Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 30 07 2016

LOAN RELIEF No. 104628

SATURDAY, JULY 30, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

‒ UG graduates to benefit from debt write-offs, waivers

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HELPING THE NEEDY

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The elderly were among those who benefited when Food For The Poor reached out to the needy in several communities in Georgetown on Friday. (Delano Williams photo)

Record high 2 Teen falls to Bishop 5 600,000 ounces death at Berbice laid to rest ‒ remembered as an inspirational 8 gold target on track soul and champion of democracy rice mill P.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

Record-high 600,000 ounces ‒ current figure gold target on track at 327,000 ounces

By Alva Solomon

THE gold-mining sector is on track to out-perform other sectors of the economy this year as gold-declaration figures have currently reached a whopping 327,000 ounces and the figures are expected to eclipse the 600,000 revised target set this year.

In 2013, gold-production figures peaked at an all-time high at 481,000 ounces. Last year, gold-production figures climaxed at 451,000 ounces , however, given the records to date, the target has been shifted up to the 600,000 mark.

Speaking at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) 37th anniversary celebrations ceremony at the Parc Rayne Banquette Hall at Rahaman’s Park on Friday, GGMC Acting Commissioner Newell Dennison told those gathered that the figures so far are satisfactory.

“We are meeting our expectations in regard to our broad indications,” Dennison said.

He said the 451,000 ounces recorded for 2015 exceeded the budgeted figures

by 10%. At the same time, the diamond sector raked in 118,450 carats, exceeding the budget by 97.4 %. This year, diamond figures have been recorded at 94.2% of the budgeted target thus far, indications that the sector is also performing well.

On the contrary, the bauxite sector is pegged at 55% of the previous year’s figure and Dennison noted that while the record for bauxite is “not in the direction we would want it to go,” the production figures for the sector are “holding its [sic] own.”

Last year total figures for bauxite were recorded at 1.5 million tons, only 85% of the budget. In 2015, Dennison said that the GGMC raked in a total income of $9.8B, figures which exceeded its budget by 29.4% and which represented an increase of 12.5% on the previous year’s figure. Royalties were recorded at $4.7B, a slight decrease from the previous year, he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, told those gathered that President David Granger often refers to the “Six Sisters” in the economy which

Gordon Nestor, Manager, Geological Services Division, receives his long-service award for 30 years of service to the GGMC from Minister Raphael Trotman

are seen as the drivers of economic growth. Those include rice, sugar, timber, diamonds, gold and bauxite.

As it relates to the gold-production figures, Trotman said the commission needed to congratulate itself for regulating the industry.

Speaking on the GGMC’s anniversary, he said that while it is good to celebrate, it is also opportune to reflect on the past, on the gaps that exist as times continue to change.

“The commission I believe must see itself in an endless and continuous process and state of renewal and adaption to remain both current to ever-changing technologies and the demands of stakeholders, whether they be small, medium or large in size,” Trotman said.

According to Trotman, a locally grown gold and diamond sector has emerged with some 130,000-plus individuals who are either directly or indirectly affected by mining, adding that other sectors of the economy are also benefiting from mining.

He said there are still a

number of challenges for miners, the GGMC, and the Natural Resource Ministry, particularly for those who depend on mining for their daily bread. This includes the need for resumption of management of the organizational structure of the commission itself with the aim of improving the functions of the body.

He said a number of priorities are listed to be addressed, including the continual improvement of the GGMC as an organization and secondly, issues pertinent to miners, stakeholders, and the mining and petroleum sectors.

25 PER CENT ONE-OFF INCREASE Meanwhile, GGMC staff are expected to benefit from a one-off 25 per cent increase for the month of January 2015. Trotman announced that an offer made by the GGMC has been accepted by the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU). This indicates that there shall be a 25% across-the-board payment to staff.

“Government sees that [increase] as indication of goodwill and recognition of an improved attitude within the theatre of award,” Trotman said. According to the minister, it will be seen as an incentive to the GGMC staff to continue on the trajectory to do better.

At the ceremony, GGMC Board Chair Stanley Ming disclosed that the issue of space for the facilities which operate under the GGMC’s umbrella has been on the front burner. To loud cheers, he said that within a year’s time an “adequate and significant” parcel of land will be identified for the commission’s offices.

The GGMC was created in 1979 from the Department of Geological Surveys and Mines, which itself was the successor to the Geological Survey of British Guiana. Currently, the commission is divided into five technical divisions, those being Geological Services, Mines, Environment, Petroleum and Land Management.

Berbice man reportedly commits suicide TWENTY-FIVE-YEAROLD Mahendra Sewnarine was discovered by a neighbour dangling from the ceiling of the lower flat of his home at #79 Village, Corentyne on Friday morning.

His 23-year-old wife, shop keeper Nandanie Kocil, said he had left home at about 17:00h on Thursday to wash his car, and had come home at about midnight heavily intoxicated. She said she had refused to let him inside the house, since he usually misbehaves when intoxicated.

“He does come home drunk and behave bad, so me does don’t open the door; and he normally does sleep in the hammock. But the next day

he would sober up, and we does talk about his drinking and he would normally ease up for a little while, then start up again. So me does do that fuh let him know I vex, to get him fuh stop drinking,” the woman said.

She revealed that her husband had in the past threatened to kill himself, but she had never taken the threat seriously.

Sewnarine was found hanging at the end of the very rope supporting the hammock that served as his bed on several occasions. The neighbour who had found him in that state said, “I went to the shop to by bread, and as I walk in the yard I didn’t notice the hammock, so me

Mahendra Sewnarine

watch around and I see Mahendra sling up… I jump and run out the yard and start fuh scream.”

The police were alerted and the man’s body was taken to the Skeldon hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

LOAN RELIEF

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

‒ UG graduates to benefit from debt write-offs, waivers

L-R: Finance Minister Winston Jordan; Sahyra Lewis (BHS work study student at MoF); Allisha Mohamed (QC work study student at MoF); Finance Secretary Dr. Hector Butts; Engineer of the MoF, Mahendra VanBrook; and Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma

PRESENT and former students of the University of Guyana (UG) can qualify for debt write-offs and waivers on student loans if they satisfy requirements being introduced by the Government.

This announcement was made by Finance Minister Winston Jordan on Friday during the commissioning of a $26.5M Student Loan Agency, which is housed in the university’s compound.

Minister Jordan said there will be a reduction of interest rates for defaulters who enter into an arrangement with the Student Loan Agency to repay the outstanding sums by August 31 and September 30 respectively.

This “Jubilee offer”, as it was described by the minister, entails a 75 per cent reduction in accumulated arrears of interest if defaulters and borrowers alike pay outstanding sums by August 31.

If, however, defaulters and borrowers are unable to repay by August 31, they can still benefit from a 50 per cent reduction in accumulated arrears of interest if they bring their accounts up-to-date by September 30 of this year.

He was, however, keen to note the following: “If,

however, a borrower defaults subsequently, the interest so waived will be restored to the borrower’s account.”

Minister Jordan said that in the event defaulters fail to make payments on their outstanding accounts, guarantors will be contacted. In the future, those who will stand guarantors for borrowers will be subjected to a credit check, and a credit report will be taken from the Credit Bureau.

“Once we get the database intact, this database will be uploaded to the Credit Bureau, and students will be required to pull a credit report prior to receiving a loan,” he said.

Loans to study at UG will be granted only to local students, he clarified. Those students, he said, must be residing in Guyana for 180 continuous days within a cal-

endar year, and must each be the holder of a valid Guyana passport.

In addition, those students who are indecisive about the programmes they intend to pursue may want to think carefully about future academic plans. This is because, if a student wishes to switch from one programme to another, that student is mandated to pay off all outstanding loans for the first programme before being allowed a loan for the second.

The Student Loan Agency has also been mandated to issue letters of notification to borrowers, informing them of their loan balances one month after a loan has been issued. Should borrowers and defaulters ignore this notice after a “reasonable period has elapsed”, Minister Jordan said, Government will exercise all options -- including

litigation -- to recoup the debt.

Minister Jordan also revealed that students will now be required to start repayments on or before the one-year grace period has elapsed, once they have secured employment. He, however, noted that consideration

will be given to a scheme where a borrower, who has served continuously in areas away from his/her normal place of residence for five years after graduation, can have the entire balance of his or her loan written off.

BARRED FROM LEAVING THE COUNTRY Conversely, the Finance Minister announced, graduates who fail to repay loans would possibly be debarred from leaving the country.

He said, “All information on recalcitrant borrowers will be eventually put at all immigration points, and we will also set up a desk at the same time for those who will be stopped from travelling, to make the necessary arrangements for payment of the loan or the debt prior to (their) departure.”

Minister Jordan disclosed that a database of all defaulters will be placed at all immigration stations at the various ports of entry and exit.

Stating that Government has fulfilled its obligations to

provide funds to students, the minister said there is an equal obligation on the part of the students to repay money borrowed on completion of their tuition.

The Student Loan Fund is meant to be a revolving fund, but if repayment is not a feature, this fund will soon dry up, which will result in future students being denied an opportunity to further their tertiary education, the minister clarified.

“The selfish attitude of many borrowers who are in a position to pay but who refuse to honour their obligations must not be allowed to derail the scheme… In putting in these measures, we do not want to make life hard for any student, but we will be irresponsible and derelict in our duty as a Government if we allow hard-earned tax payers money to be flittered away in high delinquent rates and low recovery ratios,” Minister Jordan added.

He remains hopeful that, with the new measures, present and future students will honour their financial obligations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 30, 2016

$26M loan agency at UG commissioned

THE GOVERNMENT of Guyana (GoG), through the Ministry of Finance, has commissioned a $26.5M building which will house the University of Guyana (UG) Student Loan Agency.

The agency, housed in a building provided by the country’s premier tertiary institution since 1994, was previously housed in the project office of Sub-component ‘A’ of the Human Resource Training and Development Agency, and was financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) at a cost of US$14.4M, with counterpart US$1.6M being provided by the former Government.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan has noted that the building has served its purpose, and after 22 years of occupation by the Student Loan Agency, the attendant wear and tear which was unmatched by the necessary maintenance has taken its toll.

Additionally, he pointed out that the need to adequately serve a growing student population in a more comfortable and friendlier atmosphere became an imperative whose time could no longer be postponed.

As such, in or around the third quarter of last year, at a meeting, then UGSS President Joshua Griffith pleaded with the minister for a new building for the loan agency.

“There I pledged to provide a new building. I then had a conversation with the then Vice Chancellor, Professor [Jacob] Opadeyi, who was immediately receptive in making available a piece of land for construction of the building. A team was then assembled to bring the project to fruition,” he said.

Minister Jordan said that not only will the staff be housed in a more habitable environment, but students could be assured of a more pleasant atmosphere.

“I ask that the building be used for the intended purposes,” he admonished.

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The new $26.5M Student Loan Agency at the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus The student loan agency, which is responsible for managing a revolving fund, has made available to students approximately 26,239 loans amounting to $9.5B to assist students in paying their tuition fees; but as of May 2016, statistics show, repayment had amounted to only $1.75B, with installments due amounting to $5.7B. Despite this outstanding amount, Minister Jordan noted, Government has been fulfilling its obligation to provide funds so that students can access loans to finance their education.

He said students have an equal obligation to r0epay those funds on completion of their tertiary education and in keeping with the terms and conditions of their contracts. Failure to repay these loans, he pointed out, will result in this revolving fund drying up and likely resulting in future students being denied an opportunity to pursue their tertiary education.

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“The selfish attitude of many borrowers, who are in a position to pay but who refuse to honour their obligations, must not be allowed to derail the scheme…

In putting in these measures, we do not want to make life hard for any student, but we will be irresponsible and derelict in our duty as a Government if we allow hard-earned taxpayers money to be flittered away in high delinquent rates and low recovery ratios,” Minister Jordan reasoned.

He is hopeful that, with the new measures, present and future students will honour their financial obligations.

Head of the Student Loan Agency, Rawle Sue-Ho, told reporters that June and July have yielded much repayment since the agency began its public awareness campaign. He said there has been a spike in the repayment of loans.

“In June, we had over 100 per cent increase from the previous months’ collections… Students have been coming in to make payments on old loans, with some paying off… There was a continuation of the trend in July,” he said.

A recently conducted forensic audit of the agency revealed that from 1994 to May 2015, some 17,567 or 69.4 per cent of borrowers were deemed delinquent.

Also present at the opening of the new building were Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma; Finance Secretary, Dr Hector Butts; and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning and Development) Dr Elizabeth Ramlall.

