn and Kushner were among the Trump associates who spoke to the ambassador by telephone. Reuters previously reported only Flynn’s involvement in those discussions.

Six of the sources said there were multiple contacts between Kushner and Kislyak but declined to give details beyond the two phone calls between April and November and the post-election conversation about setting up a back channel. It is also not clear whether Kushner engaged with Kislyak on his own or with other Trump aides.

HOW KUSHNER CAME UNDER SCRUTINY FBI scrutiny of Kushner began when intelligence reports of Flynn’s contacts with Russians included mentions of U.S. citizens, whose names were redacted because of U.S. privacy laws. This prompted inves-

tigators to ask U.S. intelligence agencies to reveal the names of the Americans, the current U.S. law enforcement official said.

Kushner’s was one of the names that was revealed, the official said, prompting a closer look at the president’s son-in-law’s dealings with Kislyak and other Russians.

FBI investigators are examining whether Russians suggested to Kushner or other Trump aides that relaxing economic sanctions would allow Russian banks to offer financing to people with ties to Trump, said the current U.S. law enforcement official.

The head of Russian state-owned Vnesheconombank, Sergei Nikolaevich Gorkov, a trained intelligence officer whom Putin appointed, met Kushner at Trump Tower in December.

The bank is under U.S. sanctions and was implicated in a 2015 espionage case in which one of its New York executives pleaded guilty to spying and was jailed.

The bank said in a statement in March that it had met with Kushner along with other representatives of U.S. banks and business as part of preparing a new corporate strategy. (Reuters)

Sunday 28- May 2017 –– 05:30 hrs Monday 29- May 2017 –– 05:00 hrs Tuesday 30- May 2017 –– 08:30 hrs

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

TT ministers rack up big bills WITH oil prices down, Trinidad and Tobago’s energy-based economy has had to adjust. These are lean times; foreign exchange is less available and the government is trying to make up the country’s revenue shortfall any way it can.

Imagine the public’s consternation, then, when news broke that two government ministers in particular – Shamfa Cudjoe, the minister of tourism, and Darryl Smith, the minister of sport and youth affairs – have not been adhering to the same belt-tightening rules.

Cudjoe stunned netizens when it was revealed that she ran up a TT$59,000 phone bill (approximately US$8,740) over the course of four days. She later explained that only $1,100 of the billed amount represented phone calls – the balance consisted of roaming fees and value-added tax (VAT) at a time when she was in The Bahamas for a tourism-related event.

In a press release, Cudjoe said, “At the time of the trip, the ministry was dealing with several issues which required my attention and therefore necessitated that I remain accessible. During this period, as is common while travelling on official government business, my mobile telephone was placed on roaming. However, at every reasonable opportunity, I also made use of the Wi-Fi facility where it was available.”

She claims she too was surprised by the high bill and asked the ministry to “launch an immediate investigation” into the charges. The cell service provider, Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT), has said that it had no control over the roaming charges imposed by regional and international carriers.

Netizens were not too quick to buy Cudjoe’s declarations of fiscal responsibility, however. The hashtag #callmeanytimeyouwant soon started to make an appearance and she as soon being referred to on social media as the “Minister of Roaming”.

On Twitter, Rhoda Bharath was truly incredulous as to how this could have happened: “I breaking this down into byte size pieces. $50k in data. Not calls. Over four days. On a phone. In a hotel with wi-fi.”

On Facebook, she further dissected Cudjoe’s defence: “Where things get interesting is the cost of data charges in The Bahamas and what they actually mean in downloaded/used data.

“When the math is done, the exorbitant rate indicates that the minister used roughly 800 mb of data. That is average data use over a four-day period for many persons. And what it actually reveals is that $59,000 in data charges wasn’t racked up from intense use of the phone to remain ‘accessible’, but from casual data consumption at extremely high rates.

“Which then begs the question, how often is the State shouldering $60,000 bills for casual consumption of roaming data overseas by ministers and ministry officials?

“Abuse of the public purse is nothing to defend or scoff at!”

Many social media users were of the opinion that Cudjoe should pay back the roaming charges. Kathryn Stollmeyer Wight lamented: “She has to pay us back because nobody is ever taken to task or made to account and there will be absolutely no justice with this scandal.

“It’s time to get a voice people and stop the nonsense in this place. Call them all out! Demand our hard earned tax dollars are spent wisely!

“Pay up HONORABLE Minister Cudjoe, and frankly, while you paying up, resign too. Now that would really set an example.”

Over at biting news site Wired868, Rudy Chato Paul Sr had a few questions, including how many bills of this size have taxpayers unwittingly paid, and whether there is a mechanism by which the public can access this information – perhaps through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Naturally, some folks took a humourous approach to the situation. Errol Jaikaransingh quipped: “Roam wasn’t billed in a day.”

Justin Phelps, referring to the popular pre-paid cellular phone plans in which customers can “top up” their credit at any time, enjoyed a play on words: “I need a top-up, but ah shamfa ask fa it.”

The late Patrick Manning is a former prime minister and previous head of the People’s National Movement (PNM) which is now in government. Dr Keith Rowley is the current prime minister and leader of the same party.

TSTT’s competitor, Digicel, used the controversy as an opportunity to promote its services: “Don’t let roaming rates get you down! Avoid surprises when you sign up for Digicel’s One Rate Roaming Plan.”

up on social media radar at the beginning of 2017, with several netizens calling into question the nature of her relationship with the minister.

Baboolal’s post contained images of the hotel bill, along with other details: “An additional TT$10,400 was used to rent four vehicles from Rollock’s Car Rentals even though the hand written quotations, approved by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Natasha Barrow, stated categorically that the trip was to attend the THA [Tobago House of Assembly] Awards which was [sic] held in the same hotel.

“The event was stretched into a three nights all expenses paid trip for eight of the 12 member party…

“On the night of the Awards, according to information released by the THA’s Information Department, it was only Minister Smith who presented Awards at the ceremony.”

Wired868 reported that Natasha Barrow, permanent secretary in the ministry, defended the guest list and expenditures by saying there were important meetings during the trip, but anonymous staffers that the site had spoken to “contradicted her account”: “Smith did offer some consolation to the Trinidad and Tobago public on his Ministry’s use of taxpayers’ money at the Magdalena Grand Beach and Golf Resort. “’Ent is [Isn’t it] the government’s hotel?’ Smith asked rhetorically. ‘So the money staying in the system.’

“It betrayed a level of economic ignorance that was so brazenly repulsive and insulting and yet, at the same time, full of such absolute childish ignorance that one had to stop and stare, open-mouthed – like looking at a stool the size of a papaw in a public restroom.”

‘TOBAGO JOYRIDE’ The situation was even less funny when it came to the country’s minister of sport, Darryl Smith, who ran up a bill for over TT$90,000 (about US$13,333) on a visit to Tobago.

On her blog, journalist Sharmain Baboolal broke the story, referring to the trip as a “Tobago joyride”: “Inserted at the last minute, three women who ‘did not receive invitations’ for the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Awards turned out to be the guests of honour of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs (MYSYA) at an all inclusive weekend for a party of 12 at the Magdelena Grand, costing taxpayers TT$91,910.43.”

One of the women named is Kate Balthazar, who showed

Wired868 summed up the whole affair by saying: “Someone needs to bell the cat and there is no time like the present. In these days when our tightened belts are already like nooses around our necks, taxpayers cannot afford to be saddled with the likes of Minister Roma or Minister Romeo.”

(Caribbean News Now)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

The water cannon audit

IF it were not for the work of accounting firm Nizam Ali and Company, Guyanese would not have been aware that an alleged $16.2 million of their money is apparently somewhere out there in thin air or in somebody’s pocket.

It has been learnt from this forensic audit that the water cannon was purchased at a price of $20.8M from Shiyan Yunlihong Industrial and Trade Company, not for the price of $37 million the PPP/C government had said it was bought for.

The audit report said the Ministry of Home Affairs, which was headed by Minister Clement Rohee, engaged in public tendering as required under Section 25(1) of the Procurement Act of Guyana (2003), but there was no response to the tender.

Thereafter, the ministry went on to procure the equipment through a quote system, and the auditor noted that it could not find any “available evidence” of a study or evaluation to determine the need for this equipment, neither was there any study done to determine the merit of this particular type of equipment.

This revelation -- putting it in Guyanese parlance -- is slackness of the highest order.

It also says the Government of the day displayed no regard for prudent management of the people’s money and the procedures required in spending it.

It would be remembered that in February 2016 in response to the audit findings, Mr. Rohee sought to wash his hands clean, laying the blame on late Police Commissioner Henry Green and the ministry’s permanent secretary. In 2010, when it was made known that Government was going to acquire the equipment in what it said was a means of crowd control, and amidst public condemnation, it was he who justified the purchase.

Many saw the purchase of the equipment as an attempt to drive fear into people for the up-coming 2011 General and Regional Elections. When the water cannon came, in acts that could be likened to the showmanship seen in April in North Korea’s parade of its military vehicles and might, it was put on full public display and the media invited to witness its functionality. This well promoted and heralded activity was staged at the National Park in June 2012.

What the government apparently did not expect or care not about, is that the

equipment was no good. In a comedy of errors and visuals, it got stuck in the soil, with Commissioner Leroy Brummell having to chip in and help to get it unstuck, then recruits were used to act as protesters as the water was unleashed, demonstrating that not only was the vehicle not properly handled, but the water was also misdirected.

During the July 2012 Linden/Region 10 protest, the equipment was sent to douse the people. When it arrived in Linden, the only thing it could have done was park. From the time society saw the cannon there were outcries that it was a reject and not worth the money, though Mr Rohee kept saying otherwise.

The wastage of taxpayers’ money on schemes of this nature has always been detrimental to the nation’s growth and development. Misappropriation of money meant children were deprived of the quality of public education they deserve, the health services could not perform at its best, among other deprivations that could have been prevented were money wisely spent and correctly accounted for. There can be no justification for this wastage.

Stopping those engaged in corrupt prac-

tices requires support of every Guyanese in having Government pursuing the evidence in these forensic audits and holding those responsible accountable. The development of the society requires a high level of intolerance for the theft of taxpayers’ money and the wastage of their resources.

Guyanese and Government must reach the stage where it ought not to matter who is involved, in the fight to make Guyana corruption-free. Accusations of victimisation must also not sway us, for if there is any victim it is the ordinary man and woman whose trust has been betrayed by their leaders. Playing to emotive feelings based on identity of or support for a group will not rid society of corruption. The enforcement of the rule of law is the only act that stops corruption.

Last Wednesday, the audit on the water cannon, along with others, was handed over to Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud. These audits could present another opportunity for the Government of Guyana to reinforce a clear message of its intolerance for corruption, alleged or actual. The police must now do its work properly and ensure that justice is served.

Nigel Hinds tipped as PM candidate for PPP Dear Editor, I REFER to a letter written

by Mr Nigel Hinds that was published in both the Kaieteur News and Guyana Chronicle on May 25, 2017, under the following captions, “Enumeration of Freddie Kissoon’s attacks on Jagdeo’s character” and “What are the benefits for Freddie attacking Jagdeo.”

I am not surprised that Nigel Hinds has seen the need to jump to the defence of former President Bharat Jagdeo.

