Guyana chronicle e paper 04 16 2017

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No. 104884

SUNDAY APRIL 16, 2017

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Gov’t awaits IDB ‘no-objection’ … before opening tender for Sheriff St/Mandela road project

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Two CARIFTA gold for Guyana back page

Number 63 Beach spruced up for Easter Page 10

Three estates to remain

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…Gov’t likey to retain Blairmont, Albion, Uitvlugt -President tells West Berbice expo

WEST Berbice Trade Expo: Secretary of the Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) Chamber of Commerce and Industry and cash crops farmer Sewlall Krishna show off some of his produce to President David Granger, who was at the time visiting the booths at the second Expo and Trade Fair to be held in that region at the Bath Settlement Community Centre Ground.

(Ministry of the Presidency photo)

‘Grey Boy’ caught on Good Friday Page 8

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE april 16, 2017

City Councillors spend time with Albouystown kids

CONSTITUENCY 10 Councillor, Malcolm Ferreira, together with other City Councillors, on Saturday helped to spread cheer in the Albouystown community by spending time with children to help them assemble their kites for the weekend.

Team Legacy’s Councillor Ferreira stretched his hands into his pocket so to speak, to provide a tent and

other amenities for the occasion, held at the corners of James and Bel Air Streets.

He received help from Proportional Constituency Councillor Heston Bostwick, Councillor Carlyle Goring and Alliance For Change (AFC) General-Secretary, Marlon Williams.

The team of officers, with help from private individuals, also provided kite frames, food and drinks, and other

items to the kids. They could be seen literally helping the kids to make their kites.

Born and raised on the corner of Cooper and James streets, Albouystown, Councillor Ferreira has always entertained the thought of bettering his impoverished community, especially as there had been no facilities that catered for his social needs as a youth.

Once elected a City Coun-

AFC General-Secretary Marlon Williams (sitting) with Councillors Carlyle Goring, Malcolm Ferreira, Heston Bostwick and the kids. cillor, he spared no time and effort in informing fellow councillors of his plan to begin work on a sports facility and a play park in the Albouystown area.

Ferreira has since teamed

up with Councillor Bostwick to set up a play park opposite the clinic at James and Bel Air Streets and a sports facility on Independence Boulevard.

Although families are welcome at the facilities,

they cater primarily for the youths in these and surrounding areas, Ferreira had told the Chronicle.

He is currently pursuing these initiatives. (Telesha Ramnarine)

President Granger on the passing of Frank Neville Beckles, MD THE Cooperative Republic of Guyana mourns the passing of Dr Frank Neville Beckles, who passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2017. Born on September 18, 1934, in Christ Church, Barbados, to Guyanese parents Winslow and Inez Beckles, he was the sixth of seven children.

A highly respected psychiatrist, Dr Beckles was an authority on suicide in Guyana and wrote extensively on the subject. He attended the George Washington University, where he completed a Bachelors of Science Degree in Zoology and Howard Uni-

versity School of Medicine, where he completed his training as a medical doctor.

Dr Beckles joined the Peace Corps and served in Gabon and Niger before returning to the United States where he pursued psychiatry studies at the University of Maryland’s Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour. In 1997, he returned to Guyana and set up a psychiatry practice at Lot 302 Church Street, Queenstown, Georgetown.

His Excellency Brigadier David Granger, MSS, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, who was a friend of Dr Beckles, is deeply saddened by his loss and extends heartfelt sympathy to the children, Frank Neville,

Dr Frank Neville Beckles Keith, Colin and Asad Beckles and Ingrid Lewis, grand-child Kaiesha Nicole Fountain and other family members and friends.

Gov’t awaits IDB ‘no-objection’

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

… before opening tender for Sheriff St/Mandela road project

By Zena Henry

A REVISION of the scope of work and the absence of an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) ‘no-objection’ have delayed the opening of tenders for the much-vaunted Sheriff Street/Mandela Avenue Enhancement Project (Lots Six to Seven) Tendering was pushed back by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) last Tuesday. Concerned contractors vying for spots to effect relevant road works to the roads main went public about the cancellation of bidding for the multi-billion dollar road project.

The Guyana Chronicle has learnt however that several issues, including techni-

cal changes, forced the delay of the almost six-year-old project.

Minister of Public Infrastructure David Paterson explained that the Sheriff Street/Mandela Avenue project was signed in 2012 to the tune of US$66m.

He said that to date only one percent of the funds has been disbursed despite the IDB loan coming to an end in 2018. The minister said the project which was signed under the previous People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration was tendered twice before.

In 2014, the IDB cancelled the tender process because of fraud. It was found that the recommended contractor had submitted fake documents. The 2015 tender process, Patterson said, started under the pre-

–– scope of work also revised vious government, but when “tenders were returned in May 2015, none of the contractors were deemed responsive.”

Patterson explained further that discussions were therefore held with the Ministry of Finance on the poor performance of the road project and disagreement with the scope of work was expressed. “It was agreed that we will re-scope the project; thus, the project was revised to include ONLY the following: relocation of the utility (contracts awarded to GT&T and GWI), pedestrian crossing, Milling and new Overlay of the surface and repairs to bridges and structures,” Patterson, stated.

The new scope of work was anticipated to cost US$35M and adjusted to ensure that the work is completed within the loan’s 2018 deadline, while the Ministry of Finance was said to be re-programing the remaining funds. “The revised scope was submitted to the Ministry of Finance, which forwarded same to the IDB for No-Objection. However this process has not been completed; thus, if the bids had been opened without the no-objection, the IDB would not have recognised this process. Thus, the tenderers were informed that the opening date has been pushed back, so that this formality can be completed. Their tenders will be returned to them

unopened and they can then resubmit on the new date.”

When contact was made with Prime Minister Nagamootoo, he acknowledged receipt of Minister Patterson’s letter. The prime minister told the newspaper that the explanation offered by the minister was clear and highlighted a technical matter involving the project.

He said he is convinced that, “no irregularity” occurred in pushing back the tender date, since it was done because of technical reviews and in order to pre-empt possible issues that would arise with the IDB, if the bidding were to go ahead without the bank’s say on the revised scope of work.

Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson

Goodwill and charity concert for Berbice children

THE message of goodwill and charity was taken to Berbice on Saturday when children were entertained at an Easter concert at Courtland Road, Fyrish,Corentyne.

The children received kites and hampers from Mrs Sita Nagamootoo, wife of the Prime Minister at her family residence. In brief addresses to the gathering, both the Prime Minister and his wife emphasised that Easter was a time for goodwill and charity, and urged that all Guyanese should share not only love and cooperation, but small tokens that could comfort our children.

This year’s concert was graced by the presence of Ambassador for the Republic of China, Cui Jianchun and his wife Huili, who were visiting Berbice for the first time; and Indian

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Mrs Nagamootoo were joined by their daughter, Angela Nagamootoo-Joseph; China’s Ambassador Cui Jianchun and Indian High Commissioner H.E. V. Mahalingam

High Commissioner H.E. V. Mahalingam and his wife.

They also joined in distributing kites to the many children. Also present were the Regional Executive Officer, Mrs. Kim Stephens, and Director of the Berbice university campus.

Mr. Tony Joseph, an Iowa-based, Guyana-born Director of the family charity, reminded that small mercies for children could go a far way in sharing goodwill and happiness, which his family has been doing in Guyana since 2008.

Last Saturday, a similar event was organised by the Joseph/Nagamootoo Charity at Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, at which the prime minister was chief guest. Whilst there, he met with regional leaders and urged broad cooperation to push development in Essequibo.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Thousands at U.S. rallies demand Trump release tax returns Tens of thousands of people marched through midtown Manhattan and dozens of U.S. cities on Saturday to demand that President Donald Trump release his tax returns and to dispute his claim that the public does not care about the issue.

O r g a n i s e r s o f “ Ta x March” in more than 150 cities across the country and beyond wanted to call attention to Trump’s refusal to disclose his tax history, as his White House predecessors have

done for more than 40 years.

The marches coincide with the traditional April 15 deadline for U.S. federal tax returns, though the filing date was pushed backed two days this year.

There were no reports of violence or arrests, in contrast to a clash between Trump supporters and opponents that erupted at a rally in Berkeley, California, where nine people were arrested.

Two of the biggest tax marches took place in New Demonstrators react as they march past Trump Tower as they protest through Manhattan demanding U.S. President Donald Trump release his tax returns, U.S., April 15, 2017 (REUTERS/Lucas Jackson) York and Los Angeles, with each drawing about 5,000 people, according to estimates by Reuters reporters.

No official estimates were immediately available.

In Manhattan, a good-natured crowd rallied at Bryant

Park before marching up Sixth Avenue to Central Park.

Among the marchers was an oversized inflatable rooster, sporting an angry expression and a sweeping metallic orange hairdo meant to resemble Trump’s signa-

ture style.

“Thanks to Trump, I think that releasing your taxes when you run for President now has to be a law,” said New Yorker Marni Halasa, 51, who arrived in a tutu and leggings made of fake dollar bills and holding a sign that read “Show Me The Money!”

In Washington, more than 1,500 protesters gathered on the front lawn of the U.S. Capitol, where members of Congress addressed the crowd before it marched to the Lincoln Memorial.

“We are taking the gloves off to say knock off the secrecy Mr. President,” said Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, which would play a leading role in tax reform measures being considered in Congress.

He described Trump’s refusal to release his taxes as being “like a teenager trying to hide a lousy report card”.

citing an ongoing audit by the Internal Revenue Service.

The IRS has said that Trump can release his tax returns even while under audit.

The White House could not be reached immediately for comment on the marches.

Events were also planned in cities in Europe, Japan and New Zealand.

The marches were launched by a single tweet, organisers said. A day after the massive Jan. 21 women’s march in Washington and other cities, comedy writer Frank Lesser tapped out on Twitter, “Trump claims no one cares about his taxes.

The next mass protest should be on Tax Day to prove him wrong.” It has been retweeted more than 21,000 times.

In Los Angeles, television director Mike Stutz turned up at the march dressed in costume as a Russian general and said he was called General Bullshitski. He carried a sign that read: “What Tax Returns? Putin paid cash.

Trust your oligarchs,” referring to allegations of contacts between Trump’s campaign and Russia, led by President Vladimir Putin.

Joe Dinkin, spokesman for the Working Families Party, one of the groups organising the marches, said investigations into the Trump campaign’s alleged connections to Russia underscore the need to disclose his returns.

“Without seeing his taxes, we’ll never really know who he’s working for,” said Dinkin, who expects the marches to draw at least 100,000 protesters.

There have been some glimpses into Trump’s tax history. Last month, MSNBC host Rachel Maddow reported on two pages of Trump’s 2005 return that were obtained by investigative reporter David Cay Johnston and released by DCReport. org. They showed Trump paid $38 million in taxes on more than $150 million in income.

And in October, The New York Times reported that Trump had declared a $916 million loss on his 1995 federal tax return, citing three pages of documents from the return.

(Reuters)

TAX REFORM Among the marchers was Melinda Colwell, 34, a stayat-home-mother from Ledyard, Connecticut. She said she was concerned that conflicts of interest in Trump’s tax returns might foreshadow selfish interests in his tax reform policies.

“I think it’s important to know how that could influence his decisions and how he could benefit from the decisions being made,” she said.

As a candidate and as President, Trump has refused to release his tax returns,

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Brazil’s Odebrecht paid $3.3 billion in - reports say bribes over a decade

Odebrecht SA [ODBES. UL], the Brazilian engineering company at the centre of a historic corruption scandal, paid out a total of about $3.3 billion in bribes in the nine years through 2014, according to testimony cited by local media on Saturday.

Through a department specifically established to pay politicians and other recipients for public works contracts, Odebrecht paid as much as $730 million annually in both 2012 and 2013, the years when bribe payments peaked, according to a spreadsheet that a former executive reportedly gave investigators as part of a plea deal.

The $3.3 billion figure, and related annual tallies as laid out in the spreadsheet, were reported on Saturday by the G1 news site of the Globo media group and the

The headquarters of Odebrecht SA are pictured in Sao Paulo, Brazil, December 21, 2016 (REUTERS/Paulo Whitaker)

Estado de S. Paulo, a leading newspaper.

Officials at Odebrecht could not immediately be reached for comment.

A trove of plea deal testimony unsealed this week by a Supreme Court justice is shedding light on the extent and manner in which Odebrecht, once Latin America’s most successful engineering firm, routinely paid officials in Brazil and other countries in exchange for winning contracts.

The testimony was unsealed as the justice, Edson Fachin, authorised investigations of eight government ministers, 12 governors and dozens of federal lawmakers implicated in the scandal, uncovered three years ago because of a kickback investigation at the state-run oil company Petroleo Brasileiro SA, or Petrobras (PETR4.

SA).

Odebrecht, whose former chief executive has been jailed since 2015 because of the probe, negotiated a far-reaching plea agreement with Brazilian investigators last year, leading to testimony by about 80 company executives and employees.

Along with an affiliate, Odebrecht also agreed last year to pay at least $3.5 billion to U.S. and Swiss investigators for international charges related to the scandal.

Earlier on Saturday, Estado de S. Paulo also reported that Brazilian authorities were investigating if any of the foreign kickbacks the company has already admitted to violated Brazilian law.

The company made those payments in countries including Mexico, Ecuador, Peru and Angola.

(Reuters)

Ecuador orders partial recount of election votes

The electoral authorities in Ecuador have ordered a partial recount of the votes cast in the presidential election earlier this month.

Officials said almost 1.3 million votes would be recounted after allegations of fraud by the losing candidate - former banker Guillermo Lasso.

Lasso has refused to accept anything less than a full recount.

His rival, the Socialist candidate, Lenin Moreno, won the second round with a slim majority of 51.15 per cent.

He is set to replace his fellow socialist, President Rafael Correa, at the end of

May. The recount of the equivalent of 1.2 million votes, which would account for 12 per cent of the total votes cast, will take place on Tuesday in public in the capital Quito.