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Bishop laid to rest 5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

‒ remembered as an inspirational soul and champion of democracy

Bereaved family members and sympathisers with the George family. At left: Son of the deceased, Christopher George and widow Sheila George

By Shirley Thomas AFTER having given practically a lifetime of service to God and humanity, faithfully shepherding the flock of the Anglican Diocese and tremendously impacting the lives of people in the communities he served in diverse ways, retired Bishop of Guyana, Randolph Oswald George, was on Friday laid to rest.

Bishop George passed away peacefully at his home at Republic Park, East Bank Demerara after a brief period of illness. Born on July 15, 1924, he died on July 17 last, exactly one week before his 92nd birth anniversary.

Educated at Codringnton College, Barbados, and after curacy at St Peter Barbados, he spent a decade in England.

During that time, he served as Curate at Leigh, Ardwick and Lavender Hill, before return-

ing to become Chaplain to the Bishop of Trinidad.

From there, he became Rector of Couva, then All Saints, Port-of-Spain before being elected to the Deanery of the Anglican Diocese of Guyana in 1971.

He was promoted to be the Suffragan Bishop of Stabroek (Guyana) in 1976 and by 1980 (four years later) he became Diocesan Bishop, a position he held until 2009.

It was on the death of former Archbishop of the West Indies, Alan John Knight, who was also Bishop of Guyana, that Randolph George of Georgetown was ordained Bishop of the Diocese.

Ironically, the most recently sworn in Bishop of Guyana, the Right Reverend Charles Davidson, who was the Chief Celebrant at retired Bishop George’s home- going, was ordained by him (George) in 1978.

He came to the helm earlier this year, following the death of The Venerable Cornell Jerome Moss in May 2015. The Right Reverend Charles Davidson was required to officiate at the memorial and funeral of two former Bishops in less than two years.

Bishop George has left to mourn his widow, Sheila George and his children Christopher, Gail George and David, as well as his grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

A Mass of Resurrection for Bishop George CCH was celebrated at the St George’s Cathedral in a service attended by hundreds who came to pay their last respects.

Among the distinguished congregation were President David Granger, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, former President Donald Ramotar, former Prime Minister

President David Granger signs the book of condolence for the late Bishop George

Samuel Hinds, Vicar-General Canon Thurston Riehl, and other Bishops from the Caribbean.

The service was presided over by Chief Celebrant, the Right Reverend Davidson, Bishop of Guyana, Suriname and Cayenne, while the organist was Dr Wendy Rudder.

AN INSPIRATION Bishop George, whose life had impacted hundreds of thousands with whom he came into touch, was a source of inspiration, as attested to by Bishop Davidson in

his opening sentences at the Mass of Resurrection.

In bidding the fallen Bishop farewell, Bishop Davidson expressed gratitude and appreciation for the many lessons that he had taught about life.

“We come together this day to say farewell at the Parish of St George, for this is where Bishop George sang in the Choir. We come today to say farewell to a former Dean; and we also come today as a Diocese to say farewell to a former Vicar,” Bishop Davidson declared.

Noting that death is the

last enemy and separates one from those loved and cherished, he took comfort in the fact that it (death) is overcome through the death and resurrection of The Lord Jesus Christ.

Bishop Davidson shared many other stories about fun times, pastoring and other positive experiences with Bishop George.

Bishop Davidson spoke of their conversations and the way he had “planted a seed,” which resonated well with Bishop George in the early 1980s and developed into the ordaining of indigenous males into the priesthood in Guyana.

“He indeed abounded in the work of the Lord and we thank God for his witness, both inside the church and in the Guyanese society.

We thank God for his life: Choirister; Deane; Bishop of Stabroek; Diocesan. And today we say our final farewell, knowing that because of his baptism and our baptism, we fear not death,” said Bishop Davidson.

Meanwhile, son of the deceased, Christopher George, spoke on his father’s outlook towards life, contending that the thought of death never caused him to cower. He was not afraid of dying. In his eulogy, he noted: “When the doctor gave him the news of the tenuous nature of his condition, he [Bishop George], with a smile on his face, responded: ‘We all have to die sometime.’ with a smile on his face.” This, he con-

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

Investing in our children

THE late Whitney Houston, in her “Greatest love of all” song, reminds us that the children are our future and we should teach them well and let them lead the way, because they are the greatest love of all.

The August holidays are here, though some may impose what can be considered a miseducation on the society by referring to this break from school as summer vacation.

Guyana is a tropical country that has only wet and dry seasons -- rain and sun -- not summer, as happens in the temperate regions.

During the break, several camps are offering children opportunities to engage in improving existing skills and acquiring new ones. These augur well for children, given that ‘the devil finds work for idle hands’, as the saying goes, and ‘an idle mind is a destructive mind.’

What is referred to as our August holiday covers a period of approximately two months. This is a lot of time to waste and engage in unproductive activities when not properly planned for, and the absence of structured activities can retard intellectual growth.

A society needs all of its people, particularly the up-andcoming, which are the young, the ones who would be the leaders of tomorrow. If this demographic is properly socialized, when its time comes to produce leaders of society, it can do so productively.

There are several initiatives being embarked upon either for economic gains or re-investment by individuals and groups in communities, and these will benefit the young.

Consequently, two samplings of interventions taking place are noted, given the unique potential they present for nationhood and nation-building. This, of course, is not meant to disregard the importance of other children’s activities.

United States-based Guyanese Mrs. Karen Abrams and her children, award winners of a created application to help track and prevent police brutality, are dedicating some of their summer to be in Guyana, partnering with locals and conducting workshops on robotics STEM. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are being pushed as a complement of studies geared toward a more technologically-driven world and skills needed to compete in it.

The aspect of using robots in STEM has to do with the redefining of the traditional labour force as we know it, where, in the technological age, robots are being created to replace man’s hands-on labour for the purpose of experiment, improving production and productivity, and minimising man’s exposure to hazardous activities.

What is instructive about Mrs. Abrams’s motivation

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 30, 2016

Alcohol is a major risk factor for 7 cancers Dear Editor,

FIRST, I wish to applaud Mr. Annand Boodram for his excellent and timely article on alcohol and some of its major effects on this society, and the issue of alcohol in our culture.

Mr. Nowrong Persaud has thankfully acknowledged the impact of alcohol on domestic violence, road traffic accidents, and suicide; but those are only the tip of the iceberg.

Along with my colleagues in the medical profession, we are left to deal with the devastating effects of alcohol on a daily basis.

Alcohol is among the five most addictive substances of abuse: heroin, crack cocaine, tobacco, diazepam and alcohol. Alcohol also shrinks the brain of its chronic users, and some experts feel it may be one reason why some don’t understand the implications of drinking on an industrial scale.

Alcohol is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality; it is responsible for seven types of cancer and more than 600,000 deaths globally every year. The cancers include those of the head & neck, esophagus, liver, colon, rectum and breast.

The problems of alcohol are immense. They include heart disease, heart failure, rhythm disturbance, stroke, pancreatitis, acute and chronic liver disease, liver failure and liver cancer, which each have a dismal prognosis. No diabetic should drink alcohol; it is

neurotoxic and damages the nerves.

The full scope of the effects of alcohol cannot be addressed in this letter. Towards this end, the Guyana Cancer Prevention Society is pleased to announce that one of its main objectives is to increase public awareness of cancer -– that it can pose one of the greatest public health threats of the 21 century. More than 80%/90% of all cancers are preventable, and more than 80% of all cancer patients with advanced stage 3 or 4 cancer can live for six months to one year if they have the best standard of care.

Some 14 million people globally were diagnosed with cancer in 2014, and 8.2 million deaths were recorded.

It is estimated that by 2030, some 22 million people will be diagnosed with cancer, and there will be more than 14 million deaths.

The tragedy is that some 65% of all cancers will occur in low & middle-income countries like Guyana. This alarming rate of increase in new cancer cases and number of deaths tell a clear story: we are failing to control cancer, and carrying on business as usual is unthinkable.

The cost to the global economy by 2020 will exceed US$1.2 trillion. Quite clearly, we cannot spend our way out of this crisis. The GCPS mission is to educate the public and change the arc of literacy on cancer. We recognize that the following are the main causes of cancer, and our mis-

to undertake this project is the story that has apparently had an indelible impression on her life. According to her, as a youth growing up in her community, some adults (sports personality Reds Pereira et al) invested in her demographic with the distribution of basketball equipment, of which she was a beneficiary. She said that in making use of the facilities when she migrated, she was competitive enough to earn herself several basketball scholarships to U.S colleges.

In the workshop, Mrs Abrams made known that one of her objectives in introducing children to the use of robots is to help them develop problem-solving skills. In our diverse society, there exists marked intolerance to opinions and alternative views of others. It is not unfair to say such has consumed too much of the nation’s time in protracted and unnecessary conflicts, where oftentimes nothing gets done or support is denied if the idea originated from another group.

The society begs for problem-solving skills, and this investment in the young -- who are the future -- is most appropriate at this time. Almost two-thirds of our population is 40 years and younger, and have not lived the conflicts of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. Yet this demographic continues to be bombarded ever so often by their seniors about stories of these eras.

These stories are often not told from the position of solv-

sion is to: PREVENT THE PREVENTABLE CANCERS and PROVIDE SCREENING FOR EARLY DETECTION, TO CURE CANCER. Tobacco is the number one preventable cause of cancer, and it is responsible for more than 70% of all cancer deaths. Every year, tens of millions of people start smoking. The GCPS will work with the Ministry of Public Health and support the introduction of the strongest legislation to curb tobacco use and prevent more tobacco-related cancer deaths.

Alcohol is the second most preventable cause of cancer; and, like tobacco, it is addictive. I am not certain how many people adhere to the mantra “drink responsibly - two drinks only”, but too many people make poor choices and lack discipline.

“Two drinks only? That is just to get us started!” is what we hear too often.

OBESITY and a LACK OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY is another preventable cause of cancer. Too many calories, sugar salt and fat fuel the obesity epidemic.

Sexually-transmitted viral infections cause five major cancers, all of which are preventable. Remember: practice safe sex - the most frequent sexually transmitted viral infection is the HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) which causes several cancers, the most well-known being cervical cancer - which is Preventable with the HPV vaccine, screening for early detection,

and appropriate treatment as required. HIV aids 4 cancers, Hepatitis B&C, HPV and HTLV1.

Again, we will work with the MoPH and all organizations to ensure that no woman dies from this preventable and curable cancer.

For those who do not understand or appreciate the importance of a candle light vigil, it is simply to raise AWARENESS, which is critical to bring as many people as possible to partner with us to address this issue.

It is an opportunity to network and share information on the terrible consequences of alcohol, and find novel and durable solutions to the problem.

Candlelight vigils are held globally in times of national tragedy and great loss. For those who are well informed about the consequences of alcohol and are not in denial, this is a tragedy that will no longer be accepted.

The GCPS will be pleased to attend the candlelight vigil because we believe that it is better to light a candle than lament the darkness.

We, as a nation, can -and must -- do better; together, we can all make a difference.

It is time for action.

CARL NIAMATALI President: Guyana Cancer Prevention Society guyanacancerpreventionsociety1@yahoo.com

ing them, but with acrimony, re-litigating and finger-pointing, which by extension contribute to holding the nation, moreso the young and their development, hostage. Given the exposure to problem-solving knowledge, children will acquire the skills and apply the techniques in helping to take charge of their destiny.

Another area that stood out is that of the Guyana Police Force “F” Division, which has launched a two-week August Programme for Bartica youth. This programme, which targets youths aged six to 16, sees the participation of 120 involved in craft making and interactive sessions with members of that division. The Force has said that in using a team-based approach, its aim is to keep participants meaningfully engaged during the school break.

While it has potential to arm participants with life skills, this project can also positively impact on police/community relations. The police, in their search for new recruits, can find among the participants and in the community individuals who have an interest in law enforcement by either employment or providing intelligence.

Inherent in the activities stated above is the urge to impact positively on societal development. Activities of this nature must be encouraged; and, where possible, facilitated and intensified by officialdom and synergies between the diaspora and the locals.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 30, 2016

The 6-month breast-feeding programme Happy Emancipation to all Dear Editor,

KINDLY publish this letter which I do hope will spur some national debate on the issue of the six-month exclusive breast-feeding programme, which we may see implemented as early as 2017.

Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton and Social Protection Minister Ms. Volda Lawrence have been made extremely ecstatic by the recent pronouncement in regard to the six-month maternity leave benefit for all working mothers, which will bring Guyana in line with the PAHO guideline.

This six-month exclusive breast feeding, Dr Norton says, will mean healthier children and mothers, and would increase productivity of women on their jobs. In fact, more working mothers will be encouraged to breast feed other than the meagre 23% currently doing so, according to a UNICEF Report.

In addition, Minister Norton, in November 2015, even went further and advocated that paternity leave be given to fathers in order to allow them to be involved in child care, to get a break from work, and to give their wives a break from child-rearing.