He is compelled to do so. It is being touted in political circles that he is considered

by Jagdeo as an acceptable

African-Guyanese prime ministerial candidate on a PPP ticket to be headed by Jagdeo in the 2020 General and Regional elections. What amazes me is Hinds’s boldfaced belief that he can put up a credible defence of Jagdeo, given this ruthless politician’s known history. Any politician, in one of the more developed countries in the world, with a record similar to Jagdeo’s, would have been disgraced and imprisoned for the atrocities he is known to have committed against his own people. Jagdeo’s record of corruption and abuse of power and his involvement

with state-sponsored killings are indefensible, and are equated with that of the most brutal and vicious rulers who bestrode the world’s political landscape.

Where was Hinds when Fredrick Kissoon was singled out by Jagdeo and the PPP for special treatment, which included character assassination, political victimization and physical assault exemplified by the throwing of excrement in his face? Nigel Hinds is aware that this matter is still being addressed in one of the courts in Guyana.

There is no public record of Hinds ever raising his voice

in condemnation on any of the occasions when Freedie was being viciously attacked

by Jagdeo and his cohorts in the PPP. Hinds’s letter is just another in the series of vicious attacks directed by PPP members/supporters at Freddie.

Kissoon is morally and politically justified in reminding the nation and the world of Jagdeo’s and the PPP’s excesses. Nigel Hinds is fully aware that Kissoon’s comments have been very impacting. His letter must be seen for what it is: a bold attempt on his part to (1) denigrate Kissoon and (2) reduce the

impact of his comments. A renowned world revolutionary once told his comrades that when doing political work and the enemy ignores you, you are on the wrong track – when they engage you, you are being effective.

Comrade Kissoon I say to you: keep firing your artillery – the enemy is feeling the pressure and is looking for a hole to hide in.

I end by pointing to a more sinister aspect of Nigel Hinds’s letter. I refer here to his attempt to drive a wedge between Kissoon and Kaieteur.

Hinds, in his letter, wrote,

“How does such asinine commentary pass the print test at Kaieteur News?” Where was Hinds and his sense of justice and fairplay, when Jagdeo had instructed that state ads should not be given to the Kaieteur News? It was Kissoon who played a major role in helping KN to survive Jagdeo’s vindictiveness. Hinds’s appeal for editorial restraint on Mr Fredrick Kissoon must go nowhere.

Regards TACUMA OGUNSEYE

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

A Margaret Thatcher reincarnate?

By Hubert Williams

BOSTON, Massachusetts, May 24, 2017 – THE horrendous bombing of innocent youth at the Manchester Arena in the United Kingdom has forced a recast of this article, for it strengthens even more the prospects of a huge victory by Mrs. Theresa Mary May’s Conservative Party at the general elections scheduled for June 8.

The earlier draft a week prior had seen Mrs. May triumphing over the New Labour Party’s socialist elder Jeremy Corbyn. Now stark tragedy will more favour her, as it swings the political pendulum further to the right… the direction in which all Western Europe will likely move in the foreseeable future.

Eastern-style Socialism will find few credible adherents within Western democracies.

Mrs. May will not welcome the fact, but terrorism now rears its ugly head as the most prominent factor likely to be in people’s mind when they cast their ballots at the June poll… for the question they will ask themselves is: which of the two leaders in the major parties is more capable of overcoming both externally-generated and home-grown terrorism.

She and her intelligence, military and police leadership might well ponder (even if immediately discarding) the strategy one famous female shared

with me when asked why was her party’s youth group engaged in hostile activities in some villages along the East Coast of Demerara, Guyana, South America: “Hubert… greater terror is the most effective counter to terrorism”…. A view likely to be shared by the United States, given its recent use of the 22,000-pound Mother Of All Bombs (MOAB) against terrorists in Afghanistan.

By calling the June elections so far ahead of schedule, (elections for a 5-year term were last held on May 7, 2015) in the quest of her own mandate (she had succeeded to office when David Cameron resigned following his failed referendum on the UK’s continued membership of the European Union), Theresa May demonstrated to the nation and the world that she is a woman of courage.

The same factors - Britain’s changing ideological stance to the right that had brought Mr. Cameron victory at the polls and allowed him to jettison former coalition partner Nicholas Clegg of the Liberal Democrats - also undermined him at the referendum and resulted in BREXIT. Some of Mrs. May’s critics might contend that she has moved inadvisedly because elections for the 650-seat House of Commons were not constitutionally due before May 8, 2020.

I think she is inspired by the exploits of Margaret “Iron Lady” Thatcher as well as encouraged by

the widely-perceived sharp British/ Western European swing towards the right, and growing fear of Islamic terrorism - both hidden within migrating millions and home-grown - as so tragically demonstrated by Sunday night’s horrendous Manchester Arena bombing.

It helps her victory prospects too that the New Labour Party is evidently in some disarray under Jeremy Corbyn, an outspoken, aged and life-long socialist, as well as quite a believer in marriage - having gone through it three times (shades of Donald Trump ! ). Recent British newspaper polls are suggesting some resurgence of Labour, but I don’t think that matters much.

With Corbyn still battling to unify Labour’s divided streams behind him and the Liberals emaciated, there seems little prospect of them frustrating Mrs. May’s objective of returning to 10 Downing Street for a full fiveyear term. Welcome back, Iron Lady No. 2.

The world will recall the dramatic days of “Iron Lady No. 1” Margaret Thatcher - the first British Prime Minister to serve three consecutive terms (virtually bringing unions to their knees with harsh conservative measures) and gave ‘Thatcherism” as an ideology to Britain’s political, economic and social life.

She transformed the country’s industrial scene; put a more scenic British stamp on global politics; approved

Over time, every citizen will enjoy the fruits of our collective efforts

Dear Editor AS Guyana celebrates 51 years as an independent state, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is pleased to join with all Guyanese to celebrate this landmark anniversary in our history.

We need to recall, at this time, that there was near absolute consensus amongst our then leaders that we needed to shed the constitutional and other chains with which we were then wrapped. Independence brought us and we joyfully welcomed our new status as citizens of Guyana, no longer colonial subjects tied to a “mother” country. It also brought heavy responsibilities to safeguard and deepen our newly won freedom and to ensure a prosperous future. The onus was now ours to chart our own course

and it was recognised that it needed to be strengthened by economic independence and social justice. Those objectives had to be our guide as a people. They had to be attained and sustained.

GAWU feels certain that the attainment of independence, which we fought for, motivated the social and economic progress of our country and was a decisive turning point for our all-round development. There are successes in several fields, nationally and at the international level, our country has earned recognition and respect. Our democratic culture which resurfaced over twenty (20) years ago, still, today faces new challenges and threats.

Notwithstanding these, the trials and setbacks the nation experienced and, most likely will face, we cannot deny

the very many significant achievements as we overcame the negative legacy of colonialism.

The GAWU is aware that several key objectives are yet to be reached. One of these is our economic sovereignty which we see as crucial to safeguard our political independence, especially in the context and circumstances that we see unfolding in today’s world. The prospects for our country to grow and develop despite setbacks remain encouraging and we need to tackle the various tasks before us in a collective and united spirit. In this respect, our people -- especially our working people -- need to be encouraged and become involved in the decision-making levels of our society.

As we celebrate this historic anniversary, GAWU urges that we all recognise

that we have a responsibility to let our democratic culture prevail. It is one of the strong strands that binds our nation and makes it united and free.

Additionally, we share the belief that our independence will be secured and strengthened over time when every citizen is given to enjoy the fruits, benefits and opportunities of our collective efforts and work.

It is unfortunate to observe that our 51st Independence Anniversary finds us as a nation poised with further declining economic fortunes as the stage is being set to cut down the monumental sugar industry.

Regards Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union

sinking of the Argentine destroyer “General Belgrano” with a nuclear missile in winning the May 1982 Falklands War; and gladdened the hearts of Americans through her warm ideological embrace of President Ronald Reagan, including full support for the US invasion of Grenada in 1983.

Since Mrs. Thatcher’s 3-peat only Labour’s Tony Blair has managed the feat, which many consider the glory days of Labour as a political force, now sharply on the wane.

(I was privileged to meet her on several occasions and was very pleased when at a Commonwealth Summit Conference in Lusaka, Zambia, August 1979 (Godfrey Wray’s and Sandra Baptiste’s first major overseas assignment: I flew in from Barbados), she instructed that I be the only non-British journalist allowed in when she was giving special daily briefings to only the British Press representatives… and every briefing she would ensure I got in my questions by pointing towards me and saying over many upraised hands “Mr. Williams next”)… And when there were open Press conferences for the full Commonwealth corps, much too large to be accommodated, she ensured that I was among the attending small group who would later share the information with those who, because of space limitation, could not attend.)

Look at sugar like oil

Dear Editor, MINISTER of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, according to media reports, following the presentation by the consultant who examined the feasibility of establishing an oil refinery, said notwithstanding that a refinery was not feasible, the Government would have to take a political decision as many benefits expectedly will accrue to Guyana and Guyanese. The statement by the minister is indeed appropriate.

It is pleasing to note the minister’s approach to oil, but at the same time I recognise the Administration is not taking an even approach to all sectors and areas of national life. While the investment in a refinery is seen as possibly a worthwhile project despite the negative economic conclusions, we see that in the sugar industry

a completely opposite approach is being taken. Sugar is recognised by all and sundry for the diverse role it plays, yet the Government in spite of the compelling evidence and arguments has chosen, for whatever reason, to shun the industry and promote plans for its miniaturization which will surely have negative consequences for tens of thousands of people.

I urge the minister and the Government to examine sugar in the same way it does oil. After all, sugar is already a tremendous economic advantage for the country.

An objective and sincere examination of sugar will reveal its importance to the nation at this time and the need for its support and not destruction.

Regards Patricia Persaud

8

HAPPY FACES IT is an ambitious plan to provide housing for all Guyanese, especially low- income earners and youths. But Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan and Minister Valerie Patterson are confident that they could sustain a new drive to house our citizens when they launched “Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond” at Perseverance, on the East Bank of Demerara.

Every government had sought to address the housing needs of our people, and they could all claim varying levels of success; but admittedly, they did not do enough. Though the housing problem did not go away, we have come a far way from the days when whole families would occupy city pavements and were condemned to live in hovels almost everywhere.

There are still people around who remembered, as well as benefitted, from the pre-independence efforts under a previous Cheddi Jagan administration to build duplexes in the capital, and houses located in farmlands in the countryside. The latter in places such as Black Bush Polder remains an attractive model as housing is linked to agro-production, and literally pays the construction costs. The other model was the 1976

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

Feed, Clothe and House the Nation drive under the Forbes Burnham government, when clay-brick was introduced on a wide scale, as is evident at massive housing schemes such as Melanie Damishana.

SQUATTING AREAS Cheddi Jagan returned to the housing drive in the 90s when a programme was implemented to regularise squatting areas, which was followed by an aggressive drive to allocate houselots.

A new, exciting practice of distributing houselots by open lottery saw large numbers of persons being able to build heir own homes. The political elites and their friends cashed in as well, and they helped themselves not only to large tracts of land -- ostensibly as home-builders -- but to posh, private plots over which the spectre of corruption still hovers.

According to Minister Bulkan, the model of handing out houselots to create government housing schemes is flawed. He disclosed that only 28,000 of the 63,000 houselots that were distributed, have been occupied. Many people just do not have the means to build their own houses, and the prices that developers demand are way above their heads,

During 2011-2016, whilst some 20,000 lots were distributed in 38 schemes, only 4,000 houses were built. Some 4,200 acres of land were assigned for these schemes and about $13 billion was spent on infrastructural works, which are incomplete and would require an additional $16 million for proper roads, water and electricity.