The council has not disclosed what sort of ballots would be recounted. (BBC)

Socialist Lenin Moreno is due to take over from incumbent President Rafael Correa on 24 May

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Editorial

OBSERVERS of global events are bound to be concerned with the recent sabre-rattling. Last week North Korea launched missiles, and said that it is intensifying its nuclear programme amidst threats to launch them. In events over the past days honouring the 105th birth anniversary of the late President Kim Il Sung, during the military parade long-range missiles were on full display.

United States (U.S.) President Donald Trump said: “North Korea is a problem, the problem will be taken care of,” and made it known that he and his aides are bracing for the “big event” which is in reference to North Korea’s threat of a nuclear launch. Conversely, the country accused the U.S. of creating a situation for war, threatening a thermonuclear war in response. China, which is its close ally, in weighing its warning against the storm clouds gathering between the two countries, cited fear that a small mistake can lead to

catastrophic implications.

Amid U.S./North Korea muscle-flexing, on Thursday the U.S. launched, for the first time, what is described as the ‘mother of all bombs’ in Afghanistan. This attack reportedly targeted caves where ISIS fighters are operating from. Afghanistan officials say the strike killed almost 100 rebels. This non-nuclear bomb, whose estimated cost is US$16M, was made in 2003 during the George W Bush administration.

The Thursday prior (6th April) the U.S. launched missiles on Syria’s airfields.

This was in response to the deadly chemical attacks on civilians that ensnared infants. The Bashar al-Assad government has been accused of ordering the attacks.

The United Nations Security Council, which held a special meeting to address the chemical attack, and saw condemnations from various world leaders who held the al-Assad government responsible, did not get the support of Russia. Russia is a perma-

nent member of the Security Council and one of Syria’s most trusted allies. President Vladimir Putin, who blamed Syrian rebels for the attack, has called for proof that the Syrian government was involved.

On the Asian continent there is noticeable tension or expectation with China, Tibet and Taiwan and the U.S. Whereas China is hoping the Trump administration would uphold the U.S. long-held deference to the ‘One China’ policy, Taiwan and Tibet who see themselves independent of China, harbour expectations that Trump would support their desire for independence. Trump reaching out to Taiwan Prime Minister in January was seen as a signal change in U.S. policy which attracted condemnation in the U.S. and from China. The internecine conflicts within the Middle Eastern countries and African countries continue. In Latin America there is political unrest in Venezuela and Brazil. These internal conflicts, if not resolved

through amicable means can escalate, inflicting further pains on the people and destruction of their institutions and artifacts.

In Europe, nation-states continue to face the onslaught of terrorist attacks.

Recently, Russia’s metro station in St Petersburg was bombed in what was said to be a terrorist attack. Such attacks not only demand increasing diversion of scarce resources to safeguard the security of the people and their infrastructures, but every one gives fodder to xenophobia and extremism.

The Caribbean remains relatively quiet. Guyana last Wednesday and Thursday hosted a delegation from the United Nations in continued efforts to resolve the border controversy with Venezuela.

Mindful of our sovereignty and the importance of exploiting our resources for the benefit of the people, even as the country actively promotes worldwide comity, the channels of diplomacy and the International Court

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

of Justice (ICJ) remain our viable path.

Though these conflicts between and among countries have their origins in different issues, world peace requires a dialling down on the sabre-rattling and an intensification of efforts to resolve differences through diplomacy or the ICJ. In those countries where military might is unquestioned, including our neighbour, there reside within pockets of social injustice, such as poverty and access to basic services, where undoubtedly resources can be channelled.

In this highly mechanised and technological age, wars are no longer

isolated in impact and casualties. As human beings we have created enough trouble for ourselves outside of war that requires the utilisation of tremendous resources to fix. There is climate change which poses a threat to survival, poverty is still to be eliminated, social services beg for improvement and fundamental rights and freedoms are not yet universal.

None can deny man wants to live a long, healthy and productive life. These aspirations have their place, but can only be achieved through continuous dialoguing and acceptance of shared responsibilities.

We must embrace the National Solid Waste Management Strategy Dear Editor:

GEORGETOWN, our national capital city, has issues with solid waste management in both our attitudes towards its production and our capacity for its reduction. Our government’s draft strategy, “Putting Waste In Its Place: A National Integrated Solid Waste Management Strategy for the Cooperative Republic of Guyana 2017 – 2030,” is comprehensive, and underlines our transition to a GREEN economy and the need for a holistic approach to solid-waste management.

I endorse the strategy as timely and a huge step in the right direction with its clear vision of, “Informed communities participating in a nation-wide, integrated and financially self-sustain-

ing waste-management and resource-recovery system that preserves health and the environment, realises maximum value from resources, and minimises long-term costs households, industry, and government.”

When someone tosses a bottle from a bus, or a food container from a car, or step of a store to toss fruit skins in a nearby drain, or whether it’s as simple as throwing a chewing gum wrapper on the pavement as I have observed, it tells us of the frame of mind of those committing such infractions, the belief that taking care of your own solid waste is someone else’s responsibility. This must change. At the municipal level there has been the recognition as well as per the Georgetown Municipal Development Plan (draft) that an integrated solid-waste

management strategy is the way forward. The central themes of the government’s strategy are impressive, for instance, “Efficient and Cost-Effective Collection” goes to the heart of the issue, who pays for all?

Guyana is a relatively small nation as regards population size. The phasing out of the region-by-region approach to waste management in favour of a national, centralised approach would indeed “optimize waste-collection routes and waste-disposal site locations and ultimately be more efficient and cost effective.” Efficiency and effectiveness would be the backbone of a user-fee model. It notes, “Cost recovery through a user free model is a necessary component of a sustainable collection system and requires knowledge of the true cost of pro-

viding the waste- collection service”. It is candid that “Flat-fee mechanism, paid through an existing bill (electricity, water etc) may also be used and while they create fewer incentives to dump illegally, there are also fewer incentives to reduce waste and participate in recycling programmes.

Cost has always been a sore point, whether cost to contractors or through fines imposed. The harmonisation of fines would be an important feature, which plays to another important aspect of government’s strategy, “Strengthening Human and Institutional Capacity.” Some of the actions here would be to “complete a review of solid-waste management legislation in Guyana to identify and resolve over-

laps in roles and responsibilities” among other actions. But I think of all its strategic goals aiming at “Less Waste Generated” is perhaps central to the strategy’s success.

The strategy recognises that, “Avoiding or minimising the generation of waste means: less waste to manage; reduced costs associated with transporting, sorting, and recycling materials, and ultimately less waste going to landfills. Waste reduction is one of the most efficient and least expensive waste-management strategies.” But the strategy is equally frank, that, “It is one of the more difficult because the measures required to achieve waste reduction - such as import restrictions and levies – are politically un-

popular.” Whether it is in its involvement of schools, neighbourhood policing groups, bettering source recovery in the introduction of backyard and community composting, licensing and regulating waste- management facilities, developing business waste-reduction schemes or establishing a technical advisory committee to guide national solid-waste management, the National Integrated Solid Waste Management Strategy is in depth and breadth what it is in coherence and eloquence.

Regards SHEROD AVERY DUNCAN, Councillor, Constituency 14 Municipality of Georgetown

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Lincoln Lewis takes on Figueira Dear Editor:

RESPONSE is hereby made to Jermaine Figueira’s letter: “Why the secrecy on Linden TV documents?” (GC 14th April 2017). His response is purportedly attempting a response to my article,“The power-grabbing effort to control Linden Television” (9th April, 2017).

Let me from the outset say to Figueira, as an Educator/Teacher and Member of Parliament better is expected of him. Approaching this issue in a sensible manner requires understanding of the Broadcasting Act (2011),

what constitutes an Agreement as in the instance of the 21st August 2012, and universally acceptable principles. This is a matter of national import that ought not to be trivialised in thinking or action.

1. The issue before us is the walking out of Figueira, Mayor Carwyn Holland, Regional Chairman Renis Morian and CDC Deputy Director Sandra Adams from the inaugural meeting of the television board to elect its chairman, vice-chairman and secretary, by the way of balloting. There is a significant difference between balloting and voting. Balloting is a

Mayor and City Council consultations do not cater for regular working folk Dear Editor, I HAVE noted many advertisements put out by the M&CC regarding public consultations about the garbage situation. While it is good for the M&CC to do these consultations, I noticed that the consultations are at 10 am on the dates and also they are at City Hall. I tried to get to one of the consultations for an area next to mine (my area was not included in the consultation list by the way), however, I had a work meeting clash that I could not get away from. This is my point.

How serious can M&CC

be about talking with citizens if they put the meetings at a time that most cannot attend? Why not hold meetings after work hours or on weekends?

Also, why not have teams or the council’s representative for areas have meetings within the areas so you ensure a proper engagement. I hope that this can be considered by the council, especially for engagements on other issues, especially those that are directly community related, in the future.

Regards DR RAQUEL THOMAS-CAESAR

secret process. Voting can be either through balloting, show of hands, yea or nay, etc; 2. The Articles of Association of the Trust is a public document. The Trust is a legal entity, registered under the Laws of Guyana. The record is housed at the Registry and a copy can be accessed from there.

This fact makes nonsense of his position that there is “secrecy” about the document and not having it in his possession. One would expect better from a Member of Parliament/lawmaker, who ought to be au fait with where public documents are stored and can be retrieved; 3. The meeting of 31st March was specifically called to elect officers of the Board (GC 29th March).

It meant therefore that this would have been the first order of business on the agenda. It was the disregard for this, and the contempt for the will of the majority of members to have officers elected through balloting, that led to the walkout of the four; 4. The Guyana Broadcasting Act is a useful instrument in informing that the Trust is eligible for a licence, how the broadcasting landscape ought to work, and the role of the Broadcasting Authority. Reading and understanding it makes it useful for intelligent discourse and approaches surrounding the people of Linden being denied their station; 5. It is a reckless response to my irrefutable contention that those today who are seeking to deny the

return of the television were lukewarm, standing on the sidelines or did not support the struggle, can constitute those who were out there, day in and day out, and gave various forms of support during the period; (6.) The insertion of Tony Vieira into this discourse has nothing to do with the establishment of the Trust, the election of the officers, and issuance of the licence. This is another demonstration of the inability to address the substantive issue; 7. The content of Figueria’s letter is clearly that of someone who has not read, does not understand, pays no attention to details, or is operating outside his league. This is a very troubling feature in our society and does not augur well

for the people’s well-being. I stand by the position that the institutions of government (central and regional), the political parties and the political groups (PNCR, PPP/C, AFC and APNU) made no financial contribution to the establishment of the Trust. Equally, the position that this issue for the four is about power and title is evident in their failure to grasp points 1, 2, 3 and 4 and act accordingly. Finally, the opportunity is taken to advise this young man that in public life it is always better and rewarding to stand on the pedestal of universally acceptable principles.

Regards LINCOLN LEWIS

Retooling the Cabinet Dear Editor, PLEASE publish this letter as an appeal to His Excellency President David Granger to review the performance and conduct of some Ministers of Government and take appropriate action to engender national confidence in the economy and security of people and nation. The buck stops with you, Mr President, as the executive leader of Guyana.

Citizens are aware of the widespread perception and belief that the situation in Guyana is deteriorating. This is causing much anguish for the people who look for redress through active and timely interventions. There is also the widespread perception and belief that the performance of

some ministers is at best third rate and mediocre. This must be a source of grave embarrassment to you as President.

The conduct, behaviour, and performance of some ministers leave much to be desired. One can point to several recent examples of the words and actions of some ministers, including: attacks on the judiciary, financial management of the economy relating to action by the Ministry of Finance; rising crime rates which are engendering fear and anxiety for the security of citizens and the business community relating to action/inaction by the Ministry of Public Security; the unsatisfactory and wasteful expenditure in the health sector under the Ministry of Public Health; and the

unsatisfactory situation in the agriculture sector under the Ministry of Agriculture.

Some ministers appear not to understand their constitutional functions, and they micro-manage and get involved in management/ administration of operational matters instead of their policy-direction role. Article 115 in the Constitution of Guyana defines the responsibilities and functions of

ministers and permanent secretaries, the accounting heads of ministries. The view is widespread that there should be radical changes in the Cabinet – a cabinet reshuffle, dropping some ministers, and bringing in some high-level technocratic skills into the Cabinet and Government.

Regards JOSHUA SINGH

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE april 16, 2017

‘Grey Boy’ caught Sophia resident arrested trying on Good Friday to smuggle cannabis into prison RANKS of the Guyana Police Force on Friday finally located and arrested Regan Rodrigues, also known as ‘Grey Boy’ in connection with the assassination of political activist, Courtney Crum-Ewing.

Police Press Officer Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan confirmed that Rodrigues was caught at approximately 16:15hrs on Good Friday in a house in Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown In September 2016 Rodrigues was freed of the murder charge by Magistrate Judy Latchman due to the lack of evidence. The Guyana Chronicle understands that Rodrigues was instructed by the police to report to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown; however, he failed to do so.

The office of the DiRegan Rodrigues rector of Public Prosecalled ‘Grey Boy’ cutions (DPP) decided to re-open the case for further evidence from police witnesses and for the magistrate to rule on the oral statements made by Rodrigues.

Well known attorney Nigel Hughes has been appointed a special prosecutor by the DPP to prosecute the case.

The bullet-riddled body of Crum-Ewing was found at Third Avenue, Diamond New Scheme, EBD, days before the May 11, 2015 elections. The 40-year-old was shot twice to the temple, once to the back of the head and twice to the stomach.

The police in a statement had stated that the political activist was accosted by four men in a car, one of whom discharged several rounds, hitting him about the body. It was reported that the killer (s) used a .32 pistol to execute Crum-Ewing.

The political activist was well known for his oneman protest outside the office of former Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall. Minutes before he was gunned down, he was reportedly heard via bullhorn urging residents of the neighbourhood to vote against the then ruling PPP/C party.

–– Prison Director (ag) warns against such practice

A SOPHIA resident was taken into custody after 66 grams of cannabis and several pieces of electronic gadgets intended to be delivered to an inmate in

Director of Prisons (ag), Gladwin Samuels one of the country’s correctional facilities, were found in her possession in a restaurant at Timehri, East Bank Demerara.

