Guyana chronicle epaper 11 29 2016

Mega solar farm for Mabaruma P.7

No. 104750

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Budget set at $250B P.3

Water and Sanitation Agriculture $2.8B P.8 $20.6B P.11

Health $31.2B

P.12

Man shot trying to disarm cop

P.12

Public Infrastructure $37.2B 8 P.

Education $43.1B

Public Security $29.1B

P.10

► Economy grew 2.6 per cent; ► VAT cut to $14% ► VAT on electricity consumption in excess of $10,000 per month; ► VAT on water consumption in excess of $1,500 per month; ► Tax breaks on importation of items for wind, solar energy ► Tax exemptions for investment in, and construction of, water treatment and

P.6

Govt, opposition clash over budget See stories on pages 5&12

…sugar not sweet investment, says Jordan

water recycling facilities; ► Income Tax threshold increased to $60,000; ► Corporate Tax rate down 27.5% for manufacturing and non-commercial companies; ► Old Age Pension up to $19,000; ► Public Assistance increased to $7,500

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

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Budget set at $250B GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

‒ economy grew 2.6 per cent Guyana recorded a 2.6 per cent real economic growth in 2016, a decline from the 4.4 per cent projected earlier this year, said Finance Minister Winston Jordan, who on Monday presented a $250B Budget for 2017.

At mid-year, a real economic growth rate of 2 per cent was achieved, but several industries and sectors, including sugar, rice, construction, and wholesale and retail trade, were showing signs of distress. As such, the projected growth rate for 2016 was revised downwards to 4 per cent.

“Since then, several unexpected developments, including the downsizing of Barama and Demerara Timbers Limited’s operations in the forestry sector; structural changes and ongoing strikes in the sugar industry; and the slow pace of implementation of the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) conspired to reduce

the real growth rate to 2.6 per cent,” Jordan told the House on Monday.

At the global level, there has also been a contraction in real economic growth. In October 2016, the World Economic Outlook (WEO), a publication of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), projected that global growth would reach 3.1 per cent, slightly less than the 3.2 per cent achieved in 2015.

Growth in advanced countries is projected to weaken by half of a percentage point relative to 2015. This decline is partially explained by the weaker-than-expected economic performance of the United States of America (US), due to weak investment and a decline in labour productivity.

Growth in the United Kingdom (UK) and the rest of Europe is also projected to fall in 2016, as the region comes to grips with the Brexit

reality. But economic growth in emerging market and developing economies is expected to improve in 2016, rising to 4.2 per cent from the 4 per cent achieved in 2015.

This, Jordan said, reflects reduced concerns about nearterm growth in China, and expectations that advanced countries would keep interest rates low.

Presenting Budget 2017 under the theme “Building a Diversified, Green Economy: Delivering the Good Life to All Guyanese”, the minister explained that the economy felt the drag of dismal output performances in sugar, rice, forestry, and construction, including housing.

PROVERBIAL SAND AND FUMES According to the minister, the current Government inherited an economy that was built essentially on the proverbial sand and was running on the proverbial fumes.

“It is an economy which, in spite of positive growth

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

performances averaging 4.5 per cent in the period 20102014, remains undiversified and incapable of withstanding even small shocks. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that we are reaping the whirlwind of downturns in these sectors. It will take more than just traditional policies and approaches to turn them around. What we need is a growth strategy that

is broader in scope and more diversified in outlook,” he told the House.

At the global level, he also noted that there remains great uncertainty and adversity, noting that the challenges are many and the impact of external pressures cannot be underestimated.

“But we have resolved to pursue a growth strategy that breaks with the monotonous cycle of a few highs and perennial lows of prices of primary stage commodity production. We have to match the expectations of our people for a better life, but we would not be able to deliver if we stay the current course. To do so would allow the confluence of adversities and challenges to continue to constrain us from seizing the opportunity to chart a new direction,” Jordan contended.

In doing so, he said, Government would be employing a number of strategic approaches to achieve its objectives. These include stabilising the macroeconomic

and public finances; preparing for oil and gas production; encouraging and supporting entrepreneurship, in particular those that involve new green technologies and processes; creating more job opportunities; increasing the focus on innovation, so as to increase domestic production and boost exports; moving towards a Smart Guyana that bridges the digital divide; reforming business facilitation, and expanding economic horizons; building climate-resilient infrastructure for economic expansion, and linking the coastland and hinterland; lifting the quality of life; addressing poverty; and reforming the public and financial sectors.

“In short, Budget 2017 is designed to consolidate the gains we have made since our accession to office, improve economic performance, and define a sustainable pathway to the happiness and prosperity of Guyana,” Jordan told the House.

Sugar not sweet investment, says Jordan MONEY injected into sugar in its current state is money wasted, Finance Minister Winston Jordan said, contending that it would make no impact on the operating losses and cash deficit status of the industry.

“The status quo of the sugar industry can neither be sustained nor maintained. As currently structured, the industry would require Government’s support to the tune

of $18.6 billion and $21.4 billion for the years 2017 and 2018, respectively,” he told the House in his budget presentation on Monday.