NEW APPROACH The minister has indicated that a new approach is needed to provide affordable and comfortable housing for the estimated 25,000 home-seekers whose applications for lots have been gathering dust. For this, his ministry has been working on a State Paper on Housing to provide not only houses, but develop safe communities. The idea is to provide, with the construction and banking private sectors driving the process, housing units as distinct from houselots. The new

plan unfolds the vision for communities, with greater housing density in one area through a combination of duplexes, townhouses and apartments.

Friday, May 27, 2017 will forever be etched in my memory as I have not seen so many smiling faces in one place for a very long time. As I walked from building to building, I saw long lines of newly weds and mothers with babies in their arms waiting to sign up for loans from local bankers. I observed the exciting twinkle of happiness as they touched the new pieces of kitchen utensils and furniture that were on display and that they would want for their new homes.

Perseverance is set to be a new, integrated, model community. In the middle of a cluster of houses, playfields have been carved out, and space is reserved for shopping complexes.

Along the access road, we passed the Ramada interna-

tional hotel, then the New Thriving Restaurant and Massy’s shopping plaza, the Texila University and site for a proposed hospital, Qualfon ITC Centre, building materials depots and a Ski Resort. Soon, with new networks of roads (DiamondOgle), the East Bank and the East Coast corridors would be linked, and would provide strategic services to the Perseverance village.

HAPPY FACES The site was identified by the previous government for 1000 homes, 50 of which were actually built but could not be occupied due to structural problems.

This attracted the attention of the Coalition Government which invited both the local and foreign private sectors to correct the defects and to push construction of an additional 500 houses. Two hundred houses are at varying stages of construction, several already completed and fitted

with solar energy. These would be sold after the Exhibition at prices that range between $6 million and $12 million, which include almost a peppercorn payment for the houselots.

During the exhibition, one of the priests who offered prayers, referred to the large 83,000 square miles land mass of Guyana, and light-heartedly shared his vision of every Guyanese owning two houses. I echoed his dream of a new Guyana where every family could have not only a chicken in the pot and a car in the garage, but also another house in their backyard!

For now, the young couples whom I saw at the exhibition are feasting their eyes on a modest, first home either in the form of a cottage or an apartment unit. Many see this within their reach, and they are excited.

No wonder there were so many happy faces at Perseverance.

Revise financing to put more spotlight on health – Lawrence World Health Assembly round-table discussion GUYANA, at a round-table discussion on sustainable financing of universal health coverage,has recommended that stronger efforts be made by Commonwealth countries to revise financing at national levels, so that health could be positioned as a top priority for funding.

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence in her deliberations at the World Health Assembly’s round-table discussion, said there should be targeted allocation of resources to address the growing shortage of health workers.

She also noted the need for management of resources in both the public and private

health sectors efficiently, as countries move to achieve the goal of Universal Health Care (UHC) by 2030.

She told the grouping of primarily Commonwealth health ministers that “ensuring rigorous financial management with pooled health funding (from taxation of unhealthy and harmful products, along with contributions from populations through health insurance and contribution schemes ‘who can pay, should pay’) will allow us to ensure that there is sustainable health coverage.

“In Guyana, we have advanced the process of ensuring more funding is allocated to health, but even now these remain inadequate and we

depend on donors.”

Moreover, the public health minister said it is known that creating awareness with regard to social determinants of health, promoting health at all levels of the community; ensuring that healthy public policies are in place; and developing and implementing innovative approaches that work, along with a public/private mix that address the high-end needs can arrest the escalating demand faced by countries.

In acknowledging the work of the Commonwealth Foundation and the report on Hybrid Funding Strategy, Lawrence said delivering adequate health care and providing the key elements of

UHC to all has always been a challenge for developing countries with limited resources and underdeveloped systems.

“Universal Health Coverage is captured in the mandate of my ministry in Guyana, as ‘the right of all to medical and health care.’

It requires adequate health financing, an efficient health workforce, all the essential medicines and health products being in place; that health policies are developed and implemented; health statistics and information are collected, analysed and used in planning, and that a high quality of service is delivered to our people safely,” she added.

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence

The minister said resources allocated from the national budget is “almost always inadequate to fulfil all these UHC elements, and through our international donor partners and friends, we are sometimes barely able to address some of the shortfalls in our budget.”

She noted that global

support continues to shrink and “we now are forced to curtail our essential package of health care services to address all these needs.”

These shortfalls, she said, coupled with the growing demands for advanced and expensive health services, such as cardiac and neuro surgeries, cancer treatment, long-term medical treatments and rehabilitation are needed to respond to life- style type medical conditions related to the broad social determinants of health such as NCDs, accidents and violence, which leave “us to make hard choices, and ration limited resources away from the most vulnerable in our society.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

Consultations on Hemp investors show parking meters interest in Guyana project to continue DESPITE the modest response to the first set of scheduled public consultations on the parking meters project hosted by the Renegotiating Committee of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC), consultations will continue to garner the views and suggestions of all stakeholders.

“We will be engaging more [with stakeholders] in the coming weeks,” Chairman of the Renegotiating Committee Malcolm Ferreira related to the Guyana Chronicle yesterday.

Currently, there is no definitive schedule highlighting which stakeholders the committee will be meeting with in the coming weeks and when exactly these consultations will be done.

However, the chairman related that this information will be disseminated to the public “soon.”

On Tuesday, May 23, the committee met with representatives of the commercial sector in Georgetown and the well-known pressure group, the Movement Against Parking Meters

(MAPM); on May 24, the committee met with a few taxi-drivers, mini-bus operators and operators of vehicles used for commercial purposes and on May 25, they met a few city residents.

Representatives of the commercial sector and the MAPM engaged in these consultations with much alacrity and reaffirmed their opposition to this project.

These stakeholders expressed that they are not opposed to a parking system, but demanded a new, transparent and bona fide project.

Other stakeholders (taxi-drivers, mini-bus operators, operators of vehicles used for commercial purposes and city residents) did not engage with the committee with as much alacrity and thus impeded the progression of the consultations and the renegotiating committee.

Thus, further consultations will be hosted at City Hall to engage these stakeholders.

At this point, Ferreira accounted that no decision had been made regarding the project. Additionally, according to Ferreira, at

A NUMBER of investors, entrepreneurs and financiers from the U.S., UK, Canada and Australia (including overseas-based Guyanese) have made positive enquiries, concerning investment potential in Guyana as an industrial hemp industry.

“Undoubtedly, the Guyana Government’s stability has created a good climate for investment,” says Hemp News, “but needs to speed up the repealing of the legislation and restrictions for the cultivation of industrial hemp and the manufactur-

“The untimely death of plaintiffs’ sons is tragic, and the Court does not mean to minimize the unspeakable loss that plaintiffs have suffered in any way,” U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson in Washington wrote in a 29-page opinion released Friday. But Berman said legal standards required the case to be dismissed.

Berman ruled the parents didn’t sufficiently challenge that Clinton wasn’t acting in her official capacity when she used the private server, and that the families didn’t put forward appropriate claims that Clinton defamed them or put them in a false light.

One of the parents, Patricia Smith, gave an emo-

thousands of Guyanese in the future.

Meanwhile, the latest enquiries came from a U.S.based company, Hemp Inc, founded in 2008. The company has the largest decortication plant to process industrial hemp, located in Spring Hill, North Carolina.

Hemp Inc’s mission is to provide green solutions to make the world a better place to live, and supplies products that are eco-friendly, organic, healthy, and a solution that replaces many petroleum-based products.

Man found on roadway dies in hospital

that point in the consultations, the committee was only striving to account for all views of the public.

He affirmed that the views and suggestions garnered would aid the committee’s decision-making process.

Judge dismisses lawsuit against Clinton by Benghazi families WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge threw out a lawsuit against Hillary Clinton by the parents of two Americans killed in the U.S. diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, ruling the former secretary of state didn’t defame them when disputing allegations that she had lied.

The lawsuit also alleged the former Democratic presidential candidate’s use of a private email server caused the death of their sons, Sean Smith and Tyrone Woods, because it exposed terrorists to sensitive information.

They claimed Clinton lied when she allegedly told them it was a YouTube video that prompted the consulate attack.

ing of over 25,000 pounds of hemp products.”

Speaking with Hemp News, a U.S.-based Guyanese who visited the country recently, pointed out that the hemp industry is making a great comeback worldwide and is very important to the economic future of Guyana, and could become the country’s economic legacy to eradicate poverty.

He explained that a number of these investors are becoming engaged in export-oriented enterprises and will employ and train

tional speech during the 2016 Republican National Convention against Clinton.

Her son and Woods were killed in the September 2012 attack, along with CIA operative Glen Doherty and the U.S. ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens.

Clinton’s homebrew server bedeviled her campaign before it officially began, when The Associated Press first discovered its use. Emails later released under the Freedom of Information Act showed some contained classified information, although they were not marked as such at the time.

The lawsuit’s dismissal was first reported by Politico.

A DRUNKEN man who was found lying on the roadway at First Street, Lusignan, East Coast Demerara (ECD), on Independence Day and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital died Saturday.

Dead is Narine Singh Mei, 54, of Latchman Singh scheme, Lusignan, East Coast Demerara

(ECD).

Reports indicate that the dead man’s sister, Rohini Bani Mei, 59, of Lusignan Railway Embankment ECD received a phone call and a female related that her brother was dozing on the roadway in First Street, Lusignan ECD. As a result, she sent her nephew to check on him.

On arrival, the nephew

found Mei in a conscious condition with bruises on his forehead and a small wound on his left hand.

He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted.

Mei was pronounced dead Saturday morning.

Police are investigating.

Residents in the area said he was last seen gambling in the area.

Couple busted with guns, ammo, cocaine POLICE have arrested a taxi driver and his wife after three illegal firearms, matching rounds and 11.kg of cocaine were found at their home during a raid on Friday.

Reports indicate that ranks, acting on intelligence, conducted a search on the couple’s house at Duncan Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, where they found one .357 Taurus Magnum Revolver and six live matching rounds, and two 9MM pistols and 36 live

.45 rounds.

Charges are expected to be laid against the taxi driver in the new week.

Meanwhile, police in Linden destroyed marijuana fields on the same day. An estimated 5,300 plants, ranging in height of six inches to five feet and two make-shift camps were destroyed by fire.

The marijuana camp before it A 20- year-old South was destroyed by police Ruimveldt male is in Also on Friday, police custody assisting with invesranks in ‘F’ Division, while tigation. on a mobile patrol on the Takatu Bridge, Lethem arrested a 39-year-old Lethem resident in connection with the discovery of 70 grams of cannabis.

Enquiries disclosed that about 20:00hrs, the suspect was walking on the bridge, and on seeing the police, he quickly dropped a bag, which was retrieved and found to contain the illegal substance. He is being processed for court.

The illegal firearms seized in Georgetown

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

Reflections on our independence: Are they not worthy of national awards too?

By Dr David Hinds

THIS week we observe 51 years of independence or political freedom from colonial rule. As is the case with most recent post-colonial societies, the debate over whether we are truly independent is as fresh as it was four decades ago. It is an inevitable debate, given the fact that independence ended almost four centuries of institutionalised bondage by the other—the coloniser who reduced his subjects to mere chattel. That is a fact that should never be lost in our debate over the condition of our independence. You do not undo four centuries of bondage in 51 years, for the formal end of a system does not translate into a cessation of the practice of the system. As Brother Bob Marley, our musical prophet, reminds us: “No chains around my feet/ But I am not free.”