Guyana Police Force spokesman Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan said the arrest was made at 17:00hrs by ranks of the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Prison Service, as a plan was being hatched by the 37-yearold suspect to smuggle the items into the Timehri Prison.

The suspect, who is cooperating with investigators, is likely to be arraigned in court earliest.

When contacted, Director of Prisons (ag), Gladwin Samuels told this publication that prison officers are increasingly understanding their responsibilities and this has resulted in a middle manager refusing to enter into a corrupt transaction with the mother of the remanded prisoner. The director explained that systems were put in place which resulted in her arrest.

“I ask that others who are approached to become involved in corrupt practices to refrain and have those wrongdoers arrested and charged,” he advised.

The items found on the Sophia resident Meanwhile, Samuels said on Good Friday at 12:50hrs a civilian requested to drop off some personal effects for a prisoner committed to stand trial for murder.

“Because of the administration’s interest in prisoners’ welfare, approval was granted. A routine search was conducted on the items and

a quantity of seeds, leaves and stems suspected to be marijuana were found. The discovery was made in two bottles of baby powder.

When weighed by the police it amounted to 264 grams. The items and the suspect were handed over to the police,” Samuels added.

Easter message from the People’s Progressive Party THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends Easter greetings to every Guyanese, more particularly, our Christian brothers and sisters. The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ remain two of the most inspiring phenomena of

selfless sacrifice, hope and salvation in human history.

The significance of these events are well-known, not only to Christians, but to Guyanese of all religions and ethnicities. Hence, the celebration of Easter in our country presents a great expression

of national and racial unity.

Events such an Easter, because of their significance, must be occasions when we renew our resolve to continue to struggle against those who view our freedoms as inconvenient obstacles; re-commit our-

selves to regain our democratic rights and freedoms and renew our pledge to work for a better life for all of our peoples.

Happy Easter to all!

People’s Progressive Party

Light-manufacturers in Lethem looking for markets –– cross-border commerce between Guyana, Brazil on the rise THE Rupununi Chamber of Commerce (RCC), Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) is looking to lobby the government on behalf of light-manufacturers in the region to have a place in Guyana’s manufacturing site.

Light-manufacturing is the production of small consumer goods. One economic definition states that light industry is a manufacturing activity that uses moderate amounts of partially processed materials to produce items of rela-

tively high value-per-unit weight.

With the call by government for more manufacturers to join the market, Chairperson of the RCC, Allison Camacho, said that manufacturers in her district are looking to take up the challenge.

“Over the years we have been growing from strength to strength… business in the region has grown more than people would have known in years gone by,” said Camacho.

More persons are investing in different areas

but, the light-manufacturers are yet to find their place at the manufacturing site.

“We have been working with the Ministry of Business to ensure that the light-manufacturers get a space in the manufacturing site… most of them work from home, which is sometimes in residential areas, so their spectrum is limited,” said Camacho.

The RCC has been working towards that goal, but not without their fair bit of challenges, however, she said that they intend to work and continue to be

Chairperson of the Rupununi Chamber of Commerce, Allison Camacho

committed to the region.

Camacho mentioned that the development of a commercial zone in Lethem, Region Nine, is evidence of their hard work.

This has helped businesspersons to settle in one commercial district instead of being divided and spread across the entire region.

The commercial zone has also created an avenue for the enhancement of inter-border trade with Brazil, a trade which has been going on for years.

“Business between the two countries continues

to grow…we have been building a healthy relationship with the Brazilian Chamber of Commerce in order to maintain border relations and make commercial transactions easier between the two nations,” said the RCC Chairperson.

With a drop in the local business sector, Camacho mentioned that they have been heavily dependent on Brazilians for business but, she is optimistic that the atmosphere of the local business environment will change soon.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE april 16, 2017

Three estates to remain …Gov’t likey to retain Blairmont, Albion, Uitvlugt – President tells West Berbice expo

AMID the contraction of the sugar industry here, President David Granger announced Saturday evening that the Blairmont, Uitvlugt and Albion estates are likely to remain when government makes a decision to restructure the Guyana Sugar Corporation.

“We have to produce our commodities more cheaply, otherwise we will not be able to compete, whoever is in the Government. We will not be able to compete if your commodities are too expensive. We want to save the sugar industry, but it must be efficient and competitive,” President Granger told the opening of the West Berbice Trade Fair and Exposition held at Bath Settlement. “And Mr Sacoor (Imran Sacoor) is right.

We are not working to destroy the industry, we are working to develop the industry and the industry has been contracting.

“Some countries like Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Kitts and Nevis, Jamaica, Belize have seen their industries contract.

Some have disappeared altogether because the cost of production was too high,” President Granger said.

He added that Guyana is trying to preserve its industry.

“That is why there will be a Blairmont and that is why there is going to be an Albion and we will preserve as many of our plantations and estates as possible. Uitvlugt will remain, but we have to deal with the problems of cost. So ladies

and gentlemen I agree with the slogan chosen for this fair and exposition; that we must think about diversification.”

Government is expected to present a White Paper in the National Assembly soon, pertaining to the future of GuySuCo, the Cabinet Secretary announced back in March. The issue was discussed extensively at the ministerial conference held on February 28, at State House, when Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, made his presentation. The conclusion of consultations among government, the unions and the opposition on GuySuCo’s future, along with the options advanced by the government and the proposal made by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), will form the basis of the White Paper, Harmon had told a news briefing.

When asked if any sugar estates will be closed, Harmon had said that proposals were made to that effect, along with diversification of several estates. He however emphasised that the welfare of sugar workers and their families is the top priority of the APNU+AFC government. “The welfare of the workers and their families is of primary concern. The other economic concerns and so on will of course be dealt with, but the workers’ interest is at the forefront of whatever policy we’re going to embrace with respect to the sugar industry,”

Harmon said.

The White Paper is expected to deal with the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the sugar industry, the proposals by GuySuCo, the consultations held with stakeholders and GAWU’s presentation, the decisions facing government relating to the recovery of drainage and irrigation charges of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, diversification of the Skeldon factory and the leased lands.

In a report which was presented to the Parliamentary Economic Services Committee in January by GuySuCo’s Chairman, Clive Thomas and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Errol Hanoman, it stated that the outlook for Guyana’s sugar industry continues to be grim as the officials declared that funds injected into sugar industry at this time will be funds “wasted.”

The industry has received criticisms from all levels; with a debt of $77.3B and consecutive losses, officials are advising that the industry is one not worth investing in unless plans for the reorganisation, restructuring and diversification of the industry are present. Figures based on 2015 audited accounts, show that GuySuCo recorded a profit once in the past six years, which was recorded in 2013 due to the tax adjustment. Thus, “radical reorganisation, contraction of sugar and major diversification are urgently required for better

predictability and planning,” stated the report.

The corporation’s performance deteriorated after having invested its own funds in the SSMP project (2005 onwards) which did not yield returns as expected, causing cash flow difficulties, coupled with declining sugar prices and increased costs, particularly employment costs, affecting capital and maintenance projects required to sustain and improve production levels.

The report stated that there needs to be validation of GuySuCo’s head office/ central services; with the proposed plan of retaining only three estates, Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt. It was suggested that GuySuCo’s agriculture research centre be delinked and merged with the national research centre being developed with IDB funding.

And, the corporation’s training centre be developed as an independent technical school.

But, according to the report, in order to rationalise the sugar industry from seven estates, it requires specialist expertise, because the sugar industry lacks skills and experience. The report indicated that GuySuCo’s state of affairs must not remain the same, because time is of the essence and decisions need to be made, as $18B would be required in 2017 and a further $21B in 2018, to run GuySuCo.

PNCR Easter message 2017 ON the occasion of the observance of the National Holiday to mark the Christian festival of Easter, the People’s National Congress Reform sends out Easter Greetings to all Guyanese, more especially to the Christian community.

As we raise our kites and watch them soar into the boundless blue sky let us remember the message of Easter that has remained the same over two thousand years. The message from the life works and words of Jesus Christ which tells us to do good in the face of evil, to love each other as God loves us and to forgive so that we may be forgiven.

At this Eastertide, the PNCR urges each and every citizen of Guyana to reflect on this message and to begin the task of building a cohesive society. It is written in the Holy Bible that, “with love in our hearts and a willingness to forgive, everything is possible”. Let us consider this Easter as a time to begin the process of healing the wounds that all of us might have in one way or another helped to inflict upon our country. As our kites take to the sky let us strengthen our determination to be united and to play our part towards building greater trust and cooperation between our communities and achieving social cohesion at all levels throughout our beautiful country.

Have a happy, safe and peaceful Eastertide.

People’s National Congress Reform Congress Place, Sophia Georgetown, Guyana

Nandlall sues AG Williams for defamation –– after admitting that law books were bought with taxpayers’ money

AFTER admitting that state funds were used to purchase law books for him while he was Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall has decided to sue AG and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams for libellous statements made in relation to the alleged theft of those books.

Over the last two years, Nandlall has repeatedly confirmed that while he was AG, law books were purchased for him by the state, using taxpayers’ money. The missing books were bought from Lexis Nexis (U.K.), publishers of the Commonwealth Law Reports, and are said to be worth over $2.5M. However, after the PPP was unseated in 2015, Nand-

lall took possession of the books which were bought for him as AG, by the state. Since then, Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams has been questioned about the missing books and has committed to taking legal action against Nandlall.

The AG has accused Nandlall of allegedly stealing the books, since they were not in possession of the AG’s chambers, despite the fact that they were bought for the then AG with state funds.

At a press conference at the National Communications Network (NCN) in March, the AG said: “Mr Nandlall will be charged for [the] missing law books…Mr. Nandlall has stolen government property and he will be charged…”

Expressing similar sentiments at another forum, Williams said: “Nandlall stole government property…the law books…he still has the law books and he will get

Former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall

lock up for the law books and anyone who claim they gave him permission to steal the law books will get lock up as well, because there is no immunity for stealing and doing criminal acts in this country.”

Since then, Nandlall has filed legal action against the AG, seeking to claim in excess of $125M for defamation. The former AG is being represented by Attorneys Odai Ramischand, Euclin S Gomes, Sase R Gunraj, Manoj Narayan, Sasha S Mahadeo-Narayan & Rajendra R. Jaigobin Nandlall is claiming damages in excess of $25M for libel published on the 24th day of March, 2017, at a press conference, hosted at the National Communication Net-

work Inc.; damages in excess of $25M for libel published in the Guyana Times newspaper, on March 25th, 2017; damages in excess of $25M for slander published during an outreach programme in Berbice, on March 26, 2017; damages in excess of $25M for libel published by Demerarawaves on March 27, 2017; and an injunction restraining Williams from repeating similar statements for which he is being sued.

The AG has 28 days after being served the statement of claim, to prepare a defence, serve it to Nandlall, and file it, with proof of service at a Registry. Should Williams fail to defend the proceeding, Nandlall’s lawyers say judgment may be

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams given against him in his absence and without further notice.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE april 16, 2017

Businessman spreads Easter cheer

BERBICE businessman, Ameer Niron Bacchus, spread Easter cheer with the children of the Upper Berbice communities of Hururu, Wiki/Calcuni, Wiruni, Coomacka, Aroaima, and Kwakwani, all located along the Upper Berbice River, Region 10. Mr. Bacchus targeted 1000 children, in these remote communities, and others, to receive kites.

Not only were the children delighted, but parents and teachers were also very happy with the kind gesture of the young businessman – this represented the first such undertaking in the region, by a businessperson.

The businessman intimated that he was not wealthy, but that there was no reason why every child should not own a kite at Easter, especially the children of riverain and remote Amerindian villages. In addition to re-

ceiving kites, the children of Hururu Amerindian Village, were treated to cross buns, drinks and a meal, on Good Friday, compliments of Bacchus. The recipients took the opportunity to engage in friendly cricket

a holiday that was celebrated by all, regardless of religious persuasion. Recognising the vital importance of all races coming together as ‘One People, One Nation, with One Destiny’, everyday, and not only on

view that we must work with our young people now to shape and mould them, and instil in them the values and discipline necessary for the road ahead. He feels strongly about education and moral

such undertakings, which he sees as an investment in our country’s future.

To this end, Bacchus prepared and circulated to teachers, a compilation of information treating with topics such as peer pres-

Mr. Bacchus is flanked by (right to left) Deputy Toshao, Mr. Stanley Simeon, Ex-Toshao, Mr. Herman Williams, Councillor, Mr. Donald Williams, and resident, Mr. Victor Walker. In the background, children of Hururu Amerindian Village display their kites. matches.

Bacchus acknowledged the symbolism of the kite, and noted that Easter, much like Christmas, was

holidays, he remarked that he was pleased to make a small contribution toward this ideal.

Bacchus expressed the

and religious teachings for youths, particularly those of the riverain communities, and he makes no hesitation in contributing to

sure, drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, depression, mannerism and spirituality.

Bacchus, who is orig-

inally from Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Berbice, has been living and conducting his logging business at Hururu Village, for more than 10 years. Over the years he has made material and financial contributions to the village in regard to various infrastructural works and initiatives, for the benefit of residents. Notably, he provided resources to aid in the development of a roadway leading to the village’s nursery, primary and secondary schools.

The businessman pledged to provide greater support for sports, including cricket and football, to help steer the youths away from various anti-social behaviours that are prevalent in the region.

The population of Hururu is approximately 700. The main economic activities of this tranquil, rustic, and scenic village are logging and bauxite mining.

Number 63 Beach spruced up for Easter THE Regional Democratic Council (RDC), the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Office of the Prime Minister, Region Six, have been busy cleaning and sprucing up the Number 63 Beach for its biggest day of the year -- Easter.

An estimated 15,000 people are expected to visit the beach this Easter Monday and the team has announced the opening of two new entrances to the site.

These are at Number 61 Village and the other at Number 62, to ease the build-up of traffic at the main entrance.

