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Guyanese and the world’s Page fastest 9 aircraft

Kenrick Waithe

Budget Day today No. 104749

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2016

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Gafoor fetes children, elderly

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Businessman Mr Sattaur Gafoor giving monetary donations to the elderly at the party he hosted at Gafoor’s Houston Complex, East Bank Demerara on Sunday (Rabindra Rooplall photo)

Ruimveldt man December Biodiesel project shot outside more realistic at Imbaimadai next year night club Page

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–– for UN assessment of Guyana/ Venezuela border controversy

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Gafoor fetes children, elderly

Mr Gafoor giving monetary donations to the elderly at the party he hosted on Sunday

Children at one of the many tables being served NOTWITHSTANDING a second major fire at Gafoor’s Houston Complex last October that resulted in millions of dollars in loses, Chief Executive Officer Sattaur Gafoor continued his annual Christmas party, feting thousands of senior citizens and children on Sunday. The grand party was hosted at the company’s Houston complex, East Bank Demerara and it attracted scores of children and senior citizens who came from various villages, orphanages and geriatric homes across the country. Santa Claus, who was at hand, helped in spreading the jolly mood as he interacted and took photos with almost everyone at the party. Many left the company’s compound with a gift after filling themselves up with delicious meals. Mr Gafoor and his wife Ameena, along with staff were actively involved in the distribution of

food and gifts to their guests. Mr Gafoor, a philanthropist who has always brought cheer to the less fortunate, especially during the festive season, also gave monetary donations to the elderly yesterday. The company has been feeding the less fortunate for over two decades. Mr Gafoor also does charitable works in celebration of Eid, gave monetary donations to the elderly and provide them with blankets. The company also operates business complexes at Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara; Parika, East Bank Essequibo; and Rose Hall, Corentyne. From a small business going back to 1957, Mr Gafoor built the company to become one of Guyana’s leading distributors and manufacturing entities. In January 2002, all operations of the company were centralised at the Houston Complex.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Budget Day today By Alva Solomon

STAFF members at the Ministry of Finance were, on Sunday afternoon, busy making final touches to the 2017 National Budget, scheduled for Finance Minister Winston Jordan’s presentation to the National Assembly today at 14:00hrs. President David Granger had in August noted that early presentation of the 2017 budget was to ensure and maintain adequate preparation in tandem with its planning mechanisms. While addressing Parliament in October, he had said that the APNU+AFC Administration had adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of which are compatible with Guyana’s social agenda. He had said that the 2017 budget would reflect the harmonisation of the SDGs with Government’s national development plans, particularly in the social sector. Budget preparation, started several months ago, has been characterised by

President David Granger an inclusive and consultative process, the President said. The first budget under this more-than-one-year-old administration was presented on August 10, 2015 under the theme: “A Fresh Approach to the Good Life in a Green Economy”. Less than 10 months later, on January 29, 2016, the $230B Budget for 2016 was presented in the National Assembly by

Minister Jordan, under the theme “Stimulating Growth, Restoring Confidence: The Good Life Beckons.” Some $40.3B were allocated in the 2016 budget for the Education Sector; $28B for the Public Health Sector; $24B for Public Security; $20.3B for the Agriculture Sector; $15.8B for Housing and Water, and $14.4B for Public Infrastructure. In the lead-up to today’s budget presentation, the Ministry of Finance had engaged several agencies as discussions materialised on each agency’s budgetary proposals. In September, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) engaged the Ministry of Finance on preparations for its budget. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, told members of the media at the time that the MPI defended its submissions, and the entity is competing with several other ministries to receive funding for projects in the 2017 fiscal year, including in hinterland areas. The MPI is handling several marquee projects,

including the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion Project, which has to be completed in 2017. Patterson said the $4B allocated in 2016 for the CJIA project have been expended, and the project is expected to be completed by December 2017. President Granger recently noted that budget allocations provided for the security sector are inadequate. The Head of State has always contended that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) needs more resources in order to effectively tackle the country’s crime situation. As such, he noted that the $21B allocated to the MPI in the last two budgets had been well spent, but the sum is still insufficient. The ministry received a total of $14.534 billion in the 2016 budget. The surveillance capacity of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is expected to receive a boost with the expected acquisition of new fixed and rotor wing aircraft in 2017 and the possible establishment of additional bases across the country.

Consulate offices understaff –– efforts ongoing to fix situation, says Greenidge By Ariana Gordon AMID complaints from several Guyana consulate offices, Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge said efforts are ongoing to ensure that all Foreign Service locations are properly staffed. Speaking with reporters on Saturday, Greenidge said requests have been made to the Public Service Commission (PSC) for posts to be established and filled but noted that the process is not moving fast enough. “Truth is of course that the Ministry as a whole has an establishment which needs to be adjusted to accommodate the mandate it has and two sets of things are happening: that the request to the Public Service Commission for posts to be established and for posts to be filled are quite a long way behind our needs and so it is true but we have been trying to find means of hurrying them up.” The Foreign Affairs Minister alluded to the problems at the Commission and noted that it “has not been easy”. He posited that the Commission needs to be considerably revamped and noted that the skill-set needed for those who wish to enter the Foreign Service needs to be revisited.

“I would not even say it is outdated… it is irrelevant. We require them to look carefully at the request and I am sure that may be part of the reason for the delay, in addition to the changing of the personnel in the Public Service Commission itself.” Greenidge stressed that the modern diplomatic service has to be staffed by persons who possess a relatively wide range of skills. “Officers are being asked to look at human rights issues, asked to vote and advise us on issues that have to do with biodiversity, which is not a political issue as such. At least when the matters are raised they need to have some basic understanding of the implication of some of these things, from the science angle we need persons who can read maps, geographers and so forth and so the ministry and its staff need to be considering that.” Additionally, the Minister of Foreign Affairs made it clear that all of these factors need to be taken into consideration when hiring persons for posts within the Foreign Service. NEED TO BE KNOWLEDGEABLE He said too that those applicants need to be knowl-

edgeable in foreign language while noting that “languages are also a disgrace in this country as regards the range of languages taught in schools and the competence that the ministry receives”. Minister Greenidge made it clear that those who are not versed in foreign languages are required to learn same on the job. He noted that applicants with foreign languages will be given priority over those without. “We recognise of course this means that in a number of instances people are going to be doubling up and there will be scale backs in the missions but we (are) working on it,” he said, noting that it is a matter of urgency for the Government and more particularly his Ministry. The minister told reporters that President David Granger, and Minister of State Joseph Harmon, who has responsibility for the Public Service, and other members of Cabinet are aware of the situation. “One would expect that as soon as the PSC gets itself together they will move…” said Greenidge. Meanwhile, in May, the Foreign Affairs Minister said upon entering office follow-

ing the May 2015 General and Regional Elections, it was discovered that there were many deficiencies in

For the 2017 National Budget, the army’s submissions to the Finance Ministry include funding for the acquisition of additional rotor wing aircraft, models whose capabilities are said to be significantly advanced in comparison with the current Bell 206 helicopters on the army’s roster. GDF Chief of Staff, Brigadier George Lewis,

told this publication in October that several suggestions at improving the surveillance capacity of the army have been included in the 2017 National Budget proposals. On October 27, the National Assembly approved some $6.8B, representing the 2017 budget estimates for the 16 constitutional agencies in Guyana. At the level of the Committee of Supply, the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) made several attempts to secure clarifications from Minister Jordan about reductions in the proposals made by the various agencies, but those attempts were met with resistance, as the Finance Minister insisted that the adjustments were premised on the “fiscal space” available. In recommending approximately $1.5B for the Parliament Office, Minister Jordan explained that the recommended allocation was made in the context of the existing fiscal space and consideration of the agency’s request within national development priorities.

the Foreign Service. As such, given the shortfall, efforts are being made to boost the capacity of the Ministry and its representatives. Given the constraints, the administration is compelled to hire qualified and experienced persons who will serve the country’s interest both locally and overseas. Additionally, the revival of the Foreign Service In-

stitute has also been identified as critical to building the capacity of the Foreign Service staff. The institute does not only aim to guide the development of professional skills, but the programmes delivered would also guide the implementation of a foreign policy that is in keeping with the new emerging world environment.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 28, 2016

Castro’s death casts pall over Cuba Cuba’s most prominent dissident group called off its weekly protest march for the first time in 13 years on Sunday following the death of its nemesis Fidel Castro, the revolutionary leader whose passing has cast a pall over the island. Castro, an icon of the Cold War who built a communist state on the doorstep of the United States and defied half a century of U.S. efforts to topple him, died late on Friday at the age of 90. The Cuban Government has declared a nine-day period of mourning and suspended alcohol sales and even baseball games. The Ladies in White dissident group decided to avoid creating tensions this week. “We’re not going to march today so that the Government does not take it as a provocation and so that they can pay their tributes,” the group’s leader, Berta Soler, said on Sunday. “We respect the mourning of others and

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A picture of the late Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro on display outside the Cuban embassy in Santiago, Chile. November 26, 2016. REUTERS/Carlos Vera

will not celebrate the death of any human being.” The group, originally formed in support of husbands jailed for political opposition, has called protest marches in Havana following Mass at a Roman Catholic Church each Sunday for the past 13 years.

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The group is funded by Cuban exiles in the United States, and the Government says its members are mercenaries doing the bidding of the U.S. Government. Still, their movement has been the rare expression of dissent to be largely tolerated by the Communist Government, although police have clamped down over the past several months, stopping protesters in their homes and preventing the demonstrations from taking place. The difference this week is that dissidents themselves have opted against even trying, three opposition leaders said.

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The cause of Castro’s death was not made public but he had been in poor health since he nearly died of an intestinal illness in 2006. He formally ceded power to his younger brother, Raul, in 2008 after ruling for nearly half a century. Admirers of Fidel Castro and his legacy point to social achievements since his 1959 revolution such as free healthcare and education, but critics have long condemned a lack of political freedom on the island. “You can´t talk about politics here. There are no public protests because measures are taken, people don´t want to fall prisoner,” said Roberto, 53, as he shopped in downtown Havana. He declined to give his surname for fear of reprisals. “You can’t talk much,” he added. The streets of Havana have been calm since Castro’s death, with people expressing national pride by hanging more Cuban flags than normal. Lysset Perez, a 44-yearold peanut vendor, dressed in the national colours with a single-starred, blue, red and white flag on her head on Sunday. “It’s calm but a little dark because Cuba is music and for nine days of mourning there will be no music,” Perez said. “There is calm and sadness. If it weren’t for Fidel and the revolution, the people wouldn’t be as they are: educated and cultured.” State television broadcast non-stop tributes to Castro’s accomplishments, as well as

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excerpts of his speeches, and announced plans to fire gun salutes in his honour. Castro was cremated on Saturday and the ashes will be carried in a caravan next week to a final resting place in Santiago de Cuba, the city in eastern Cuba where he first launched his revolution in the 1950s. His funeral will take place on December 4. TRIBUTES AND CONDEMNATION Raul Castro, 85, who had been at his brother’s side since they took up arms against a U.S.-backed dictatorship in the 1950s, has not appeared in public or on television since he announced Fidel’s death on Friday night in a brief televised statement. Eileen Cutino, 27, said she never would have acquired a university education without Fidel Castro and cried when she heard the news. She said she still had trouble accepting his death. “I am convinced there will never be another like Fidel. We need him, he had vision,” she said. Cuba’s allies and foes around the world have marked Castro’s death with a mix of tributes and condemnation. U.S. President Barack Obama, who reversed more than five decades of U.S. hostility toward Cuba and re-established diplomatic ties last year, called Castro a “singular figure” and said the United States would extend “a hand of friendship” to Cuba. But Obama’s elected successor, Donald Trump, who has threatened to reverse Obama’s opening to Cuba, issued a blunt statement calling Castro “a brutal dictator who oppressed his own people for nearly six decades”. It is unclear whether Trump, who takes office on January 20, will continue efforts to normalise relations with Cuba or fulfill a campaign promise to close the U.S. embassy in Havana once again. (Reuters)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Court rules in favour of Food and Drug Department –– in businessman Ahmad’s condensed milk importation case By Ariana Gordon