So even as we celebrate our independence, we are still grappling with the legacy of colonialism. Another of our musical icons, David Rudder, tells us a bitter truth—that we live in a world “that don’t need islands no more.” Our islands once made Europe rich—the root of their wealth lies in our little islands or as Walter Rodney would say, their development is a function of our underdevelopment. So, as we celebrate, we must also reflect on our condition, in all its manifestations. We Caribbean people like a party—for good reason—but we have at all times a duty to engage in a “conscious party.” In other words, we must dance to the rhythm of freedom, for if you are/were bound in captivity, your dance can only be a dance of freedom.

The question before us this independence is whether we have done enough to translate our independence into a deliberate quest for freedom. Have we expanded the free-

dom-space since 1966? Are our people -- especially the least among us -- freer today than they were in 1966? If socio-economic poverty was the most damning consequence of colonisation, what have we done to decrease its grip on our society? What have we done to turn the plantation model into its opposite?

Any fair observer must answer those questions more in the negative that the positive. After 51 years of independence, our country still resembles a plantation society.

Our former colonial masters still control the drift of our collective motion. But we know enough to know that that reaction is inevitable. The question is whether we have mustered the collective will to negotiate that inevitability. Again, the answer has to be more a no that a yes. Note, I am not saying that we have not attempted to deal with those inherent maladies, but in the end, we have to conclude that we have not been as persistent and consistent as we should have been.

Yes, our people in Guyana and the wider Caribbean have survived the last 51 years— they have, in their native ways, tried to give character and dignity to our independence.

They turned plantations into villages and areas of darkness into points of light. Many of us can today lift our gazes to the mountain top, not because of the freedom some party or government gave us, but because the people turned themselves into ladders for us to climb.

But amid those noble moves, our elites have let us down badly, especially the political elites. We hear the supporters of the various political leaders sing their praises. From Burnham and Jagan to Jagdeo and Granger, we construct these political deities and in the process, diminish ourselves as an independent people. Not that these men and their governments do not have virtues, but they also have

political vices—sometimes these vices are more the rule than the exception.

I have long dismissed the Jagan-Jagdeo and Burnham-Hoyte regimes as less than transformational. Their attempts at transformation were outweighed by a propensity for plantation-like dictatorship. I acknowledge all the admirable attempts they made, but in the end our independence is poorer—the price we paid for those positives is too high for a post-plantation society to pay. They all—all of them—ended up loving power more than using power to free our society from what the Kwayanas call “the scars of bondage.” I know that I am offending my Jaganite and Burhamite friends, but the other narrative must be told. As Brother Bob Marley again reminds us: “Half the story has never been told.”

I come to our latest government. I have repeatedly said that they are best poised to correct the wrongs of the past—to write that other half of the story. History throws up social formations at different junctures in our history, but as CLR James would argue, those formations have to be conscious of what they represent and have to have the capacity to absorb the positive energies that are responsible for their evolution. On the cricket field, we saw that with Frank Worrell, Clive Lloyd and Viv Richards, but not with Brian Lara and Chris Gayle. The latter two did not have the capacity to absorb the energies that made them possible. Hence, while they shone individually, the West Indian light rapidly faded.

I am afraid that if the Granger government does not in short order come to an appreciation of its historical calling, we may end up like the West Indies cricket team. Vision matters. A sense of your government’s place in the historical trajectory of the society matters. I look around the elected leaderships and I see little sign of a willingness to engage

history; to engage the present as the past and the future. President Granger is a historian who must know what I am driving at. He has to inspire his troops more, for we have no more time to lose—it’s been 51 long years.

I pay little attention to national awards, for they have come to mean substantively little. The list of awardees this government has put forward since coming to power, reinforces my cynicism. Your people of distinction cannot be 69 persons, most of whom are elites. My God, do you mean we have not learned anything from our past five decades of mistakes ? Do you mean to tell me that the only measure of distinction is to be a lawyer or a doctor or some top man or woman? What happen to those tens of thousands who put you in power-- are they not worthy of national awards too? We ought to be ashamed to call ourselves an independent society when our praxis is overladen with colonial reflexes.

Why not go to each village and find some person without titles and letters, but who makes a difference and award them? Why not award a village or community for doing good for itself? But one must feel it in one’s bones and soul for those ordinary people to think that they are worthy of awards. My academic profile or successful law practice does not make me worthier of national recognition than the woman who wakes up every day and opens her cake-shop till midnight to feed her community. It’s time we change this totalitarian elitist mentality, or our independence will continue to mean little beyond raising a flag and clapping.

More of Dr. Hinds ‘writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his website www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics.com.

Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com

CCJ cases now part of international law database THE Caribbean Court of Justice’s (CCJ) first submission to the European Commission on Democracy through Law (the Venice Commission) has now been published in the Commission’s CODICES database.

The submission comprised the summary (Précis) and full text of the Court’s seminal decision in the case of The Attorney General, Superintendent of Prisons and Chief Marshal v Jeffrey Joseph and Lennox Ricardo Boyce [2006] CCJ 3 (AJ).

This appeal was filed and heard in the Court’s Ap-

pellate Jurisdiction. In late 2015, the CCJ was invited to enter into a co-operation arrangement with the Venice Commission, the Council of Europe’s advisory body on constitutional matters, to have its decisions, and their summaries, in cases concerning Constitutional law and human rights law issues to be included in CODICES. These cases span both the Appellate and Original Jurisdictions of the Court.

CODICES is the Venice Commission’s free public access InfoBase on Constitutional case law, which provides access to over 8,000

judgments and summaries in cases decided by Constitutional Courts and courts which deal with similar matters, including international courts.

It was established by the Commission’s Secretariat in Strasbourg and hosts decisions and summaries in English, French and other languages.

According to Tanja Gerwien of the Constitutional Justice Division of the Commission, the database “greatly facilitates comparative research and is an important source of inspiration for judges and constitutional

practitioners.”

The president of the CCJ, Sir Dennis Byron, noted that, “the Court takes great pride in being afforded the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of jurisprudence in human rights law on an international scale, through the publication of its decisions on CODICES.” In Joseph and Boyce, a case from Barbados, the CCJ dismissed the appeal and made two very significant pronouncements on Constitutional issues.

Firstly, that the exercise of powers of prerogative mercy by the Governor-Gener-

al, under section 78 of the Barbados Constitution, can be reviewed by the courts where there is a breach of the rules of procedural fairness. Secondly, the fact that Barbados had ratified the American Convention on Human Rights and acted in a manner which was compliant with the Convention, created a legitimate expectation that Joseph and Boyce would have been afforded a reasonable time for the filing and completion of proceedings before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and for the Commission’s report

to be made available to the Barbados Privy Council in support of their petition for commutation of their death sentences. This legitimate expectation was not affected by the fact that the treaty was not incorporated into domestic law and the State’s attempt to execute the men without giving them that opportunity was a denial of their right to protection of the law for which the court had an inherent remedy.

The CCJ agreed that the Court of Appeal acted properly in commuting the death sentences imposed on the men.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

Independence symbolism and a tattered Republic THIS nation observed its 51st anniversary of independence on Friday. Aside from the pomp and ceremony surrounding the event, we must begin frank and honest conversations on the state of our relations, what have been bequeathed us, and what we are doing to advance or cast them aside. Having read the anniversary messages, there was the noted general theme of national unity; but as a people, we are more divided and are floundering more than we were 51 years ago.

Guyana’s independence was fought for by every group in this society, inclusive of the races, trade unions, and the political parties at the time. There was disagreement as to which political party and leader independence should be achieved under, but never was there any disagreement by the local forces that Guyanese were not ready and capable of charting our own course. The national motto “One People, One Nation, One Destiny” was embraced by all.

Household Plus’ anniversary message with the pictorial representations of Forbes Burnham, Cheddi Jagan and Peter D’Aguiar, the three main political leaders at the time, is a reminder to bring the nation to its senses.

On the eve of independence, while I observed the event as a young man in the house of Henry Wade at Yeoville, glued to the radio, all Guyana knew of the embrace between Minority Leader Jagan and Prime Minister Burnham in the wee hours of 26th May 1966, when this major freedom was sealed.

I maintain that these men were political rivals, not enemies. From the account of others who knew them, including Jagan’s son, Joey, inspite of political differences and station, they maintained a relation of mutual respect and cordiality. The symbolism they set in 1966 should have been maintained, even more so now when

“national unity” is sounding like a pledge. Instead, Guyanese once again witnessed the current political leaders who are relatively older than Jagan and Burnham were in 1966 incapable of replicating the symbolism.

The Opposition is part of our structure of government.

Mechanisms must be found, along with the requisite protocol, to have their inputs in the planning and execution of national events. Last year, there was the embarrassment with seating arrangements, and it was hoped that after spirited public ventilation on the matter, including the Opposition’s input, 2017 would have seen them seated.

If efforts were made to have the Opposition play a role in keeping with the national unity APNU+AFC campaigned on and promised, the people and the Opposition rejected it, we must be so advised.

This nation is being held under siege by men and women who cannot rise above infantile politics. The leaders of 1966 displayed camaraderie in spite of having just emerged from the racial upheavals of the 1960s that many today still blame them for. The evidence show that 51 years after, in a less acrimonious climate, leaders are incapable of emulating the positives in others. Their predecessors saw observation of national events worthy as an act of their presence and the symbolism it demonstrated of oneness.

Under the Bharrat Jagdeo government national events became opportunities to exclude sections of society and it must stop. The APNU+AFC was hired to mend the divide and must work assiduously to bring about healing. The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) was one of the organisations that stopped receiving invitations to state functions and this practice continues in 2017.

Prior to Jagdeo’s presidency, the GTUC was invited to national events. The labour movement is the fore-

runner in the 20th century fight for internal self-government, including universal adult suffrage (one-man-onevote) and independence. I am well aware that addressing this could create opportunities for idle chats and not dealing with the principles and actions of national unity that birthed the nation, which must remain the focus.

This nation would find it hard attaining national unity with the current attitude of the political leadership on both sides of the divide. They keep forgetting by whom they are elected, are paid by, and whose interest they are expected to serve. No one wants to govern and everyone wants to rule.

Governing requires placing importance on forging relations and fearlessly managing through laws, time-honoured principles, universal declarations, international conventions and charters. Ruling is not guided by these tenets but by diktat.

Let me make it very clear-the importance of having all participate in national events does not take away from any being held accountable under the law for their stewardship.

This is a nation of laws and the Rule of Law must reign.

It is being observed that the David Granger/Moses Nagamootoo government’s continuation in giving more prominence to independence than republicanism and I hope this is corrected for 2018. Republicanism is the nation’s ultimate achievement of freedom. Just as the wedding anniversary is celebrated instead of the engagement, and abolition of slavery celebrated instead of amelioration, so too it must be for republican status over independence. The focus of taking the nation backward or downplaying key achievements is projecting lack of political maturity and visionary leadership.

The PPP/C started this nonsense on the baseless thinking the 23rd February did not fit into their identity politics. Such view must not be allowed to submerge the

events of the 1763 revolution, which laid the foundation for 1838, 1917 and 1966, who were involved, and the country’s,milestone achievement in 1970 under Burnham’s leadership. The agreed date between Britain and Guyana was not without negotiation and compromise.