Tourism Director Indranauth Haralsingh during a recent visit to Berbice told reporters that the entrances will be levelled, cleaned and cleared to accommodate the expected influx of vehicles.

In addition, he noted that traffic ranks will be posted at each entrance to direct

vehicles towards the beach.

Other works at the beach include levelling, cleaning and removal of dead sand from the banks to allow for better parking facilities in the event the water rises early.

Rehabilitation works have also been done to the bleachers, gazebos, changing and washroom facilities and the removal of the huge pile of garbage on the beach.

“Put your trash in the bag, so that it can be collected and disposedof properly... we should not litter, we should do the decent thing and get rid of it properly,” he said.

The cleaning and clearing up saw the employment of some 30 persons from neighbouring communities.

The GTA will be distributing garbage bags to persons visiting the beach on Easter Monday and will be awarding patrons with the smallest, largest and most unusual kites.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo’s Region Six representative, Gobin Harbajan, said entry to the beach is absolutely free.

Aside from Easter, some 700-1000 persons visit the beach every weekend and Harbajan said the Office of the Prime Minister and its partners would like to keep the area clean throughout the year.

He also is appealing to visitors not to recklessly dispose of their refuse on the beach.

One of the entrances to the Number 63 Beach being levelled and cleared

Number 63 Beach is one of the largest in the Caribbean

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE april 16, 2017

A Prime Minister apologises for persecution of Rastafarians — the start of a new conversation?

By Dr David Hinds IN Guyana, we have become so wrapped up in our local politics that we seem to forget that we are part of a larger world that has a tremendous impact on our internal political and economic motions.

We are part of a Caribbean family which shares a lot of our agony and frustrations and from whom we can learn a lot.

But, even in this age of instant information- sharing, most Guyanese are oblivious to what happens just next door to us. There must be something wrong and counter-productive about such an existence.

The Prime Minister of Jamaica recently issued an apology to the Rastafarian community for the action of the Jamaican State against Rastafarians in 1963. This is a significant development for Rastafarians throughout the Caribbean and for many older Jamaicans. But it should also be important for all Caribbean citizens regardless of nationality or cultural-religious persuasion, for it has to do with the praxis of the State in the Caribbean, particularly as it relates to the use of violence against citizens.

The incident for which the Prime Minister of Jamaica apologised occurred in 1963 as part of a larger systematic persecution of

the Rastafarian community of that time. Founded in the early 1930s, the early Rastafarians were inspired by the prophecy of Marcus Garvey, who predicted the rise of a Black King.

So, when Ethiopian emperor Ras Tafari (Emperor Haile Selassie) was coronated in 1930, many Jamaicans, led by Leonard Howell, saw that event as a fulfilment of Garvey’s prophecy and organised themselves as a cultural movement aimed at reclaiming their African identity as part of their lived reality.

This founding of the Rastafarian movement excited the anger of the colonial rulers, as was the case with any act of Black resistance in colonial Jamaica and the Caribbean. Leonard Howell was arrested, charged and eventually sentenced for the crime of “insanity.”

He and his followers were deemed to be mad men and women for daring to proclaim their Africaness.

What followed was the constant harassment and criminalisation of Rastafarians.

After a vicious assault on Rastas in the wake of the arrest and conviction of another Rasta leader, Claudius Henry, in the late 1950s, some members wrote the Vice-Chancellor of the University of West Indies seeking

Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness help. This led to the appointment of a team of UWI scholars, led by Professor Rex Nettleford, to study the Rastas.

Their report concluded that the Rastafarians were not a violent sect of mad people as was being projected by the Jamaican authorities and believed by many Jamaicans. The report also inspired a delegation of Rastas to travel to Africa where they met with several African leaders, including Emperor Haile Selassie.

While the UWI report helped to calm things a bit, the persecution of the Rastas continued. In April 1963, a dispute over a plot of land led to the burning of a gas station, allegedly by a group of “bearded men.” This incident, which has come to be known as the Coral Gardens Affair, was blamed

on Rastas and the government launched a reign of terror on adherents of the movement. The “Bring Rastas in dead or Alive” police action resulted in eight Rastas being killed and hundreds more arrested and physically violated

by State forces. It was perhaps the most brutal operation carried out by the post-colonial Jamaican State and has remained etched in the memories of many Rastafarians.

Now, more than five decades later, a Jamaican PM has apologised and has recommended reparations to affected families and to the Rastafarian community. The PM’s action followed the recommendations of a public defender, who was appointed to investigate the incident. The PM proposes to do the following: 1.The public defender will be asked to continue the work her office started in finding survivors and gathering important information on them and their families. She will be collaborating with the Rastafari Coral Gardens Benevolent Society and the member of parliament for the area to make that possible.

2. A trust fund of no less than J$10 million is to be made available to them and their families.

3. Six lots at Pinnacle will become designated protected heritage sites,

which will also include a Rastafari Village.

The Jamaican Prime Minister’s apology is significant, because it is the first time that a head of government has publicly admitted that the use of State violence was unjustified and has sought to offer reparations to the victims. And this occurs in a Region where the State has been especially brutal—from the assault on native populations and the period of slavery to colonialism and the post-colonial era, governments have used State violence in the most extreme manner. Here in Guyana, we know that story very well.

The Prime Minister must be lauded for taking this bold action and for listening to the representations made by the Rastafarian community. The significance lies in the fact that it is hypocritical for Jamaica to celebrate Rastafarianism as a significant Jamaican gift to the world, while ignoring State persecution of Rastas which continued into the 1970s. Further, it is equally hypocritical to press for reparations for European State violence, while ignoring the use of State violence by indigenous governments.

Today many Caribbean people, especially the youth, adhere to the teachings of Rastafarianism and have adopted the

dreadlocks and other Rastafarian symbols. Caribbean popular music, particularly reggae, is inseparable from Rastafarianism. Yet many of us are unaware of the rocky road travelled by Rastas, of the persecution they endured so that we could be free to express our cultural selves.

The Jamaican PM’s apology may have opened a new conversation in our Caribbean—should governments apologise for brutal State actions on our populations? In Guyana, we have had calls from one side of the political and ethnic divide for apologies for State violence.

Understandably, such calls have encountered stout resistance from the other side. The truth of the matter is that both of our post-colonial governments have been guilty of State violence. Hence, any apology should be jointly issued. Has Jamaican PM Andrew Holness set a standard that other Caribbean leaders will follow? I have my doubts, but we shall see.

More of Dr. Hinds ‘writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his website www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics. com. Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Red and yellow, black and white, all are precious in His sight

TODAY, Easter Sunday, is treated with solemnity by Christians, given that it marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ who died on the cross for man’s redemption. His sojourn on earth, as an emissary of God, to change the order of things through impressing upon mankind the values of life and importance of salvation, was grounded not only in the belief of the Father, but also living by the principles.

Redemption, which Christ preached, speaks to pursuing a new path and the willingness to embrace values that would bring harmony and peaceful co-existence among fellowman, and for the Believers eternal life. He taught us not only how to treat persons irrespective of their diversity, but also because of their diversity.

This was exemplified throughout His life’s work.

What pivotally stands out for me was His equal embrace of others. He reached out to those not of His tribe; treated women, children

and other vulnerable groups with respect; chastised those who sought to discriminate against others; was understanding and compassionate to human frailties, even as He remained unwavering to God’s conviction and His mission on earth. From a very young age I can recall being taught the hymnal:

“Jesus loves the little children, All the children of the world.

Red and yellow, black and white, All are precious in His sight, Jesus loves the little children of the world.”

These were the values inculcated in me, growing up in the religious-centred villages on the West Coast of Berbice. As a child who lived through the racial upheavals of the 1960s, when my uncles and cousins were slaughtered on their farms in the Abary, though painful for the family, the above chorus serves as a reminder that with appropriate exposure, man

has the capability to treat each other as equals.

You would go to church and hear the priest extolling the goodness of the Father and His Son and the ability of man to follow in their footsteps. Easter presents the opportunity to reflect on Christ’s work and sacrifice. It usually sees the redoubling of commitment to practise His teachings, and though at times such will be at odds with the things others do, its wisdom and premium remain unshakeable.

When the world saw the formation of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in 1919 in response to World War I that resulted in millions of lives lost and widespread destruction, this body aspired to prevent a repeat. It “is devoted to promoting social justice and internationally recognised human and labour rights, pursuing its founding mission that social justice is essential to universal and lasting peace.”

Twenty-nine years later, the United Nations (UN) was established in response to World War II. In the conceptualisation and development of its Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it relied on the inputs of persons from diverse cultural backgrounds and all regions of the world. The first Article so declares that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” This principle laid the pillars for an inclusive approach towards governance and the treatment of each other.

Critical reading of the Guyana Constitution would note commonality of its principles with that adumbrated in the ILO and UN. In its preamble, we are required to “Forge a system of governance that promotes concerted effort and broad-based participation in national decision-making in order to develop a viable economy and a harmonious community based on democratic values, social justice, fundamental human rights, and the rule of law; [and] Celebrate our cultural and racial diversity and strengthen our unity by eliminating any and every form of discrimination.” The realisation of these requires policies, programmes, laws and enforcement which would only be attainable with an involved and active citizenry.

A mission, declaration and preamble all serve similar purpose of laying out the parameters for engagement, treatment, and action.

There exists a common trend in the life and teachings of Christ, the work of the ILO and UN, and the prescriptions ensconced in the Constitution.

Where the Christian community fails to uphold, through actions, Christ’s principles, they make meaningless His sacrifice. So too, where His principles that have informed conventions, declarations, charters and articles, which are today considered universally acceptable principles, should these not be practised, such would be betrayal of the conviction and protected right that “all are precious in His sight.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Thinking and Promoting Development

Narcissism or the absence of regulation?

– reviving a spirit of community in Guyana

By Dr Ken Danns DURING a recent visit to Guyana, I was struck by the rapidly emerging sprawl of new housing development, both in urban and rural areas.

This gentrification is a good happening. It is an empirical indicator of restless development in the country which is burgeoning ahead of the nation’s existing capacity to manage. An atmosphere and a reality of progress and well-being is emerging in Guyana.

The Guyanese people are building new and bigger homes made of concrete and adorned, within and without, with the trappings of modernity. They are also acquiring automobiles as a measure of their improved socio-economic well-being.

The progress in new housing construction is seemingly characterised either by an element of narcissism, or the absence of or failure to enforce building regulations. Dream homes are seemingly being built without concern for any community concept of architecture and aesthetics. Notably, some of these communities are devoid of adequate infrastructure. Of course, there are notable exceptions with developers building high-end housing in organised and gated communities.

Two-flat buildings and three, four and five-storeyed buildings rise up from the ground -- seemingly overnight -- alongside smaller cottages and older structures.

Business and residential properties intersperse without order. The architectural

designs and colour schemes of many of these properties are generally self-indulgent and visibly out of kilter with everything else around them.

It is as if residents do not talk with each other. Or else they are oblivious that the sometimes outrageous colour schemes on their own properties may devalue the aesthetics of the homes of their neighbours and the community. Do regulations exist, or have these developmental changes in the society outstripped them?

It is not unusual to see beautiful homes in communities with clogged and weed-infested drainage, incomplete access roads or pot-holed streets, which make driving or even walking home to these “mansions” decidedly stressful, if not a downright nightmare. The Guyanese people are using their properties as symbols of progress, even though they may have to traverse muddy and pot-holed streets to get home. Beautiful homes constructed in indulgent isolation do not make a good community. Many of these homes are iron-grilled with high fences and walls that keep home residents from the community and the community from home residents. While the threat of crime may inspire such protective designs, it is imperative that residents do not allow the homes they build to imprison them from their communities.

The narcissism displayed within communities, manifested in the ways in which homes are built and some lives are lived, is further reflected in the discourteous, reckless and selfish

manner in which many drive on the public roadways. It is just plain crazy! Drivers disregard lanes, stop signs, speed limits, pedestrians.

They keep going with deliberate and reckless discourtesy to drivers in front, behind or at the side of them. They create in the process a constant chaos of traffic. Even well-intentioned drivers are caught up in this contagion of chaos and contribute to the melee. It is a miracle that more accidents are not happening everywhere and all the time. Driving in Guyana is freedom without responsibility. Self before others.

Chaos rather than community. The end result is that discourteous and reckless

drivers induce unwarranted stress and fear in others and also themselves. They often do not get where they are going any sooner than if the established norms for using the roadways are followed. In addition, it seems as if almost everyone is having or acquiring a car and driving it with the same mindset with which they build their homes -- acting indifferently to others and to the community. Perhaps more attention should be devoted to effective traffic regulation.

A good community that is organised and endowed with proper roads, drainage and other infrastructure amplifies the value of the properties within it. A good

community is one in which residents create and sustain forums to sort out matters of common interest. Communities are being built without playgrounds and recreational spaces for children. Local governments that collect property taxes have an obligation to build and maintain community infrastructure. Where resources are inadequate or non-existent, homeowners can mobilise in self-help activism to realise such resources. The community’s development and well-being impact individual and family’s well-being and is a shared responsibility.

Residents need to talk with their neighbours and

local governments to make a difference. Do not accept poor roads and drainage as normal and unchangeable.

Insist on standards. Neighbours can do something about it starting today. Do things together to promote the community and your personal well-being. Enough of the discourtesy and recklessness on Guyana’s roadways.

Courtesy on the roads will relieve stress if not also save time, life and limb. What is needed in Guyana now more than ever is a revival of a spirit of community; and, the retention of a sense of order, even as the nation is catapulting down the path of new development.

Sunday, April 16, 2017- 05:30 hrs / ------ hrs Monday, April 17, 2017- 08:30 hrs / ----- hrs Tuesday, April 18, 2017- 09:30 hrs / ------ hrs

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Easter offers hope to all -GAWU WE are well aware that Easter has a special place in the faith of Christianity and we are fully cognizant of the fact that it is a period observed with reverence and prayers.

The observance of Easter goes back a long way in our country and its national recognition calls attention to the diverse religious faiths which make up the spiritual fabric of our society.