Minister Lawrence is adamant that the six-month maternity leave should become law as early as next year.

I am in total agreement with these benefits. However, while the health benefits of this extended maternity leave are being extolled, there is the question of whether our fragile economy is ready for such a move. We know for a fact that the mere labelling of our economy as an upper middle income one does nothing to hide the fact that it is only the top 5-10% of people in this country who are actually enjoying the increased GDP. There is no doubt that great inequalities of income exist in Guyana, and nearly 40% of our working population, mostly youths, are unemployed. There is also no doubt that the private sector is currently experiencing a downward spiral, which needs sound financial policies for it to recuperate, not additional burdens, especially increasing employment costs which will push the operational costs upward.

Such increasing costs

will definitely erode the profit margins of businesses, and may force them to transfer those costs to consumers.

Currently, the three months’ leave is financed by NIS and the employer.

In view of these increased economic costs, Dr. Shamdeo, the country’s Chief Medical Officer, has warned that employers may not be willing to sign formal employment contracts with women.

While this is also a serious possibility, these increased employment costs may result in reduced female employment, leading to deteriorating employment prospects because of increasing costs of operation to businesses.

Moreover, wage discrepancies may widen because of the seeming additional burden of employing women.

Furthermore, apart from the actual increased employment costs, employers will face the additional burden and costs associated with the training and development of substitute staff.

This will impact heavily on the private sector in such areas as manufacturing, wholesale and retail, hotels and restaurants.

In view of the foregoing, there is definitely a need to do a special labour survey to ascertain the number of females who are employed in both the private and public sectors, those who have given birth, those who are actually breast feeding their children; and make an assessment of what the estimated increase in employment costs will be. Do the numbers.

Having done so, the Government should set up a system whereby the wages of the persons on leave are financed by a public or private-funded scheme.

This scheme will ensure that employees on the six-month maternity leave will receive their wages from such a fund. This scheme should be fully undertaken by the Government, not private businesses. The private business will already be bearing the costs associated with the decreased productivity of new employees and the associated costs of training and development.

The creation of such a scheme will assist the employers, who can then use the unspent wage bill to take on temporary staff to substitute for the mothers who are on six-month maternity leave.

The big question here is whether all mothers will embark on this exclusive six-month breast-feeding programme when, for obvious reasons, some young mothers feel that breast feeding is taboo. Some may be selfish in nature. In my days, I could vividly recall that my mother would be working in the fields and yet be able to breast feed me for nearly a year. This was the norm in those days, and many hard working mothers suckled sometimes as many as 10 children!

Therefore, many mothers today may just enjoy the paid vacation with no regard for the numerous health benefits to the child and themselves!

Yours sincerely, HASEEF YUSUF

Dear Editor,

ONCE again, it is Emancipation time. It is once more the season of introspection; reflection of sorts; of reminiscing; and above all, of cultural and festive activities for people of African descent.

We are going to remind ourselves that another year has gone and we have (or have not) made a significant dent in the armour of selfdoubt, or in enhancing our education and economic fortunes, despite our best efforts.

In all of this, we nevertheless derive comfort in the fact that there are countless men and women, both young and old, who work tirelessly to make changes in the lives of citizens in their communities.

We are also reminded of the sheer consistency of purpose and determination that made our forefathers, (the freed slaves) succeed in the daunting task of community building and sustenance by the purchasing of their own villages.

Fortunately, because of these sacrifices, we are better off generations later, notwithstanding the challenges that confront us as we set about the task of moving our villages from one stage to another. In this process, we learn lessons that prepare us and make us stronger, better, and prepared for the task ahead. For this particular reason, I wish to acknowl-

edge the sacrifices, dedication, and very hard and thankless work performed by a group of persons who are determined to make a difference to our sometimes fractured lives in this community of Buxton/ Friendship. Those who immediately come to mind are: Sisters Yvette Herod, Nandi Tyrel, Barbara Thomas-Holder, Merceline Moses, Brenda Huntley, Waveney Yaw, Ingrid Nelson, Saudia Edghill, the Seaforth sisters, Bros Lester Andries, Kidackie Amsterdam and Deon Abrams, and others too numerous to mention.

The Committee for the Restoration of Buxton held a simple ceremony at the spanking and spacious new building, the Tiperary Hall of Buxton, on Sunday, June 27, to recognize through various awards and an induction ceremony the contributions of some outstanding Buxtonians in

the field of sports, medicine and community development, to name a few of the categories. It therefore gives me great pleasure to extend our warmest accolades to Sis Barbara Thomas- Holder and her entire team of selfless, hard-working committee members. It would be remiss of me if I did not let them know that, along with all of the citizens of the twin villages of Buxton and Friendship, thanks are most dearly being offered to them for such a gesture. It is not the big things, but the little things that matters.

A HAPPY EMANCIPATION TO ALL GUYANA! Best Regards, DAVID JONES 121 Side Line Road Buxton, ECD Tele: 220-2885

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

Teen falls to death at Berbice rice mill

By Nafeeza Yahya

NINETEEN–year-old maintenance worker Leroy Bennett, of Alness Village, Corentyne, Berbice, fell some 45 feet to his death on Friday while working on the roof of the Ancient County Rice Mill at Tarlogie village, Corentyne Coast in Region Six.

According to rice mill manager Rameshwar Chanilal, Bennett was doing routine maintenance work on some pipes, at about 14:20h, when the mishap occurred. He was picked up and rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The police were called in and the mill was locked

Bishop laid... sidered to be the evidence of his father’s mature faith, and continued to be there for him

From page 5

until he breathed his last.

And Bishop Davidson reflected on his last moments

Dead: Leroy Bennett

with Bishop George, recalling that his visit had infused new energy into the retired Bishop, so much so that they engaged in a lengthy, interesting conversation, memories of which he will hold

down as an investigation was launched.

Bennett family members are perturbed at the manner in which the incident was related to them, and are of the view that something is amiss. As such, they are calling on the police to conduct a thorough investigation.

His mother, Cora Ben-

net, told this newspaper that she had received a telephone call informing her that the young man had received a minor injury at work and was being taken to the Port Mourant Hospital; but she got the shock of her life when she arrived at the hospital and saw her son’s lifeless body. The young man was subsequently pro-

nounced dead.

“I could not believe it.

How they could tell me is a lil injury and me son dead?” the distraught woman asked.

The young man was described as having been a fun loving person who had a lot of potential to become successful. A police investigation has been launched.

dear.

works of Bishop George. He was hailed as a true champion of democracy and a fighter for social justice, human rights, as local politicians, social activists, his family and the Anglican community continued to mourn his passing.

President Granger, in a statement described the late Bishop as a distinguished son of the soil, who he remembered as a towering figure in the life of the Anglican Church, having served the Episcopate for 28 years.

He was bestowed the Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH) in 1994. The late bishop was described by the President as a sagacious, soft-spoken and amicable leader of the Diocese.

“Randolph George will be recorded as a person of quiet and unassuming dignity, whose respect and stature amongst the faithful never diminished, even after his retirement. He will be remembered also for his steadfast commitment to social justice, his advocacy of democratic reforms and his service to the Integrity Commission of Guyana,” the statement said.

The Opposition in their statement said Guyana has lost a true son, a spiritual leader and a patriot.

“Bishop George’s contribution to Guyana goes beyond that of just a spiritual leader,” the statement said, adding that “As a spiritual leader he was dedicated to his flock and sought to promote both their spiritual and physical well-being. His work among the indigenous peoples and persons living in the hinterland of Guyana is well known.

“As a patriot, he was a fearless supporter of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. He assumed leadership of the church during a difficult period in Guyana’s history, but his outspoken honesty and integ-

rity assisted in ensuring that Guyana returned to the path of democracy,” the PPP said.

And the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), also expressed condolences on the passing of Bishop George, lauding the contributions he had made to that body and to the Guyanese society at large.

“As one of the first trio of Co-Presidents of the GHRA, Bishop George’s astuteness and wisdom lent dignity and a sense of purpose in challenging the widespread repression of the late 70s and 80s. His courageous and unflappable spirit was re-assuring to human rights and political activists, in times of tension. ” The GHRA also lauded the Bishop’s willingness to be “the voice of the voiceless” and his contributions to defend human rights violations, among other things.

And in a tribute to the late retired Bishop, Canon Thurston Riehl said George became Bishop of Guyana at a time when many changes were taking place in society and the Church.

“In this challenging situation, Bishop George brought a pragmatic and prophetic approach. Bishop George was always willing to work in the difficult situation which God had given him, but he was also a great respector of tradition, and was never willing to accept change simply because it was popular. In the life of the church, he will be remembered as the one who initiated the Alan Knight Training Centre, a place where indigenous priests were, for the first time, trained locally for ministry in the interior areas of Guyana. This wise and foresighted decision has changed the face of the Church and will continue to change it for many years to come.”

CHAMPION OF DEMOCRACY Over the last week, there were many glowing tributes in favour of the life and

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

Region 5 road programme moving smoothly

By Clifford Stanley

PROGRESS is some 80 per cent complete on construction and upgrading of 25 community roads in Region Five, between Mahaicony to the west and Ithaca to

the east.

Of the 25 community roads currently under construction in a project being executed to the tune of $158M, nine are being done under the capital and land development section of the Regional Dem-

ocratic Council’s 2016 programme, at a cost of $74M. Several of these roads are being given asphalt surfaces, which is more expensive than the bitumen surface of the community roads; but these

Regional Executive Officer (REO) Ovid Morrison (left) and Regional Engineer Dhanpaul Sukha on site at a newly-asphalted road at Woodley Park, West Coast Berbice

roads will last longer, regional officials have said.

The streets being given asphalt surfaces are the main thoroughfares in the communities, which are benefiting from this improved infrastructure.

Sixteen of the 25 roads

Ithaca on Friday at 10:55hrs; and several feeders tripped, causing an outage which affected customers from Canje to Moleson Creek, East Berbice.

Electricity was restored to customers

from No. 76 Village to Moleson Creek at about 13:10hrs, while remedial work continued on the compromised sections of

say the region has saved some money on completed road projects, and this money will be utilised to undertake additional unprogrammed works within the region when all programmed works have been completed.

A road at Ithaca, West Bank Berbice, being upgraded

Blackout after excavator causes trees to fall at Ithaca ‒ GPL reports AN EXCAVATOR being operated by the Mahaica/Mahaicony/Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ ADA) caused some trees to fall onto the GPL transmission and distribution network at

are being done under the RDC’s current programme for 2016; six are being upgraded as farm-to-market roads at a cost of $21.5M; and 10 others are being done at a total cost of $52.5M. Regional officials

the network. customers from No. 75 Village to Canje were repowered by 18:00hrs on Friday, GPL has said.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

Small contractors must get piece of the pie

‒ Harmon says Gov’t not excluding contractors from State projects

By Ariana Gordon

THE Government of Guyana on Wednesday said it is not in the practice of excluding contractors from State projects.

“When it [a contact (s)] comes to Cabinet, it’s for

Cabinet to say whether we object or we don’t object.

Cabinet would not exercise that power to say who should get a contract or who should not get. We either say we object or we do not object,” said Minister of State Joseph Harmon.

With continuous complaints from contractors about the Government’s procurement process, the APNU+AFC coalition Government said it is examining ways of ensuring that small businesses and contractors benefit from the

public procurement system.

Stating that 20 per cent of public contracts must be awarded to small contractors, Minister of State Joseph Harmon said a committee headed by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and including ministers of Public Infrastructure, Legal Affairs, Finance and Communities has been established to examine how small contractors can benefit.

Billions of dollars are spent on public contracts yearly and represents a significant per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In fact, the public purchase of goods and services here is estimated to account for 27 per cent of the GDP based on the country’s last budget.

“It was agreed that every effort will be made to give legitimate support to small contractors for their involvement in the public procurement process,” Minister Harmon told reporters on Wednesday at his post-Cabinet press briefing held at the Ministry of the Presidency.

He said Government will be enforcing the laws that speak to small contractors benefiting from 20 per cent public contracts and stressed that the APNU+AFC coalition Government is not in the business of deliberately omitting contractors from

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

the procurement system.

He said qualification for a contract based on the Public Procurement Act is clear and those awarded would have met the requisite criteria.

Asked by reporters on the role Government plays when it comes to debarring defaulting contractors when public contracts were either improperly done or incomplete, Minister Harmon said the Procurement Act speaks specifically to how Government deals with the awarding of contracts.

“We do not deliberately exclude anybody, but at the level of the evaluation, the evaluators will make an initial determination as to whether in fact the person satisfies the requirements of the contract, and I be-

lieve their performance in previous contracts must be taken into consideration,” the Minister of State noted.

Last Thursday, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure hosted a one-day symposium for new contractors to educate them on the procurement process.