The PNC in opposition rightly fought to ensure republic maintains its deserving prominence on the nation’s calendar and it must remain so. The society must work in achieving the stage where the contributions of every group is acknowledged.

Independence and republican events in Georgetown were historically held at the National Park which was fittingly renamed from the Queen Elizabeth Park. This park is being left to decay as millions were thrown to

build the unnecessary and under ulitised D’Urban Park named in honour of a colonial governor. This is another backward and visionless step. The boasting in 2016 of the size of the national flag hoisted there saw no pride allowing it to fly tattered in the intervening period, insulting our forebears’ struggles and achievements.

The importance of the symbolism in hoisting the flag at a specific time is now contemptuously treated by a government comprising many actors who are of military backgrounds and are expected to know better. It was no accident that the Union Jack was being lowered at midnight on 25th May 1966 and the Golden Arrowhead being hoisted, reaching the apex of the pole at the crack of 26th May. Hoisting the flag

before the specific day and time is not re-enactment of the event nor appreciation for the centuries of struggles that made it possible; it is laziness, contempt, and outright disregard for what it means to be an independent nation.

National unity cannot be achieved by only talking the talk; it must be buttressed with upholding the principles to make it possible. So far, the government, opposition and their agents have demonstrated they are not serious about unity. The term unity is being dangled like carrots in front of the masses who genuinely desire it. Until the masses stand up and hold their leadership and themselves accountable for its attainment, the society will continue to wallow in despair.

‘Days Like Dese’

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

– new ½ hour tv sitcom ‘Days like dese’ – a new half-hour television sitcom was launched on Thursday morning in the boardroom of IPED to a very appreciative audience.

The new sitcom is presented by GEMS Theatre Productions in collaboration with IPED’s support for the

Creative Industries Written by Randolph Critchlow, Theme song(lyrics)- Kwasi ‘Ace’Edmondson and Music by Joel Brown, directed by Randolph Critchlow & Gem Madhoo-Nascimento and produced by Gem Madhoo-Nascimento

The actors are Nurriyyih Gerrard, Mark Luke-Edwards, Ron Robinson, Lavonne George, Simone Dowding, Kirk Jardine, Shevon Henry, Rajan Tiwari, Simone Persaud, Makayah Smith, Safira Abrahim-Williams, Kailey Liverpool, Brian Goodman

A scene from the sitcom

Gem Madhoo-nascimento (producer), Ramesh Persaud (CEO -IPED), Randolph Critchlow (writer)

& Olivia Rodrigues.

It will be aired TVG28 – Sunday 28th May at 17.30hours & Monday 29th May at 18.30hours and on NCN11- Tuesday 30th May at 19.00hours and Wednesday 31st May at 17.30hours ‘Days Like Dese’ is a 30-minute sitcom that delves deep into the daily lives of a diverse ‘socially responsible’ middle-class Guyanese

family, the Rupauls. The sitcom inspects and highlights the intricacies of family and community interactions through blurred racial and social lens.

The sitcom through its intentionally diverse and mixed casting, intends to remind us of how connected we really are as Guyanese.

The Rupaul family exists not only in a racial blender,

but a social and generational one; as we get to see how the youth and the older folk try and sometimes struggle to bridge the generational and social gaps.

Viewers will feel connected with this family as they journey with them, traversing terrains that may sometimes be considered controversial, but always palatable.

GHRA concerned over anti-gay laws THE Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) is contending that the proposal floated by government to hold a referendum on removal of the ‘buggery’ laws is odious.

In a statement, the human rights body said the government must be the only body in the society unaware of the homophobic atmosphere encouraged by the country’s laws.

“The results of a referendum to determine what has been evident for decades is unjustified and therefore an abuse of public funds,” the GHRA said, adding: “ The

conditions under which it would be held are inherently unfair, since civil debate among the Guyanese population has been rendered virtually impossible by bigotry, myths and fear.”

According to the GHRA, were these unfair conditions corrected, there would be no need for the referendum, since the absence of a rational basis for the ‘no vote’ would be exposed.

It also noted that while the majority deciding for the minority is central to democratic politics, the government should be conscious of applying this norm rigidly

when minority rights are at stake.

“This proposal also raises the spectre of the last bizarre referendum held in 1978 in which, on the basis of a 15 per cent turn-out, a new Constitution was foisted on the country, politically polarising the country for decades.

“That 1978 referendum at least had the justification of testing a clear proposition supported by the then Government, whereas the proposed referendum is a cop-out, a substitute for leadership, courage and decency,” the GHRA said.

The human rights body

claimed that the government’s preference for dodging and weaving on sexual identity rights was reflected in Guyana’s vote in the United Nations (December 2016) not supporting renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on LBGT rights.

“Rather than continue the pretence of a mission of discovery over what is common knowledge for the average Guyanese and for the international community, the Government of Guyana needs to set out a coherent proposal to bring to an end a situation demeaning both to Guyana and its citizens.

This implies more than repealing the buggery laws.

It means dismantling what has been referred to as the ‘architecture of homophobia’ that sustains the repression of equality rights of persons of all sexualities,” the GHRA said.

WITH Guyana recently indicating that it will move to a referendum to determine the legality of homosexuality, Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge believes that the situation is a sensitive one and requires careful attention.

The Foreign Affairs Minister noted that many of the

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries have undergone social and political changes, which have resulted in their populations growing accustomed to or accepting “certain types of behaviour.” “… but this is Guyana and in these countries you have a different mix of not only ethnic groupings, but you have religious groupings,” he stated, while adding that in giving consideration to the particular issue, there is need for the government to listen to the views of its constituents.

Bermuda divided on same-sex marriage Loud chants of “one woman, one man, we need to take stand” rang out in the Bermuda capital Thursday as thousands joined the group, Preserve Marriage, to pressure Government to appeal a recent ruling by the Supreme Court that legalises same-sex marriage.

And equally defiant that “Love wins”, members of the Rainbow Alliance of

Bermuda came out to state their case.

On May 6, in her ruling in a case brought by gay couple Winston Godwin and Greg DeRoche, Judge Charles-Etta Simmons said same-sex couples in Bermuda had the right to marry.

She said the common law definition of marriage discriminates against same-

sex couples based on their sexual orientation, and contended that was inconsistent with the Human Rights Act. The Government has announced that it will not be contesting the ruling.

But several speakers on the Preserve Marriage platform said the administration had a duty to press for a review of the court’s decision.

“We are not to be bullied

into silence, and we want to encourage Bermuda to stand for marriage,” one speaker told the crowd.

The group got support from Opposition Progressive Labour Party MP Wayne Furbert, who is set to table a private members’ Bill aimed at making a case for marriage to be defined as being between a man and woman.

He warned the Government to listen to the voice of the majority: “This year is an election year — you better listen to us!”

Rainbow Alliance member Josh Correira told the Royal Gazette newspaper that the large protest staged

by Preserve Marriage unfortunately mirrored public sentiment in Bermuda, and members of the Lesbian,

Gay, Bisexual and Transgender-Queer plus community were hoping that, over time, attitudes would change.

“It’s certainly not going to happen overnight, and it’s definitely something we at the Rainbow Alliance will be working to help facilitate in the years to come, ” he said. (Caribbean360)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

Growing interest in ‘going green’ – farmers call for greater promotion of agriculture

By Navendra Seoraj PRESIDENT David Granger’s notion of a “Green Economy” is gradually being adopted and is evident in the growing interest of persons who are seeking to grow their own food.

Farmers observed this increasing interest at the first-ever Farmers Market which was held at D’Urban Park on Saturday, as part of a number of activities to mark Guyana’s 51st anniversary of independence.

Farmers told the Guyana Chronicle that the turnout out at the exposition was good and they had a chance to market and sell their produce, which is not readily available to the local market. However, it was noticeable that most persons who purchased plants and vegetables had a deep interest in growing their own food.

Permanent Secretary (ag) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Joylyn Nestor Burrowes in an invited comment, said the aim of the Farmers Market was to encourage persons to grow their own food and it was evident that they achieved that.

“Throughout the years we have been encouraging perChildren used the opportunity to pet rabbits that were on display Saturday

One of the booths at the Farmers’ Market

sons to grow their own food, because homegrown is the best. Throughout the event we had a chance to share out seeds to persons who were more than enthused to begin growing their own food,” she said.

Added to that, owner of McGarrell’s farm and plant nursery, Forbes McGarrell, of Vergenoegen, East Bank of Essequibo, told the Guyana Chronicle that people have an interest in growing their own food and this was proven by persons from Central Georgetown, who bought seedlings and other plants with the intention of starting kitchen gardens.

Burrowes, however, pointed out that although persons were moving towards a green approach, there had been a perception that farmers were not generating enough income. So aside from the “grow more” promotion, the ministry along with the Ministries of Business and Communities used the expo to encourage farmers to continue what they did and to promote their produce.

Although they did not get the turnout from farmers that was expected, those who were there pointed out that they were able to generate

enough income within the short space of time.

Farmers who were there travelled from Regions Three (West Demerara-Essequibo Islands), Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice).

Farmers were however not the only proprietors who participated; there were numerous entrepreneurs, innovators and even representatives from all the Departments of the Ministry of Agriculture.

And, with the attention that the Farmers’ Market received, Burrowes said that the ministry would be looking to promote more of those expos, so that businesspersons would have a chance to market their fresh produce.

PROMOTION OF AGRICULTURE McGarrell welcomed the talk of continued expositions, but said there was much more to be done in terms of promoting agriculture, because it was the “backbone” of the country.

Suggestions were made that a more holistic approach must be taken because aside from getting the land, farmers

Paul Warner of Jet’s Enterprise enlightening an individual about one of their products

needed markets and transportation.

A farmer who has been in business for over 25 years, said that there was need for more air transport which would allow local farmers to access foreign markets in a timely manner.

Entrepreneurs support McGarrell’s idea. Paul Warner, a representative of Jet’s Enterprise, told this publica-

tion that their business which is located in De Kenderen, West Coast Demerara, has been in existence since 2000 and over the years they have been exporting their produce to countries around the Caribbean.

Jet’s Enterprise distributes juices that are made from locally produced cherries, passion fruit, mauby and other mouth-watering fruits.

Another innovative businessperson, Louisa Mancey, who is the founder of the local brand “Naked Soap,” also had a booth at the Expo.

Many other small, medium and large-scale businesses also participated in the event but, persons told the Chronicle that the initiative was mostly encouraging for businesses not yet popular on the local market.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2017

Plantation Providence residents call for increased police presence

By Clestine Juan RESIDENTS of Plantation Providence, East Bank Demerara, are calling for increased police presence in their community in the light of the recent spate of armed robberies and home burglaries.

One frustrated resident, who gave her name as Lila,

told the Guyana Chronicle that a month ago she was held at gunpoint in front of her home, while three bandits relieved her of almost $1M, which she had withdrawn from the bank to buy building materials.

Additionally, according to the residents, vehicles have been broken into and almost completely stripped

of its parts. Several reports have been made at the Providence Police Station but to date no arrests have been made.

One resident, who requested to remain anonymous, explained that her house was recently broken into when she was away on a two-week vacation overseas.

The woman further pointed

One of the many streets in Plantation Providence, which are often prone to burglaries, since most of the homes are new and without proper security installed

out that the thieves had carted off several household and kitchen items, electronics, gold jewellery and several pieces of furniture.