ACTING Chief Justice Mrs. Yonette Cummings-Edwards has discharged the Order or Rule Nisi of Certiorari in the matter brought on May 23, 2016 by businessman Rafik Ahmad against the Government Analyst - Food and Drug Department for refusing his container of sweetened condensed milk entry into Guyana. The acting Chief Justice found that the respondent, Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department, had demonstrated good reason why the container should not be allowed in the country. Director of the Food and Director Department, Marlon Cole, had refused entry to Ahmad’s container, currently detained by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), after it was established that Ahmad was attempting to import Moi sweetened condensed milk, a product made from vegetable fat-based milk, and not a dairy product as is required by Part IV, Division 5 (Dairy Products) (13) of the Food and Drug Regulations of 1977. Justice Cummings-Edwards ruled on October 18 that the decision by the Food and Drug Department, represented by Attorney-at-law Judy Stuart, was lawful, and done in accordance with the Food and Drugs Act, Chapter 34:04 and the Food and Drugs Regulations 1977, in conjunction with Section 43 Schedule 11 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:04. Represented by former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil

Acting Chief Justice, Mrs. Yonette Cummings-Edwards Nandlall, Ahmad had in June moved to the High Court, seeking a release of the container of sweetened condensed milk, imported from Malaysia last year. Justice Dawn Gregory had previously granted a number of orders directed to both the Food and Drug Department and to the GRA. Those orders included an Order or Rule Nisi of Certiorari quashing their decision to refuse entry to the businessman’s container, which is detained

by the GRA and held at Muneshwer’s Limited on Water Street, Georgetown, on ground that the decision was unreasonable. Additionally, the judge ruled that an Order or Rule Nisi of Mandamus be issued to the Commissioner-General of the GRA, instructing the said Commissioner-General to release Ahmad’s container, unless sufficient cause is shown why the Order or Rule Nisi of Mandamus should not be made absolute. Ahmad had, in his affidavit in support, said he has been importing several products, including milk (sweetened and powdered) regularly for the past five years, and noted that he has never experienced such problems at ports of entry here. Moreover, the businessman said, complaints were never lodged by the Food and Drug Department or any other agency about the quality of those products or their ingredients. On October 26, 2015, Ahmad ordered a 20-foot container, containing 1325 cartoons of the sweetened milk, from one of his usual suppliers, Mewah Dairies. The shipment arrived in Guyana on December 30, 2015. “Upon its arrival, my servants and/ or agents were informed by the acting Director of the Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department that the labels on the milk appeared to her to be fake. She failed to specify the basis for this conclusion upon further queries. On another occasion, my servants and/or agents were further informed that the milk constitu-

ents fell short of that which is required by the Food and Drug Regulations for evaporated milk,” he said. However, Director of the Food and Drugs Department, Marlon Cole, in an interview with another media entity in June, said a number of discrepancies were found, including his (Cole’s) signature being forged. “My forged signature was used to clear the consignment, and at the time it was recorded (as) full cream milk, which is exempted from [value added] tax, imported by Superfood Inc., by Rafeek Ahmad,” Cole had told Guyana Times. He noted that Customs, an arm of the GRA, discovered the forged signature. The police were called in, and a staff of his entity was charged and placed on bail. “We had wanted to retrieve a sample of the milk, but when we got to the container, it was not a container of full cream milk, but of Moi condensed milk,” Cole stated. He said that when it was realised that the contents of the container were condensed milk, it was stamped “entry refused” in March. “We found that it is milk filled with vegetable fat and is being sold as regular standardised milk. So Customs (retrieved) the entry and the item was changed to condensed milk. The importer had to pay $1.5 million in duty. It was presented to the Department, and was again stamped “refused entry” because it was filled with vegetable fat instead of animal fat.”

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

THE inappropriate acquisition of properties in Pradoville II by elected officials who are supposed to be protecting and advancing the interests of citizens is a threat to good governance. The main players behind this unacceptable act are from within the leadership of the former Executive. It remains of concern to right-thinking Guyanese that former President Bharrat Jagdeo and his ministers could have ascribed to themselves the authority to transfer state properties to them and others. It would be recalled when this activity was taking place, there were numerous concerns about the manner in which the Government was going about it, yet these were ignored. The fact that members of the Cabinet felt public expressions could be ignored and somehow they are cocooned in the comfort that they are untouchable or think the people are less than deserving, should be of concern. This attitude transmitted to the people that their elected representatives had no regard for them or respect for the laws. Among the concerns raised by the people were, in addition to not following established procedures to acquire the land, state institutions were used to provide water and other support services. Clearly, it was decided by this group which lot who will acquire, and who outside of the circle will also benefit. The denial to the general citizenry an opportunity to acquire a lot at Pradoville II was a violation of the right of every Guyanese, under the Guyana Constitution, to own property. The use of state resources to develop these properties outside of the authorised agency, the Central Housing and Planning Authority, and then distributing land within the group at a price below market value is an abuse of authority, and synonymous with an act of misappropriation. Revelations in the forensic audit on this housing development found that several acts committed in the distribution of lots are in breach of the standard procedures used for citizens in acquiring property belonging to the state. Though some of the findings confirm accusations made about public officials --elected and appointed -- prior to the audit Government never moved to address the accusations. Instead, when such were made, the Head of Government challenged the accusers to provide the evidence. The public was being asked to provide evidence even as the Government failed to put any system in place to facilitate opportunity to make formal the complaints and conduct inquires. Now that there is an audit, bringing what have been found to conclusion require putting the findings fairly and squarely within the purview of the law. The Guyana Police Force should now be invited with the view of pursuing prosecution. To strengthen the process, the state needs to invite to join the inquiry and prosecution, proficient investigators and prosecutors, from within and out of Guyana. The opinion is noted that Guyana may not have the calibre of talents -- investigators and prosecutors -- needed to bring about justice and having to acquire same will cost the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 28, 2016

OP-ED

Never the intention of the framers of the Constitution for the President to be commanded By Basil Williams Attorney General, Minister of Legal Affairs LET it be made clear that the APNU+ AFC Government was elected on a promise to the Guyanese people to inter alia, “Restore the Rule of Law.” Thus, when I read the recent commentary by former Speaker Mr. Ralph Ramkarran, S.C., on the issue of appointment of judges I was taken aback. Firstly, Mr Ramkarran ignored the machinations of his former party- People’s Progressive Party /Civic in removing the checks and balances provided by the division of powers between the offices of the Chief Justice and Chancellor and reposing all powers in the Office of Chancellor. Moreover, after 2003 when Mr. Robert Corbin, former leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) became Leader of the Opposition, in every meeting between him and the President in seeking agreement on the appointment of the Chancellor and Chief Justice, the PPP/C President had always nominated the current Chancellor (ag) for the substantive post, even when former Chief Justice (ag) Mr. Ian Chang was put forward by the Leader of the Opposition. As a result, there was never agreement and both offices remained acting appointments -- the occupants being appointed by the President after meaningful consultation with the Leader of the Opposition. The PPP/C at one time had so craved control of the Judiciary that it had one person occupying both offices of Chancellor and Chief Justice at the same time until proceedings were filed in the High Court challenging it. Justice William Ramlal ruled against it and has since that time been by-passed for elevation to the Court of , despite being the most senior High Court Judge. In light of these premises, the PPP/C’s President and Chancellor (ag) combined in the process to appoint all Judges and Justices of Appeal except the Chief Justice. Needless to

say, anyone aspiring to be a Judge or a Magistrate who did not find favour with the PPP/C, could not see the light of day. And even if one slips through, the Chancellor whose power enables him/ her to assign Judges and Magistrates to cases, could neutralise that person. In this milieu, transparency in the appointment of Judges was an anathema and secrecy shrouded such appointments. Secret appointments to the Bench reached its nadir when a man who was a total stranger to the legal community of Guyana, was secretly recruited and appointed as a Justice of Appeal. That person then was found to be tainted by the allegation of being “criminous” in no less a place than the English Bar, and was a debilitating injury to our Judicial system. The

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams

lack of proper scrutiny by the JSC and the failure of former Presidents under the PPP/C administration to be an effective safeguard as was intended by the framers of our Constitution, combined to produce this ignominious result. And so we arrive at the present junction where it is being contended by both the PPP/C and Mr. Ramkarran that the President is the JSC’s robot; that the JSC’S advice to him is a command, which he must unthinkingly obey and brainlessly appoint. Nothing could be further from the truth. Both Clement Rohee and Ralph Ramkarran are rely-

country a tidy sum of money. In responding to this opinion, the question that needs to be asked is: Can Guyana afford not to have personnel with the requisite skills to execute a task of this calibre? A strong message needs to be sent, once and for all, to public officials that the properties of the state belong to the people, not them. The privilege they are entrusted with by the people must be seen for what it is: sacrosanct, to be treated with respect and at all times ensuring the people’s business is conducted within the confines of the law.

ing on the amendment in Article 128(1) of the Constitution, which they contend strengthens the power of the JSC to compel, mandate and command the President to appoint on its advice. Article 128(1) reads- The Judges, other than the Chancellor and the Chief Justice, shall be appointed by the President who shall act in accordance with the advice of the Judicial Service Commission. Incidentally, this amendment was occasioned under the PPP/C watch by Act No. 6 of 2001. It is contended that insofar as Article 128(1) purports to command the Executive President, it is unconstitutional. This is so because it collides with the basic structure or framework of our Constitution. In the Indian Supreme Court case of THE STATE-V- KERALA [1973] it was held by a 13-Bench court that the word “amend” means only changes other than altering the very structure of the Constitution. In other words, there are certain basic features of the Constitution which cannot be altered in the exercise of the power to amend. It is submitted that the basic structure of the Constitution is premised on the doctrine of the Separation of Powers between the three arms of the State, namely, the Executive, Legislature, and the Judiciary. No arm could intrude or interfere with the power of the other. Thus, the amendment in 2001 to Article 128 (1) is ultra vires the Constitution if it purports to give power to the JSC of the Judiciary arm to command the President who is the supreme Executive authority of the executive arm of the State. See Article 89 of the Constitution which provides:“There shall be a President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, who shall be Head of State, the supreme executive authority, and Commander-in-chief of the armed forces of the Republic.” It is submitted that the language of Article 128(1) is not mandatory but procedural and discretionary. In this result, the Court would be entitled to annul the amendment of Article

128(1) on the ground of it being ultra vires the Constitution. Further, on the text of the amendment itself, the interpretation claimed by Mr Ramkarran cannot be borne out since the President must have a discretion as to how he should proceed to deal with the document put before him. The President may wish to shelve the document with a view to making inquiries to allay fears he may have. He may have personal knowledge as to why he should not sign. In such a case, the President being an Executive President under Article 89, cannot be compelled to sign such a document. Another point that should not escape our attention is that the language itself places the burden on the JSC to act in a fair, transparent and dispassionate manner in the appointment of persons as Judges; otherwise, the President in the exercise of his power under the very Article 128(1) can serve as the check and balance on the excess of the Commission. The power to appoint Judges vests in the President and the power to advise in the JSC. The word ‘advice’ means that such advice may or may not be accepted and the use of the term ‘shall act in accordance with the advice’ conflict with the word “advice” and leads to an absurdity and must be interpreted to mean ‘may.’ It is submitted that the 1980 Constitution recognized that the Executive President could not be compelled by the JSC and therefore used the following language in Article 128(1), which gives the President a discretion namely: “The Judges, other than the Chancellor and the Chief Justice, shall be appointed by the President acting in accordance with the advice of the Judicial Service Commission.” Moreover, Article 1 11 of the Constitution clearly gives the President a discretion when he is required to act in accordance with the advice or on the recommendation of any person or Authority by providing that he could refer any such advice or recommendation, back for reconsideration.