At that forum, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, said Government requires value for money when it awards contracts.

Procurement is critical to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s response to the country’s infrastructural needs, she said, with the hope that Government will attract more suppliers and contractors to deliver value- for- money works.

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, said upon assuming his ministerial portfolio he had recognised that the ministry was inundated with persons who were interested in providing either goods or services.

However, they were unaware of the procurement process. The minister said there are many hurdles pertaining to the procurement process and references the distrust of the system and the lack of knowledge on the part of contractors.

Approximately $32B is available annually to contractors for Government projects.

Region 4 Chairman allegedly blocking PPP, AFC motions THE Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has sought to register its concern regarding motions being brought to the house in its members’ names but reportedly being blocked

by Region Four Chairman Genevieve Allen.

In a statement issued on Thursday, July 28, 2016, the PPP said that at the Statutory Meeting of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Allen refused to entertain motions submitted by councillors representing the PPP and Alliance For Change

(AFC).

The opposition party explained that one of its councillors had submitted a properly signed motion on Monday, July 25, 2016.

Copies were also, on the same day, submitted to the Regional Executive Officer (REO), the Registry, the Chairman and Vice-Chairman. However, at the Statutory Meeting, the Chairman refused to entertain the motion on the ground that “it was not properly addressed”.

The PPP is contending

that those other motions properly presented were also rejected by the Chairperson on the grounds that “they were not within the prescribe notice”.

In light of this, the PPP said, it sought to register its concern and rejection of “this scheme of the APNU/AFC controlled RDC # Four,” which scheme it believes is aimed at preventing debate and public notice of matters of concern to the councillors and residents of Region Four.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

New GRA boss promises to tackle corruption NEWLY appointed Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Godfrey Statia, has committed to having an open-door policy with the aim of reducing corruption within the entity he now runs.

Statia, who began his tour of duty on July 25, became acquainted with staff at the authority’s headquarters located on Camp Street and other locations that fall under the Customs and Excise and Trade Operations and made his “resolute stance” against corrupt practices known.

GRA has over the years been tainted by corrupt practices resulting in the loss of confidence by the public. A statement from the GRA on Friday noted that the new Commissioner-General was told of plans to improve some critical aspects of the operations of the Customs Department, especially given that the peak season is fast approaching.

He was also updated on the need for improved facilities aimed at enhanced record-keeping and staff accommodation, human resource and training needs, uniformity and the promotion of officers.

“He also encouraged teamwork among junior officers and their senior counterparts who he has entrusted with the authority to make even-handed decisions, but

Commissioner-General Guyana Revenue Authority, Godfrey Statia

also adherence to standard operating procedures as required by the country’s tax, trade and border laws and regulations,” the statement noted.

Statia, a certified accountant, attorney-at-law and former senior deputy-commissioner of the then Inland Revenue Department, conducted his familiarisation tour in the company of Deputy Commissioner-General Hema Khan, Deputy Commissioner of Customs Excise and Trade Operations Lancelot Wills and other seniors.

Visits were made to Q-Trex International, John Fernandes Wharf and Terminal, the Guyana National Shipping Corporation, (GNSC) the Guyana National Industrial Company (GNIC), Muneshwers Wharf, the GRA’s Goods Examination Unit and Scan-

GRA’s Commissioner-General Godfrey Statia (seated centre) sits with staff of the Revenue Authority, including Chairman of the entity’s board, Rawle Lucas (seated second left), and Ingrid Griffith (seated second right)

ner Operations at Lombard Street, the Demerara Shipping Company Limited (DSCL), Customs Boathouse, the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC), the Eugene F. Correia International Airport and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

The presence of customs at these locations is mandatory, oftentimes on a 24- hour basis, given the frequency in movement of cargo and the tendency to smuggle. Mr Statia was introduced to the officers on site, whose duties range from examining containerised cargo and ship files, de-stuffing, rummaging and reporting of vessels and oil tankers.

The commissioner-general is also scheduled to visit GRA locations outside

Teenager charged with armed robbery NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD pork-knocker Isaiah Daniels was on Friday remanded to prison after he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan charged with robbery under arms.

Daniels of Retrieve, Linden, pleaded not guilty to the

charge which alleged that on July 24 at McKenzie, Linden, while being armed with an ice-pick, he robbed Shamar Savory of an electronic tablet valued $55,000.

Police Prosecutor Corporal Deniro Jones objected to bail because of the gravity and prevalence of the

offence. According to the prosecutor, the accused was positively identified by the victim and an eye-witness to the crime, during an identification parade.

Bail was refused and the matter was transferred to the Linden Magistrates Court for August 16.

of Georgetown soon. He is the chief executive of the authority and is respon-

sible for the day-to-day operations of the entity, the management of its funds,

property and affairs and the administration, organisation and control of staff.

12

Barr Street bridge to be given priority for repairs – Oscar Clarke

By Telesha Ramnarine

FOR roughly two months now, the Barr Street bridge in Albouystown has been out of order and authorities at City Hall are unable to give a timeframe for building a new bridge.

The bridge, which serves as a key alternative for traffic coming from as far as the East Bank of Demerara, is in need of immediate attention after being closed to vehicular traffic.

Councillor Malcolm Ferreira had recently requested the City Council to provide an update on the works being done there, and City Engineer Colvern Venture responded that the tender document is being finalized after which it will be sent to the town clerk’s office.

“A redesign was done

and we did a revision of what was proposed. The document just needs some fine-tuning before it is sent to the town clerk’s office to go out to tender.”

City Treasurer Ron Mc Calman offered that when the tender is completed and the proposed information as it relates to cost becomes available, then it would be determined if funds will be made available.

Meanwhile, Councillor Ferreira, in an invited comment, told this newspaper that he is hoping government will step in and assist the City Council in restoring the bridge. He described it as a “key artery” out of his constituency into the city.

At Monday’s statutory meeting, Chairman of the Finance Committee, Oscar Clarke, said once the matter is brought to the committee,

Barr Street Albouystown

the bridge will be put on the priority list.

“That bridge is so important to the city that it has to get priority. I would like to assure the council that once it comes to the Finance Committee, it will get priority treatment. I see no reason why that bridge should not be done on or before the last quarter of this year,” Clarke said.

At a previous statutory meeting, Councillor Heston Bostwick, a representative of the Albouystown community, had raised the issue of Albouys Street having to face the pressure now.

Although the bridge at Hunter and Sussex streets is also sinking, Bostwick asked that priority be given to the Barr Street bridge, while the others can be looked at later.

Barr Street serves as a key alternative to the La Penitence Public Road for vehicles coming from the East Bank of Demerara and heading to central Georgetown. The absence of this bridge contributes to a severe build-up of traffic in contiguous areas, and many of the streets in Albouystown are very narrow for two-way traffic.

Albouystown has long been regarded as a ‘high crime’ area, causing motorists to be hesitant about using the streets surrounding Barr Street.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

Wanted bulletin issued for South Ruimveldt resident THE Guyana Police Force has issued a wanted bulletin for Obina Hendricks known as “Hiney,” for questioning in relation to trafficking in narcotics on July 11, 2016, at the Eugene Correia International Airport, Ogle.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Obina Hendricks is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 2292289, 229-2569, 227-2128, 225-6411, 225-2227, 2258196, 227-1149, 226-7065, 911 or the nearest police station.

All information will be treated with the strictest

Wanted: Obina Hendricks

confidentiality. Hendricks is of African descent and his last known address was given as Lot 3 Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Case dismissed against woman accused of threatening President THE case against Bibi Safoora Salim was dismissed on Thursday by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan who agreed with the woman’s lawyer, Glen Hanoman, that she was charged under the wrong Act – the Racial Hostility Act. Salim, 52, of Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), was accused of making threatening comments on social media against Guyana’s Head of State, David Granger. The woman was reprimanded for committing the offence on Facebook between March 1 and 31, 2016.

She allegedly posted, “Granger want a bullet in he head.”

It was alleged that she had attempted to incite hostility and ill will against the President by making a derogatory remark. The court ruled that the charge laid against Salim

Bibi Safoora Salim

was null, since it did not reveal any criminal offence, therefore making it defective and inaccurate.

Hanoman, during his submission, contended that the police failed to state that the attempt to incite hostility or ill-will against the President was made on racial grounds, and it is indisputable that any charge under the Act must include the element of race.

The police charged Salim under Chapter 23 of the Racial Hostility Act, which states thus: “A person shall be guilty of an offence if (he/she) wilfully excites or attempts to excite hostility or ill-will against any section of the public or against any person on the grounds of their or his race, by means of words spoken by him in a public place, or spoken by him and transmitted for general reception by wireless telegraphy or telegraph; or by causing words spoken by him or by some other person to be reproduced in a public place from a record; or by means of written (including printed) .”

However as posited by defence counsel, the charges laid against Salim does not coincide with the essential element of attempting to excite hostility or racism.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

No-confidence motion passed against Linden town clerk as a result of her political affiliation.

LOCKED OUT Meanwhile, Arrindell denied reports that she gave an instruction to have the town clerk debarred from entering her office.

“The council did not debar or lock out Ms Bowen from the office or for performing her duties as town clerk. The attempt to disseminate false Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland and Town Clerk Janella Bowen

THE councillors of Linden’s Mayor and Town Council passed a no-confidence motion against Town Clerk Janella Bowen during a statutory meeting on Wednesday.

The motion was passed

by Councillor Deron John and seconded by Councillor Neola Rogers. Ten of the 12 Councillors present at the meeting voted in favour of the motion, while Councillor Lennox Gasper and Councillor Fern Mckoy abstained.

In a statement on Thursday, Deputy Mayor Waneka Arrindell said that the performance and management of the town clerk is of great concern to the council.

“The decision arose out of varying issues that have been occurring over a period of time of which some of the issues have been noted and discussed by the Mayor and Councillors,” said Arrindell.

She alluded to a similar motion being moved by the previous council which she claims also “recognised and elucidated areas in which the town clerk was in- effective by various actions and inactions stymieing the process of this council.”

Councillor Derron John, who served on the previous council, echoed similar sentiments. The mayor and councillors however refused to divulge the details which led to them moving the motion against the town clerk. They argued that it is at the preliminary stage and a correspondence has to be sent to the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, giving details to back up the recommendation.

The councillors were however quizzed by a reporter who asked whether the law was upheld in passing the motion as Cap 28:01 states that a written correspondence should have

Deputy Mayor Waneka Arrindell

been sent to the town clerk at least 90 days informing her of the motion.

Rule 8 of the Standing Order, page 401 of the constitution’s 28:01 states, “Except as hereafter providing a member wishes to move a motion and ask a question shall give notice in writing to the town clerk, but the motion shall not become a subject of discussion and a question shall not be answered until the next ordinary meeting. The notice if not given at a meeting of the council must be delivered to the town clerk at least 90 hours before the meeting at which it is intended to be brought forward.”

In response, Arrindell revealed, “The protocol to move the no-confidence motion against the town clerk was not given in writing; there are some motions that have to be given in writing and some that do not have to be given in writing. That motion was moved on a recommendation by a councillor in a previous meeting which we had to bring to statutory based on a previous recommendation.”

It was made clear that such a motion was based only on an examination of the town clerk’s performance and not

information to the public by the town clerk even in this matter is synonymous with the continued attitude and behaviour of this town clerk.”

Meanwhile, this newspaper spoke to security personnel, who revealed that an instruction was given by the corporal not to allow the town clerk to enter the building.

The town clerk however told this newspaper that she sat on a bench in the compound

since 07:55hrs, since she was not allowed inside her office.

“Instructions were given.

I was very respectful. I would have followed those instructions, hence I am sitting on this bench since 07:55 this morning, [Thursday]” said the town clerk who also revealed that an investigation will be launched into the matter.

The town clerk said that she is currently seeking legal advice on the issue and will

be issuing an official statement soon.

“I am at this point going through the course of consulting with the legal aspect of this matter; I want to make sure the legal aspect is correct….

I will continue to embrace the law stringently, as I have been doing all the while. I know that I am on the right track.”

Bowen said that in the interim she is on official duty.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

1000 benefit from entrepreneurial training, grants

Three years jail for ex-convict caught with marijuana

APPROXIMATELY 1000 persons have so far benefited from the Small Business Bureau’s Micro and Small Enterprise and Building Alternative Livelihoods for Vulnerable Groups (MSE) project.

The project, which is funded by the Guyana REDD+Investment Fund (GRIF) allows individuals, potential entrepreneurs and business owners to access grants and training to perfect their entrepreneurial skills and maximize their profit returns.

Speaking at an induction ceremony for new trainers and partners for the MSE project on Thursday, Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin indicated that training programmes are pivotal for broadening the scope for small businesses.