Religious faiths and their meaningful and moral underpinnings have and continue to have an influencing role in our lives, offering guidance and helping so many to avoid the pitfalls one finds

in life’s journey.

Over the years, Easter is widely associated with kite-flying, an activity that is popular and engaged in

by Guyanese of all faiths.

This national celebration can be considered as yet another activity that goes to strengthen national unity along the way of consolidating our nationhood. On this occasion, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is pleased to send special wishes to that substantial portion of its membership who are Christians.

Many of them will have to face up, together with their colleague workers, to the reality that Easter this year will be observed, but not without concerns

over the loss of jobs or the threat to employment that hangs over their heads.

Moreover, their plight today is worsened by various economic pressures, tax burdens, and erosion of standards that are also part of today’s reality. One of the abiding messages associated with Easter is that of hope. In our challenging times, that message strengthens the resolve of workers and those suffering from burdens that their struggles and sacrifices for betterment will win out.

Let the Easter period keep our hopes alive and undaunted by the adversities in our steady march to a satisfying future.

A happy Easter from GAWU.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Time for renewal, compassion and goodwill – Gov’t says in Easter message EASTER offers us, as a nation, an annual reminder that hardships and difficulties may endure but are not permanent; that liberation and triumph are sure.

The culmination of the Holy Week preceding Easter affords us an opportunity to reflect on life and the need for preparation for a better tomorrow. On Sunday, we celebrate the triumphant resurrection of Jesus Christ, who bore the cross and died for the sins of his people.

This lesson of the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good remains timeless. Indeed, it is inescapable that this season is a time of reflecting not only on sacrifice but on renewal, revival and redemption. It is also a time for brotherhood, compassion, charity and goodwill. For all Guyanese who look to our future with optimism, Easter comes like the kites we will fly as a resurrection of our hope. Easter’s lesson is a most apt reminder and message in this time of national preparation for better days ahead for all Guyanese.

As His Excellency, President Brig. David Granger, implored in an address to the National Assembly, “Let us not now dwell on the pain of the past, but look with faith to the future. Let the sacrifice of those who struggled and died inspire us today and guide generations to come,

tomorrow and beyond.”

Traditionally we gather as families, congregations and neighbourhoods for prayer, fellowship and celebration. In Guyana, the highlight of the season is marked by the flying of kites in an unparalleled display of aerial dexterity and congested ebullient beauty all across our communities. Guyana’s enthusiastic celebration of Easter through kite-flying is a unique spectacle which we must invite our CARICOM, Caribbean and global brothers and sisters to witness firsthand. For them, it could very well be a oncein-a-lifetime experience. This is one aspect of Guyana’s radiant and vibrant culture which we, as a nation, often do not fully appreciate and give adequate recognition to, particularly with regard to its potential and social and cultural value.

The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana wishes all Guyanese, particularly our Christian brothers and sisters, an enjoyable Easter season.

We implore all to celebrate responsibly and engage in safe kite-flying, boat-racing at the Bartica Regatta and cattle wrangling at the Lethem Rodeo.

Happy Easter, Guyana!

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50 years of togetherness and still going strong

By Shirley Thomas MR and Mrs Charles and Daphne Nelson of Flying Fish Street, Festival City, North Ruimveldt, have more than good reason to celebrate.

They are celebrating Golden Jubilee anniversaries on May 2016 and April 2017.

On May 26, they proudly joined the rest of Guyana in celebrating Guyana’s 50th anniversary as an independent nation, and on April 8 this year, it was with a sense of gratification that they, who are members of the Guyana arm of the Worldwide Marriage Encounter Movement, celebrated 50 golden years of marriage and a splendid family relationship.

On this auspicious occasion, Marriage Encounter Guyana joins the couple’s daughters Rhonda Marie and Dr Sherelyn Stanton and other relatives

Celebrating a proud Golden Jubilee and friends in congratulating them on this noble accomplishment.

Entreating God’s continued blessings upon their lives, the movement prays that they may continue to love and cherish each other and continue to be role

models for other married couples.

The Marriage Encounter Guyana seeks to change the world through the embrace of responsible and intimate relationships, with God at the centre of things.

Use Easter to inspire cooperation –– Mayor Chase-Green

I WOULD like to extend Easter greetings to all Guyanese. This season culminates a period in the Christian calendar when Christians observe three fundamental pillars of their faith: death, burial and the resurrection of the Christ.

Even though this season is allied to the Christian community, Guyanese from every strata of society unite in love to indulge in the traditional kite-flying and other merry-making activities. As I reflect on the kaleidoscope of colours that usually blankets the horizon during this season, I am reminded of our religious, political and ethnic diversity that make us such a unique people.

It is my prayer and hope, that as you celebrate and release colourful kites to the wind, that you would contemplate on ways to improve the environmental and social status of your local communities.

We are cognizant that you have an important role to play in helping the city to realise its full potential. This is why we have commenced a community outreach programme in three wards; Agricola, East Ruimveldt and Kitty. This allows for greater interaction with residents and a more coordinated approach in addressing concerns at the level of the community.

May we allow the supreme sacrifice, virtues and teachings of Christ to inspire us, both Christians and non-Christian, to work together to advance the integrity of local communities and the city as a whole.

Let us continue to work together to improve Georgetown, so that we can bequeath to the next generation a city that we all could be proud of.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

KKR continue splenid run to beat Sunrisers Hyderbad by 17 runs FORMER record two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) continue their splendid run, as they beat defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 17 runs, in Match 14 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2017 at the historic Eden Gar-

dens Stadium on Saturday.

This was Kolkata’s third win in the tournament so far after four matches. They also move up to the top spot in the points table. Sunrisers, on the other hand, who had never won a game at this venue, had their winless drought continue.

This was Sunrisers’ second loss in the tournament this year so far, while they sit in the third spot in the table.

Riding on Robin Uthappa’s gritty half-century and spinners’ contribution, Kolkata Knight Riders today secured a 17-run win over defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in their Indian Premier League match and climbed to the top of the table.

Defending a tricky 173 on a lively Eden track, KKR spin trio of Kuldeep Yadav (1/23), Sunil Narine (1/18)

and Yusuf Pathan (1/2) gave vital breakthroughs to dent the chase of the Sunrisers and hand the team its second successive win at home.

For the Sunrisers, who began their campaign with back- to-back victories at home, this was their second defeat on the trot.

David Warner (26 off 30; 4×4) and Shikhar Dhawan (23 off 22; 4×4) gave Sunrisers a flying start with 45 from six overs but part-time spinner Pathan turned it around by removing the Indian left-hander en route to his impressive figures of 1-0- 2-1.

Brought in place of Piyush Chawla, chinaman Kuldeep then made his presence felt. He along with Narine accounted for 22 dot balls in the middle overs to put brakes in their chase.

(Cricket Country)

Billings, Anderson dismantle Kings XI NO side had chased down 189 to win an IPL game at the Feroz Shah Kotla. Having conceded 28 more than the average first-innings score at this venue, Kings XI Punjab needed their batsmen to pull off a heist.

Instead, they sunk to 64 for 5 in the 11th over, with Glenn Maxwell, Eoin Morgan and Hashim Amla all dismissed.

From there on, it was a no-contest and Delhi Daredevils won their first home game of the season by 51 runs. (Scores: (Delhi Daredevils 188 for 6 (Billings 55, Anderson 39*) beat Kings XI Punjab 137 for 9 (Miller 24, Morris 3-23) by 51 runs).

Shahbaz Nadeem, the leftarm spinner, did the early damage by removing Manan Vohra and Wriddhiman Saha. Amit Mishra used the Kotla surface well, and got rid of Maxwell for the fourth time in five innings.

The Kings XI captain came in at No. 6 and fell for a duck.

The final nail was though was hammered by Corey Anderson, who trapped David Miller lbw

for 24 off 28 balls, to go along with a robust cameo earlier in the day. Axar Patel pocketed his highest IPL score of 44, but it was merely academic.

Daredevils have preferred to invest in young Indian batsmen to take charge upfront. Kings XI Punjab have done the same on the bowling front. This was therefore a contest within a contest.

While Karun Nair was snaffled down the leg side for a duck, continuing his wretched form since scoring a Test triple century in December, Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant wasted starts. With Daredevils reduced to 120 for 5 in the 16th over, it was left to Chris Morris and Corey Anderson to provide the final flourish.

Until the last five overs, Kings XI had won the battle of the Indian players, with all of Mohit Sharma, Sandeep Sharma, Varun Aaron, Axar Patel and KC Cariappa among the wickets. But doing half a job is rarely good enough.

(ESPN Cricinfo) 12:40 hrs Quadriga

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Irish Racing Tips Cork 09:00 hrs Vanishing Point 09:30 hrs Miss Sapphire 10:05 hrs A Toi Phil 10:35 hrs Balbir Du Mathan 11:10 hrs Pairofbrowneyes 11:45 hrs Gettysburg Address 12:20 hrs Pahaska 12:50 hrs Minella Beau Fairyhouse 08:45 hrs Tudor City 09:20 hrs Dakota Moirette 09:50 hrs Let’s Dance 10:25 hrs Don’t Touch It 11:00 hrs Yorkhill 11:35 hrs Crest 12:10 hrs Red Jack South Africa Racing Tips Scottsville 08:45 hrs Sarah’s Secret 09:20 hrs Sergeant Hardy 09:55 hrs Winter Prince 10:30 hrs Chrome Blue 11:05 hrs Cause Celebre

Caesar wins historic 100M CARIFTA gold ... Hooper first in Triple Jump

By Rawle Toney IT was a historic day for Guyana at this year’s FLOW Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) Games in Curacao when Lindener,Compton Caesar won this country’s first ever gold medal in the boys 100 metres.

The 19-year-old Caesar clocked 10.46 seconds, to clip Barbados’ Jaquone Hoyte (10.47) and Jamaica’s Jelani Walker (10.61 seconds) to hand Guyana an impressive start to the competition.

It was Caesar’s second outing at the games, after coming up empty-handed when the event was hosted in Grenada last year.

Overseas-based Natricia Hooper also copped gold, winning the girls U-18 triple jump with a leap of 13.08 metres.

Tissanna Hickling of Jamaica was second (12.87M) and third place went to Kala Penn of the Virgin Islands (12.73M).

Claudrice McKoy took bronze medal in the girls under-eighteen 1500M (4:50.88), falling behind Jamaicans Shaquena Foote (4:45.51) and Rushana Dawyer (4:48.15.

Anfernee Headecker had a spirited run against a strong field in the 1500M for boys U-20, but the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) track club athlete managed to finish second with a time of three minutes, 58.22 seconds (3:58.22) behind Jamaican Ackeen Colley (3:55.83.) while Cayman Islands’ Dominic Dyer was third (3:59.33).

It was not a good day on the track for Daniel Williams who competed in the boys Under-eighteen 400M, finishing 7th (50.04s). Antonio Watson

(47.86) and fellow Jamaican Ramone Lindo (47.99) were first and second respectively, while Colby Jennings (48.26) of Turks and Caicos was third.

Tremaine Browne was fifth (6.72m) in the Boys U-18 long jump.

Meanwhile, Caesar will have a chance to race for gold, this time in the 200M while Williams will compete in the boys U-18 category. Headecker will look to better his 1500M silver medal, when he competes in the Under-twenty 800M. Jamaica has been the most dominant at the CARIFTA games since it started in 1972, winning a total of 1,559 medals (726 gold, 506 silver and 327 bronze), while Guyana has only won a total of 47 medals (16 gold, 16 silver and 15 bronze).

Disciplinary Committee chastises GFF for violating constitution

By Rawle Toney IN a shocking turn of events, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) three-member disciplinary committee ruled that the Wayne Forde-led executive committee’s decision to move the STAG Elite League from eight teams was ultra vires their powers and unconstitutional.

Attorneys Sanjeev Datadin (Chairman) and Natasha Vieira, along with Dr. Clement McEwan make up the GFF’s Disciplinary Committee.

National champions Slingerz FC along with their usual rivals Alpha United, as well as the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) and Pele football club, refused to participate in the second edition of the STAG Elite League, calling it (the league) illegitimate since they felt that the GFF unconstitutionally added two teams (Topp XX and Victoria Kings).

A call was made by the

aforementioned clubs for arbitration, stating that instead of a back and forth between them and the GFF, good sense should have prevailed; especially for Slingerz FC and Alpha United, who were named as the clubs representing Guyana at the CFU Club championship which was a qualifier for the CONCACAF Champions League.

But the GFF refused, and resorted to sanctioning the two clubs (Slingerz and Alpha United) and would further write to CONCACAF, detailing that the they (the Clubs) were not in ‘good standing’ with the Federation; a needed requirement for participation at the CFU Club Championship.

The Disciplinary Committee noted that “it follows therefore that for the Executive Committee to sanction the Complainants for non-participation could not be a code or rule violation.

Their objection was on principle; a principle which we

have found to be with legal foundation.

The Executive Committee was not entitled to punish an Elite member for non-participation in a Tournament which they had exceeded their legal authority to convene.”

“The Executive Committee was not entitled punish an Elite Member for non-participation in a Tournament which they had exceeded their legal authority to convene” the Disciplinary Committee said in their letter to the GFF and abovementioned clubs.

It was also ruled that the GFF Constitution can only be amended by Congress and the Executive Committee had no authority to unilaterally amend the Constitution in any manner whatsoever.

The GFF will hold its congress next month, where several matters will be brought to the floor by the members, and the Elite League fiasco would be high on the agenda.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Tottenham roll on, now seek a helping hand

By Martyn Herman | LONDON,(Reuters)-Tottenham Hotspur remained a worrying presence in Chelsea’s rearview mirror after a second successive 4-0 victory cut the gap in the Premier League title race to four points on Saturday.

Bournemouth became the 12th consecutive side to leave White Hart Lane empty-handed as Harry Kane hit the 20 league goal mark for the third season in a row with his side’s third.

Long-time leaders Chelsea are away at Manchester United on Sunday for what looks the toughest fixture of their run-in.