Reacting to revelations in the forensic audit should not be thought to be that of political grandstanding. It will augur well for society when a clear act of setting the standard for the bar by which public officials will be expected to conduct themselves when treating with the people’s business is telegraphed. Should it be perceived that this is not what is intended, the society will remain sceptical as to when the privileged and connected classes will ever be held accountable when they treat with state properties at their whims and fancies.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Castro was one of the great revolutionary leaders of the 20th Century THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) is deeply saddened at the passing of Dr. Fidel Alenjendro Castro Ruz, the late former President of Cuba. Fidel was a great friend of Guyana, the PNC and of our Founder-Leader, Forbes Burnham The PNC has always enjoyed cordial and fraternal relations with Fidel Castro - El Commandante and the Cuban people. In 1972, the PNC-led Government of Guyana established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Cuba. In April 1975, at the invitation of Prime Minister Castro, Prime Minister Burnham visited Cuba and was awarded the Jose Marti National Order, Cuba’s highest honour. In August 1973, Fidel Castro visited Guyana and received a warm welcome by the Guyanese people. Prime Minister Burnham and Castro travelled together

to the 1975 Non- Aligned meeting of Heads of Governments held in Algiers. Fidel Castro was one of the great revolutionary leaders of the 20th Century. He was loved and respected by the Cuban people. Guyana has benefitted immensely from Fidel and Cuba’s generosity and the mutual cooperation between our two nations. Fidel Castro will remain and iconic figure and symbol of revolutionary commitment, national dignity and unyielding patriotism. The PNCR extends sincere condolences to his family, particularly his brother, President Raul Castro and to the people of Cuba at this time of great national sorrow. Sincerely, PEOPLE’S NATIONAL CONGRESS REFORM

Biodiesel project at Imbaimadai next year A LOCAL mining company is set to embark on an ambitious biodiesel project in which the company plans to cultivate dozens of acres of jatropha plants, commonly called the “physic nut”. The seeds of the produce when processed produce clean diesel. Mecca Ecotech Associates have been adopting safe and easy-to-use forms of technology which the company plans to implement on its mining concessions. The biodiesel project it plans to undertake as part of the reclamation of mined-out lands is aimed at providing employment to hinterland residents since the company plans to cultivate the crop at its mining concession lands at Imbaimadai in the Cuyuni/ Mazaruni, as well as in the North West District. Biodiesel from the jatropha plant is being propelled in India; an initiative which Neville Rutherford, of Mecca Ecotech noted can generate profitable incomes for locals once adopted on a large scale. He said the plants cultivated are ideally suited for the country’s climate. Jatropha oil is produced from the seeds of the jatropha curcas, a plant that can grow in wastelands across India and the oil is con-

The plant and its uses sidered to be an excellent source of bio-diesel. India is keen on reducing its dependence on coal and petroleum to meet its increasing energy demand and encouraging jatropha cultivation is a crucial component of its energy policy. However, in recent times, the bio-fuel policy has come under critical review, on the way it has been promoted. Large plots of waste land have been selected for jatropha cultivation and will provide much needed employment to the rural poor of India and at the same time businesses are also seeing the planting of jatropha as a good opportunity. Several years ago, the

Indian Government identified 400,000 square kilometres (98 million acres) of land where jatropha can be grown. Mecca Ecotech is in the initial phase of developing its mining lands in the Imbaimadai area for various purposes during the reclamation process. The cultivation of the jatropha plants will be done in various stages and the company plans to approach the Government with the aim of widening its plans. The company plans to employ locals at the communities in proximity to the farms, Rutherford said of the project which will be made operational in 2017.

December more realistic

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

–– for UN assessment of Guyana/Venezuela border controversy

By Ariana Gordon GUYANA’s Minister of F o re i g n A f f a i r s , C a r l Greenidge, believes that December is a more realistic time for outgoing United Nations (UN) Secretary General, His Excellency Mr. Ban Ki-moon, to make an assessment of the Guyana/ Venezuela border controversy; and not the end of November, as he had indicated to President David Granger. Minister Greenidge is of the opinion that that assessment would be completed before the end of December. Guyana had approached the outgoing Secretary General of the United Nations to act in accordance with his obligations under the Geneva Agreement — to choose another means of settling the border controversy between the two countries, in accordance with Article 33 of the UN Charter; and Mr. Ban had indicated that he would recommend the way forward before he demits office on

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge December 31. Guyana has expressed much optimism that the border controversy would be sent to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) before Mr. Ban demits office. “(Mr.) Ban Ki-moon (has) committed himself to a set of processes. November was mentioned in the context of stocktaking, and after that,

he undertook to hand down his decision. I wouldn’t hold my breath for (his assessment coming at) the end of November,” Minister Greenidge told reporters on Saturday. “My understanding is that (Mr. Ban’s) decision (would) be announced before he leaves office, and so we are looking well into December,” the Foreign Affairs Minister said, just one day after returning from meeting with the UN Secretary General. While in Morocco on November 18, President Granger had said he was optimistic that the outgoing UN Secretary General would hold to his commitment to give an “assessment” of the next step to be taken in the border controversy, and refer same to the ICJ for a final ruling. Should the UN Secretary General decide to refer this border controversy to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), it would bring an end to the controversy that has deeply affected Guyana’s development for 50 years. “We have to hold Mr.

Outgoing UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Ban Ki-moon to his own word. The word he used was ‘assessment’. November is quickly passing, so we expect Mr. Ban Ki-moon to quickly fulfill his obligation to let us have an assessment,” President Granger has stated. H o w e v e r, P r e s i d e n t Granger said, should Mr. Ban fail to act as indicated, incoming UN Secretary-Gen-

eral, His Excellency Mr. Antonio Guterres, would be the person to chart the course. “Of course (Mr. Ban) is demitting office, and Mr. Guterres is going to be the person to make decisions; and of course you know Guyana has (taken) a stand that, (after) 50 years of talking, we need to go to the Court (International Court of Justice) and have this matter settled. This is what we expect. I won’t use the word hope; it is not a planning strategy. We have done our homework, relayed our case before the international community, and Mr. Ban Ki-moon is quite aware of the power he has — and Mr. Guterres, (as do) all Secretaries-General of the UN — under the Geneva Agreement,” the President said. Guyana is restricted from taking action outside of the Geneva Agreement, and has exhausted all other courses. Since taking office in May 2015, the David Granger-led Administration has had to mount international protests against a series of acts of aggression by Venezuela.

This Spanish-speaking country has claimed Guyana’s maritime space following the announcement by U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil of a “significant” oil discovery there. After threatening the company, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro issued a decree, on May 26, 2015, seeking to extend Venezuela’s land claim to also annex Guyana’s maritime space. Venezuela had, in 2013, sent one of its navy’s vessels into Guyana’s waters to seize a U.S-chartered oil survey ship and escort it to Margarita Island. Also, in September 2015, Guyanese authorities had announced that the Venezuela army had travelled up the Cuyuni River. Venezuela has consistently claimed that the 1899 Arbitral Award which settled the countries’ borders is null and void, but Guyana has rejected outright the claims by Venezuela, and has insisted that the only solution to the border controversy is by way of juridical settlement, and not by threats.

Guyana makes ‘remarkable progress’ in HIV/AIDS fight –– but controlling PLHIV still a struggle By Shirley Thomas PUBLIC Health Minister Dr. George Norton is extremely proud of Guyana’s remarkable progress in the fight against HIV and AIDS. So proud is he, in fact, that he couldn’t help remarking about it on Saturday in his address to the large gathering of predominantly youths assembled at Durban Park for Guyana’s World AIDS Day observances. “We must acknowledge that Guyana has demonstrated a steady decrease in the number of AIDS cases and the number of AIDS-related deaths,” Dr. Norton said. And as far as preventing babies being born with HIV from mothers are infected, another plus has been recorded. This has been achieved through robust application of the Prevention of Mother-to-Child-Transmission (PMTCT) programme by the Ministry of Public Health. Dr. Norton said: “Much has also been achieved in the prevention of mother-tochild (PMTCT) transmission rate. (It) decreased from 6.1 per cent in 2010 to 2 per cent in 2015.”

Dr. Norton said that, according to baseline data, the prevalence of HIV and AIDS among women attending antenatal clinics has decreased from 3.1 per cent in 2003 to 1.9 per cent in 2015; and statistics given for adult-HIV prevalence have shown a decline to 1.5 per cent at the end of 2015. However, he also revealed the following: “Statistics for the period January to June 2016 have revealed that 1.9 per cent of young people aged 15 to 24 are living with HIV.” Considering this development a matter of grave concern for the Government of Guyana, Minister Dr. Norton said: “We will be examining the possibility of introducing HIV/ AIDS counselling and testing services in secondary schools.” VCT Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) outreaches were continuously taken to both coastland and hinterland communities during 2016. More specifically, 12 outreaches for key populations were conducted at popular hang-out spots on the coastland.