This, he said, is due to the fact that small business-

AFTER almost two months to his release from the Camp Street Prison, Ivor Greene was sentenced to three years imprisonment and fined $72,000 for trafficking in narcotics

by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

Greene, 46, of Lot 77 Durban Street, Lodge,Georgetown, pleaded guilty to the charge which read that he had 218 gramms of cannabis sativa (marijuana) in his possession for the purpose of trafficking on July 26 at Bourda, Georgetown.

Greene was unrepresented and begged the magistrate for leniency, while explaining that since his release from prison, he has experienced difficulties in finding a job, forcing him to sell the drugs.

According to Police Prosecutor, Corporal Deniro Jones on the day in question ranks from the police narcotics branch acted on information and visited Bourda Market, where they cordoned

By Navendra Seoraj

es are the most vulnerable in the business landscape, not just in Guyana, but worldwide.

“Adequate training is needed to build the capacity of young entrepreneurs, hence they must ensure that the content is relevant and up to date… focus must be placed on the use of modern technology, so that entrepreneurs could catch up with the rest of the world,” the minister said, as he addressed the new trainers and partners.

With these interventions, the ministry hopes to realise the dream of making Guyana an investment hub by producing more young entrepreneurs and boosting the efficiency of the existing small-business owners.

Officer in Charge of the Small Business Bureau, Gillian Edwards, disclosed that the MSE project which commenced in 2013 has proven efficient. She indi-

cated that to date, there has been a disbursement of 193 grants valuing $300,000 each, whereas, in collaboration with the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), Republic Bank and the Institute for Private Enterprise Development (IPED), 63 loans adding up to over US$1M, were granted to entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, as it relates to the training, the areas targeted cut across 11 sectors with the majority conforming to priorities under Guyana’s revolutionary Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). Among them are fruit and vegetable farming, processing, aquaculture, eco-tourism, sustainable forestry and wood processing, business processing and outsourcing and bio-ethanol.

The Small Business Bureau (SBB) within the ministry will be the agency executing the US$10M project. The funding was

Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin

made possible through the Guyana/Norway forest carbon partnership agreement.

Loans can be accessed at the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), Republic Bank and the Institute for Private Enterprise Development (IPED) through an interest subsidy and support for a portion of the collateral required.

Ivor Greene

off the area.

Ranks saw Greene and became suspicious of him after he was sitting on a plastic bag. The bag was searched and they ranks found several zip lock parcels with suspected marijuana inside.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, July 30, 2016

Aries Sticking with your original intention might be tricky today as rationality overpowers your feelings. Flying by the seat of your pants usually gives you the ability to make the most of the changing circumstances because you can modify your plans on a moment's notice. But you can't get away with cavalier behaviour now and must commit to a specific schedule. Stop resisting the inevitable; practicing self-discipline is for your own good.

Taurus You may feel the weight of responsibility lift from your shoulders today, especially if you stop and take a few deep breaths of relief. You are back in your element as mental Mercury shifts into earthy Virgo, emphasizing your natural tendency to be stable and sensible. Although your unexpressed feelings linger, you no longer need to say everything that's on your mind. Those who don't understand your self-restraint will never understand what motivates you to speak.

Gemini It seems as if someone has grabbed the controls and is playing with the volume knob in your imagination. Your Twins are exceptionally attuned to your key planet Mercury and its entry into Virgo creates a power surge in your brain. Your dilemma is that just because your thinking is louder today, doesn't mean that it's better. You must carefully consider what you say and what you keep to yourself. Sometimes, consciously choosing a little solitude is enough to calm your soul.

Cancer You are returning to a familiar place today as Luna cycles back into your sign.

Since your Crabs are so attuned to the pull of the Moon, you might be moodier than others now. Although you're quite comfortable with your temporary emotional withdrawal, people may misinterpret your retreat and ask you what's wrong. Let them know that you just need some space to sit with your own feelings, without having to verbalise them to anyone else. As Ram Dass says, "The quieter you become, the more you can hear."

Leo You may observe that one of your inner voices is muted today as verbose Mercury leaves your sign. Although this exit from lively Leo and entry into timid Virgo won't necessarily have a huge impact on your life, you might not be as quick to express your thoughts. You can derive great benefit now from your newly found ability to filter out the excess noise, both within your own head and what comes out of your mouth. The Dalai Lama reminds us, "Silence is sometimes the best answer."

Virgo It's time to step out of the shadow and into the light. Consider sharing your thoughts with those close to you, especially if you recently danced around the edges of the truth. Pensive Mercury is busy in your sign until October 7, bringing you a heightened sense of your own analytical process. Use these days wisely to strengthen your logic and research your area of expertise. Learn to politely say no to anything that doesn't fit in with your current trajectory. Setting boundaries is an essential element to self-care.

Libra You're inclined to demonstrate your ability to nurture others by performing random acts of kindness. However, your actions may not be fully aligned with your heart today. This gulf between your thoughts and your emotions prompts you to remain unresponsive. Unfortunately, this dilemma can result in unexpressed anger, pouting or even passive-aggressive behaviour. As difficult as it sounds, try to keep your true feelings close to the surface, especially around those you trust.

Authenticity is your friend.

Scorpio It's as if you are awakening from a deep sleep today; your mental clarity seems sharper than it has been in a while. Suddenly, you are thinking more about the future than the present. This is especially true at work, where you can refocus your intentions on longer-range goals, rather than just putting in the hours. Make use of the analytical powers that you now have at your disposal and apply this logic to all walks of your life. As Wayne Dyer wrote, "Our intention creates our reality."

Sagittarius You are being pulled in two opposing directions now. Your mind is quickly becoming more discriminating and detail oriented, but you still prefer to be thinking about the entire universe. You might grow anxious when you realise that you must concentrate on the minute particulars instead of the global picture. However, if you can focus on your specific role in the community, there will be real payoffs just around the corner. Think cosmically, act locally.

Capricorn A major change is occurring in your outlook on life that could positively impact the next couple of months. Since Capricorn is an earth sign, Mercury's current shift into earthy Virgo means you Mountain Goats are receiving an intellectual zap that you can put to good use. You're thinking in a more pragmatic manner, but you may encounter unexpected challenges today. You must continue to widen your perspective or you might end up feeling mentally blocked. It has been said that the mind is like a parachute in that it works best when it is open.

Aquarius You can't get away with your typical quirkiness now. However, it's not likely you're going to change overnight. It's just that circumstances are going to keep calling you back to the details you would rather forget. There's no escape; swallow your annoyance with reality and try to get the unpleasant tasks out of the way so you can put your attention toward things of greater interest. Determination and discipline lead to success.

Pisces It's a mixed bag for you soft-hearted Fish today. The Moon's shift into watery Cancer enables you to be nourished by the emotional richness that is re-entering your life. The problem is there are deep feelings that you are afraid to share now.

Fortunately, if you are willing to face your fears straight on, you may just discover that you will accelerate into the future. Your life is an adventure that's waiting to begin, so open your heart and see what happens.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 30, 2016

Digicel supports Emancipation

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DIGICEL (Guyana) Limited has donated a sum of money to the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) in accordance with its pledge to continue supporting the much-anticipated annual Emancipation celebrations in Guyana.

The cheque was handed over on Friday to Emancipation Coordinator Aisha Haynes

by Digicel Events and Sponsorship Executive Louanna Abrams at Digicel’s head office in Kingston, Georgetown.

“Digicel has been a proud sponsor of Emancipation celebrations from the inception, and this year is no different. We have pledged a significant sum to the general management and execution of the event, which will feature Luciano as the performing artiste,” Abrams said.

Haynes expressed appreciation to Digicel for its continued support of the Emancipation Festival, this year and over the past years.

Under its mandate of corporate social responsibility, Digicel has been promoting cultural development and sustainability.

Over the past nine years of its operations in Guyana, Digicel has pledged support to special needs education, cultural and youth development, and many other areas of development.

With the recent passage of the Telecoms Bill in the National Assembly, Digicel’s Chief Executive Officer Kevin Kelly has commended the “laudable achievement” and noted that “a competitive sector will result in many benefits in terms of new and Digicel Events and Sponsorship Executive Louanna Abrams presents the cheque to Emancipation Coordinator Aisha Haynes improved services for the people of Guyana”.

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‘Meet the Public’ initiative brings Government to the people, addresses key concerns

G

EORGETOWN, Guyana – (July 29, 2016) THE purpose of any Government is to serve the interests of the people. Understanding the importance of meeting the needs of ordinary Guyanese, the Government of Guyana, through the Office of Minister of State, Mr Joseph Harmon has, over the past months, launched the Meet-the-Public Initiative, which aims to take Government to the people.

The initiative was launched in December 2015 and aims to take Government services to the various regions, so that residents can air their concerns and have key issues, which are affecting them in their communities, addressed. The idea of taking the government to the people was a promise that was made by President David Granger even before he assumed office.

At the first Public Day forum, which was held at the Square of the Revolution, more than 300 persons turned up to have issues affecting them addressed. At that event, President Granger told the gathering that it is the Government’s responsibility to look after the people, and that this initiative seeks to solve their problems.

The President said that it is important that every Guyanese citizen feel that

they belong to a country, society and community, with a government which cares about them.

“We want to solve the problems affecting individuals; we are not trying to upset the ministerial or Government system, but we are bringing government to the people by finding out what your needs are and helping you to solve those problems,” he said.

The Head of State also noted that such an initiative is not superficial or ornamental, but aims to empower the citizens of Guyana as is its responsibility.

The plan for the Public Day initiative is for it to be taken to communities throughout Guyana. Each forum comprises representatives from various ministries as well as subject ministers.

Members of the public are then given the opportunity to meet with these officials to air their concerns with a view to finding solutions. So far, the initiative has been hosted in the Pomeroon-Supenaam region, Lethem in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region, the East Berbice-Corentyne region and Linden, in the Upper Demerara –Upper Berbice region.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon said that this government reflects the change that the people had voted for.

As a result, it was imperative

that the residents be given the ease of accessing government officials to solve their problems. Such a move would, therefore, forego the problem of transportation and other obstacles that residents – especially those in far outlying regions - may face.

“This is not just a meet-thepeople, it is an exercise in dealing with issues which affect you as citizens. So we have brought all the arms of government, ministries and departments which have anything to do with your welfare and quality of life so that they can listen to you and make decisions right on the ground,” he said.

At each instance, problems faced by the communities usually took similar form, as many of those communities are closely knit. In the Pomeroon-Supenaam region, while many issues concerned personal matters surrounding birth certificates, pensions with the National Insurance Scheme and passports, the bulk of concerns surrounded matters affecting rice farmers- since rice is the main source of income for residents in that region.

In Lethem, the Public Day initiative included visits

by Prime Minister Mr Moses Nagamootoo, Minister Harmon and other officials over a two-day period. At this event, the Prime Minister announced that the government also had plans in train to de-

President David Granger interacts with a resident at the first Meet the Public Day hosted in December last year at the Square of the Revolution, Georgetown When the initiative was velop the hinterland region, school, health hub…providtaken to the East Berbiincluding the paving of the ing boats, bicycles, books, ce-Corentyne region in April, Linden-Lethem Highway. all these are important for residents had already begun He also mentioned govern- the communities of our into look forward to what was ment’s intention to make Le- digenous peoples, because referred to as the “mobile them into an industrial zone for two long they have been government.” At that event, in order to increase econom- treated like the children of Minister of Citizenship, Mr ic activity in the region and the forest- neglected and alWinston Felix, announced to invite more investors to most forgotten. It will not be that his ministry will be Guyana. so anymore,” Prime Minister working to decentralise serThe Prime Minister noted Nagamootoo said. vices such as the issuing of that this is all part of bringing He also said he believes passports and birth certifithe same development that that the first peoples decates. This move was made is occurring on the coast to serve a better life just as was to ease the congestion at the the communities in the hin- promised by the government main offices in Georgetown, terland, since the indigenous for all Guyanese and that the as well as to lessen the burpeoples are an important part government is committed to den on persons of having to of Guyana’s patrimony. facilitating that better life travel all the way to the city “Every road, bridge, for them.

Residents discuss their issues with government officers at the Meet-the-Public Initiative in Lethem, Upper Takutu- Upper Essequibo Region (Region Nine)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 30, 2016

Residents showed up in their numbers at the first Meet-the-Public Day hosted year at the Square of the Revolution, Georgetown in December last

Minister of State, Mr Joseph Harmon, speaks with a resident of Linden for those services.

“It is the President’s wish that … we provide services to these places; that the work of the Government in these towns should be so organised, that it makes the life of people much easier to cope with the day-today issues,” Minister Felix said.

Most recently, the “mobile government” found its way to Linden, where residents expressed their concerns mostly about housing, land-titling and sport. Minister Harmon said that he was very pleased with the turnout, and is eager to address mat-

Minister of Social Protection Ms Volda Lawrence speaks with a resident of Lethem ters that concern the people.