“I believe that there should be a police outpost in the community, which would make our lives safer in the village,” the woman said.

Another villager, Dian Hollingsworth, pointed out that residents in the New Providence area should form their own community policing group to help combat crime and streetlights should go up along the lengthy main road. She also pointed out that persons in the area are also viciously attacked during the night .by robbers. “ A few weeks ago a man was robbed at the road head while awaiting a taxi… the bandits rode up behind him on a bicycle with a gun and took away all of the man’s

money”, the woman stressed.

Another homeowner, Savita Persaud pointed out that many of the houses are either new or under construction, which again poses another problem, in that they are fair game for thieves on the lookout for building materials and whatever else of value they can find.

“Many homeowners in the area have not yet built fences around their properties, which is practically a safe haven for potential thieves who would often scavenge the area for their next bust,” Persaud explained.

Residents of Plantation Providence are calling on the relevant authorities to increase police presence in the area and to look into the situation in their village before the matter gets completely out of hand.

Police in clean-up exercise

Police ranks with members of Youth Biz 592 before the start of the clean-up exercise

RANKS of ‘B’ Division (Berbice) have partnered with Youth Biz 592 in a clean-up exercise at the New Amsterdam Special Needs School, Vryman’s Erven, New Amsterdam.

As part of Youth Biz 592 leadership curriculum, the participants had to perform a community service every week and the activity saw

each person working handin- hand, cleaning the yard of the school, the trench and weeding the compound.

During the recently held exercise, the police and Youth Biz 592 also planted a kitchen garden, which will be managed by students of the Special Needs School.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

Malik, Ashraf guide Pakistan to GFF unaware of High two-wicket win over Bangladesh Court Injunction

PAKISTAN rode brilliant batting performances from Shoaib Malik and Fahim Ashraf to beat Bangladesh by 2 wickets in their ICC Champions Trophy warmup encounter in Birming-

ham on Saturday.

Shoaib Malik (72 off 66 balls) provided the perfect foundation for the run chase and Fahir Ashraf scored an unbeaten 64 off just 41 balls to clinch the match for Pakistan.

Chasing a huge target of 342, Pakistan were off to a rocky start after they lost Azhar Ali and Babar Azam within the first five overs of their innings. However, Ahmed Shehzad and Mo-

the two, he perished for 19.

Tamim struck a fantastic 142-run partnership with Imrul Kayes (61) to give Bangladesh the platform to put up a big total. Both Kayes and Tamim scored at runaa-ball with Kayes striking eight boundaries in his 62-ball knock.

Tamim had decided that he will play the anchor’s role and kept rotating the strike.

Fahim Ashraf and Hasan Ali forged a 93 run partnership to guide Pakistan to a 2-wicket win. hammad Hafeez steadied the innings and both the batsmen were unlucky to miss out on their fifties by fine margins.

Pakistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals and although Shoaib Malik (72 off 66 balls) was steady on one end, it seemed that he will run out of partners.

But, Imad Wasim provided the perfect support to Malik and the pair put Pakistan in the driver’s seat. Bangladesh were able to dismiss both of the batsmen, but a late flourish from 23-year old Fahir Ashraf was enough to clinch the game for Pakistan.

The all-rounder slammed 4 fours and 4 sixes in his exciting innings and along with Hasan Ali (27 off 15 balls), he was able to control his nerves to guide his team to victory.

Earlier, Tamim Iqbal’s scintillating century took Bangladesh to a heavy duty total of 341/9.

Opting to bat, Bangladesh took off well with Tamim and Soumya Sarkar. Though Sarkar was the more aggressive of

But once Kayes got out, the left-hander upped the ante to hammer the Pakistani bowlers all over the ground.

Tamim ended up hitting nine boundaries and four massive sixes for his 93-ball 102 before getting out in the 34th over.

The Bangladeshi middle-order, however, did not lose the momentum with wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim (46), all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan (23), Mahmudullah (29) and Mossadek Hossain (26) chipping in with valuable contributions which took the Bangladeshi total close to the 350-run mark.

Pakistani bowlers struggled throughout the innings.

Though they picked up wickets at regular intervals towards the end, the damage had already been done.

Left-arm pacer Junaid Khan picked up wickets but also gave away 73 runs from his nine overs. Fast bowler Hasan Ali and leg-spinner Shadab Khan also scalped two wickets each.

… filed by Slingerz FC and Alpha United

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF), through president Wayne Forde, said that they were unaware of an injunction filed in the High Court of the Supreme Court of Judicature and granted by the Honourable Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, to prevent the hosting of yesterday’s Ordinary Congress.

The GFF and 17 of their 22 members gathered at the Park Vue Hotel on the East Bank of Demerara for their 2017 Ordinary Congress, but an ongoing issue with Alpha United and Slingerz FC, two of Guyana’s top clubs, has forced the teams who are also members of the federation, to seek the Laws of Guyana for justice.

However, Forde at a post-Congress press conference explained that he’s unaware of any injunction being filed and/or delivered yesterday by Court Marshals.

But contrary to Forde’s explanation, when contacted the Court Marshal stated that the Deputy General Secretary of the GFF, Rennela Bourne was issued the documents, but proceeded to toss the documents in a corner, saying she “doesn’t

have time”.

The Court Marshal explained that he arrived at the Congress and before handing the documents to Ms. Bourne; he identified himself (showed ID) and would’ve explained the nature of him serving the papers.

“We are not aware of the serving or filing of any application or notice…the Executive Committee have absolutely no knowledge of the serving of any order by the courts,” Forde told Chronicle Sport when asked to explain why the court order was disregarded.

Sewnarine-Beharry, the former Chief Magistrate turned Judge, on May 25, 2017, following a submission

by Attorney-At-Law, Adrian Smith, representing Alpha United and Slingerz FC, issued the order that the GFF do not pay out prize money for the second staging of the STAG Elite League, which was won by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

The Court Order, seen by Chronicle Sport, stated “this Court also orders that the Respondent whether by themselves, their servants and/or agents, be restrained and an

interim injunction be and is hereby granted restraining the respondent (the GFF) from holding Congress scheduled for 27th May, 2017 so as to amend the constitution of the Respondent to increase the membership of the Elite members from eight to ten members without the Applicants being allowed to cast their votes at an Elite Member meeting due to them being relegated by the Respondent for not being ‘in good standing with the Respondent.”

It also stated that if the GFF fail to comply with the terms of this order, “you will be in contempt of court and may be liable to imprisonment or to have assets confiscated. The Respondent herein advised that it may make an application to set aside or vary the order within 14 days.”

This is not the first time the GFF is being marched up the steps of the High Court.

In 2011, the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) also filed an injunction, stopping the then Colin Klass-led GFF Congress. The GFF at the time, upon being served, adhered to the Court’s order, but would later suspend the GFA.

Sparta Boss stamps ...

From back page

stroke of half time; setting the tone for an entertaining second half.

Millington, Richardson, Philips and Solomon Austin dominated possession, and the writing was already on the wall for West Back Road; they had no chance of coming out on top.

ENGLISH RACING TIPS Fontwell 08:55 hrs Kayla 09:25 hrs Goonjim 09:55 hrs The Wicket Chicken 10:30 hrs Set List 11:05 hrs Londonia 11:35 hrs Celtic Tune 12:05 hrs Cor Wot An Apple KELSO 09:15 hrs Champagne City 09:45 hrs Lofgren 10:15 hrs Crackdeloust 10:50 hrs Anseanachai Cliste 11:25 hrs Our Reward 11:55 hrs Cave Hunter 12:25 hrs Rubytwo UTTOXETER 09:05 hrs Turn Turk 09:35 hrs Beat That 10:05 hrs One For Billy 10:40 hrs Allelu Alleluia

Phillips would then make it 2- 1 with his 14th minute strike, while Millington completed his double three minutes later.

Richardson, who was fantastic with the ball at his feet, making several clinical plays and entertaining the crowd with his showmanship, then cemented his team’s appear-

11:15 hrs Days Of Heaven 11:45 hrs Royals And Rebels 12:15 hrs Cosmic Statesman IRISH RACING TIPS Curragh 08:50 hrs Brick By Brick 09:20 hrs Deauville 09:50 hrs Vociferous Marina 10:25 hrs Winter 11:00 hrs Lady Derrynane 11:30 hrs Supreme Vinnie 12:00 hrs Iron Mountain 12:30 hrs Fit For Function SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Turffontein 08:25 hrs Clever Guy 09:05 hrs Lions Emblem 09:35 hrs Trellis 10:10 hrs Zouaves 10:45 hrs Brave Nomad

ance in the round-robin stage with a beautiful goal just before the end of the game.

Meanwhile, Linden’s Dave & Celena All Stars went down 3- 2 to Sophia and Showstoppers of West Demerara and East Coast Demerara’s Beterverwagting (BV) were sent packing after going down 5 – 2 and 5- 4 to Tiger Bay and Agricola Champion Boys, respectively.

In other results: Broad Street Bullies edged Kitty 2-1 with Darren Benjamin and Jimmy Gravesande on target for the winners, while Simon Emanuel netted for Kitty.

Another six knockout games were scheduled to be played last evening, while the round-robin stage is set to commence tonight.

The top two teams in each group and the two best third place teams will advance to the Quarterfinals. The Round Robin playoffs continue on June 6 and 8. The Quarterfinal will be played on June 13. The Semi-final on June 15 and the Final on Saturday June 17.

The winning team will take home $500,000 and a trophy, while second, third and fourth placed teams will collect $200,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

‘Devastated’ Hamilton seeks answers to tyre mystery

By Alan Baldwin MONACO,(Reuters)-Lewis Hamilton declared himself ‘devastated’ on Saturday after failing to qualify his Mercedes in the top half of the grid for the Monaco Grand Prix.

The disappointment of setting only the 14th fastest time, even if he will start the race in 13th place, was crushing on a sunny afternoon when the Briton’s Ferrari rivals swept the front row.

So much so, that he stayed in the car long after it had been pushed back into the team’s garage at the end of the second session.

“I get over things relatively quick but I was devastated after the session,” the triple world champion, who

the Finn took his first Formula One race win on a day of struggle for Hamilton, made it all the more galling.

“At the moment it is a big unknown but a lot of analysis will go into trying to understand it. It is a tyre issue, I didn’t get the grip from the tyres,” said Hamilton.

“We had a little bit of a similar scenario in Sochi, particularly on my side.”

Hamilton said it was baffling how one car could have the tyres working and the other not, and hoped Bottas could win on Sunday to limit the damage on a track where overtaking is extremely difficult.

The rules have changed this year, with wider cars and fatter tyres, and Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff de-

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton leaves the pit during the qualifying session. REUTERS/Andrej Isakovic/Pool is six points behind Ferrari’s championship leader Sebastian Vettel after five races, told reporters.

“To the point that I couldn’t get out of the car.

“Everyone’s working back at the factory so hard and they rely on me to get it together and today somehow I wasn’t able to,” added the two-times Monaco winner.

Hamilton, whose team mate Valtteri Bottas qualified third behind Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen and Vettel, said he had been unable to get the tyres working in the required temperature window.

The fact that Bottas had clearly managed to do so, as was the case in Russia where

scribed the Mercedes as a “bit of a diva” when it came to getting into the performance window.

“You can see that on his lap, the car drops in and drops out,” he said. “Unfortunately mostly out of it.”