Guyana has 62 fixed testing sites, and statistics for the period January to June 2016 show that 40,331 tests were done countrywide. TRAINING Training on a trainer-of-trainers basis was conducted for 20 persons from the Vector Control Unit, and ten persons from the Guyana Red Cross Society, so that they, in turn, can provide VCT services. Additionally, 21 female sex workers were trained as voluntary counsellors and testers. Capacity building exercises were also conducted with voluntary counsellors and testers, so as to better equip them to provide psycho-social support to key populations. This, the minister said, allows them to address cross-cutting issues such as suicide, gender-based violence, and drug abuse. And focusing on interventions targeting males, the minister disclosed that for the period January to June this year, 3698 men who have sex with men (MSM); 4051 sex workers, and 7193 miners and loggers were

With a massive youth following, Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton (left) and the UNAIDS Representative (right) led the World AIDS Rally and March around Georgetown on Saturday reached with HIV prevention package of services. Meanwhile, for the period January to June this year, 1949 MSM, 2685 sex workers, and 2121 miners/loggers voluntarily took the HIV test and were able to know their statuses. Other activities aimed at HIV prevention, Dr. Norton said, were: condom/lubricants distribu-

tion; community mobilisation; distribution of information, education and communication (IEC) materials; and sexual and reproductive health education messages through the mass media. TREATMENT UPTAKE As at June this year, 4791 persons are receiving treatment, which accounts

for more than 85 per cent of patients enrolled in clinics. “But despite such gains,” Dr. Norton warned, “we need not forget the issue of ‘stigma and discrimination’; one of the very important cross-cutting issues in our bid to eliminate the AIDS epidemic. We still have a lot more to do in this regard.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Guyanese helping to develop world’s fastest aircraft By Alva Solomon

THE world’s fastest aircraft, the Xb-1, a supersonic jet faster than the Concorde, is being developed by Boom Technology Inc and will fly late in 2017. And the company’s P r i n c i p a l E n g i n e e r, Aerodynamics, who is playing a key role in the development of the super-fast jet, has Guyanese roots. The company unveiled the prototype for the aircraft a week ago. It is nicknamed the “Baby Boom”and is being designed to achieve Mach 2.2 or 1,451 MPH — 2.6 times faster than other airliners. According to CNN, Boom Technology and Virgin Atlantic which is owned by Sir Richard Branson, tickets for the estimated three- and-ahalf hour trip from New York-London round trip will be about $5,000. Boom said the aircraft will be able to carry up to 55 passengers It has been in the making two years to date and is set to establish a benchmark for speed and efficiency. With all safety considerations exhausted, it has already attracted the attention of aviation pundits globally, who have viewed the aircraft as the next generation of

speed, beyond the famed Concorde. The aircraft, according to the manufacturer, leverages advances in aerodynamics, materi-

Kenrick Waithe als, and propulsion to achieve efficient supersonic flight. The company noted on its website, that the aircraft has been refined through 1,000+ simulated wind tunnel tests. Boom jets feature three major aerodynamic advances from Concorde: an area-ruled fuselage, a chine, and a refined delta wing. “ S u p e r s o n i c p e rformance is highly sensitive to airplane cross-sectional area. Our aircraft features a gentle tapering in the aft cabin, where the wings are thickest, reducing cross-section and disturbances to the surrounding air,” Boom

Technology noted on its website. The XB-1 is powered by three General Electric J85-21 turbojet engines and fed by two variable geometry supersonic intakes. Each engine has a variable geometry nozzle system, the company said. The XB-1 uses a compact turbojet engine, while the production airliner uses a medium-bypass turbofan engine for additional quiet and efficiency. The aircraft will be tested at Centennial Airport in Denver, Colorado, late next year. So who is the Guyanese linked to the aircraft? Kenrick Waithe is the Principal Engineer Aerodynamics at Boom Technology, Inc. He is the son of Guyanese parents. He appeared in infomercials released last week on YouTube by the company and explains the propulsion system utilised to develop the superjet. Wa i t h e c u r r e n t l y chairs the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Boom Discussion Group. AIAA is the professional society for the field of aerospace and engineering. According to Boom Technology, Waithe previously headed the Gulfstream team developing

quiet boom and supersonic aerodynamics and was also responsible for advanced computational fluid dynamics methods applied across all Gulfstream aircraft. He also worked with Lockheed M a r t i n a n d N A S A’s Langley Research Centre. As such, he carried a wealth of knowledge to Boom Technology. According to his professional profile, Waithe is a member of a small research team conducting supersonic research

on sonic-boom suppression that if successful, could change the current worldwide ban on supersonic flight over land. He is responsible for complex aerodynamics and propulsion integration of supersonic and subsonic concepts using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). He also conducts time-accurate analyses on aircraft with propulsion integration and is also responsible for identifying and developing new methods

and processes to analyse and design a full aircraft with an integrated propulsion system. Wa i t h e o b t a i n e d his education from the George Washington University where he read for a Master’s degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering. Previously, he attended the University of Pennsylvania where he read for a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

An artist’s impression of the XB-1 “Baby-boom” supersonic jet.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Marijuana fields destroyed at Gateroy

RANKS of the Guyana Police Force on Friday torched four fields of marijuana cultivation, measuring about eight acres, in the Upper Berbice River community of Gateroy. Police, in a release, said an estimated 10,000 plants, measuring between two feet and six feet in height, and with a weight of approximately

21,000 kilograms, were destroyed when the ranks conducted a 12-hour Drug Eradication exercise at Gateroy, Upper Berbice River. Â No arrest has thus far been made, but efforts are being made to trace and apprehend the owner/owners of the land, with a view to instituting charges, police say.

Monday November 28th, 14:30 - 4:00 hrs Tuesday November 29th, - 05:00 hrs Wednesday November 30th, - 05:00 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Have you ever thought about being a foster parent? A foster carer’s short story

A MIDDLE-AGED woman fostered four siblings: of course, she had the support of her family, but it was still a noble act. She took the siblings because she did not want them to be separated or to end up in a children’s home. Apparently, the children’s mother had been incarcerated and the mother’s parting wish was for her children to stay together. The youngest child was a mere baby. The three older children were an immediate challenge, but the foster mother put measures in place to cope and things seemed to be turning around: slowly but surely. By all means, it sounded as if she was doing a great job. There was pleasure and pride in her eyes as she relayed stories of the antics her foster children got up to. Her only real concern was for the baby, who had become very much attached to her. She explained that, by the time the biological mother was released from prison, the baby would be nearly three years old and she, the foster parent, would be the only mother the child

ever knew. Upon further discussion we came to the conclusion that the older siblings, who knew their mother, could help their baby sister and mother bond when the time came. To find this temporary solution to her problem made the foster mother even more adamant to keep these four children together under ‘her wing’ to safeguard and protect them in the best way she could, until it was time for them to go. WHY FOSTER PARENTS MUST BEWARE Bonding is a very important part of a relationship for any child, because children need to trust the adults around them. Foster children will bond with the adults and any children in their foster family, this happens naturally, but it is important for all parties concerned to always be aware that fostering is a temporary arrangement. Adults who foster must bear this is mind and not become overly attached to their foster children. They must be able

to find a sound emotional balance in their foster- care relationships, one that cultivates mutual understanding, mutual respect, love and humility. WHAT FOSTERING DOES FOR A CHILD Foster care is a valuable alternative to institutional care. Children who are vulnerable or living in difficult circumstances are separated from their families for various reasons and the last thing anyone wants to do is place them in institutional care. So, where foster parents are available, they really can make a big difference to a child’s life. When children are in a family setting (even a single-parent family) they strive better. They receive more attention from their foster carer(s) than they would from carers in an institutional setting. Foster children also tend to settle sooner and cope a little better with being separated from their loved ones. They do not have to contend with the regulations and routine of a ‘children’s home,’ nor do they have to feel like

just ‘one’ in a bunch of lots of other children. Foster children can partake in everything the foster family does, such as picnics, shopping, parties and other events. Foster children have more freedom: freedom to think, freedom to grow and flourish and freedom to find themselves and be themselves. To find out more, call the Foster Care Unit at the Childcare and Protection Agency (227 4082 227 0138) or If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the Childcare and Protection Hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILCARE ANDPROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION

The quest begins for Nuriyyih Gerrard

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Miss World Guyana 2016, Nuriyyih Gerrard

–– as Miss World 2016 gets off to grand start in DC

By Shauna Jemmott MISS World Guyana, Nuriyyih Gerrard, has officially begun competing at the Miss World 2016 in Wash-

ington DC, United States of America (USA) in her quest to become a world-changer. Gerrard joined the party Sunday for the grand compe-

tition, which ends in a grand finale on Sunday December 18. With hopes of the recreation of records, Gerrard is a humble, respectful beauty

whose gifts lie strongly in communication and drama, and whose unique facial features define a woman of beauty, confidence and strength.

Miss World Guyana franchise holder, Natasha Martindale, said the team is confident in Nuriyyih’s communication skills as a media personality, and is banking on the ‘multimedia, interview, and beauty with a purpose’ categories to push her into the final spotlight. “Nuriyyih is a media personality, so our focus is winning and or doing well in a few areas, namely Multimedia, Interview and Beauty with a Purpose,” Martindale told the Guyana Chronicle in an interview yesterday. SPECIALLY CREATED She said the competition features no national costume contest this year,

but the queen’s talent outfit was specially created by House of Pearson, while her top-model and designer gowns were fashioned by award-winning designer, Randy Madray. “I feel strongly about her participation like I did with Rafieya and Lisa; bring out their best self and bless the world with their talents and their experience to make a difference in the world,” Martindale said. Rafieya, Miss World Guyana 2014, emerged one of five winners of the ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ category, while Miss World Guyana 2015, Lisa Punch, shot her way to the Top 15 Special Queens collection, being named “the undisputed star of the talent show.”

Guyana’s first Miss World fame! Miss Guyana 1967, Shakira Baksh (2nd runner-up); Peru’s Madeleine Hartog-Bel (Winner); Argentina’s Maria del Carmen Sabaliuskas (1st runner-up)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Miss World Guyana 2015, Lisa Punch Punch is named “alumni” on the Miss World record, and was one of the prominent Miss World stars who performed at the Miss World Special Awards ceremony to pay homage to Julia Morley in Sanya City, China, last year. Martindale told the Guyana Chronicle, “As long as Nuriyyih maintains her confidence and continues to be a version of her best self, she can and will be successful; I am confident in her skills and abilities.” NO EASY TASK She however said that ensuring great representation on the international stage is no easy task, and cannot be done by just a small group of people. “Indeed, it takes a village. As a result and on behalf of team Miss World Guyana (MWG), I sincerely thank all of you who helped in one small way or the other to make this journey possible,” Martindale posted in a Facebook message yesterday. Meanwhile, in her introduction video posted by Miss World on ‘Youtube’, the Miss World Guyana queen said, “If we work hard and believe in ourselves, our dreams can come true. “At 24-years-old, I stand proud to represent my country, Guyana, as a young Guyanese woman, an entrepreneur making strides in the field of communication by using my talent to bring people together; an award-winning actress and peace ambassador who is determined to contribute to the overall growth and development

of my beloved country, Guyana.” LIVE MY DREAMS She goes on to say that since a little girl, she’s always dreamt of making a difference in the world. “Today, I get to live my dreams by illuminating lives with positivity, hope and love. I am most honoured to be a part of such a great movement as the Miss World Competition, where dreams create unity by bringing so many different countries together. “On this platform, our dreams do not only become alive, but flourish!” Martindale said Guyanese can rally around our queen by liking her Facebook competition page at: https://www.facebook.com/ MissWorldGuyana/; or by interacting with her, tweeting or tagging her competition twitter profile at: https://twitter.com/missworldguyana. Though many Guyanese still hold the performance of Miss Guyana 1967 Shakira Baksh as the standard of attainment for our queens until today, Martindale said she never compares our younger queens with our 60s superstars. This, she said, is due to the fact that “the competition is totally different now,” and each queen must be her own best self and not try to be someone else. Instead, she said, “My question is more like ‘Would Shakira still be able to place if she was competing in this era?’ For me, we need to drum home to our representatives that they must compete with themselves and no one else.”

Ruimveldt man shot outside night club FORTY-EIGHT-year-old seaman Martin Bovell, aka John Corbie, of East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was shot in the abdomen and stomach in an exchange of gunfire following an altercation with a patron at the Wings and Things Bar on Mandela Avenue at about 2:00 hours on Sunday. Police say the seaman was outside the bar drinking when he rested a beer bottle on the man’s car trunk. The owner of the car apparently upbraided Bovell over what he had done; and not taking kindly to the ticking off, Bovell reportedly followed the man into the bar and discharged a round behind him. The man immediately drew his licensed

handgun and discharged three rounds at Bovell, hitting him in the region of the chest and abdomen. Bovell was subsequently rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where police report he is in a serious condition; while the shooter was apprehended by the police, and is assisting with investigations into the matter. The gun with which Bovell was shot has been confiscated by the police, and the four spent shells that were retrieved from the crime scene are in safe custody of the police. When the Guyana Chronicle visited Bovell’s East Ruimveldt home late yesterday, the place was locked tight.