“We got the three points and now the pressure is on Chelsea to win in Old Trafford,” Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said.

“It would be fantastic if tomorrow night, after the game, the gap is still four points. But four points is still a lot.”

With only two of their last six matches at home Tottenham are still rank outsiders to snatch a first title since 1961.

Manchester City moved

above Liverpool into third after they registered an impressive 3-0 win away at Southampton, with captain Vincent Kompany on the scoresheet.

Kompany’s impassioned celebration, following his 55th-minute opener, told the story of what has been two injury-hit seasons for the inspirational Belgian defender.

“I don’t really complain about what’s happened to me, I just carry on,” Kompany, whose goal was his first since August 2015, told BT Sport.

“When this happens I feel I’m giving something back to the fans. I’m finally giving something back to the team and that’s what you see in that moment.”

Leroy Sane and Sergio Aguero -- with his 11th goal in 11 games in all competitions -- were also on the scoresheet.

In the title run-in, Chelsea must still also visit Everton who racked up an eighth successive home win when beating Burnley 3-1 to move above Arsenal and United into fifth, albeit having played more games than the teams around them.

Premier League top scor-

Tottenham’s Vincent Janssen scores their fourth goal. Action Images via Reuters/ Paul Childs Livepic er Romelu Lukaku struck home to West Ham United Crystal Palace, who batEverton’s third, taking his which left them nine points tled back from two down behind 17th-placed Hull to draw 2-2 at home to season tally to 24.

City who lost 3-1 at Stoke champions Leicester City, RELEGATION BATTLE City. are seven points above the S e c o n d - f r o m - b o t t o m relegation trapdoor.

There was little movement in the relegation battle Middlesbrough host sevBournemouth are still with none of the clubs in the enth-placed Arsenal on Mon- looking over their shoulders, day while 18th-placed Swan- although they also have a bottom six managing a win.

Bottom club Sunder- sea City slumped to a fifth seven-point cushion. land scored their first goal defeat in six matches in a 1-0 Since losing to Liverpool in eight games as Fabio loss at Watford. on Feb. 11 Tottenham have Swansea remain two won seven games in a row -Borini’s late equaliser earned them a 2-2 draw at points behind Hull while their best top flight sequence

Sensational Isco spares Real Madrid’s blushes against Sporting (REUTERSs)-Isco’s brilliant double helped a muchchanged Real Madrid side snatch a 3-2 win at Sporting Gijon on Saturday to move six points clear of title rivals Barcelona at the top of La Liga.

Madrid twice came from behind before Isco’s low drive in the 90th minute handed Los Blancos victory against their exhausted hosts, who had faced waves of attacks.

Sporting opened the scoring in the 14th minute when Mikel Vesga scooped a pass over Madrid’s defence which Duje Cop slammed home, before Isco equalised three minutes later with a brilliant individual goal.

Vesga looped a header over Kiko Casilla to put the hosts back in front after halftime, but Alvaro Morata equalised with a headed goal of his own, before Isco’s late winner.

Real Madrid, who moved up to 75 points from 31 games, made nine changes to the team from their Champions League victory at Bayern Munich in midweek, with the second leg to come on Tuesday.

Fabio Coentrao and Danilo were handed rare starts in

Real Madrid’s Francisco ‘Isco’ Alarcon (L) celebrates with team mates Marcelo and James Rodriguez after scoring a goal. REUTERS/Eloy Alonso the fullback positions, while feet and nearly went ahead poised to shoot after anothforwards Cristiano Ronaldo before the break when Lucas er bewitching dribble and and Karim Benzema were Vazquez almost reached a low substitute Marcelo drilling rested, with Wales interna- cross at the back post. wide. tional Gareth Bale out injured.

It was Sporting, however, In the final minute of the The hosts took advan- who moved back in front in game Madrid got their goal, tage, showing no fear against the 50th minute, with on-loan Isco finding a pocket of space the league leaders and they Athletic Bilbao midfielder on the edge of the area and broke the deadlock with Vesga planting a header high firing a strike inside Ivan Cop’s well-worked goal. over Casilla that dipped into Cuellar’s near post.

The lead did not last long, the net.

Earlier on Saturday Dehowever, as man-of-the-match Morata scored nine min- portivo La Coruna beat Isco danced away from two utes later, heading home Malaga 2-0 to move nine defenders before curling into Danilo’s cross, and Madrid points clear of the relegation the top corner. pressed for a winner with zone, with Sporting Gijon Madrid began to find their Isco robbed of the ball when still 18th, on 22 points.

for 50 years -- scoring 22 and leaking only four.

A week after beating Watford 4-0, having also kicked off before Chelsea, they produced another display oozing confidence with Mousa Dembele and Son Heung-Min scoring inside the first 20 minutes and Kane striking just after halftime.

Kane is the fourth player to score 20 or more goals in the Premier League three seasons in a row, joining Thierry Henry, Alan Shearer and Ruud van Nistelrooy.

“Sometimes it’s good to play first. Early kick off, get the three points and then we can enjoy our Easter weekend and see what happens tomorrow,” Kane said.

“Hopefully Man Utd can get a result for us.”

Three days before taking on Atletico Madrid in their Champions League quarter-final, seeking to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, Leicester were involved in a rip-roaring duel at Selhurst Park.

Goals by Robert Huth and Jamie Vardy put them 2-0 ahead but Palace hit back through Yohan Cabaye and Christian Benteke.

Today is `D’ day for Guyana Cup Fever horse race meet

AFTER weeks of preparation, race horse trainers will see the results of their efforts as today is `D’ day for the Guyana Cup Fever horse race meet scheduled for the Port Mourant Turf Club, in Corentyne, Berbice.

The eight-race meet which is being staged by the Port Mourant Turf Club in collaboration with the Jumbo Jet Auto Sales and Racing Stables will have as its feature event, a 1900-metre race for horses classified B1 and Lower and has a first prize of $1M and a trophy, compliments of Banks DIH Limited.

Among the starters for this event are Princess She’s Not, CP Got Even, Lady Budapest, Brave Sky, Golden Blue Echo, Just Call Me Boss, Spit Fire, Jack in My Style, Keep on Swinging, Climate Change and Kazi Azaria.

Other events on the card are a 1200-metre race for animals classified E3 and Lower West Indies bred non-winners for 2016/17 and Canadian non-winners over the same period.

There will also be a 1200-metre race for four-year-old West Indies bred and G3 and Lower horses, a 1200-metre event for horses classified H3 and lower, a 1200-metre event for three-year-old Guyana bred and other horses classified `I’ 1 and Lower.

There are also 1200-metre races for horses classified `J2’, `K’ and 1l’ and lower.

Among the other horses appearing on the day’s card are; Release the beast, Unsettled, Goodwill Boy, Light Up Canada, Red and Lovely, Its My Choice, Super Bowl, Cat Messiah, Settling Star, Sweet Return, Isn’t She Charming, Firing Line, Big Man Boss, Amazing Run, Witches Poo, Compadia, Slim Shady, Bini Man, Chelsea, Puppy Tail, Party Time and Merry Ann,among others.

Among the sponsors for the event are Banks DIH Limited, Trophy Stall of Bourda Market, N&M Trucking Service of West Bank Berbice, Shariff Trading Enterprise,and Curtains and Drapes Designs, among others.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Copy Worrell and Sobers, not Border

By Dr. Rudy Webster A recent article in a Caribbean newspaper hinted that West Indies captain Jason Holder is too nice a guy to get the best out of his players.

It suggested that he should get tougher with them and adopt the sergeant major approach that Allan Border, a former Australian captain, used with his players.

This thinking is quite appealing but is very shallow.

Border was a champion batsman but he was not a great captain; he was no Mark Taylor or Steve Waugh.

So why recommend that approach to Holder when two Australians who coached the West Indies team already used it with little or no success?

Why indeed should Holder copy Border? What is wrong with the leadership of Frank Worrell and Clive Lloyd?

These captains were firm when they had to be but were not sergeant majors. They were in fact very nice guys who preferred the carrot to the stick.

Their achievements are exceptional. They brought together a diverse collection of talented individuals who lacked direction, common purpose, self-discipline and

West Indies captain Jason Holder self-belief and turned them into a highly disciplined, motivated, professional and all-conquering unit that dominated world cricket for two decades.

In their own way, Worrell and Lloyd achieved two great victories. First, they got rid of the debilitating self-image and the limiting self-beliefs that had been stifling the talent of their players and second, they removed the cancerous effects that insularity, bad habits, poor excuses and outmoded traditions had on teamwork.

Some might say that Holder’s players lack the talent of the players from the Lloyd/ Worrell era. That may be partially true. However, when

Worrell’s young team went to Australia in 1960 few had any kind of reputation before they arrived, but when they left they were all stars or superstars, each with an enhanced self-image, powerful self-belief and a strong will to win.

From the beginning Worrell reminded them about their latent talent and emphasised that they would beat Australia if they played with discipline and commitment.

Performance revolves around many things, none more important than self-image, self-belief and self-confidence.

The player’s self-image is the subconscious picture he has of himself and it causes him to think and perform like the player he imagines himself to be.

To enhance his performance, improve his self-image and self-belief.

West Indies cricket has been in steady decline for the last 20 years or so and with the advent of every new president and CEO that decline gets steeper. In recent years the players have been performing in a hostile and toxic environment that has been perpetrated by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB). If Worrell and Lloyd had to operate in that environment their achievements

would have been critically limited.

Goldfish in a fish tank will grow larger or stay smaller according to the size of the fish tank. If the tank is large the goldfish will get bigger but if the tank is small they will stay small.

So too, players will grow larger and succeed or stay smaller and fail according to the size and quality of environment that is created for them.

Expansion and improvement of their environment will enhance their ability to learn, grow and become better players.

B u t b e f o re t h i s c a n happen to the West Indies players, the WICB and its members must start with themselves and set the right example. They must detoxify and expand the current cricket and management environment and commit themselves to self-improvement and better self-leadership.

Frank Worrell once said, “Lancashire League cricket is a must for any youngster who hopes to make the grade. One of the greatest assets one gets from league cricket is a tremendous sense of responsibility and awareness.

One can learn more in three years of League cricket

than in twelve years of cricket outside the United Kingdom, even at the international level.

One learns to cope with the swerving ball, the turning ball, the cutter, the stopping ball, the cold, dark and blustery weather, running noses, cold hands and feet, faulty umpiring decisions, dropped catches and traditional needle matches.”

Between the sixties and nineties most of our good cricketers improved the technical, mental and strategic aspects of their game by playing league or county cricket. Shouldn’t the WICB be encouraging talented young players to follow that development path?

Why do some sports journalists and the WICB behave as if West Indies never had a cricket history of any significance. Have they lost their cricket memory? And why can’t we copy and rejoice in the achievements of our great players?

The WICB, coaches and players can learn a lot from the experience and wisdom of Sir Garfield Sobers. They should study his formula for cricket success and use it as their performance model. Sobers once said, “If I had a free hand in coaching I would initially

spend most of my time teaching the basics of the game.

Thereafter, I would devote an equal amount of time teaching the players how to identify and deal with the many different situations they will face during the game.

Good players know how to think, how to concentrate and what to do in different situations. I believe this combination gives the player the best preparation and the best chance to do well.”

Worrell would have added a third component – the improvement of self-belief, self-motivation and self-discipline because he knew that the depth of a player’s motivation and self-discipline determines the level of his performance.

Some experts now claim that the correlation between self-discipline/self-motivation and success is greater than the correlation between ability and success.

The revival of West Indies cricket is a complex challenge. Changing Holder into a sergeant major will be just as effective to his team’s game as putting plaster on a skin cancer that has been slowly killing the body. The plaster would not change the course of the disease.

Director of Sport hands over equipment on behalf of sponsor

DIRECTOR of Sport, Christopher Jones recently handed over the equipment for the 2nd annual Ralph Green / East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-11 League to president of the association, Franklin Wilson at the former’s Office, Homestretch Avenue.

Jones who is a relative of Green, the USA based sponsor,told Wilson and EBFA Secretary Wayne

Francois that Green was very pleased to once again be supporting the development of the young lads on the East Bank and its environs.

Complimenting the EBFA for its consistency in playing junior tournaments, Jones noted that it is absolutely important for a proper foundation to be set for young players who need to learn the fundamentals of the game early.

Two local boxers undergoing training in T&T - Ahead of Islamic Games

DESMOND `Dynamite’ Amsterdam and Joel Williamson are currently undergoing a two-week training stint in the twin island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago ahead of their participation in the Islamic Games scheduled for Azerbaijan next month.

According to reports, Amsterdam and Williamson left Guyana early last week

for the Twin Island Republic accompanied by their coach Gregory Cort.

Their training stint was made possible through a collaborative effort between the Guyana Olympic Association and the Guyana Boxing Association.

Amsterdam is the Caribbean Middleweight champion and Williamson, the Caribbean Lightweight champion.

“Your association has been leading in this regard and you must be complimented. This Under-11 league provides an ideal platform for the eligible players on the East Bank to be seen and I am sure they will go on to do well at the other age group competitions and eventually at the national level. Keep up the good work; it is my pleasure to present these equipment on behalf of Mr. Green to you as I wish all the teams the best.”

Wilson in response expressed thanks to Jones and Green for his continued partnership in East Bank football development.

“Yet again, Mr. Green is exhibiting his love for the game and youths through his sponsorship of this very important age group level.

Last year we had six clubs participating with Agricola Red Triangle emerging inaugural champions. This year we are on track to more than double last year’s amount of teams due to the excitement that the tournament had created.”

The players, Wilson

Director of Sport,Christopher Jones hands over one of the customized balls to EBFA President, Franklin Wilson in the presence of association secretary, Wayne Francois. The other equipment is on display said,displayed a high level develop their on-field skills, of excitement and energy it also provides the opportuin the inaugural compe- nity for them to meet other tition and he is sure the players which allows them other clubs which did not to improve their inter perparticipate have seen the sonal skills.”