Hamilton had said earlier in the week that he liked the challenge of a car that was difficult to drive and that he likened to a bull or bucking bronco.

“It’s the same kind of feeling when you get in this car. It’s not easy but it’s a challenge,” he had said.

“There are cars in the past that have been beautiful to drive and have been a lot easier to set up. I like that this is a challenge.”

GSCL Inc. Independence Cup concludes today THE GEORGETOWN Softball Cricket League Inc. annual Independence Cup will conclude today at the Everest Cricket Club.

Following a fascinating first day’s play on Friday, an exciting climax is anticipated in both the Open and Masters’ categories.

Regal Allstars and Speedboat have one win each in the Open category, and will play each other in the final preliminary round. Their places in the final is almost secured.

In the Masters segment, Regal secured two wins, while Savage and Ariel registered one each.

While Regal Masters place in the final is certain, the other finalists will be either Savage or Ariel.

Regal Masters will play Ariel, while Savage will take on HS Masters in the final preliminary round games.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

Arsenal deny Chelsea double as Ramsey seals FA Cup

By Martyn Herman LONDON,(Reuters)-Arsenal salvaged some silverware from a traumatic season as they beat Premier League champions Chelsea 2-1 in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday thanks to Aaron Ramsey’s late winner.

Chelsea had been hot favourites to complete a remarkable debut season for manager Antonio Conte but were not at their clinical best as Arsenal, who finished fifth in the league, lifted the Cup for the third time in four seasons.

They have now won it a record 13 times while manager Arsene Wenger, who is yet to say whether he will be extending his 21-year reign, is now the most successful manager in the history of the competition with seven wins.

Chelsea made a woeful

“This team has suf- should have stood. start and were behind after four minutes thanks to Alex- fered. They’ve united and When his initial attempt is Sanchez’s controversial responded. I said last week to chip the ball into Chelopener but when Diego Costa this team will be in the sea’s area was blocked, levelled in the 76th minute it championship with one he appeared to knock the seemed they would complete or two good buys. They rebound forward with a memorable season.

Conte’s side had to play the last 20 minutes with 10 men after Victor Moses was dismissed following a second yellow card for diving.

Ramsey’s header in the 79th minute knocked the stuffing out of Conte’s side and Arsenal could even have extended their lead in the closing stages as Chelsea finally buckled.

Wenger, who failed to finish in the top four for Arsenal lift the trophy after beating Chelsea 2-1 in the first time since taking the 136th FA Cup final. charge in 1996, celebrated with his players in front showed strength and uni- his arms before running of the massed red ranks of ty and played spectacular through and shooting past football today.”

Arsenal fans at the end.

Thibaut Courtois despite Underdogs Arsenal en- Ramsey standing in an off“We had an outstanding performance from the joyed a dream start although side position. first minute onwards,” the there was huge debate about Confusion reigned as the whether Sanchez’s effort goal was initially disallowed 67-year-old Wenger said.

but after consulting with his assistant Gary Bewsick who had raised his flag, referee Anthony Taylor awarded the goal.

Chelsea never properly recovered from that body blow and Arsenal could have been out of sight before halftime.

Mesut Ozil had a shot back-heeled off the line by Gary Cahill while Chelsea had an amazing escape when Danny Welbeck’s header thumped against the post and Ramsey bundled the ball back against the same upright.

Despite being all at sea Chelsea did threaten with Costa denied by a perfectly-timed tackle by Per Mertesacker who was making his first start for Arsenal for 13 months.

Arsenal keeper David Ospina also bravely denied Costa, receiving a blow to the head for his troubles.

Chelsea started the sec-

ond half with more tempo and Footballer of the Year N’Golo Kante warmed Ospina’s fingers with a deflected drive from distance before Moses brought a fine save from Ospina after Costa played him in.

Chelsea were required to play the last 20 minutes a man down after referee Taylor’s second big call of the day, deciding that Moses had thrown himself to the floor under no obvious contact from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Just when it seemed their double hopes were slipping away, Costa equalised when his weakly-hit shot brushed off the excellent Mertesacker and past the diving Ospina.

But Arsenal had the last laugh when Chelsea’s defence went AWOL again, allowing Ramsey the freedom of the box to head substitute Olivier Giroud’s astute cutback past Courtois.

Stokes, Wood help England Revenue share is ‘starving’ snatch win from South Africa grassroots –– Cricket Australia

(REUTERS)- Ben Stokes smashed a blistering century and Mark Wood bowled an excellent final over as England beat South Africa by two runs in the second one-day international in Southampton on Saturday for an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

After Stokes’s heroics with the bat had helped England score 330 for six in their 50 overs, South Africa needed 10 runs from the last 10 balls of their innings with five wickets remaining, but an excellent final over from Wood that cost just four runs sealed victory.

One worry for England ahead of the looming Champions Trophy starting on Friday is that Stokes managed to bowl only three overs in the South African innings having injured his knee in the first ODI win, but he remained on the field.

“Those are the sorts of games you really want to win,” England captain Eoin Morgan said at the post-match presentation at the Rose Bowl.

“You learn a lot more. The game got away from us quite a lot. Woody was awesome.”

The visitors won the toss and elected to field, reducing England to 80 for three in the 16th over when Joe Root (39) was run out at the non-strikers’ end.

But Stokes (101 from 79 balls) put on 95 for the fourth wicket with Morgan (45) and 77 for the fifth

with Jos Buttler (65 not out) before he became a maiden ODI wicket on debut for South African left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj.

Opener Quinton de Kock (98 from 103 balls) led the South African reply before he was caught by wicketkeeper Buttler off Moeen Ali. Captain AB de Villiers pitched in with a fluent 52, but the innings looked to be faltering until Chris Morris (36 not out from 22 balls) joined David Miller (71 not out from 51 balls) in the 44th over.

The pair added 62 in 39 balls for the sixth wicket and looked as though they had won the game when they needed seven off the final over bowled by Wood (0-48 in 10 overs).

But the England seamer produced an excellent over of short-pitched slower balls and the pair could only manage four singles to see victory slip away.

“I can’t be unhappy, we fought right to the end and probably had it in the bag for most of that last half hour,” De Villiers said.

SCOREBOARD ENGLAND Innings J. Roy b Rabada 8 A. Hales c de Kock b Pretorius 24 J. Root run out (Pretorius) 39 E. Morgan c de Kock b Rabada 45 B. Stokes c Miller b Maharaj 101 J. Buttler not out 65 M. Ali c de Kock b Phehlukwayo 33 Extras (b-1 lb-6 w-8) 15 Total (for 6 wickets, 50 overs) 330 Fall of wickets: 1-12 J. Roy,2-70 A. Hales,3-80 J. Root,4-175 E. Morgan,5-252 B. Stokes,6-330 M. Ali Did not bat: A. Rashid, L. Plunkett, M. Wood, J. Ball Bowling: K. Rabada 10 - 0 - 50 - 2(w-4), C. Morris 10 - 0 - 66 0(w-2),D. Pretorius 10 - 0 - 61 – 1, K. Maharaj 10 - 0 - 72 – 1, A. Phehlukwayo 10 - 1 - 74 - 1(w-2) SOUTH AFRICA Innings Q. de Kock c Buttler b Ali 98 H. Amla c Morgan b Stokes 24 F. du Plessis c Buttler b Plunkett 16 A. de Villiers c Buttler b Plunkett 52 D. Miller not out 71 F. Behardien c Ali b Plunkett 17 C. Morris not out 36 Extras (lb-5 w-9) 14 Total (for 5 wickets, 50 overs) 328 Fall of wickets: 1-56 H. Amla,2-93 F. du Plessis,3-189 A. de Villiers,4-211 Q. de Kock,5-266 F. Behardien Did not bat: D. Pretorius, K. Rabada, A. Phehlukwayo, K. Maharaj Bowling: M. Wood 10 - 0 - 48 - 0(w-1), J. Ball 10 - 0 - 81 - 0(w-2), B. Stokes 3 - 0 - 12 - 1(w-2) L. Plunkett 10 - 0 - 64 - 3(w-3), A. Rashid 6 - 0 - 41 - 0(w-1), M. Ali 8 - 0 - 59 – 1, J. Root 3 - 0 - 18 – 0.

(REUTERS)-Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland believes the revenue-share model which the body is trying to dump in its ongoing pay negotiations with players is “starving” the grassroots of the game of funding.

Australia faces the possibility of an embarrassing player strike or lockout if the protracted negotiation over a new five-year pay deal for country’s international and state cricketers cannot be resolved by the end of June.

At the heart of the dispute is the arrangement whereby the players share a fixed percentage of up to 26 percent of Cricket Australia’s revenue, which Sutherland’s executive team want to end.

The players, through their union, have remained steadfastly opposed to such a change but Sutherland says it is essential if the grassroots of the game is to get the investment it needs.

“The model was created in 1997, when players were poorly paid, but now our top male players are easily the most highly paid team sportspeople in Australia,” he wrote in a column in The Weekend Australian on Saturday.

“The main issue in 2017 is the chronic under-funding of grassroots. This will require an investment over time of many hundreds of millions of dollars and we

must start now.

“We believe we can achieve both a healthy increase in player payments and our grassroots funding objectives over the next few years by sensibly adapting the current player payments model.”

With more than 80 percent of the country’s 5,584 cricket facilities current-

Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland ly having no provision for women and girls, meeting the needs of female players was the sort of project desperately required, he added.

Sutherland said that because the agreement was for revenue rather than profit share, any new investment Cricket Australia made would need to guarantee a 32 percent return just to break even, “an untenable situation

for any business”.

“The current model of player payments has done its job, but now risks starving other vital parts of the game,” he concluded.

“That must change.”

Cricket Australia has come under fire for not explaining its position clearly enough in what has been a tense standoff with the Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA).

The ACA on Saturday blasted Cricket Australia for “lacking in common sense” by refusing mediation to end the dispute and said the governing body’s “claims” on the grassroots needed to be closely examined.

“CA take 80 percent of revenue and yet blames the players for under expenditure on grassroots,” it said on its website (www.auscricket. com.au) “That is a nonsense. CA’s grassroots argument therefore has no factual basis.”

The ACA on Wednesday said it had set up a company to manage and market player image rights and intellectual property if the pay negotiations failed to produce a deal by the deadline.

Australia captain Steve Smith, in London for the Champions Trophy, has backed the move but downplayed the prospect of a players’ strike impacting on this year’s Ashes series.

22

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

Shane, Walcott cop Region Two Independence cycle races AS PART of Guyana’s 51st Independence Anniversary celebrations, the Department of Education in collaboration with the Regional Administration, held a cycle and relay race on the main public road last Thursday, May, 25th.

The cycle race wheeled off from Dartmouth while the relay race started from Lima. Both races concluded at the Anna Regina Car Park and were held for students from the various Secondary Schools. During an intensely contested cycle race involving ten pedal cyclists, Videsh Shane from Abram Zuil Secondary School eventually out-sprinted his rivals to emerge the winner of the Male category.

Leroy Prince from Charity Secondary was

second, while Adrian Singh from Abram Zuil Secondary came in third. Meanwhile, Janeka Walcott from Johanna Cecilia Secondary rode to victory in the Female category while Marva Merroy from Cotton Field Secondary came in second and Deon Farrell of 8th of May Secondary brought third. During the relay race, 8th of May Secondary copped first place with Charity Secondary running in second and Johanna Cecilia claiming the third spot.