Mabaruma municipality showing maturity

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

–– functioning as a team, not two separate entities COMMUNITIES Minister Mr. Ronald Bulkan has commended the municipality of Mabaruma in Region One for showing maturity after months of division over leadership.

“After months of stalemate, when the election for the posts of Mayor and Deputy Mayor were called, the Mabaruma Municipality, in Region One, is defying expectations,” Minister Bulkan said on

Saturday during a visit to the region. He profusely praised the mayor, deputy mayor and councillors for their collective decision to function as a team, and not as two separate polit-

Communities Minister Mr. Ronald Bulkan taking note of councillors’ concerns at Saturday’s meeting with the Mayor and Town Councillors of the Mabaruma municipality ical parties; and particu- emulate. larly singled out People’s “You are leading the Progressive Party/Civic way, and you are showing (PPP/C) Councillor Mr. citizens and communities Vibert Emmanuel and AP- across the country that we NU+AFC Councillor Mr. can rid ourselves of the Leslie Robinson for the blinders that many of us roles they have played in put on, and that we can sharing meetings of the look at the bigger picture Town Council on occa- and the larger good, which sions when the mayor-des- is the interest of the people ignate could not have so who have placed us there,” done because of the liti- Minister Bulkan said. gations that were initiated He said he was happy following the deadlock to acknowledge the acover the Council’s lead- tions of the municipality, ership. because there was noth“On behalf of the Min- ing preventing the counistry, and on behalf of the cil’s members from going residents of the township,” into the council and adoptMinister Bulkan said, “I ing a different attitude; would like to thank the “one of resistance, and two councillors in particu- one of attaching yourself lar for that spirit of bipar- to certain positions from tisanship and cooperation, which you have found because it is that spirit and ample justification.” that attitude that would Said the minister: take us far,” the minister “We can always justify said. our actions, whatever He also said that in they are; but you have many respects the May- chosen, as a Council and or and Town Council of as individuals, to bring an Mabaruma is a shining enlightened attitude. You example for the other loSee page 15 cal democratic organs to

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Caribbean joins challenge to reduce food losses, waste

THE Food and Nutrition Security Strategy for Guyana (2010-2020) has acknowledged that the key to ending hunger at the national level lies in social and agrarian reforms, along with recognition that everyone has a right to a sustainable diet. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) draws a nexus between food insecurity and food that is lost or wasted daily, to show that these are not contradictory concepts, but that indeed, by solving one, world leaders can also solve the other. Regarding food that is lost or wasted daily in the Caribbean region, FAO notes that no effort to eradicate hunger and poverty in the Caribbean would be viable without public policies that promote more sustainable patterns of food consumption and production. According to FAO studies, the loss level for cassava, a staple food for food security in the Caribbean, reaches up to 23 per cent in Guyana, and 20 per cent in Trinidad and Tobago. Figures for Guyana also show a 34 per cent waste of tomatoes, compared to 27 per cent in Trinidad and Tobago, and 20 per cent in Saint Lucia. Guyana’s National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) estimates that about 30 per cent of all fruits and vegetables produced in the country go to waste. A similar figure is observed in respect to vegetables in Haiti: 35 per cent lost

or wasted, according to IICA. At the regional level, FAO notes that food losses and waste in Latin America reach 223 kg per person per year, more than enough to meet the caloric needs of all who suffer hunger in the region. “While there is no current estimate of the total losses in the Caribbean, studies show that these are due to poor infrastructure, inadequate post-harvest food practices, and serious

to reduce their food losses and waste. In relation to production and harvest, Granada has advanced a system of crop forecasting and planning. In terms of processing and packaging infrastructure, Grenada and Guyana have consolidated the implementation of cold chains, and have provided adequate equipment for the processing and storage of fruits and vegetables, to avoid post-harvest losses.

sumption, Grenada is promoting value-added in fresh local products by producing pulps-and-packaging-combined products, allowing the life of the food to be extended, and to facilitate its preparation for consumers. The Caribbean Farmers Network, which brings together members from 14 countries, is promoting local food purchases and market diversification.

FAO is currently working on the technical proposal for an international code of conduct for food loss and waste management limitations in the organisation of value chains,” said Vyjayanthi López from the FAO Sub-regional Office for the Caribbean. FINDING SOLUTIONS Caribbean countries are making multiple efforts

Both Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago have undertaken similar actions, and have complemented those actions with training for producers, food packers and marketers in the potato and cassava chains. As for market and con-

ZERO LOSSES, ZERO HUNGER At the policy level, the reduction of food losses and waste has been incorporated as a key element in the strategies for overcoming hunger and poverty in Caribbean countries,

such as the Government of Grenada’s Zero Hunger Challenge. “Today, as never before, farmers need assistance in applying science and technology to prevent and reduce food losses and waste, considering that globalisation forces them to become more efficient producers,” said Alvin da Breo, Minister of Agriculture of Grenada, during the II Regional Dialogue on Prevention and Reduction of Food Losses and Waste, held in Saint George’s, Grenada on November 17 and 18. At that meeting, Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Cuba, Colombia and the Dominican Republic shared with the countries of the Caribbean their experiences in articulating the public and private sectors, and in institutionalising national actions for the prevention of food waste. The participants of the event ratified in a declaration their commitment to promote national actions and to strengthen the articulation between all Latin American and Caribbean countries on this subject. FAO is currently supporting the Caribbean through training in the use of its methodology for characterising and measuring food losses. It has trained 500 officials from ministries of agriculture and producers in Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.

INTERNATIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT The countries of Latin America and the Caribbean have strengthened their political will and institutional capacity to meet the challenge of food losses by creating active platforms for articulation at different levels and with diverse sectors. To date, seven National Committees and a Regional Alliance for Latin America have been created to implement a joint strategy based on national action plans for the reduction of food losses and waste. According to the FAO, with greater involvement of Caribbean countries in these actions and alliances, the entire region would take an important step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of halving food losses and waste per year 2030. FAO is currently working on the technical proposal for an international code of conduct for food loss and waste management, an instrument that would provide a shared vision of these issues to facilitate the exchange of information and promote international cooperation. “All countries have food losses and waste, so an international instrument of a voluntary nature is needed as a reference for formulating strategies and building solutions,” says Tania Santivañez, coordinator of FAO’s Strategic Programme on Inclusive and Efficient Food Systems.

Mabaruma municipality showing ... From page 14

have risen above self-interest and pettiness for petty politics, and you have demonstrated by your actions that you understand that there is a time for politics and there is a time for leadership.” EVIDENT SPLIT Following the local government elections of March 18, the Municipal Council of Mabaruma was evenly split between the PPP/C and the APNU+AFC parties. Each group obtained six seats on the 12-member Town Council. For months, several attempts to hold critical meetings that would lead to the election of office bearers, including the mayor, were thwarted.

In fact, although Mr. Henry Smith was sworn in as Mayor of Mabaruma by President David Granger, he was, for months, unable to function in that capacity, as Justice Diana Insanally had granted an interim order quashing the appointment which had been made by Minister Bulkan. The injunction is barring Henry from functioning as mayor, but instead of being hampered, the Council has been skillfully manoeuvring around the injunction to ensure the functioning of the municipality. Working together, they collectively arrived at the decision that the mayor withdraws from the position, to give the council an opportunity to elect a chairperson to chair the meeting in the interest of the municipality’s programmes.

Mayor and Town Councillors of the Mabaruma municipality being addressed by Minister of Communities, Mr. Ronald Bulkan

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 28, 2016

Monedderlust FC squeeze past Top XX 2-1 MONEDDERLUST FC secured their first points of the GFF-Stag Elite League season two when they came from behind to edge Linden’s Top XX 2-1 at the Camp Ayanganna ground yesterday. Terrence Aarron opened the scoring in the 12th minute to give Top XX the lead which lasted only nine minutes as Kenston Lindley equalized for Monedderlust with his second conversion

in as many games. Akemo Watts sealed the victory for the Number Five village side in the 29th minute and thereafter both sides launched attack after attack on each other’s goal but without success. The Top XX side only have themselves to blame for losing their 2nd consecutive outing in the Elite League as they wasted numerous goal-scoring opportunities created.

The result left the Linden side as the only team in the 6-team competition without a point after two matches while Monedderlust, after losing 3-2 last Friday to Buxton United, earned their first points to move from the cellars spot. At Press time, the other game of yesterday’s double-header was 3-0 in favour of the Army against Buxton United at half time. (Ras Wadada)

Kensington Oval not fit for play BARBADOS’ pride is at stake: And it’s all to do with the deteriorating condition of the multimillion-dollar grass surface at the mecca of cricket. The Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) has been forced to shift two matches next month in the West Indies Cricket Board’s regional four-day tournament involving Barbados Pride,

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Flamingo Park 08:20 hrs Over Achiever 08:50 hrs Black Toga 09:20 hrs Temple Rock 09:50 hrs Caribbean way 10:20 hrs Rock Burner American Racing Tips Philadelphia Park Race 1 Hallucination Race 2 High Five Cotton Race 3 Enigma Race 4 White Bluff Race 5 Scherzo Race 6 Mountain Hawk Race 7 Chessen Race 8 High I.Q. Pete Race 9 Jimmy The Explorer English Racing Tips Plumpton 08:55 hrs River Frost 09:25 hrs Top Notch 09:00 hrs Very Extravagant 09:30 hrs Shimba Hills 10:00 hrs Yukon Delta 10:30 hrs If The Cap Fits Newcastle 09:20 hrs Enable 09:50 hrs Dubai Dunes 10:50 hrs Ajman Prince 11:20 hrs Percy Verence 11:50 hrs Savannah Beau 12:20 hrs Dubai One 12:50 hrs Groundworker Ludlow 09:40 hrs Upbeat Cobbler 10:10 hrs Cochinllo 10:40 hrs Roadie Joe 11:10 hrs Boher Lad 11:40 hrs Highway Star

because of the poor condition of the surface at Kensington Oval. The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has agreed to host the fourth-round match at the Providence from December 9-12, and the Windward Islands

Cricket Association will now host the fifth-round match at Windsor Park in Dominica from December 16-19, after an emergency letter was dispatched to them on November 24. (Reprinted from Barbados Nation)

Guyana through to finals after 40-point win THE new look Guyana National team is already tasting the fruits of success after making it through to the finals of the inaugural Mega Mart / SDF JamRockerz Classics. The team was matched up against Jamaica’s U-21 and finished the game 71-31. The first half was the better half for the Guyana side which finished with 40 at half-time. The second half saw a 9-point dip in scoring as the Guyana side scored 31 points in the final half. For the GT boys 11 of the 12 players found the bottom of the net in the blowout performance. It was Akeem Kanhai who topscored with 19 points to go with 4 assists, 3 steals and 7 rebounds in the game. Shane Webster was the next highest scorer with 10 points. He also had 7 rebounds. The team will play the finals today at 21:00hrs local time. (Daniel Haynes)