Giving an overview of the programme thus far, the Minister of State said that the response by citizens to these initiatives has been positive, as persons welcomed the effort of bringing the government to their communities.

He said that the government recognises the difficulties that many persons may face getting to Georgetown and that there is also a lack of capacity in the regional offices which provide such services.

As such, the initiative gives persons the opportunity to

A section of attendees at the Meet-the-Public Initiative hosted in the Pomeroon - Supenaam region (Region Two)

address concerns right in their communities with government officials and other officers.

The event in Linden also made way for the announcement that persons will, within the coming days, be able to renew their passports without having to travel to Georgetown, as

the government aims to decentralise passport-related services.

The next Public Day Forum is scheduled to be hosted in the Essequibo Islands – West Demerara region, as the government continues to push its agenda of bringing “the good life to all Guyanese.”

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FFTP reaches out to Georgetown’s needy

By Vishani Ragobeer

Persons wait for the FFTP gates to open, to be able to receive some form of assistance from the outreach programme

FOOD For The Poor Guyana Inc (FFTP) has distributed food and personal care products, household supplies and toiletries, clothing and books to between 600 and 800 needy persons in Festival City, North Ruimveldt; Sophia, and in several other areas in Georgetown.

The items were distributed at Food for the Poor’s Festival City Headquarters, and the Senior Manager of the Gifts and Kind Department, Jimeel Davis, said the kind gesture was made possible through donations from the organisation’s donor in Miami, Florida.

The persons who benefited, Davis said, were the young, the elderly and the disabled; and even though the exercise had targeted between 600 and 800 persons, everyone who had attended the dis-

tribution process received something from Food for the Poor.

Sixty-nine-year-old Yvonne Blackman was one of the beneficiaries; she said it was not the first time she had received help from that charitable organisation.

Blackman is diabetic and is bed-ridden most of the time, being unable to walk. She said Food For The Poor has always been there for her.

Another beneficiary, Audrey McCardy, also thanked the charitable organisation for reaching out to the poor.

Food For The Poor is a non-profit organisation that has offices in several Caribbean and Latin American countries. In Guyana, the organisation assists the needy through feeding programmes, establishing children’s homes, and outreach and distribution programmes.

Yvonne Blackman, a bed-ridden elderly person, receives help regularly from Food For The Poor

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 30, 2016

Old England murder retrial…

Witness tells jury about disappearance of ballistics analysis

By George Barclay

PROSECUTION witness Corporal Blanhum on Wednesday told the jury in the Old England, Upper Demerara murder retrial about the disappearance of the ballistics analysis relative to the murder trial of Lakeraj Fredericks, in which he is indicted for the murder of Clifton Bonus who was shot in the head on June 3, 2011, following an alleged quarrel over marijuana seeds.

The voir dire (a trial within a trial) was temporarily halted on Wednesday, leading to Corporal Blanhum telling the court about his experience regarding the autopsy, the examination of a spent bullet, and disappearance of the ballistics analysis done by the Police Firearms and Ammunition Expert.

Testifying before Justice James Bovell Drakes at the Demerara Assizes, Corporal Blanhum detailed that, acting on instructions, he had attended a post-mortem done by Government Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh.

The autopsy was done with dissections. The witness told the court that while the autopsy was in progress, Dr Singh had given him a .32 bullet which was removed from the head of the deceased, together with another piece of fragment.

The corporal said he placed the contents in a white envelope and finally handed same to the Police Analyst Department for analysis examination.

Later, the jury was told that during the preliminary inquiry, the report on the analysis was given to the court. Finally, it was disclosed that the report on the analysis could not be located.

The Police Firearms and Ammunition Expert Eon Jackson, who then was a Sergeant has since been promoted to the rank of Inspector. In his testimony, he admitted that the articles had been given to him for examination, and that same had been returned after analysis.

In answer to cross-examination by defence counsel Lawrence Harris, Inspector Jackson said he could not recall whether a gun had been sent to him for examination.

But the defence counsel’s contention was that no gun had been sent for examination.

Jackson, in his evidence, added: “I can recall 10th June, 2011. I received at the Ballistics Section (of the) Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown from Detective Constable Blanhum one white envelope marked RB 10/06/2011/ ED which was sealed with Police Seal #69. I examined the contents of this envelope on 17th June 2011, and I found the envelope to contain a white film plastic container with whitepaper tape wrapped around it and marked Clifton Bonus 10/6/2011 and PM 508/11.

I found in the container one (1) .32 fired bullet and a piece of copper jacket for a fired bullet.

“After my examination, I placed my initials EJ on the bullet, replaced it with the piece of copper jacket in the white film plastic container in the said white envelope, and I resealed that envelope with police seal #95. I then prepared a ballistics analyst certificate of my findings and I wrote my statement.

If I see the envelope again, I can identify it by the markings.”

The hearing of the sus-

pended voir dire was resumed and completed on Thursday.

State counsel Siand Dhurjon and Shonette Austin are prosecuting.

Justice Bovell-Drakes, who is conducting the voir dire, has reserved his ruling for Tuesday next at 10:00 hrs.

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Contracts inked for GBBC ‘Bad Intentions’ boxing card … Dexter Gonsalves to face American DeMarcus Corley CONTRACTS have been inked for the Guyana Boxing Board of Control’s (GBBC) August 27 `Bad Intentions’ five-fight card scheduled for the Giftland OfficeMax Mall, Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara.

The card will feature Guyana’s Dexter Gonsalves in a 12-round contest against former World Boxing Association’s super lightweight champion American DeMarcus `Chop Chop’ Corley for the World Boxing Council’s FECABOX) lightweight title.

Gonsalves, who last fought in October 2015 when he earned a 10-round technical knock-out (TKO) victory over fellow-Guyanese Clive ‘The Punisher’ Atwell, thereby winning the Caribbean Boxing Federation (CABOFE) lightweight title.

He has since been stripped of that title since he failed to make a mandatory defence of the title and will now be seeking to win the FECABOX title to restore some pride not only for himself, but for all Guyana.

Despite not fighting since the Atwell encounter , Gonsalves has been in the gym three times per week and has recently stepped up prepara-

tions for his fight against a well-seasoned fighter in Corley.

To date, Gonsalves has compiled a record of 8-12 with a lone loss to Michel Agard who also drew on another occasion. He also drew with Jamaica’s Mohammed Dawes in 2007.

Corley is a veteran with a 47-27-1 record, winning 28 of his bouts by the knock-out route and will surely be a handful for Gonsalves who has not fought the quality of fighters that Corley has engaged.

Corley earlier this year participated in Jamaica’s `The Contender’ series and won three fights with knock-out victories against Richard Holmes and Guyana’s Revlon Lake while recording a points win against Michael Gardner.

The American was born in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) and during his career fought world renowned Zab Judah in a WBO super lightweight title which he lost.

He also faced Guyana’s Olympian Dillon Carew twice.

Corley who was a world champion from 2001 to 2003 also went the distance with former world champions Devon Alexander and Marcos

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Maidana and lost his title to Judah in 2003.

However, yesterday at the signing of the contract at the office of GBBC president Peter Abdool, Gonsalves said he is not worried by Corley’s record and experience.

He admitted that for his last fight last year (versus Atwell), he was not really prepared and after viewing footage of that fight, he realised that he was lacking in movement of his feet and has since started to work on it.

He said he is much more focused now and is working on his lifelong dream of becoming a world champion, and to this end, his mother is very supportive, always making sure that he attends gym and eats properly.

Asked how he plans to deal with the more experienced Corley, Gonsalves said he and his team, which includes his manager Aleem Hussain, have been reviewing

tapes of Corley’s fights and they are working on taking advantage of Corley’s weaknesses. “We know Corley has a very good left jab and we’re working on that,” Gonsalves stated.

Meanwhile, in the main supporting bout, Mark Austin will face Michael Gardner of Jamaica in an eight-round middleweight contest.

The opening bout brings together Kelsey George and Charwin Estwick in a fourround super middleweight affair, while Anthony Narine will make his debut as a professional in a four-round lightweight contest against Keeve Allicock.

The next bout on the night’s card will see Imran Khan and Quincy Gomes battle for a third time in a six-round lightweight contest.

The two previous times they met, the first fight was drawn and Gomes won the second encounter.

West Indies seek revival ...

From backpage the 24th West Indies batsman to reach 3 000 career runs. By the end of this series he will have played 46 Tests.

Given Marlon Samuels’ indifferent Test career, Bravo should be considered the batting mainstay of this West Indies side. In the Antigua defeat, he happened to play two irresponsible shots: laze angled-bat pushes to shortof-a-length balls well away from his body. West Indies need much better from him.

If it is going to be a green seamer at Sabina Park, it might just be time to dial Ajinkya Rahane, who has been scoring tough runs for India through his career. He was one of India’s two specialist batsmen to fall to legbreak long hops in Antigua. There might not be room for such concentration breaks in Jamaica, especially if he is India’s last specialist batsman again.

Even if West Indies had managed to draw Antigua through defensive tactics, it was always expected they would strengthen their attack, which had only two specialist bowlers in Antigua. That the ploy failed has only reinforced the need for a change in strategy. Either Miguel Cummins, who was in the squad for the first Test, or Joseph, or both, should make it to the XI. Car-

los Brathwaite or Jermaine Blackwood or both could sit out. Brathwaite, though, bowled with discipline and scored a valiant half-century in the second innings.

West Indies (probable): Kraigg Brathwaite, Rajendra Chandrika, Darren Bravo, Marlon Samuels, Roston Chase, Jermaine Blackwood/Leon Johnson/Carlos Brathwaite, Shane Dowrich (wkp.), Jason Holder (capt.), Shannon Gabriel, Miguel Cummins/Alzarri Joseph, Devendra Bishoo M. Vijay has been ruled out with the thumb injury he sustained when he was dismissed on the first morning of the first Test. He played no further part in the match.

KL Rahul will slot into the XI in his place. A testing-looking pitch may have sown thoughts of playing an extra batsman at No. 6, but Virat Kohli indicated India would continue with their five-bowler strategy, and said a second spinner may still be required for India to take ten wickets in the second innings.

India (probable): Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt.), Ajinkya Rahane, R. Ashwin, Wriddhiman Saha (wkp.), Amit Mishra, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav. (ESPN Cricinfo)

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Sri Lanka reduce Aussies to 83-3 in 268-run chase (REUTERS) - Sri Lanka set Australia a stiff 268-run victory target before reducing them to 83 for three to gain the upper hand after a rain-truncated penultimate day of the first Test in Pallekele yesterday.

Skipper Steve Smith was batting on 26 with Adam Voges on nine when rain, which had delayed the start of play by an hour, washed out the final session for the third time in four days.

It sets up an intriguing final day with Smith’s team needing 185 runs to go 1-0 up in the three-Test series while Sri Lanka require seven wickets to clinch the bowler-dominated contest.

Earlier in the morning, Kusal Mendis fell for a marathon 176 but the Sri Lankan tail wagged as the hosts, resuming on 282 for

Mitchell Starc is pumped after removing Kusal Mendis. six, posted 353 all out in their second innings.

Mendis added seven runs to his overnight before Mitchell Starc (4-84) dismissed him caught behind.

Rangana Herath (35) frustrated the Australians with his belligerent batting until substitute fielder

Moises Henriques took a stunning one-handed diving catch to send him back.

Herath was soon back to torment the touring side again, this time with the ball, when the left-arm spinner bowled David Warner who ended the match with scores of one and zero.

Off-spinner Dilruwan Perera trapped Usman Khawaja (18) lbw and leftarm Chinaman bowler Lakshan Sandakan bowled Joe Burns (29) with a sharp-turning delivery to reduce Australia to 63-3.

Australia looked in further trouble when Voges was adjudged leg-before for a golden duck after being struck on his pad by a Perera delivery.

The batsman reviewed the decision and got it overturned after replays suggested the sharp-turning ball would have missed leg stump.

Australia are without their hamstrung left-arm

spinner Steve O’Keefe, who hobbled off the ground on

Thursday and is set to miss the rest of the series.

SCOREBOARD SRI LANKA 1st innings 117 AUSTRALIA 1st innings 203 (R. Herath 4-49, L. Sandakan 4-58) SRI LANKA (overnight) 282-6 K. Perera lbw b Starc 4 K. Silva lbw b O’Keefe 7 D. Karunaratne lbw b Starc 0 K. Mendis c Nevill b Starc 176 A. Mathews c Burns b Lyon 9 D. Chandimal lbw b M. Marsh

42 D. de Silva c Khawaja b Lyon

36 D. Perera lbw b Hazlewood 12 R. Herath c sub. (M.Henriques) b Hazlewood 35 P. Sandalan b Starc 7 N. Pradeep not out 10 Extras: (b 1, lb-12) 13 Total: (all out; 93.4 overs) 353 Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-6, 3-45, 4-86,

5-203, 6-274, 7-290, 8-314, 9-323.