This is an untenable position, the minister said, pointing out that it would seriously jeopardise the fiscal stance of the Government, while compromising resource allocation to other critical and important areas.

“Radical re-organising

of the sugar industry is required as a matter of urgency, for the continued postponement of the hard decisions on GuySuCo’s future would result in the corporation incurring even more debts (estimated currently at $80 billion) and an escalation of the demands on the Treasury.”

Recognising this grave situation, a Cabinet Sub-Committee has been established, tasked with making definitive recom-

mendations for implementation by the end of 2016.

This committee, Jordan said, has been examining all options and will make a full report to the Cabinet shortly.

Meanwhile, for 2017 the Government has made an allocation of $9 billion to support the financing of GuySuCo’s operations.

This brings to $32 billion, the amount of resources that would have been provided to the Corporation

since August 2015.

Turning his attention to rice, Jordan said in order to improve the livelihoods and income of rice farmers, as well as contribute to national food security, works are apace to decentralise the production of seed paddy and introduce new high-yielding rice.

This will see the launch of candidate varieties of rice across the regions, and will be accompanied by specially designed re-

search and extension programmes, formulated to improve productivity at all levels for farmers, millers, and exporters.

Next year, diversification in the specialty rice varieties, such as aromatic rice, will continue, and increased emphasis will be placed on the development of value-added products such as rice/ wheat flour blends, rice noodles, pasta, and precooked rice products.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

MEASURES TO REDUCE INEQUALITY AND INCREASE DISPOSABLE INCOME ● Increase income tax threshold - An increase in the current threshold of $660,000 per annum to the greater of $720,000 per annum or onethird (1/3) of the employee’s salary. An additional 7,600 persons will be taken off the tax register; ● The reduction in the Personal Income Tax rate from 30 per cent to 28 per cent for individuals earning less than $2,160,000 per annum or $180,000 per month. A new rate of 40 per cent will be applied to the incomes of individuals earning in excess of $2,160,000 per annum. These measures will allow for an annual increase in take home pay to persons earning under $720,000 of $18,000, and for persons earning $2,160,000 to benefit from an additional annual take home pay of $46,800. Further, in the case of the higher paid employees, by allowing for one-third of their income to be tax free, the incidence of tax will not exceed 25 per cent, thereby allowing for a higher “take home” pay. This would reduce the need for tax free benefits, in kind, now being paid to employees in the private sector in lieu of salaries, and claimed by self-employed persons in lieu of income. The loss from the implementation of these tax measures is $3.9 billion, which can used to boost personal savings and consumerism; ● Repeal of Section 33E (4) of the Income Tax Act as it relates to the sale of gold or diamond not being taken into account in ascertaining the chargeable income of the persons who owned gold or diamonds. This repeal seeks to bring these operators within the purview of all the Tax Acts; ● Increase in the Tributors Tax from 10 per cent to 20 per cent - The tax on tributors has remained unchanged, since its inception in 1998. This increase, which is in line with the withholding tax, is the first to removing distortions and multiplicity of tax rates;

allows for a court order to be obtained enforcing this provision. This will be consistent with a similar provision which exists under section 71 of the Income Tax Act Chapter 81:01; ● Extension of time for payment of tax - Section 42 of the VAT Act empowers the Commissioner to extend the time for payment of tax by the person beyond the date on which it is due and payable under this section, or make such other arrangements as appropriate to ensure the payment of the tax due. This provision allows a taxpayer to object to a decision by the Commissioner regarding an arrangement to settle outstanding VAT due. Given that VAT is funds held in trust, no such right should be given to taxpayers regarding payment.

Therefore, this provision will be repealed; ● Non-Resident VAT refunds - Non-residents are required to pay VAT and apply for a refund when they are leaving the country. This places a heavy administrative burden on GRA. In any case, not many persons benefit. As such, this provision will be repealed; ● Budget Agencies to pay VAT - Paragraph 2 (x) will be removed from the Schedule I of the VAT Act which says, “goods when imported and works and consultancy services purchased by a budget agency named in the schedule to the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act 2003.”

This will result in Budget Agencies paying VAT on all goods and services, except those financed from the proceeds of a donor agency; ● Removal of locally produced items in the VAT Act - A review of the VAT Act confirmed that in 2007, a few zero-rated items had the words "locally produced".

Schedule 1, paragraph 2 of the VAT Act will be amended accordingly; ● Late filing of Income Tax, Corporation tax and Property Tax Returns - The current late filing penalty regime does not provide for penalties to be imposed on late returns which disclose a loss.

Taxpayers can submit a loss or deficit return late without fear of any penalties, since penalties are applied to taxes assessed. I propose to increase late filing penalties to 10 per cent (similar to VAT). A flat

Budget measures ● The imposition of a two per cent withholding tax on the gross payments made to all contractors. The two per cent shall be deducted from every payment made to contractors by contractees and shall be remitted to the Guyana Revenue Authority. The amounts deducted would be allowed as a credit against the final taxes payable by the contractors; ● Restriction of Mortgage Interest Relief to loans up to $15M. This measure will ensure that only low to middle income earners benefit, as was intended. All of these measures will take effect from January 1, 2017.