Lomachenko retains WBO title with TKO win ... From back page

to counter. Lomachenko landed a hard straight left, the best punch of the fight up until that point and began to establish himself as the aggressor by the end of the fourth. Walters battled back in the fifth landing a few power shots, only to be matched by Lomachenko combination for combination. “He’s a great fighter,” Walters said. “He’s very fast, a great puncher. He caught me with a hard shot to the temple.” Lomachenko began to take control in the sixth, displaying superior technical skills and controlling the ring. By the end of the seventh, Lomachenko had the fans on their feet as he

looked to finish the fight, landing a number of powerful combinations. Walters survived the flurry and appeared fine as the round ended and he headed back to his corner. However, between rounds, Walters’ corner informed the referee that he was unable to continue and the fight was stopped and ruled a TKO for Lomachenko. Lomachenko captured his first word title, the IBF featherweight crown, in just his third fight. That tied a record for the fewest fights needed to win a championship. He defended the belt three times before winning the junior lightweight title, earning his second title in as many weight classes.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 28, 2016

Aussies win third Test but Proteas take series 2-1

AUSTRALIA avoided a first Test series whitewash at home with a consolation seven-wicket victory in Adelaide as South Africa won the series 2-1. The Proteas were bowled out for 250 before Australia chased 127 on the fourth evening of the day-night Test. David Warner made 47, Steve Smith 40 and Matt Renshaw, the England-born opener, 34 not out off 137 balls. Earlier, Stephen Cook converted his overnight 81 into 104 for South Africa as Mitchell Starc took 4-80. Victory ended Australia’s run of five successive Test defeats, and was their first in any form of cricket since

beating Ireland in a one-day international in September. South Africa’s series triumph was their third in a row in Australia. The match ended a fractious tour during which South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was fined for ball-tampering, and a member of their security staff jostled with an Australian journalist at the airport. Australia play the first of three one-day internationals against New Zealand on 4 December before hosting Pakistan in a three-Test series from 15 December. South Africa’s next assignment is the visit of Sri Lanka, with a three-Test series starting on 26 December.

SCOREBOARD

South Africa are all smiles after being handed the series trophy in Adelaide

Ashwin, Jadeja revive India in finely poised third Test

RAVICHANDRAN Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja’s unbeaten seventh-wicket partnership of 67 pushed India towards a first-innings lead over England in the third Test. England added just 15

SCOREBOARD ENGLAND 1st innings (Overnight: 268-8) A. Cook c P. Patel b R. Ashwin 27 H. Hameed c Rahane b U. Yadav 9 J. Root lbw b Yadav 15 M. Ali c Vijay b Shami 16 J. Bairstow lbw b Yadav 89 B. Stokes st P. Patel b Jadeja 29 J. Buttler c Kohli b Jadeja 43 C. Woakes b U. Yadav 25 A. Rashid c P. Patel b Shami 4 G. Batty lbw b Shami 1 J. Anderson not out 13 Extras: (b-8 lb-3 nb-1) 12 Total: (all out, 93.5 overs) 283 Fall of wickets: 1-32 H. Hameed,2-51 J. Root,3-51 A. Cook,4-87 M. Ali,5-144 B. Stokes,6-213 J. Buttler,7-258 J. Bairstow,8-266 C. Woakes,9-268 A. Rashid,10-283 G. Batty Bowling: M. Shami 21.5 - 5 - 63 – 3, U. Yadav 16 - 4 - 58 – 2, J. Yadav 15 - 5 - 49 – 2, R. Ashwin 18 - 1 - 43 – 1, R. Jadeja 23 - 4 - 59 - 2(nb-1) INDIA 1st innings M. Vijay c Bairstow b Stokes 12 P. Patel lbw b Rashid 42 C. Pujara c Woakes b Rashid 51 V. Kohli c Bairstow b Stokes 62 A. Rahane lbw b Rashid 0 K. Nair run out (Buttler) 4 R. Ashwin not out 57 R. Jadeja not out 31 Extras (b-8 lb-3 nb-1) 12 Total (for 6 wickets, 84 overs) 271 Fall of wickets: 1-39 M. Vijay,2-73 P. Patel,3-148 C. Pujara,4-152 A. Rahane,5-156 K. Nair,6-204 V. Kohli To bat: J. Yadav, M. Shami, U. Yadav Bowling: J. Anderson 16 - 3 - 36 – 0, C. Woakes 15 - 5 - 47 – 0, M. Ali 9 - 1 - 19 - 0(nb-1), A. Rashid 24 - 4 - 81 – 3, B. Stokes 15 - 2 - 48 – 2, G. Batty 5 - 0 - 29 – 0.

runs to their overnight total before their first innings was brought to a close with 283 on the board, a total that India are now just 12 runs adrift of following day two in Mohali. India largely dominated proceedings and half-centuries from Cheteshwar Pujara (51) and captain Virat Kohli (62) had them past 150 with just three wickets down. Ajinkya Rahane (0) and Karun Nair (4) each went cheaply, though, and Kohli’s exit with 204 on board seemed set to be the key moment in an England turnaround. Ashwin (57 not out) and Jadeja (31no) had other plans,

however, and steadied the ship to steer India to 271-6 at the close, as they seek to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Adil Rashid (4) went in the second over of the day and, though James Anderson posted an unbeaten 13, England failed to surpass 300 - Mohammed Shami (3-63) dismissing Gareth Batty (1). Murali Vijay (12) and Parthiv Patel, playing in his first Test since 2008, put on 39 for the first wicket before Ben Stokes (2-48) had Vijay caught behind. Patel was unable to mark what had looked a promising return to the Test arena with a half-century as he was

given out lbw at the hands of Rashid (3-81) on review for 42. But, in typical fashion, Kohli’s arrival at the crease tilted matters firmly in India’s favour. The India skipper continued his tremendous form from Visakhapatnam - where he scored 167 and 81 in the second Test - to combine with Pujara for a patient stand of 75. Pujara, who hit eight boundaries for his 51, was finally removed when Chris Woakes claimed a superb low catch. Two overs later Rashid had his third wicket of the day as Rahane lasted only six

balls, with Nair then undone by a direct-hit run out by Jos Buttler. Stokes had been reprimanded by the ICC for an exchange he had with Kohli following his exit on day one and the all-rounder referenced that episode by covering his mouth after Kohli nicked his delivery behind to Jonny Bairstow. However, it was the batting of Ashwin and Jadeja (31 not out) that did the talking late in the day, the former hitting eight boundaries in 82 balls in a counter-attack that brought about his ninth Test fifty.(Omnisport).

SOUTH AFRICA 1st innings 259 for 9 decl (F. du Plessis 118no; J. Hazlewood 4-68) Australia 1st innings 383 (U. Khawaja 145, S. Smith 59, P. Handscomb 54, M. Starc 53) South Africa 2nd innings (Overnight: 194-6) S. Cook b Starc 104 D. Elgar c Smith b Starc 0 H. Amla c Wade b Hazlewood 45 J. Duminy b Lyon 26 F. du Plessis c Handscomb b Starc 12 T. Bavuma c Smith b Lyon 21 K. Abbott lbw b Lyon 0 Q. de Kock lbw b Bird 5 V. Philander lbw b Starc 17 K. Rabada c Wade b Hazlewood 7 T. Shamsi not out 0 Extras: (lb-10 nb-3) 13 Total: (all out, 85.2 overs) 250 Fall of wickets: 1-1 D. Elgar,2-82 H. Amla,3-131 J. Duminy,4-154 F. du Plessis,5-190 T. Bavuma,6-194 K. Abbott,7-201 Q. de Kock,8235 V. Philander,9-250 K. Rabada,10-250 S. Cook Bowling: M. Starc 23.2 - 5 80 - 4(nb-1), J. Hazlewood 20 - 8 - 41 - 2, J. Bird 20 - 3 - 54 - 1(nb2), N. Lyon 21 - 4 - 60 – 3, D. Warner 1 - 0 - 5 – 0. AUSTRALIA 2nd innings (Target: 127 runs) M. Renshaw not out 34 D. Warner run out (Bavuma, de Kock) 47 U. Khawaja lbw b Shamsi 0 S. Smith c de Kock b Abbott 40 P. Handscomb not out 1 Extras (lb-4 nb-1) 5 Total (for 3 wickets, 40.5 overs) 127 Fall of wickets: 1-64 D. Warner,2-64 U. Khawaja,3-125 S. Smith Did not bat: N. Maddinson, M. Wade, M. Starc, J. Hazlewood, N. Lyon, J. Bird Bowling: K. Abbott 10 - 2 - 26 – 1, V. Philander 7 - 2 - 20 – 0, K. Rabada 9 - 4 - 28 - 0(nb-1), T. Shamsi 14.5 - 4 - 49 – 1.

Kiwis ahead after rainy third day (REUTERS)-Heavy rain washed out much of the third day’s play of the second test between Pakistan and New Zealand yesterday, with the hosts facing just one ball in their second innings before bad light ended proceedings. Mohammad Amir sent down one delivery to Jeet Raval before umpires Sundaram Ravi and Simon Fry took the players from the field with two scheduled hours of play remaining at Seddon Park in Hamilton. Heavy rain then swept across the ground. New Zealand had a 55run lead on the first innings after Pakistan’s Babar Azam had come agonisingly close to a first test century, stranded on 90 not out when Imran Khan became Tim Southee’s

sixth wicket of the innings. The visitors had resurrected their reply in what little play was available, resuming on 76 for five before Babar combined with Sarfraz Ahmed in a 74-run partnership and for 67 runs with Sohail Khan to get up to 216. They had initially slumped to 51-5 late on Saturday. Rain had earlier forced the players off 10 minutes before lunch but they were able to return after the break for one over before a heavy downpour swept across the ground and washed out the rest of the middle session with Pakistan 201-8. That they were able to get anywhere near New Zealand’s total of 271 was down to the counter-at-

tacking approach adopted by Sarfraz and Sohail. The aggressive Sarfraz hit six fours from two Southee overs earlier before he was caught by Raval at second slip off Neil Wagner for 41. Sohail, also refused to take a backwards step and made a brisk 37, which included two sixes from successive Wagner deliveries. Sohail was caught by wicketkeeper BJ Watling off Southee before Wahab Riaz was trapped in front by Colin de Grandhomme for a five-ball duck. Southee quickly wrapped up the final two wickets when they returned in the final session to give the 27-year-old figures of 6-80, his fifth five-wicket haul in Tests.

SCOREBOARD NEW ZEALAND 1st innings 271 (J. Raval 55; S. Khan 4-99) Pakistan 1st innings (Overnight: 76-5) S. Aslam c Raval b Southee 5 Az. Ali c Watling b Southee 1 B. Azam not out 90 Y. Khan c Watling b Southee 2 A. Shafiq b Wagner 23 M. Rizwan c Henry b Wagner 0 S. Ahmed c Raval b Wagner 41 So. Khan c Watling b Southee 37 W. Riaz lbw b de Grandhomme 0 M. Amir c Raval b Southee 5 I. Khan c Watling b Southee 6 Extras (b-4 lb-1 nb-1) 6 Total (all out, 67 overs) 216 Fall of wickets: 1-7 S. Aslam,2-8 Az. Ali,3-12 Y. Khan,451 A. Shafiq,5-51 M. Rizwan,6-125 S. Ahmed,7-192 So. Khan,8-193 W. Riaz,9-206 M. Amir,10-216 I. Khan Bowling: T. Southee 21 - 4 - 80 – 6, M. Henry 19 - 5 - 30 - 0(nb-1), C. de Grandhomme 9 - 2 - 29 – 1, N. Wagner 14 - 2 - 59 – 3, M. Santner 4 - 0 - 13 - 0

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 28, 2016

Rosberg wins maiden Formula One title By Alan Baldwin ( R e u t e r s ) - A B U DHABI,(Reuters)-Germany’s Nico Rosberg celebrated his first Formula One world championship yesterday after finishing runner-up in a tense Abu Dhabi Grand Prix won by Mercedes team mate Lewis Hamilton amid accusations of ‘dirty tricks’. After all the suspense and expectation, Hamilton chalked up his 10th win of the season, and fourth in a row, but was powerless to do anything about the championship outcome despite making every effort. His attempt to push Rosberg into the clutches of those behind him, by deliberately slowing the pace in the closing laps to the concern of team bosses, produced a nail-biting finish with the top four separated by just 1.6 seconds.