Bowling: M. Starc 19-4-84-4, J. Hazlewood 18.4-3-59-2, S. O’Keefe 16.2-3-42-1, N. Lyon 27-2-108-2, Warner 1-0-10-0, A. Voges 1.4-03-0, M. Marsh 9-1-33-1, S. Smith 1-0-1-0.

AUSTRALIA 2nd innings (Target: 268 runs) J. Burns b Sandakan 29 D. Warner b Herath 1 U. Khawaja lbw b D. Perera 18 S. Smith not out 26 A. Voges not out 9 Extras: 0 Total: (for 3 wickets, 27 overs) 83 Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-33, 3-63.

Bowling: N. Pradeep 3-0-16-0, R. Herath 10-1-35-1, D. Perera 9-1-191, L. Sandakan 5-1-13-1.

Latham century carries New Zealand to sizeable lead

BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe (Reuters) - Tom Latham’s century and 91 from Kane Williamson put New Zealand firmly in the driving seat with a 151-run lead over Zimbabwe on the second day of the first Test yesterday.

New Zealand closed on 315 for four in reply to Zimbabwe’s first-innings 164. Ross Taylor (38) and nightwatchman Ish Sodhi (5) were not out at the close.

Latham reached his fourth Test century soon after tea before being caught by stand-in wicketkeeper Brian Chairi off the parttime bowling of veteran Hamilton Masakadza for 105 from 209 balls.

Latham and Williamson compiled a second-wicket partnership of 156. Williamson fell nine runs short of his century after a sharp catch at slip by Masakadza off the leg-spin bowling of home skipper Graeme Cremer.

The New Zealand captain had benefited from a contentious decision from the television umpire when he looked to have been caught at first slip by Sikandar Raza off Cremer when he was on 72.

Williamson asked Raza to confirm he had taken the catch and despite a positive response he spoke to the umpires who opted to get television evidence which could not prove the dismissal.

Opener Martin Guptill was dismissed in the first session for 40, caught in

Tom Latham celebrates his fourth Test hundred against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. the gully, to hand debu- day with a high temperatant Chamu Chibhabha a ture. first Test wicket.

The New Zealanders Henry Nicholls was the will look to bat through fourth wicket to fall, caught the third day after Wilbehind by Chairi from a liamson said his side full delivery by Donald would seek time at the Tiripano. crease to prepare for Chairi was deputising tougher series in South for Regis Chakabva who Africa and India over the was confined to bed yester- next two months.

SCOREBOARD ZIMBABWE 1st innings 164 (N. Wagner 6-41) NEW ZEALAND 1st innings M. Guptill c Ervine b Chibhabha

40 T. Latham c Chari b H. Masakadza 105 K. Williamson c H. Masakadza b Cremer 91 R. Taylor not out

38 H. Nicholls c Chari b Tiripano

18

I. Sodhi not out

5 Extras: (b-6, nb-10, w-2) 18 Total: (for 4 wickets, 100 overs) 315 Fall of wickets: 1-79l, ,2-235, 3-272, 4-299.

Bowling: M. Chinouya 15-2-41-0 (w-1) D. Tiripano 17-2-51-1 (nb-6), P. Masvaure 5-0-20-0 (nb-3, w-1), G. Cremer 35-4-113-1, S. Raza 9-337-0, C. Chibhabha 10-0-22-1 (nb-1), H. Masakadza 9-1-25-1.

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Govindan cops top RHTYSC/TCL Cricket Academy award BERBICE Under-15 middle-order batsman Chanderpaul Govindan copped the prestigious Cricketerof-the-Year Cricket Academy award as the curtain came down on a highly successful RHTYSC, M.S/TCL Cricket Academy recently.

The closing ceremony of the Academy was held at the St Francis Community Developers Training Centre and was attended by all ninety-four (94) young cricketers who successfully completed the two-week Camp which was held from July 11 to 23 at the Club’s Area ‘H’ Ground.

Chanderpaul Govindan receives his award as Cricketer-of-the-Year from coach Eon Hooper.

Drug-tainted US sprinters lead Rio challenge LOS ANGELES, United States (AFP) — Justin Gatlin will spearhead a trio of drug-tainted US sprinters aiming to spoil Usain Bolt’s Olympic swansong as athletics stumbles through the moral maze created by the Russia doping scandal.

The 34-year-old Gatlin is the most obvious symbol of the logical confusion gripping this year’s Olympics, where some athletes convicted of doping offences will be free to compete while others are banned.

Gatlin, twice suspended for failing drugs tests, heads to Rio as the biggest threat to Jamaican rival Bolt’s hopes of retaining his 100 meters crown.

LaShawn Merritt -- who served a 21-month ban for testing positive for a banned steroid in 2010 -- could threaten Bolt over 200m. Merritt, 30, is the fastest man in the world over the distance this year.

Tyson Gay, meanwhile, returns as a member of the US 4x100m relay squad after completing a one-year suspension for testing positive for a banned steroid.

Yet the presence of Gatlin, Merritt and Gay in Rio has been seized upon by critics in Moscow who have cried double standards over the International Olympic Committee’s policy of banning all Russian athletes who have previously served doping bans.

- Pantomime villain The controversy makes it inevitable that Gatlin is likely to be cast as track and field’s pantomime villain once more when the action

Justin Gatlin gets under way in Brazil.

The 2004 100m champion’s duel with Bolt at the World Championships in Beijing last year was framed as a battle for the soul of athletics, with the Jamaican prevailing to general relief across the sport.

A year later, Gatlin is still wearily rejecting a narrative he sees as unfair.

“I understand the media.

They want to be more creative and be able to make storylines more sensationalised,” Gatlin told reporters in June.

“I’m just a runner like everybody else. I get up and train every day, like everybody else. It’s hurtful, it’s hurtful to be looked at as a villain because that’s not how I portray myself, that’s not how my son portrays me or my family.”

Gatlin insists that his backstory is far more nuanced than the blunt, oft-applied label -- “two-time doping cheat” -- implies.

His first doping suspension in 2001 arose from the use of Adderall, which contains amphetamine.

Gatlin had been using the drug since childhood to treat attention deficit disorder. The US arbitration panel that heard his case ruled Gatlin was “certainly not a doper.”

A second positive test in 2006 found excessive levels of testosterone in his system.

Gatlin blamed the results on sabotage by a therapist with whom he was locked in a financial dispute.

Gatlin was banned for eight years for that offence, later reduced to four years on appeal.

- ‘Foolish’ penis enlargement mistake Merritt, who is also hoping to reclaim the 400m crown he last won in Beijing, heads to Rio after seeing his career disrupted in 2010 for three positive drugs tests which he blamed on an overthe-counter penis enlargement product.

Merritt, 30, confessed to a “foolish, immature and egotistical mistake” for his drugs case, speaking of a deep-seated “embarrassment and humiliation”.

Gay, one of the few men to have beaten Bolt over 100m, tested positive in 2013 and was suspended for only one year by the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) after cooperating with authorities.

The Academy was described as the most successful in the 26-year history

by Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster, who hailed the work of coaches Winston Smith, Delbert Hicks and Berbice senior player Eon Hooper.

Foster stated that the future of the RHTYSC as a major cricketing force is secure.

He disclosed that the young cricketers were coached on batting, bowling, fielding and wicket-keeping, while a lot of work was done on the physical fitness of each player. Several classroom lectures were also done.

Foster, who was serving as Director of the Cricket Academy for the 26th consecutive year, urged the attentive cricketers to develop a culture of discipline, hard work and dedication if they want to

succeed in life.

The Club, Foster stated, has Guyana’s largest cricket nursery and will continue to invest heavily in youths to make sure that everyone fulfils his/her potential.

Head coach Winston Smith congratulated the academy members for their remarkable discipline and attitude, which he described as excellent.

The top twelve awardees of the 2016 Cricket Academy were Best Batsman – Civion Arokium, Best Bowler – Diana Prahalad, Most Disciplined – Matthew Prass, Best Under-13 Player – Christopher Deroop, Best Under-15 – Neil Tillakrum, Best Under-17 – Vijay Gopilall, Best Under-19 – David Prahalad, Best Female Player – Sheneta Grimmond, Most Committed Player – Anthony February, Most

Promising Player – Matthew Pottaya, Best Attendance/ Attitude – Vishal Naidu and Cricketer-of-the-Academy – Chanderpaul Govindan.

Each of the awardees received a schoolbag and a collection of educational materials, while Govindan also received a trophy and medal.

The RHTYSC, MS, would like to express gratitude to Bakewell, Bermudez, Guyana Beverage Company, DDL, Spready’s Snackette, H.A Snacks Co. Ltd, Southland International, the Guyana Cricket Board, WR Enterprise (Narine Trading), Food for the Poor, Ramoo Funeral Home, DTV-8, LRTVS CH10, Louise Nero, Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle and Guyana Times for their cooperation in making the academy a success.

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 30, 2016

Youth no excuse for West Indies, says Samuels

TEST cricket is “big-man cricket” and West Indies cannot use their youth and inexperience as a crutch to deflect against poor performances, according to Marlon Samuels.

Two days before the second Test against India at Sabina Park, Samuels said the young players will have to keep earning their places with their performances.

“Well, first and foremost, I’m not going to be here to tell you that it’s a young team,” Samuels said.

“For me to say that is like finding excuses for the team.

It’s a Test team, and Test

cricket is big-man cricket, and the players should know that by now.

“They are here, playing Test cricket. So we all have to step up to the plate, and put up a very good challenge against the Indians. The Indians are a very good team, a very good unit, so what we want to try and build right now is team spirit, and build a stronger unit in order to move forward.

“Yes, we have new players coming in, but they still have to deliver. At the end of the day, you have to do that to keep your job here.”

A string of impressive limited-overs performances

won Samuels West Indies’ Cricketer-of-the-Year award, but his Test form has been poor in recent months. Before scoring a half-century in the second innings of the first Test in Antigua, he had failed to pass 20 in his 10 Test innings.

“You make a half-century, it’s a milestone,” he said. “You have to cherish it, but at the end of the day I always want more. I haven’t been getting the runs that I’m looking for in the Test arena, but I’ve been making up in the shorter versions, so it augurs well that I’m doing well for the team as well. It’s just, I need to start

Rio security screeners fired one week before Games

By Rodrigo Viga Gaier RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (Reuters) - Brazil’s government yesterday fired a private security firm hired to provide screeners for Olympic venues and replaced them with federal and state police, just one week from the opening of the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Justice Minister Alexandre Moraes said that members of the federal government’s National Force, along with active and retired police from Rio and other states, will comprise the corps of 3 000 people screening fans and running metal detectors at Olympic venues.

It was just a few weeks ago that the government contracted the relatively unknown security firm Artel to carry out that task.

The company was expected to provide 3 400 guards.

But Artel told the government in recent days it had only recruited 500 screeners.

“The company will be fined for its incompetence and irresponsibility,” Moraes said. “But the Games will not suffer any damage.”

Moraes has said that

the main security concern is crime against visitors.

But fears of potential terror attacks grew after Brazil last week arrested several people who allegedly swore allegiance to the Islamic State militant group and supposedly planned to carry out attacks.

The change in venue screeners will not impact

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Saturday July 30, 2016) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 3 (2) Johnson Charles-94* (Zouks)

Today’s Quiz: (1) Who had the best bowling figures in St. Lucia in Hero CPL 2016?

(2) Whose wicket was Ronsford Beaton’s first in Hero CPL 2016?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

the 85 000 soldiers, police and other government security officers who will be patrolling Rio’s streets in an effort to keep the peace during the Games, which run through August 21. That is double the number of security agents on the ground in London at the 2012 Olympics.

Brazil has more homicides than any other nation, according to annual United Nation reports on murders, and Rio has recently endured an increase in crime amid an ongoing recession, rising unemployment and shortfalls in public security budgets.

But the city has consistently pulled off massive events such as Carnival, the 2014 World Cup final and one of the world’s biggest New Year’s Eve bashes with few security hiccups for visitors.

Instead, most of the violence is focused in Rio’s slums, where roughly 20 percent of the population live and where a recent spike in deaths has been focused as drug gangs battle one another for turf and clash with police.

The problem with the security contractor is similar to one that hit London Olympic organisers in 2012.

Just two weeks before the Games started in London, the G4S security firm said it could not provide the 10 400 guards it was contracted to provide. That forced the British government to put an extra 3 500 troops on standby to fill the gap.

Marlon Samuels. focusing more and putting in some big performances, so the team can benefit from my performances.”