Coordinators of the event were Amitabh Bisnauth and Gary Williams from the Anna Regina Secondary School. Trophies donated by the Regional Administration were presented to the winners in the

Videsh Shane from Abram Zuil Secondary School collects his prize from Youth Officer Herald Alves

Janeka Walcott from Johanna Cecilia Secondary School receives her prize from Principal Personnel Officer Rameeza Mullah

presence of Regional Officials including the Principal Personnel Officer (PPO) Bibi Rameeza Mullah; Youth

The events were the first to be held by the Department of Education and according to the organ-

and Culture Officer, Herald Alves, teachers and former national cyclist, Jason Boyce.

isers, it will now become an annual feature in the calendar of events for the Region. (Elroy Stephney)

Mini Health and Fitness Fair hosted for health conscious Guyanese

COGNISANT of the growing number of health conscious Guyanese, Fitness Trainer Tremel King hosted a Mini Health and Fitness Fair yesterday, May 27th in front of Chetsons Shoe Store on Wellington Street, Georgetown.

King related to Chronicle Sport that since many of his clients expressed that they needed advice on their diet and how this correlates to their workout regimes, he decided to host such a fair to educate the wider Guyanese society.

“This mini fair is the first of its kind, but it will be an annual event,” the fitness trainer affirmed.

In addition to acquiring

fitness advice from fitness experts like King, fitness and health fanatics would have benefitted from blood pressure testing, glucose testing and a healthy meal at a cost of $2,000. Patrons also had the opportunity to chat with a qualified nutritionist from the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), who was able to provide dietary guidelines and pointers.

The fair was hosted in collaboration with the Giving Hope Foundation and Mogainzzzz Fitness.The proprietor of Mogainzzzz fitness related that the supplement and gym supplies store supported this fair because it promoted the theme of a

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday May 28, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to Friday’s quiz:

(1) George Maxwell (Kings) & David Warner (SH)-26 sixes apiece (2) Krunal Pandya (MI)-Man of the Match in Final

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Where and when the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy Competition was held (the Wills Int’l Cup)?

(2) Who were the winners of the first ICC Champions Trophy Title?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

healthy lifestyle.

At the fair, representatives of Mogainzzzz Fitness would have given patrons relevant information on the dietary supplements they provide along with marketing their apparel.

This health fair commenced at 12:00 hrs and concluded at around 17:00 hrs. (Vishani Ragobeer)

Representatives of Mogainzzzz Fitness at the mini health and fitness fair.

(Delano Williams photo)

T&T players acclimatising to high altitude, says veteran Carlos Edwards DENVER, Colorado, (CMC) – Veteran winger Carlos Edwards believes the ongoing high-altitude training camp here is already paying dividends, as Trinidad and Tobago continue to build up towards next month’s crucial World Cup qualifier against United States.

The squad arrived here Tuesday night and will use the coming days to prepare for the encounter scheduled for Dick’s Sporting Goods Park on June 8.

Edwards, the most experienced player in the squad at age 38, said the first three sessions at the Prentup Field of the University of Colorado, had been pivotal for the unit.

“So far, so good. The guys have been put through

their paces over the last few days,” the former Sunderland and Ipswich Town player said Friday.

“It’s been tough but at the same time it’s work well planned and I think the guys are relishing getting acclimatised to the conditions.”

Denver, the scenic, mountainous western United States metropolis, lies 1600 metres above sea level often making breathing difficult for athletes.

Such conditions are expected to make the upcoming qualifier even tougher but Edwards said the camp was already helping players to acclimatise.

“It was a good blow for 45 minutes in the first session. The guys have stuck to what has been put forward to them,” he explained.

Veteran Trinidad and Tobago winger Carlos Edwards.

“The breathing has become easier as the days have gone along. I felt it a bit in the warm up yesterday (Thursday). The first day was a bit challenging but things have eased up a bit as the days went along.”

The 18-man squad is not the final one for the World Cup qualifier and changes will be made, especially when the bulk of overseas players arrive closer to game day.

Edwards hailed the cameraderie in the squad, pointing out that every player was united behind the same goal.

“The cohesion in the camp is second to none and this will make the bond a bit stronger,” said the 2006 World Cup star.

“There are a few guys who will have to leave camp and some will join is but everyone is focused on giving their best at the moment.”

T&T will play two warm-up matches against MLS outfit Colorado Rapids.

23

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 28, 2016

Jones pledges support for GDA

By Rajiv Bisnauth DIRECTOR of Sport, Christopher Jones has pledged the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) full support towards the Guyana Darts Association (GDA) as the body aspire to host the 2018 Caribbean championship.

Jones’ comments were made on Friday evening at the opening ceremony of the GDA’s Independence International tournament at the Millennium Manor Hotel on Hadfield Street in Georgetown; the venue for the three-day tournament.

“We want to recognise

the achievements thus far

by Mr. Yassin (Sheik) and his members in bringing about this tournament. I note from conservation I had with him that it was somewhat a difficult task in bringing about this tournament, but of course my presence here tonight (Friday) is to assure Mr. Yassin and his members that the necessary support would be given to ensure that the 2018 tournament will not only see Trinidad and Tobago, but other Caribbean countries participating in the tournament…. So I want to assure you now that the assistance will be given,” Jones said.

The Independence International tournament is the first major event under the new body. Close to 60 players, inclusive of 15 Trinidadians have registered to compete in the four categories.

When the tournament commenced Friday evening, the Luck-of-the-Draw took centre stage.

Participants took part in the Mixed Nations Doubles last evening, while the Male and Female Singles will be the major attraction this evening.

Reigning Caribbean Singles male champion, Sudesh Fitzgerald will defend that title.

Team Trinidad and Tobago greeted by president of the Guyana Darts Association (GDA), Sheik Yassin after their arrival at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on Friday afternoon.

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones declares the tournament open with the first shoot.

Umpire Gustard to stand in English County Championship ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Experienced umpire Patrick Gustard has been chosen to participate in the umpire’s e x c h a n g e p ro g r a m m e between the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

The 45-year-old will stand in matches in the English Country Championship this month and next month, during a two-week stint.

Earlier this year, umpire Graham Lloyd of England stood in matches in the WICB Regional Four-day Championship.

“The exchange programme is an important step in the umpires’ development pathway at the WICB. We see it as a vital part of the process as our regional umpires look to broaden their on-field experience in foreign con-

Umpire Patrick Gustard ditions, as well as gain an appreciation for the cultural differences, which exist among the playing nations,” said Rawl Lewis, WICB’s Cricket Operations Officer.

“The programme is now in its eighth year and we have seen great benefits. It is a clear demonstration of the WICB’s intent to develop all

aspects of cricket in the West Indies and we hope to see our umpires grow and improve.”

Lewis also noted that several of the umpires currently officiating at the international level: Joel Wilson, Gregory Brathwaite, Nigel Duguid, Leslie Reifer Jr., have participated on the programme in England, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

GFF Congress orders investigation into 2014 World Cup qualifier against Mexico THE mystery surrounding the venue change in Guyana’s 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying return game against Mexico could soon be solved, since the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) was mandated by its members to thoroughly investigate the reason behind the shift, how much money was made and the money owed to the players following the move.

Guyana was due to face Mexico at the Guyana National Stadium during their historic run at the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifier, however, the GFF sold the hosting rights for the game which was then hosted at the BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas on October 12, 2012.

The Golden Jaguars had lost 3 – 1 to Mexico at the Azteca and fans in Guyana were hoping to see

GFF president Wayne Forde (second from right), flanked by other Executive Committee members following yesterday’s Ordinary Congress (Rawle Toney photo). the likes of Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez in action at Providence.

“The basis of the motion is that the Executive commit-

tee commence investigation of the circumstances surrounding the selling of the game rights, for Guyana versus Mexico and everything

thereafter” Forde said.

The GFF president further noted “the Executive Committee supported the motion and urged the mem-

bers to support the motion, so we now have the tools that we need to reach out to both FIFA and CONCACAF, for their support

both in terms of their investigative capacity, and the necessary funding that will no doubt be required to undertake such an investigation”.

Forde is of the opinion that Guyana’s football administrative problems need closure and that “we’re happy that one of our members brought this to the floor. Of course the Executive Committee from day one that will pursue and now continue to pursue closure to this matter and I’m now happy that we now have a clear mandate from our membership to resolve this matter.”

There’s no specific time-frame given to complete the investigation, which Forde promised to be independent , “but what was proposed is that something get going within 14 days, which I think we have no difficulty with that.”

GFF unaware of High Court Injunction … filed by Slingerz FC and Alpha United See story on page 19

Xtreme Clean & Maintenance / GT Beer ‘Gold Rush’ Futsal Tournament

Sparta Boss stamps authority on opening night

A double from Devon Millington, and a goal each from Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson and Eusi Phillips were enough to send the notorious Futsal ‘kings’ Sparta Boss to the next round of the Xtreme Clean & Maintenance / GT Beer ‘Gold Rush’ Futsal Tournament, following their 4 – 1 win over West Back Road on Friday evening at the National Gymnasium.

Regarded as ‘the team to beat’ in any tournament, Sparta Boss’ marksman Millington scored the game’s first goal seven minutes into the contest, with a ripping right-footed volley which the West Back Road custodian had no chance of stopping.

But Josephus Charles then equalised for West Back Road just before the See page 19

Sparta Boss’ Gregory Richardson (first from left) presses forward against West Back Road in the inaugural Xtreme Clean & Maintenance / GT Beer ‘Gold Rush’ Futsal Tournament on Friday evening.

Thompson suffers first defeat since Olympic double … Omar McLeod keeps up excellent form

EUGENE, Oregon, (CMC) – Double Olympic sprint champion Elaine Thompson tasted defeated for the first time this season in the 200 metres but fellow Jamaican Omar McLeod kept up his excellent form as he won the men’s sprint hurdles at the Prefontaine Classic here Saturday.

In the third stop of the IAAF Diamond League series, the 24-year-old Thompson never looked the part and crossed the line struggling in a time of 21.98 seconds, behind Bowie who was dominant in a world-leading 21.77.

Bahamian Shaunae Miller-Uibo, the reigning Olympic 400m champion, also shocked Thompson to finish second in 21.91 running out of lane eight.

In a star-studded event that also included Dutch sensation Daphne Schipper and American Allyson Felix, Bowie once again showed her love

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for Haywood Field by repeating her victory from last year.

Running out of lane eight, she produced a blistering curve to leave the field in her wake and the result was never in doubt once she entered the stretch.

Thompson, who was also third in the event here last year, was away slowly, proved sluggish on the bend and was left with too much to do in the last 100m.

Only last week, Thompson easily won the half-lap at the Jamaica International Invitational in Kingston.

McLeod, meanwhile, who also won gold in Rio last year, extended his great start to the new season when he clocked 13.01 seconds to take top honours.

He led a Jamaican one-two as Richard Levy powered home second in 13.10, with American Devon Allen third in 13.11.

In the women’s 100 me-

Elaine Thompson … beaten for the first time this year. tres, Trinidadian Michelle-Lee Ahye was third in 10.97 as American Morolake Akinosun crossed the line first in 10.94.

Côte d’Ivoire’s Murielle Ahoure finished second in 10.96 but there was disappointment for the Jamaican pair of Veronica Campbell-Brown (11.00) and Simone Facey (11.13) who were fourth and fifth respectively.

SUNDAY, MAY 28, 2017