“Lewis, this is Paddy we need you to pick up the pace to win this race,” the team’s technical head Paddy Lowe told the Briton over the team radio. “Right now, I’m losing the world championship so I’m not bothered if I’m going to lose the race,” replied

0.4 behind. The frosty atmosphere between the pair as they waited for the podium ceremony spoke volumes, with Rosberg hoisting the sport’s 86-yearold commercial supremo Bernie Ecclestone into the air but ignoring Hamilton. There was minimal eye

Nico Hamilton, who crossed the line 0.4 seconds ahead of Rosberg with Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel third and a further

contact between them, let alone a handshake. The hug, the handshakes and a word of con-

gratulation, eventually came on the podium. “That was definitely not the most enjoyable race I’ve ever had... really not very enjoyable those last laps,” said Rosberg in podium interviews conducted by former F1 racer David Coulthard. “I’m glad it’s over, and I am ecstatic. “It was really intense and tough out there.” Rosberg, who had needed only to finish in the top three to be sure of the title, settled into second at the start as Hamilton streaked clear but the Briton’s strategy was immediately apparent. He made little effort to build up a commanding lead, knowing that his only hope of becoming Britain’s first four-times champion depended on denying Rosberg clear air and allowing rivals to get close enough to pass.

“It was tricky at the end there with Lewis playing some dirty tricks,” commented four-times champion Vettel over the radio. Rosberg, who becomes his country’s third champion after Michael Schumacher and Vettel, held his nerve and position just as he has throughout a season in which he has insisted on taking one race at a time. As he crossed the line, the son of 1982 title-winner Keke Rosberg let out a whoop of relief and joy as he became only the second son of a world champion, after Britain’s Damon Hill, to take the crown. In another emotional touch, the tearful 31-yearold’s wife Vivian spoke to him over the team radio on his slowing down lap to tell him how proud she was. His own pride was equally evident.

“I am very proud to have done the same feat as my dad achieved, he is going to be coming in half an hour I think,” said Rosberg, whose father was not at the circuit and has been present for only his home Monaco Grand Prix this year. At the same time, Hamilton knew he would have to explain himself to unimpressed team bosses. “We first have to speak to him to get an explanation,” said non-executive chairman Niki Lauda. “We tried to tell him the danger was coming because Vettel had the fastest car at the end. Thank god it worked out in the end.” Red Bull’s Max Verstappen finished fourth, another remarkable race for the Dutch teenager who spun at the start and fought back from last place. His Australian team mate Daniel Ricciardo was fifth.

27th minute after what he felt was an unjust booking for Paul Pogba. Jon Moss, the referee, had history with Mourinho, having also sent him to the stands against West Ham for a halftime rant at the official when he was Chelsea boss last November. The score was 1-1 on Sunday when Mourinho saw red, Zlatan Ibrahimovic having levelled after a sensational start in which Diafra Sakho headed West Ham in front after 90 seconds, the second-fastest goal United had conceded at home in the Premier League. What will have concerned Mourinho more than his latest run-in with authority was more dropped points as United, thanks to a fourth straight home league draw, lie sixth on 20 points, eight behind fourth-placed Arsenal and 11 adrift of leaders Chelsea. Mourinho’s assistant Rui Faria, who is getting used to doing the media duties after his boss’s misdemeanours, seemed to be following the Portuguese’s recent assertions about United’s misfortunes, saying: “We can say we are unlucky. We all believe the results will appear.” Of Mourinho’s dismissal, Faria told the BBC: “The referee explained it to Jose and there is nothing more to say. I think there was frustration from Jose after the yellow card for

Pogba. “It should be a foul for us but the referee understood it in another way.” The top four are separated by just three points, Arsenal’s win opening up a bit of daylight for the leading quartet over the rest of the league, with rivals Tottenham Hotspur now four points adrift in fifth after Saturday’s 2-1 loss at Chelsea.

thrilled Sims, a graduate of Southampton’s renowned academy system, told Sky Sports: “The whole thing was a great experience.

Mourinho sent off on bad day for Man. United …Arsenal win again

By Ian Chadband | LONDON,(Reuters)-Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho was sent off for the second time in a month yesterday as the controversial coach watched his side draw 1-1 at home to West Ham Unit-

ed and lose more ground in the Premier League title race. On an afternoon when Arsenal moved within three points of top spot after Alexis Sanchez scored twice in a 3-1 home win over Bournemouth, Mourinho’s hopes

of seeing United roar back into contention foundered amid more Old Trafford drama. At the end of last month the Portuguese was dismissed for abusing referee Mark Clattenburg at halftime against Burnley. This time Mourinho’s crime was simple petulance, booting a bottle down the touchline in the

Only 35 overs possible on third day

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Only 35 overs were possible on Sunday’s third day as rain continued to wreak havoc on the third around encounter in the Regional Four-Day Championship between Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and Leeward Islands Hurricanes. Resuming the day on 173 for four, Red Force made it to 287 for seven before the adverse weather arrived in the second session to rule out play for the remainder of the day. Umpires flirted with a restart in the final session but then ruled the outfield at Queen’s Park Oval unfit for play. In the limited play possible, however, Roshon Primus further enhanced his credentials as an all-rounder with an unbeaten 42 while Jyd Goolie got 23 and Yannic Cariah, 20. With Red Force losing wickets steadily, Primus

came to his side’s rescue, blasting five fours in an entertaining 66-ball knock as he first put on 45 for the eighth wicket with Imran Khan (18) and a further 26 with Khary Pierre (15 not out) an unbroken ninth wicket partnership. Slow bowler and captain Kieran Powell has so far taken three for 29 while off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall has claimed two for 73.

Roshon Primus Friday’s opening day was abandoned without a ball bowled because of rain

and only 57 overs was possible on Saturday’s second day.

SCOREBOARD RED FORCE 1st Innings (overnight 173 for four) K Hope lbw b Cornwall 86 I Rajah c wkp Hamilton b Powell 69 Y Cariah b Powell 20 *Y Ottley c Louis b Powell 1 M Richards c Powell b Cornwall 0 J Goolie lbw b Boatswain 23 +S Katwaroo run out 0 R Primus not out 42 Imran Khan c wkp Hamilton b Walsh Jr 18 K Pierre not out 15 Extras: (w2, nb11) 13 TOTAL: (8 wkts, 92 overs) 287 To bat: S Cottrell. Fall of wickets: 1-162, 2-164, 3-170, 4-172, 5-196, 6-196, 7-216, 8-261. Bowling: Tonge 12-0-44-0, Boatswain 10-2-39-1, Cornwall 32-9-73-2, Louis 10-0-35-0, Walsh 14-0-67-1, Powell 146-29-3. HURRICANES – *K Powell, M Hodge, C Hughes, A Saunders, N Bonner, +J Hamilton, R Cornwall, Q Boatswain, J Louis, H Walsh Jr, G Tonge.

SANCHEZ DOUBLE Arsenal’s Sanchez scored after 12 minutes and in stoppage time to sink Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium, helped by a goal for Theo Walcott who reckoned that, after the birth of his second child, it had been “the perfect weekend”. After three successive draws, Arsenal needed a win against a Bournemouth side who equalised in the first half with a Callum Wilson penalty and generally proved stubborn opponents. “Our players questioned themselves a little bit after a few draws but we have responded,” said Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger. Southampton found a new hero in 19-year-old winger Josh Sims, whose assured debut included setting up Charlie Austin to head what proved to be the winner with only 43 seconds on the clock in a 1-0 victory over Everton. Voted Man of the Match in the televised fixture, a

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho

“It was a mixture of nerves and excitement before starting but it’s everything you wish for as a kid.” The youngster’s impressive contribution helped his side to move into 10th place, two points behind Everton, whose coach Ronald Koeman was left bemoaning a miserable return to his old St Mary’s managerial stamping ground. Stoke City took advantage of an unwitting own goal by Watford keeper Heurelho Gomes -- Charlie Adam’s header bounced off a post, back on to the Brazilian and into the net -- to earn a 1-0 win at Vicarage Road that moved them up to 11th place.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 28, 2016

Tharanga fires Sri Lanka to tri-series title CAPTAIN Upul Tharanga hit an unbeaten half century as Sri Lanka cruised to a six-wicket win over Zimbabwe to secure the tri-nation series title in Bulawayo. Having restricted Zimbabwe to 160 all out, Sri Lanka calmly went about reaching their target, with Tharanga finishing things with a flourish as he followed a drive to the mid-wicket boundary with a huge straight six. Sri Lanka’s spinners did much of the damage earlier in the day as Jeffrey Vandersay (3-50) and Sachith Pathirana (2-26) shared five wickets, while Asela Gunaratne (310) chipped in with three late wickets. After a shaky start to their reply, the tourists recovered thanks to Kusal Mendis and Tharanga, both men going to 50 as Sri Lanka secured the win with 75 balls to spare. Only Tarisai Musakanda (36), Sean Williams (35) and Craig Ervine (25) threatened with the bat for Zimbabwe after openers Hamilton Ma-

sakadza (10) and Peter Moor (1) had fallen inside five overs. Ervine and Musakanda began their revival, but wickets fell at all too regular intervals as Sri Lanka’s bowlers enjoyed themselves, Zimbabwe guilty of a series of soft dismissals. Reaching 160 was never going to be enough with Sri Lanka’s quality with the bat and it proved so despite Brian Vitori (3-52) taking three early wickets to give them some hope. At 42-3 there was a chink of light for Zimbabwe, but a 75-run partnership between Mendis and Tharanga laid the foundation for victory. Mendis’ 72-ball 57 came to an end as Williams took a superb catch deep at square leg, but Sri Lanka were not to be denied as Gunaratne joined his captain at the crease to get them over the line. Tharanga’s unbeaten 57 was far from the most fluent of innings, but he finished in style with his seventh boundary and only maximum of the innings.

SCOREBOARD

Upul Tharanga and his team pose with the winner’s trophy in the tri-series final in Bulawayo,yesterday

“Full credit to the guys, they have done a really great job over the last two weeks,” said Tharanga. “We knew we had to only

get one good partnership. Mendis batted very well, and from there, it got easier and easier. “Everybody has done

a great job, we have found some new players as well who have put their hands up and performed well.” (Omnisport.com)

Alleyne passes 400-run mark but rain halts Pride progress

portunity to extend his excellent form, hitting 64 to record his fourth straight score over 50. And with the innings, the left-hander moved to 441 runs from just five outings for the new season. Shamarh Brooks weighed in with 44 while

Te s t b a t s m a n R o s t o n Chase got 23, but Pride faltered late to concede some of their advantage. Earlier, Scorpions’ tail wagged to frustrate Pride as they added a further 67 runs before being dismissed inside the second hour after lunch.