Samuels looked forward to another Test in front of his home crowd at Sabina Park, and said he wanted to show them “what they have been seeing over the years - me coming out here, playing shots

and just enjoying myself in the middle”. But his main aim, he said, was to help West Indies bounce back from their innings defeat in Antigua.

“It’s a great opportunity for me,” he said. “Not too many sportsmen get to play in front of their home crowd.

I’ve got the opportunity more than one time, so I cherish it,

playing in front of a Jamaican crowd. As I said, it’s a great opportunity, not only for me, but for the team to make a turnaround and come here and play some positive cricket and put up, not just a challenge, but a fight.”

According to some media reports, Samuels has been considering Test-match retirement, and Jeffrey Dujon, the former West Indies wicketkeeper who is part of the TV commentary team for this series, had suggested on air that this might be his last Test series. Samuels did not reveal his plans, and said his only focus, for now, was to do well in this series.

“Jeffrey Dujon can say anything,” Samuels said.

“But what I say is, I’m here to focus on the Test series and put my best foot forward, and make a significant contribution, so that whatever I do, the team can benefit from it. So that’s my ultimate goal and that’s my focus at the moment.”

(ESPN Cricinfo)

Fitness Paradise Gym Expo

- muscle, elegance and more TOMORROW, Fitness Paradise Gym holds its annual Gym Expo.

The venue is the Ramada Georgetown Princess and the event starts at 19.00hrs.

This year’s event will see the largest contingent of females on stage as 6 ladies vie for the coveted Miss Expo Best Legs and Miss Expo Bikini titles.

The ladies have taken the training for this event very seriously and have trained and dieted their physiques

down to their best stageready appearance.

All six ladies will be making their debut on the bodybuilding stage, although one or two can boast previous modelling experience.

For all of them training for the Miss Expo Best Legs and the Miss Expo Bikini has been a baptism by fire; months of disciplined hours in the gym, months of restraint at the dining table, and months of sacrifice in terms of

night-time leisure activities.

The audience at the Ramada Georgetown Princess will be guaranteed a most entertaining evening as Delice Adonis, Addis Castello, Adiola Frank, Xamara Kippins, Sharon Mohan and Vanessa Small don their posing suits and flex with grace and elegance tomorrow night.

Kavita Ganpat, winner of the GABBFF Miss Bikini 2016 title will be making a guest appearance.

The five ladies who will be part of the Gym Expo tomorrow night.

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday July 30, 2016

T&T Under-19s Guyana slip further victory march frustrated behind after round

by Boucher’s 119 two of CMRC

By Brij Parasnath

By Stephan Sookram

GUYANA have fallen even further behind the eight ball, following round two of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championships (CMRC) 2016 at the Frankie Boodram International Raceway last weekend in Trinidad and Tobago.

The locals remain third but are under threat of being overtaken by third-round hosts Barbados.

Their torrid run in Trinidad saw them only add 145 points to their Jamaican round score of 131 for a total of 276, just enough to keep them ahead of Barbados, who are on 202 points after they added 159 to their first-round score of 43.

Atop the pack, the Trinis are taking aim at their maiden Country championship as their 317 first-round total, coupled with their 482-point second-round total, puts them at 799 so far, beyond first-round hosts Jamaica who scored 291 and 174 points respectively.

At the Group Four all-wheel drive class, defending champion Kristian Jeffrey is yet to register a point after two rounds, with mechanical troubles being the major bugbear this time around again.

Stephen Vieira now leads the CMRC super stock standings after the Trinidad leg (Mikey Spice Photo) Jamaican Doug ‘Hollywood’ Gore continued his romp atop the board after he used this round to speed away to 136 points, leaving his countryman Kyle ‘Speedy’ Gregg at only 43 points.

On the two-wheel drive Group Four class, there is a three-way battle between Barbados’ Mark Maloney (118 points), Jamaica’s Peter ‘Zoom Zoom’ Rae (108 points) and Trinidad’s Franklyn Boodram (102 points).

Paul Vieira of Trinidad has a grip on the Group Three race with 125 points while his nearest competitor Guyanese Danny Persaud has 66 points. Jamaica’s Alan Chen is third with 63 points while Barbadian Steve King, who joined the party for round two, has 50 points and the Cayman Islands’ Gary Barrett has 42.

Meanwhile, after a spirited fight, Guyana’s Shan Seejattan has moved up to fourth place in the Group Two rankings with 54 points.

Ahead of him are Jamaican Sabastian Rae (55 points) and Trinidad’s pair of Mark Williams and Luke Bhola with 75 and 99 respectively.

On the superstock front, the lead currently belongs to Guyanese Stephen Vieira, 122 points, with countryman Matthew Vieira, who swept round two, in second spot on 105 points. Jamaica’s Robert McDonald (45 points) is third with defending champion and Guyanese Elliot Vieira (43 points) fourth. Trinidad’s Keil Abraham is fifth with 38 points.

Round three is set for Barbados on Sunday September 4 at the Bushy Park raceway.

BARBADOS opener Leniko Boucher produced a solid 119 and shared four useful partnerships with Shian Brathwaite, Yvan Grant, Nicholas Kirton, Khalil Herbert and Derwin Currency as the Bajans stalled Trinidad and Tobago Under-19s efforts to push for full points in the opening-round encounter that petered out as a stalemate at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex yesterday.

T&T had to settle for first-innings points after their Barbadian counterparts fought bravely to avoid outright defeat after the Barbados outfit had resumed on their second day’s overnight total of 171 for 6 and were soon dismissed for 194 in their first innings.

Trinidad and Tobago had amassed a mammoth 371 in their first innings and with a lead of 177, skipper Kirstan Kallicharan enforced the follow-up. The Barbadian had to reduce the deficit below 150 to avoid the follow-on but they were 27 runs short.

On the even-paced track, the Trinidadian bowlers lacked the potency to fight for an outright victory against a much more watchful and determined Barbadian team that decided that they will play stonewall-type cricket and preserve some points with a drawn match.

After 78 overs in their second innings, Barbados

Leniko Boucher registers the second century of the rallied to 225 for the loss of five wickets and forced the Trinidadians to accept the stalemate with no chance of bowling Barbados out and be in a position to bat for another innings to secure victory.

The Barbadians’ batting strategy helped them to clear the deficit and be in the ascendancy.

And they prospered by the lack of penetration and urgency by the Trinidadian bowlers whose methods have to improve considerably before they can push for full points.

Clearly, the T&T batsmen Kallicharran (110), Cephas Cooper (59), Dejourn Charles (51) and Bryan Boodram (88) gave them a great cushion but the bowlers did not respond to the challenge in the second innings.

The Barbadians added only 23 more runs to their overnight total and lost their

remaining four wickets with off-spinner Jonathan Bootan being the most successful with five wickets for 53 runs. Bryan Boodram finished with three for 43.

Facing the daunting task of clearing the 177-run deficit; Boucher emerged as the Barbados hero and compiled a sterling face-saving 119 that was studded with one six and 11 fours off 157 balls. He batted responsibly and featured in a 41-run first-wicket stand with Shian Brathwaite (15), 55 runs for the second wicket with Grant (39), 36 runs for the third wicket with Kirton (14), 41 runs for the fourth wicket with Herbert (9) and 44 for the fifth wicket with Currency (18 not out).

Boucher was fifth out at 215 (72.3 overs) after he defied the Trinidadians for 332 minutes. The diminutive opener was the steadying force and displayed the full face of the bat while making solid contact with the red cherry as he registered 157 dot balls and counted 43 singles, ten 2s, two 3s apart from the boundaries that made up his triple-figure mark.

The three-day match ended as a tame draw and the Barbadians would have gotten much energy for a dramatic fightback while the Trinidadians would have felt somewhat deflated in not securing full points.

Amazon Warriors clinch playoff berth with win over Tridents A MODEST but boisterous crowd with a heavy contingent of Guyanese supporters cheered Guyana Amazon Warriors to a six-wicket victory over Barbados Tridents in the first CPL match in America on Thursday night at the Central Broward Regional Park (CBRP) in Lauderhill.

With 5 000 chair-back seats available at the CBRP, less than half were filled by the time the first ball was bowled by Dwayne Smith just after 19:00hrs, and an estimated 4 000 had made it through the gates by the time the match ended more than three hours later, by a single off the bat of Sohail Tanvir.

In-between, the crowd

Dwayne Smith and Nic Maddinson shared a 92-run opening stand. was thrilled by some big hitting from Smith, who made a mockery of Tridents’ total of 142 for 7 by bashing his way to a fifty off 30 balls. Whereas the Tridents struggled to clear the deceptively large square

boundaries, Smith succeeded in going big straight down the ground for three massive sixes over long on, including one over the perimeter fence and out of the ground.

Smith teamed up with

Nic Maddinson for a 92run opening stand in just 10.2 overs, with the Australian also notching 50 in just his second game of the season for Amazon Warriors after replacing Martin Guptill.

With the bulk of the chase taken care of by the two openers, Amazon Warriors cantered towards the target after both men departed. The required run rate briefly threatened to go above a run a ball before Christopher Barnwell clattered a four and six off leg-spinner Imran Khan in the 16th to erase any prospect of a Tridents fightback.

Tridents had got off to a fairly rapid start, reaching 30 for 1 in three overs after

being sent in, to dispel any fears about a poor pitch.

Good bounce and carry was on offer for the pacers with a bit of turn for the spinners.

Tridents also had reasonable success sending in David Wiese as a pinch-hitter at No.3, with the South African making 40 off 31 balls before he drove a low full toss from Barnwell to Chris Lynn at long-off, making it 97 for 3 after 13.

But Tridents failed to capitalise on that platform with Nicholas Pooran and captain Kieron Pollard falling cheaply, for 3 and a second-ball duck respectively, both caught on the midwicket boundary in the space of six balls.

From there, Shoaib Ma-

lik struggled to provide the late acceleration required, managing to reach his half-century off 44 balls by hitting the final ball of the innings for six to end on 55 not out. It ended up not being nearly enough for Tridents, who now must win their re-match against Amazon Warriors on Saturday to have any hope of reaching the playoffs.

In the end, the partisan crowd in Florida had little to complain about. A much larger crowd than Thursday’s estimated 4 000 was expected last night, and a sell-out of 10 000 is expected for both today and tomorrow.

(ESPN Cricinfo)

Guyana slip further behind after round two of CMRC (See Story on page 39

Contracts inked for GBBC ‘Bad Intentions’ boxing card … Dexter Gonsalves to face American DeMarcus Corley

(See Story on page 35 )

Some of the boxers, who will be on show at the GBBC’s `Bad Intentions’ card set for the Giftland Mall on August 27, strike a pose for photographer Delano Williams yesterday, after signing their respective contracts. Third right is Dexter Gonsalves who will fight American De Marcus `Chop Chop’ Corley for the WBC FECABOX lightweight title.

West Indies seek revival at result-inducing Sabina Park WEST Indies last beat India in Test cricket in 2002, at Sabina Park in Jamaica. They have had three close Tests since. Two of these three Tests were played in Jamaica.

It is the venue that today’s second Test gives them the best chance to compete with India.

In the last three Tests between the two sides in Kingston, only once did a team go past 300 and only one of the three Tests entered the fifth day, that too to complete formalities of three remaining wickets. Eighteen years and 15 Tests have gone since a Test was drawn of its own volition in Jamaica.

S a b i n a P a r k ’s b o w l er-friendly pitch bridges the gap between the hosts’ attack and India’s; it also draws Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph at the Michael them out of their bunkers.

On both of India’s last visHolding End during training. (Photo credit: its to the West Indies, only SaWICB Media/Philip Spooner)

bina Park produced a result.

The endeavour has been to stay safe at other venues, and then sneak one up on India in Kingston. This year, though, the Test side has slipped so far, it registered its biggest home defeat on a fairly good batting surface in the series opener in Antigua.

The plan was from the template: a track with no terrors, a side stacked up with batsmen, go to Jamaica 0-0 and then see how India fare against the seaming ball.

It’s a sound plan against a better team, but the problem with defensive cricket is that you have to play it excellently for long periods of time. Neither their batsmen nor their bowlers could do it for nearly long enough; not having a defensive option in Jamaica can only do them good now.

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I n d i a ’s b a t s m e n c a m e through way better when they were stalled through defensive lines in Antigua. This will be a different Test match.

While not a scary proposition, West Indies have reinforced their attack, adding Under-19 sensation Alzarri Joseph to the squad. The pitch looked neon

green two mornings before the Test. India won their last two close Tests here thanks to Rahul Dravid’s masterclass. If West Indies bowlers turn up, India might need something similar from their batsmen.

During the Antigua Test, Darren Bravo became only

See page 35

Murali Vijay SATURDAY, JULY 30, 2016