This year’s competiwisdom in ensuring that they are a part of the ac- tion is expected to kick off next weekend. Apart tion this time around.

“It is essential for clubs from the winning trophy, to ensure that they partic- the top four teams will all ipate in these tournaments receive medals whilst five as it not only provides the top individual players will platform for the players to be rewarded with back-

packs and trophies.

The individuals to be rewarded will be the Highest Goal Scorer, Best Goalkeeper, Most Valuable Player, Most Disciplined Player and Most Promising Player. Sixteen medals (16) would be each awarded to the winner, second and third placed teams while the fourth placed team would receive 16 participatory medals.

For the first time in any EBFA competition, customized balls would be used bearing the EBFA logo. This is a standard practice and Wilson informed that the association would be aiming to duplicate other competitions as far as practicable.

Thirty-four numbered playing vests, one first aid kit, two captain arm bands, five back-packs, 74 medals and the customized balls were donated. Wilson further informed that Green is currently working on securing branded tee shirts for each player.

Only Players born on or after January 1st, 2006 will be eligible to participate in the tournament.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Hetmyer, Singh and Powell hit half-centuries for WICB President’s XI FLORENCE HALL, Jamaica, (CMC) – Shimron Hetmyer led a triumvirate of left-handed batsmen that collected half-centuries, as the WICB President’s XI made Pakistan toil in the field all day in their first-class tour match on Saturday here.

Hetmyer led the way with a typically enterprising 97, fellow Guyana Jaguars batsman Vishaul Singh was unbeaten on 81 and resurgent Kieran Powell made 58, as the President’s XI reached 311 for five in their first innings at the close, after deciding to bat on a windy, but clear first day of the three-day contest at the Trelawny Multiplex.

Hetmyer dominated the first half of the day and shared 148 for the second wicket with Powell to give a solid platform for the rest of the home team’s batting to flourish which Singh did to anchor two half-century stands with Jahmar Hamilton

Shimron Hetmyer top scored with 97. and left-handed Jaguars ued to bat fluently throughteammate Raymon Reif- out his near 2 ½ hour stay er to advance claims for in the middle that yielded higher duty.

11 fours and two sixes, The day started bitterly but Powell was prepared for the President’s XI, when to bide his time and chose Kyle Hope, one of the con- discretion as the best part tenders to open the batting of valour. with Kraigg Brathwaite in The pair carried the the forthcoming three-Test composite side to 119 for series against the Pakistanis, one at lunch, but Hetmyer was caught at forward short was dismissed inside the leg for two from a sharply first hour after the interval rising, second ball of the just when it seemed that match from left-arm fast they were about to jam bowler Muhammad Amir. down hard on the accelerHetmyer came to the ator. crease and immediately got Hetmyer, the West into the groove and contin- Indies Under-19 World

Cup-winning captain, was caught at slip off leg-spinner Yasir Shah playing defensively forward to his 115th ball to leave the hosts on 150 for two.

Powell was unfortunate when he was run out eight balls later, failing to beat Asad Shafiq’s direct hit at the striker’s end from cover, as the left-hander advanced for a single, but got a negative response from his captain Shamarh Brooks at the bowler’s end.

Brooks was quite subdued in his hour-long stay at the crease during which time he added 34 with Singh before left-arm spinner Muhammad Asghar trapped him lbw for nine playing forward to leave the President’s XI on 193 for four.

Hamilton joined Singh and carried the Caribbean side to 214 for four at tea before the pair emerged from the break to continue scoring freely against the disciplined Pakistani attack.

Vishaul Singh is not out on 81.

The pair shared 51 for the fifth wicket during which Singh passed 50 before Muhammad Amir bowled Hamilton for 26 in the first hour after the break.

For the remainder of the day, Singh and Reifer defied all that the Pakistanis served up to add 67 – unbroken – for the sixth wicket, including a late burst with the second new ball from Amir, the visitors most successful bowler with 2-45 from 18 overs, and Hassan Ali.

SCOREBOARD WICB PRESIDENT’S XI 1st Innings K Hope c Shan Masood b Muhammad Amir 2 K Powell run out 58 S Hetmyer c Younus Khan b Yasir Shah 97 *S Brooks lbw b Muhammad Asghar 9 V Singh not out 81 +J Hamilton b Muhammad Amir 26 R Reifer not out 36 Extras: (nb2) 2 TOTAL: (5 wkts, 91 overs) 311 R Cornwall, K Roach, D Jacobs,

K Joseph to bat Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-150, 3-159, 4-193, 5-244 Bowling: Muhammad Amir 18-445-2; Hassan Ali 21-2-63-0 (nb2); Muhammad Asghar 20-2-88-1; Asad Shafiq 6-0-15-0; Yasir Shah 24-0-91-1; Azhar Ali 2-0-9-0 PAKISTAN: Shan Masood, Azhar Ali, Ahmed Shehzad, Younus Khan, *Misbah-ul-Haq, Asad Shafiq, +Sarfraz Ahmed, Muhammad Amir, Yasir Shah, Hassan Ali, Muhammad Asghar

hits maiden first class Red Force reach 269 Greaves ton to rescue Barbados Pride for six on day one

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, (CMC) – A half-century from Yannic Cariah led consistent batting down the order from Trinidad & Tobago Red Force against Leeward Islands in the Regional 4-Day Tournament on Saturday.

Cariah was unbeaten on 73 and a few others got starts without carrying on, as the Red Force dodged showers and batted the entire first day of the 10th round match to reach 269 for six in their first innings at the close.

The left-hander anchored the visitors’ batting for the latter half of the day, as fellow lefthander, opener Amir Jangoo supported with 46, Ewart Nicholson made 45, fellow rookie Akiel Cooper added 41 and Isaiah Rajah made 40 after the visitors were put in to bat on a typically

batsman-friendly Warner Park pitch.

None of the Hurricanes’ bowlers distinguished themselves, after new captain Montcin Hodge called correctly and the two sides spent part of the day avoiding rain which swiped close to an hour of play.

Red Force suffered an early setback when makeshift opener Imran Khan was lbw to Jeremiah Louis for a duck in the fourth over of the day.

The rest of the visitors’

batting however, gradually wore down the Hurricanes bowlers with Jangoo featuring in successive half-century stands with Rajah and Nicholson before off-spinner Jacques Taylor bowled him after lunch.

For the remainder of the day, Cariah was the glue that held the Red Force batting together, sharing a vital 94 for the fifth wicket with Cooper that took the edge off the Hurricanes’ bowling later in the day.

SCOREBOARD RED FORCE 1st Innings +A Jangoo b Taylor 46 I Khan lbw b Louis 0 I Rajah c Saunders b Tonge 40 E Nicholson c Campbell b Peters 45 Y Cariah not out 73 A Cooper b Campbell 41 R Primus b Bonner 17 T Webster not out 1 Extras (b3, w1, nb2) 6 TOTAL (6 wkts, 75 overs) 269 To bat: *M Richards, B Charles,

S Cottrell.

Fall of wickets: 1-8, 2-75, 3-127, 4-137, 5-231, 6-268.

Bowling: Tonge 14-2-66-1, Louis 12-2-40-1, Peters 12-2-50-1, Taylor 23-3-69-1, Campbell 13-1-401, Bonner 1-0-1-1.

HURRICANES – *M Hodge, N Bonner, K Carty, C Hughes, J Otto, A Saunders, G Tonge, J Louis, +J Campbell, J Taylor, S Peters.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – Justin Greaves struck a maiden first class hundred to help prop up Barbados Pride on the opening day of their final round game in the Regional fourday championship against Jamaica Scorpions.

Sent in at Kensington Oval, Pride were in danger of collapse at 98 for five before Greaves arrived to pummel an attractive unbeaten 104 which propelled the hosts to 297 for six at the close here Saturday.

Kenroy Williams chipped in with a career-best 82 while opener Kyle Corbin added 51 and West Indies one-day player Ashley Nurse, 33 not out.

Seamer Derval Green (236) and left-arm spinner Dennis Bulli (2-86) both finished with two wickets apiece.

Fielding a weakened side with most of their first team players on West Indies duty, Pride endured a rocky start as they lost several early wickets.

Left-hander Anthony Alleyne perished for one with the score on 25 in the fifth over of the morning, edging a defenisve prod at fast bowler Jerome Taylor to Jermaine Blackwood at second slip.

One-day batsman Jona-

than Carter edged a drive at Green and was taken behind for 10 at 43 for two on the stroke of the first hour and soon afterward, Ryan Wiggins on debut was caught at slip by Blackwood off leftarm spinner Fabian Allen for one at 50 for three.

Kevin Stoute fell for 11 and Corbin, after facing 96 balls and striking six fours, was caught at leg slip by Blackwood off Bulli.

With Pride in turmoil, Greaves came to the fore, anchoring two critical partnerships to turn the innings around. He added 124 for the sixth wicket with Williams and 75 with Nurse in an unbroken seventh wicket stand.

The 23-year-old, better known for his right-arm pace, faced 182 balls in just over 3-1/2 hours at the crease and counted eight fours.

Williams, meanwhile, struck eight fours in a knock spanning 155 deliveries in just under three hours at the crease.

When Bulli had him caught at square leg in the first hour after tea, Nurse entered to further frustrated Scorpions, ensuring that Greaves also went past three figures for the first time in 10 first class matches.

Justin Greaves

SCOREBOARD PRIDE 1st innings K Corbin c Blackwood b Bulli 51 A Alleyne c Blackwood b Taylor 1 J Carter c wkp Thomas b Green 10 R Wiggins c Blackwood b Allen 1 *K Stoute c Blackwood b Green 11 K Williams c Griffith b Bulli 82 J Greaves not out 104 A Nurse not out 33 Extras (b1, lb3) 4 TOTAL (6 wkts, 97 overs) 297 Fall of wickets: 1-25, 2-43, 3-50, 4-65, 5-98, 6-222.

To bat: +M. Rampersaud, S. Benn, J. Warrican.

Bowling: Taylor 13-4-25-1, Green 10-2-36-2, Allen 16-352-1, Miller 24-4-51-0, Bulli 23-0-86-2, Campbell 11-0-43-0.

SCORPIONS – *N. Miller, F. Allen, P. Palmer, J. Campbell, J. Blackwood, D. Bulli, +D. Thomas, C. Walton, T. Griffith, J. Taylor, D. Green.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Eastman continues winning after taking Universal Auto and General Supplies 35-lap race TEAM Coco’s Hamza Eastman recorded his fourth victory for the 2017 cycling season by winning the feature 35-lap race of the Universal Auto and General Supplies sponsored 11-race cycle programme in the National Park yesterday.

Eastman who won three previous races since the 2017 season began and placed among the top finishers in another three races, returned one hour 17 minutes .04 seconds to win yesterday’s 35-miler and in the process, won four of the eight prime prizes that were up for grabs.

The other four primes were won by third place finisher Jamal John.

Paul DeNobrega placed second, Shaquile Agard fourth, Alonzo Ambrose fifth and Enzo Matthews sixth.

Eastman, John, DeNobrega and Agard broke from the pack as early as the fifth lap into the race and were never threatened. The quartet eventually lapped the field five laps later and worked in

Prize winners of the various categories of the Universal Auto and General Supplies cycle race strike a pose for photographer Delano Williams. At centre is Mrs. Rohini Baksh, wife of the sponsor and veteran cyclist,Shameer Baksh.

Chanderpaul hits magnificent 182 for Lancashire VETERAN Shiv Chanderpaul shrugged off a thigh injury to hit a magnificent 182 as Lancashire totalled 470 on day two against Surrey at The Oval.

The former West Indies Test batsman, aged 42 and 240 days, hit two sixes and 21 fours in his eight-hour innings.

Overnight partner Jordan Clark departed for 140 after their stand reached 243.

Paceman Mark Footitt claimed 5-118 for the home side, who lost Scott Borthwick to the final ball of the day to close on 112-2, 358 behind.

Resuming on 2946, Chanderpaul and Clark stayed together for another 24 overs before the latter was adjudged to have edged to Rory Burns at slip as he tried to sweep spinner Gareth Batty.

But they had already set a new Lancashire seventh-wicket partnership record against Surrey, beating the 198 by Alexander Eccles and John I’Anson at

Shiv Chanderpaul has now hit 74 first-class centuries.

Old Trafford in 1902. at extra cover off Batty.

Left-hander Chanderpaul After winning their had earlier tucked Footitt opening game against Waraway for two runs to reach wickshire, Surrey also made three figures and he contin- the most of a good strip at ued batting serenely through the start of their reply, with the afternoon session, despite Stoneman and Burns adding needing a runner because of a 67. thigh injury.

Stoneman then fell lbw Footitt removed Ste- to Clark for 40, and alphen Parry and Kyle Jarvis though Burns survived to in the space of three balls, stumps on 48, Borthwick’s with the help of wicket- exit - caught behind off keeper Ben Foakes, and Jarvis for 19 - was a disapChanderpaul was finally re- pointing ending for Surrey. moved when he was caught (BBC SPORT)

tandem to the finish.

Heading to the finish line, DeNobrega started the sprint but Eastman went on his outside and crossed the line ahead of him.

I other results, David Hicks won the boys and girls three-lap race ahead of Jonathan Rousmclet and Brandon DeNobrega respectively; Ian `Dumb Boy’ Jackson was the winner of the veterans’ under-50 five-Lap race. Second was Sybrone Fernandes and finishing third was Lennox Jackson.

Linden Blackman won the veterans’ over 50 five-lap race, while Nigel Dugid won the 10-lap race for juveniles.

Second was Adealie Hodge and Briton John was third.

Jaikaran Sukhai was the winner of the five-lap event for mountain bikers and Ryan Canterbury was second.

Ajani Cutting won the BMX boys 6-9 years twolap event ahead of Antone Vandersung and Jonathan Cox respectively.

Barca keep pressure on Madrid with thrilling Real Sociedad win

Barcelona’s players celebrate a goal. REUTERS/Albert Gea

By Rik Sharma BARCELONA,(Reuters)-Lionel Messi’s double strike helped Barcelona scrape a 3-2 victory over Real Sociedad on Saturday to keep up the pressure on La Liga leaders Real Madrid.