SCOREBOARD SCORPIONS 1st Innings (overnight 157 for eight) J Campbell c Phillips b Williams 60 S Thomas c Brooks b Roach 2 J Blackwood c Chase b Greaves 0 D Thomas lbw b Greaves 3 +C Walton c wkp Rampersad b Roach 5 A McCarthy c Brooks b Warrican 22 F Allen c Roach b Williams 19 D Jacobs c Brooks b Chase 30 *N Miller not out 24 R Leveridge b Roach 1 D Green c Warrican b Charles 40 Extras: (b6, lb9, w3) 18 TOTAL: (all out, 86.2 overs) 224 Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-4, 3-16, 4-21, 5-52, 6-90, 7-129, 8-156, 9-167, 10-224. Bowling: Roach 18-8-27-3, Greaves 17-4-49-2, Stoute 7-2-26-0, Warrican 18-3-56-1, Charles 14.2.4-29-1, Williams 10-3-16-2, Chase 2-1-6-1.

PRIDE 1st Innings O Phillips c Campbell b Green 4 A Alleyne b Allen 66 S Brooks b Jacobs 44 R Chase lbw b Miller 23 *K Stoute not out 0 +M Rampersad not out 0 Extras: (b5, lb9, w2) 16 TOTAL: (4 wkts, 48.3 overs) 153 To bat: K Williams, J Warrican, K Roach, J Greaves, N Charles. Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-116, 3-153, 4-153. Bowling: Leveridge 4-0-17-0, Green 8-3-17-1, Blackwood 1-0-1-0, Jacobs 14-1-52-1, Leveridge 19.3-2-47-0, Allen 2-05-1. Position: Pride trail by 71 runs with six wickets intact.

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – Free-scoring opener Anthony Alleyne stroked his third half-century of the new Regional Four-Day season and pushed his aggregate past 400 runs, but Barbados Pride found their progress stymied by rain on the penultimate day of their third round encounter against Jamaica Scorpions here yesterday. Chasing the hosts’ 224 all out, Pride were 153 for four when rain halted play in the final session at Sabina Park, once again frustrating the visitors’ hopes of

Kuru Kururu Warriors

Left-handed opener Anthony Alleyne, stroked his third halfcentury of the season to move past 400 runs

making headway in the contest. The 23-year-old Alleyne grabbed the op-

and Circuit Ville Jaguars record contrasting wins THE Linden/Soesdyke Highway based clubs, Kuru Kururu Warriors and Circuit Ville Jaguars

urday afternoon. The Warriors got full points without breaking a sweat as their opponent,Ag-

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

Today’s Quiz: (1) What is the highest individual score made in the round-robin round of the just-concluded Tri-Na tions ODI series? (2) What were the best bowling figures recorded in the preliminary round of the Tri-Nations Series? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

SRI LANKA Innings D. de Silva lbw b Vitori 0 K. Perera c Waller b Vitori 14 N . D i c k w e l l a b Vi t o r i 6 K. Mendis c Williams b Cremer 57 U. Tharanga not out 57 A. Gunaratne not out 6 Extras: (lb-2 w-4) 6 Total: (for 4 wickets, 37.3 overs) 166 Fall of wickets: 1-1 D. de Silva,2-29 N. Dickwella,3-42 K. Perera,4-117 K. Mendis Did not bat: D. Shanaka, S. Pathirana, N. Kulasekara, J. Vandersay, S. Lakmal Bowling: B. Vitori 9 - 0 - 52 - 3(w-1), D. Tiripano 2 - 0 - 14 – 0, T. Chisoro 8 - 0 - 31 - 0(w2), G. Cremer 10 - 2 - 32 – 1, S. Williams 6 - 1 - 22 - 0(w-1), S. Raza 2.3 - 0 - 13 - 0

...Shawn Steele lashes in helmet-trick for Jaguars

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday November 28, 2016)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 11 points (2) 8 points

ZIMBABWE Innings H. Masakadza lbw b N. Kulasekara 10 P. Moor c Pathirana b Lakmal 1 T. Musakanda c D. de Silva b Vandersay 36 C. Ervine c&b Vandersay 25 S. Raza lbw b Pathirana 5 S. Williams c D. de Silva b Gunaratne 35 M. Waller c&b Pathirana 14 G. Cremer c K. Mendis b Vandersay 9 D. Tiripano not out 10 T. Chisoro c Dickwella b Gunaratne 5 B. Vitori lbw b Gunaratne 0 Extras: (lb-3 nb-1 w-6) 10 Total (all out, 36.3 overs) 160 Fall of wickets: 1-8 P. Moor,219 H. Masakadza,3-72 C. Ervine,4-85 T. Musakanda,5-89 S. Raza,6-108 M. Waller,7-133 G. Cremer,8-155 S. Williams,9-160 T. Chisoro,10-160 B. Vitori Bowling: N. Kulasekara 7 - 0 - 30 1(w-4), S. Lakmal 6 - 0 - 23 - 1(w-1), S. Pathirana 7 - 0 - 26 – 2, D. Shanaka 2 - 0 - 18 – 0, J. Vandersay 10 - 0 - 50 - 3 (nb-1 w-1), A. Gunaratne 4.3 - 0 - 10 – 3.

Circuit Ville Jaguars on the offensive against Diamond United recorded contrasting wins to bring the curtains down on the first round of the GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power National Intra Association Under-17 League, East Bank leg at the Grove Playfield on Sat-

ricola Red Triangle, failed to show up.Warriors ended the first round in second position,ahead of Circuit Ville Jaguars,with a better goal difference of +15 to the Jaguars’ +10. Competing in their first

season as an EBFA affiliate, Circuit Ville Jaguars have sounded a warning to all and sundry that they are here to compete. They ended the first round with their biggest margin of victory to date, demolishing Diamond United, 6-0. Leading the rampant Jaguars was Shawn Steele who lashed in a helmet-trick, netting in the 11th, 20th, 30th and 44th minute. Complimenting Steele’s efforts were Tyron David who scored in the 40th minute and Isaiah Dodson in the 68th minute. The teams will enjoy a much needed break before resuming rivalry in January as they aim for the overall championship crown and bragging rights as the best U-17 side on the East Bank.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 28, 2016

Colours/Guinness Greatest of the Streets…

Sparta Boss seek third consecutive Guinness title DEFENDING Champions Sparta Boss will be in action on the opening night in the Georgetown leg of the Colors/Guinness Greatest of the Streets football tournament set for the Cultural Centre Tarmac this evening. They will take on Hardina Street in the last of tonight’s matches in the knockout phase of the tournament. Flashback: Director of Sport Director Chris Jones hands over the winners’ Meanwhile ,Queen trophy to a jubilant Sparta Boss team last June Street Tiger Bay will play Fruits Stand in on Railway Kitty in the i n t o a c t i o n f r o m South in match four. After a short break, the opening fixture at second encounter half an 20:00hrs when they play the Prison Service while action will return with 19:00hrs with Camp hour later. Bent Street moves Leopold Street takes on Festival City taking on Street All Stars taking

North Street Ballers from 21:00hrs while Tucville will try to overcome Island All Stars in the next fixture while Channel nine and Shopping Plaza will clash in the next game. Night two of the K.O phase which takes place on Thursday December 1st will see Alexander Village up against Up Like Seven while North Ruimveldt take on Jamoon Drive.Albouystown A will play Upsetters with Back Circle taking on Hope Street Tiger Bay, Broad Street Ballers opposing Howes Street, North

East La Penitence take on Island All Star B, Albouystown B play West Back Road and West Front Road take on Stevedore Baller. The first round of the tournament will be straight knock out while the round of 16 will be round robin as this leg will see the winners carting off $500,000, second place $200,000 , third place $150,000 and fourth place $75,000. Matches are also billed for the West Coast Demerara, West and East Coast Berbice, Linden and Bartica. (Stephan Sookram)

four members performing well with veterans Hannibal Gaskin and Soroya Simmons leading the charge. Gaskin had personal best in all four of his races,shedding the most time in the boys 18-and-over 100 SC meter freestyle finishing with 53.25- 5 seconds faster than his old time. Simmons finished in all 4 of her events improving her personal best in the 18-and-over girls 200 SC meter freestyle finishing with 2:22.18. Dorado siblings Lian and Alex Winter both took home first in their events;winning 2 and 3 events respectively. For Dolphin Swim Club,Kenita Mahaica took

home first in all 4 events with her best showing being in the girls 13-14 50 SC meter freestyle with a time of 31.22. Nine-year-old Aleka Persaud of Orca Swim Club

also finished first in all 6 of her events. The Nationals had participation solely from clubs in Georgetown despite invitations to the other regions from GASA.

HALF-centuries from Raymon Reifer and Anthony Bramble spurred Guyana Jaguars to first innings lead over Windwards Volcanoes in their Digicel Regional day/night match being played at the Darren Sammy Stadium. Jaguars,resuming at their overnight score of 71 for 4, were able through

Bramble 58 and Reifer 52 to reach 219 all out,in the process getting past the Volcanoes 192 all out made on day one. Bowling for Volcanoes, Dolorn Johnson took four for 54 and Mervyn Matthew three for 43. Volcanoes,batting a second time were 63 for 3 up to press time.

GASA Nationals completed THE three- day Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) Short Course Nationals came to a close at the National Aquatic Centre,Liliendaal,yesterday afternoon. As the day came to a close there were over 70 races

being competed in the various events. The top performers on the day included Jeron Sookram of Dolphin Swim Club who improved his personal times in all three of the events he took part in. His fastest time of the

Action from the pool (Adrian Narine photo)

day was 39.41 in the boys 8 and under 50 sc meter freestyle. Also continuing his good performances from the previous days was 11 year old Leon Seaton of Silver Sharks Swim Club, who won a remarkable 6 races on the day. He also saw improvements on his personal best in 5 of his 6 wins. Ten-year-old Silver Sharks teammate Raekwon Noel also put on a good showing winning 6 races and improving his personal best in 2 of the 6. Dorado Swim Club had

Jaguars take first innings lead

Monedderlust FC squeeze past Top XX 2-1 See story on page 19

Lomachenko retains WBO title with TKO win over ‘Axe Man’ Walters

VASYL Lomachenko successfully defended his WBO junior lightweight title, winning when Jamaican Nicholas `Axe Man’ Walters was unable to continue after seven rounds Saturday night at the Cosmopolitan. Lomachenko, the 28-year-old Ukrainian star who won two Olympic gold medals, improved to 7-1. Lomachenko dropped to 26-1-1. “My goal is to be the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world,” Lomachenko said. Lomachenko had his best round of the fight in the seventh, landing multiple power shots, including a hard shot to the temple that ultimately led Walters to stop fighting. “He’s a good fighter, really strong,” Lomachenko said. “But he stood there and made it easy for me, then in the end he just quit.” The pace quickened in the third, with Lomachenko leading the action and Walters looking See page 19

Kensington Oval not fit for play

See story on page 19

Vasyl Lomachenko celebrates with championship belt after beating Nicholas Walters at the Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas Saturday night

The area in front of the 3Ws stand (with a delivery truck in the background) at Kensington Oval shows just how badly the playing surface has been damaged. (Picture by Kenmore Bynoe.)

Guyana through to finals after 40-point win

See story on page 19

The victorious Guyana team and coaches Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2016