The Argentine scored twice and set up a third for Paco Alcacer as Barcelona

saw off their Basque opponents, who pressed them until the end of a nervy encounter.

After Real Madrid’s last-gasp victory over Sporting Gijon earlier in the day the Catalans’ win takes them three points behind Los Blancos, having played one match more, ahead of next Sunday’s Clasico.

Messi put Barcelona

ahead with a low drive and doubled the lead with a tapin, but Sociedad hit back when Inigo Martinez’s shot bounced off Samuel Umtiti into the Barcelona net.

Alcacer extended the Catalans’ advantage before Xabi Prieto reduced the deficit to 3-2 just before halftime, while the second half stayed goalless despite pressure from the visitors.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

Guyana take silver in girls U-15, bronze for boys’ U-15

GUYANA was still in the running for the boys’ under-18 title up to late last night when they face off against the Dominica Republic in the semifinals.However,the Guyana girls under-15 team had already picked up the silver when competition commenced in the Caribbean Cadet and Junior Table Tennis Championships being played here in Guyana at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The local boys under-15 finished with bronze, while the girls under-18 team shared a joint third with the Jamaican team. It was only in the boys under-18 where our fate remains uncertain when Guyana come up against the Dominican Republic side.

But things were not looking bright for the Guyana side as the night advanced. Both Kyle

Boys U-18 player Kyle Edghill in action yesterday Eghill and Elisha Johnson had suffered losses in the team’s first two semifinal matches.

Edghill went under 3 – 0 against Mariano Lockward, and Johnson followed with 3 – 2 lost to Carlos Guzman. It was all down to Miguel Wong to keep the team in the game.

The boys’ semifinal matches followed the team’s afternoon quarter

final win against Aruba.

Johnson came out really big picking up two matches, and Nickolus Romain took one, to avenge an opening lost for Kyle Eghill against Jeandry Mathilda.

Edghill lost 10 – 12, 8 – 11, 7 – 11.

But Johnson quickly equalized for Guyana by overwhelming Jean Claude Hoek 11 -9, 11 -7,

Guyana’s girls’ under-15 player Neveah Clarkston during one of her matches yesterday

11 – 2. Romain then took Guyana one up by beating Donald Yarzagaray 11 – 5, 11 – 9, 9 – 11, 11 – 6 Johnson returned this time to deal Mathilda a

whipping. He finished him off 13 – 11, 11 – 8, 11 – 6.

In the girls under-15 it was the team of Abigail Martin, Neveah Clarkston and Selenas

Jackman that lead Guyana to the silver after succeeding 3 – 1 against Jamaica, despite a 0 – 3 lost against Dominican Republic.

a clean bill of health. Of course, there are little areas that have to be tweaked.

There are some matters that need to be clarified as to the relationship between the Board (of JADCO) and the Executive Director, as well as the minister,” Minister Grange said.

“It’s important that we observe best practices and I’m really happy that we were able to sit with WADA and to have

a greater understanding and have WADA indicate that we are compliant.”

The delegation was led

by Tim Ricketts, WADA’s Director of Standards and Harmonization, who verified the minister’s claims.

“WADA’s presence in Jamaica was to meet also with JADCO to look at the post-operations of the partnership that JADCO had with Canada. And we’re very pleased with the out-

comes of that partnership and where JADCO is in terms of delivering effective anti-doping programmes,” he said.

The Chairman of the JADCO Board, Alexander Williams, was pleased with WADA’s assessment.

He said it confirms that JADCO was “well on track to being one of the best national anti-doping organizations in the world”.

WADA happy with Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission MINISTER of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, has declared that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is happy with the operations of the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO), which oversees doping control over the nation’s sports programmes.

The news comes on the heels of the conclusion of a visit to the country by a

two-member team from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), world sports’ anti-doping watchdog.

The visit also comes in the wake of a recent report aired by German broadcaster ARD that a number of Jamaican athletes tested positive for low levels of clenbuterol during the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China and that both the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and WADA

were aware but chose not to take any action.

Both bodies have since stated that the Jamaican athletes were among several from 20 countries who produced similar results, which could have been caused by the consumption of tainted meat.

However, no mention of the ARD report was made by the minister or the WADA team.

“WADA has given us

Jamaica nab four medals in opening session WILLEMSTAD, Curacao, (CMC) – Perennial champions Jamaica sent early warning shots in the morning session of the 46th CARIFTA Games when Janique Burgher captured gold and teammate Lamara Distin, silver, in the girls Under-18 high jump final here Saturday.

Their successes were two of four for giants Jamaica who also picked up medals

Sakari Famous

in the two other finals staged in the boys Under-20 javelin and the girls under-18 shot put.

Burgher’s effort was the only golden one, however, successfully clearing 1.77 metres to finish ahead of Distin who clinched silver with a mark of 1.74.

Bermudian Sakari Famous finished with bronze with a clearance of 1.71m.

Distin and Famous were

also second and third respectively at last year’s showpiece in Martinique.

Burgher was impressive, effortlessly cruising to the mark of 1.77 before missing her first clearance but succeeding with the second.

However, the emerging star failed thrice at the 1.80m mark, despite clearing the height at the Puma Gibson McCook Relays in Kingston

last February.

Meanwhile, Keyon Burton handed Dominica their first gold medal of the games when he threw the javelin 62.14 metres, to win the boys Under-20 event.

Barbadian Kalvin Marcus claimed silver with a throw of 60.40m while Jamaican Kevin Nedrick finished with bronze with a mark of 58.33.

Last year, Burton won sil-

ver with a throw of 64.87m.

Trinidad and Tobago also claimed their first medal through Ianna Roach who won the girls Under-18 shot put with a mark of 14.43 metres, after finishing with silver in the event last year.

Danielle Sloley thew 14.12 to hand Jamaica their fourth medal of the morning with silver while Tamera Manette of Martinique took bronze with 13.86.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 16, 2017

PCL 4-day cricket….

Paul, Fudadin combine to put Jaguars in total command …Paul claims 6 for 28; Fudadin on 113 not out

By Rajiv Bisnauth FAST rising all-rounder Keemo Paul produced two lively spells of seam bowling, while opener Assad Fudadin answered his many critics, as the new-look Guyana Jaguars line-up took firm control against Windward Islands Volcanoes on day one of their ninth round WICB’s Professional Cricket League Fourday game at the National Stadium, Providence.

T h e 1 9 - y e a r- o l d P a u l bowled the perfect line to claim 6-28 off 10.1 overs before Fudadin completed his seventh first-class hundred to cap a tremendous day for the home side.

At stumps the hosts were in a commanding position at 209-2, replying to the Volcanoes first innings total of 95.

Fudadin was batting solidly on 113, in company with night watchman Gudakesh

Assad Fudadin acknowledges his teammates after reaching his seventh first-class hundred.

Motie. The duo will resume today, with the hosts already securing a first innings lead of 114.

Chanderpaul Hemraj, who looked regal playing his drives and square cuts contributed 54, while Rajendra Chandrika made 35 in the hosts’ reply.

Earlier, the visitors’ decision to bat first after winning the toss backfired on them, and after a monumental top-order collapse they were blown away inside 29 overs.

The visitors were definitely disoriented with the bat, with only Sunil Ambris (29) putting up a prolonged resistance in a seventh- wicket stand of 42 with Shane Shillingford (24), which proved to be the only high point for the visitors.

The hosts’ opening pace attack of Romario Shepherd (2-17) and Paul exploited the helpful conditions superbly. They were relentless with their tight lines and fuller lengths, and with the cloud cover that afforded some swing, the tourists’ batsmen were not up to the challenge.

Guyana Football Federation dismayed …. following Disciplinary Committee ruling

By Rawle Toney THE executive committee of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) noted with consternation the adverse ruling against their body by the Disciplinary Committee in the matter of a complaint made

by Slingerz FC, Alpha United, Pele FC and the Georgetown Football Club (GFF).

Attorneys Sanjeev Datadin (Chairman) and Natasha Vieira, along with Dr. Clement McEwan ruled that the executive committee’s decision to move the STAG Elite League from eight to ten teams was ultra vires their powers and unconstitutional and that the GFF Constitution can only be amended by Congress and the Executive Committee had no authority to unilaterally amend the Constitution in any manner whatsoever.

The GFF stated that “while the executive committee fully respects the independence and role of the Disciplinary Committee, it is their (the GFF) position that this matter does not fall within the jurisdiction of the Disciplinary Committee, as was formally communicated to the Chairman at the outset.”

“The governing bodies, FIFA and CONCACAF, have confirmed that the Executive Committee acted fully within its rights and powers, as clearly laid out in the GFF’s Constitution; that no breach to the Constitution occurred, and that no change to the Constitution was required

in order to expand the League” the Federation said in a release.

Article 36.2.i of the Constitution states that it is within the powers of the Executive Committee to “draw up regulations governing the conditions of participation in and the staging of competitions organised by the Federation, including the playing schedule. This shall not affect the composition of the Congress.”

In addition, according to the

which automatically meant the clubs had chosen not to be in good standing with the GFF, CONCACAF was forced to take the very difficult decision to exclude those clubs from this year’s regional competition” the Federation added.

The GFF cited that “it is vital that all of our members are fully familiar with, and willing to abide by, the full content of the Constitution, as we seek to reform and rebuild football in

L-R) GFF vice -president Brigadier General (ret’d) Bruce Lovell and president Wayne Forde.

GFF, the four clubs that chose to boycott this season’s League were in violation of Article 13.1.c of the Constitution, which states that members are obliged “to take part in competitions (if applicable) or other sporting activities organised/approved by the Federation.”

“As a consequence of this breach of the Constitution,

Guyana.

The GFF Executive Committee is working hard to restore the image of football in Guyana and to lay sustainable foundations for a professional, accountable and successful future for football through reform, respect for the rules and careful investment in development and facilities.

Keemo Paul Shepherd plucked out both openers early - Devon Smith caught at first slip off the second ball of the innings, while Tyron Theophile was taken at the wicket nine balls later.

Thereafter Paul, in just his second game at this level, then tore through the visitors batting, taking the wickets of Jerlani Robinson, Andre Fletcher, Kavem Hodge and Kyle Mayers in the space of six impressive overs.

Robinson was trapped leg-before, while Fletcher, Hodge and Mayers, were all snapped up from sharp catches in the slip cordon, at 29-6.

It was a setback from which they never recovered despite the brief seventh- wicket resistance.

Paul returned to trap Ambris in front, and by the interval the visitors were 78-7.

But the Windards capitulation after lunch was swift. Shillingford was run out, while Delorn Johnson and Keddy Lesporis succumbed to off-spinner Steven Jacobs and Paul respectively.

In far friendlier conditions for batting,Chandrika and Fudadin started solidly with a mix of caution and controlled aggression, which included some sweetly-timed shots on both sides of the wicket.

With their careers somewhat on the line, both batsmen seemed determined to make an impact. The left-handed Fudadin was the more convincing opener, reaching his fifty off 63 balls with a lofted cover boundary off Shillingford .

On the other hand, Chandrika who appeared rather tentative, gradually grew in confidence, and by the tea interval he was on 29, while Fudadin progressed to 60.

The final session began a little more relaxed for the visitors after Johnson removed Chandrika, caught at the wicket, at 107-1.

Hemraj, who is making a return to the national side after

an absence of three years, joined Fudadin and the pair pulverised the hapless Volcanoes attack while adding 92 for the second-wicket.

The 23-year-old Hemraj got going with a sweet straight boundary off Johnson while Fudadin continued to score freely, punishing the profligacy and inaccuracy of the bowlers’ en route to his milestone off 149 balls, hitting 11 boundaries and two sixes.

However, with a bowling attack that lacked depth to trouble the left-handed pair, Hemraj began to blossom, hitting four other boundaries along with two sixes to reach his first fifty at this level.

But after facing 107 balls, a lack of concentration cost his wicket. Fudadin innings has so far spanned 240 minutes, 172 balls, with 12 fours and two sixes. Play resumes today at 10:00hrs.

SCOREBOARD Windward Islands Volcanoes 1st innings D Smith c Johnson b Shepherd 0 T Theophile c Bramble b Shepherd 1 J Robinson lbw b Paul 2 A Fletcher C Johnson b Paul 13 S Ambris lbw b Paul 29 K Hodge c Fudadin b Paul 0 K Mayers c Johnson b Paul 6 S Shillingford run out 24 K Lesporis b Paul 12 D Johnson b Jacobs 0 S Lewis not out 4 Extras: (w-1, nb-2, b-1) 4 Total: (all out; 28.1 overs) 95 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-3, 3-6, 4-19, 5-19, 6-29, 7-71, 8-90, 9-91, 10-95 Bowling: Shepherd 5-1-17-2,

Paul 10.1-3-28-6, Rutherford 5-0-24-0, Permaul 7-3-20-0, Jacobs 1-0-5-1

Guyana Jaguars 1st innings R Chandrika c wk b Johnson 35 A Fudadin not out 113 C Hemraj c wk b Shillingford 54 G Motie not out 2 Extras: (nb-4, lb-1) 5 Total: (for two wkts; 59 overs) 209 Fall of wickets: 1-107, 2-199 Bowling: Johnson 11-2-23-1, Lewis 9-2-38-0, Mayers 6-2-19-0, Shillingford 16-3-54-1, Edward 11-1-45-0, Hodge 2-0-15-0, Theophile 4-0-14-0

Paul, Fudadin combine to put Jaguars in total command See story on page 31

Caesar wins historic 100M CARIFTA gold ... Hooper first in Triple Jump See story on page 25

Natricia Hooper

Compton Caesar

Guyana take silver in girls U-15, bronze for boys’ U-15

See story on page 25

Sanjeev Datadin – GFF’s Disciplinary Committee Chairman See story on page 30

The participating teams at Caribbean Cadet and Junior Table Tennis opening ceremony Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

Disciplinary Committee chastises GFF for violating constitution FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 2017