MEASURES TO SPUR ECONOMIC GROWTH ● A reduction in the Corporation Tax rate, from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent, for manufacturing and non-commercial companies; ● The introduction of a dual tax-rate for companies carrying out both commercial and non-commercial activities.

This means that the noncommercial part of the business will benefit from the lower corporate tax rate of 27.5 per cent but will pay the commercial tax rate of 40 per cent for their commercial operations.

Companies must, therefore, engage in segment accounting and keep separate books of accounts to so benefit; ● These two measures will result in a loss of $752M in taxes. However, it is anticipated that this amount being invested in renewal and expansion of businesses; ● The Minimum Tax Rate shall be two per cent of the turnover of a commercial company, or 40 per cent of taxable income, whichever is lower. This will alleviate the higher incidence of tax on those entities which continually have a higher incidence of tax greater than the present commercial rate of 40 per cent. Currently bidders for contracts are required to have valid Income Tax and NIS compliance certificates. This has especially hampered small contractors from participating in the procurement process.

While these requirements will remain, Government proposes

to make it easier for potential bidders to access these documents as follows: ● Automatic Issuance of Temporary Income Tax and NIS Compliance Certificates. Prospective bidders will be given a one-off, three month, temporary certificate, regardless of their status with GRA and NIS. During the three months, they are expected to make the necessary arrangements to become compliant. Each certificate will cost $1,000; ● Standard Income Tax and NIS Compliance Certificates.

These will be valid for one year and will be issued to individuals and companies that are in good standing with these agencies. Each certificate will cost $2,500; ● Trusted Trader Compliance Certificates. These will be valid for three years and will be issued to companies that have a demonstrated track record of compliance. Each certificate will cost $10,000. These measures will take effect from January 1, 2017.

VALUE-ADDED TAX (VAT) ● Reduction in the rate of VAT – Government proposes to reduce the Value Added Tax rate from 16 per cent to 14 per cent; ● Increase in the VAT threshold – Government proposes to increase the VAT threshold from $10M to $15M. It was found that a significant number of persons were unable to maintain proper records to meet the minimum threshold requirement for VAT registration. As such, this measure will allow the GRA to concentrate on the cohort that makes the bulk of VAT payments, since there will be a smaller tax base and consequently less VAT registrants to administer; ● VAT on electricity consumption – Government proposes to introduce a VAT of 14 per cent on electricity consumption in excess of $10,000 per month. For the avoidance of doubt, the $10,000 limit is not an allowance. While VAT will not be applied to consumption up to $10,000, it will be applied to the full amount once consumption exceeds $10,000;

● VAT on water consumption – Government proposes to introduce a VAT of 14 per cent on water consumption in excess of $1,500 per month.

For the avoidance of doubt, the $1,500 limit is not an allowance. While VAT will not be applied to consumption up to $1,500, it will be applied to the full amount once consumption exceeds $1,500; ● Exempt and Zero-rated items. Government proposes to expand the list of exempt items and eliminate all zero-rated items, with the exception of those pertaining to exports and manufacturing inputs.

MEASURES TO IMPROVE TAX ADMINISTRATION ● Excise Stamp System In an effort to minimise the smuggling of high dutiable excise products, GRA will implement, 2017, an “Excise Stamp Programme”, based on an agreement with Canadian Bank Note (CBN). An excise stamp is a type of revenue stamp affixed to excisable goods to indicate that the required excise (and other) taxes have been paid on the product.

This will see the stamping of alcohol and tobacco products with “high-security” stamps, which can be read by barcode scanners. The system is highly secure and will be supplemented by a track and trace system, anti-counterfeit measures, barcode scanners, and technical support. The Excise law will be amended suitably to facilitate the implementation of this measure; ● Increase in the three years’ statute of limitations – It is proposed to increase the statute of limitation from three years to five years. This will give the Revenue Authority time to cover a longer period to examine taxpayers’ records, consistent with similar provisions in the Income Tax Act. This will enhance enforcement and compliance efforts; ● Persons leaving Guyana with tax liabilities - It is proposed to revise the provision of Section 45 of the VAT Act by deleting the proviso which

fee of $50,000 will be applied to each loss/deficit return submitted after the prescribed time; ● Late payment of tax - The penalty for late payment of tax provided for under section 99 (1) of the Income Tax Act Chapter 81:01 will be repealed and a simplified interest regime enacted. Section 6 (1) (c) of the Financial Administration and Audit Act will be amended to facilitate the imposition of interest on late payment of tax at the rate of two per cent per annum (similar to VAT); ● Interest Rate – The relevant section would be amended to provide for a simple interest rate of 18 per cent per annum, instead of the current Bank of Guyana market published rates; ● Failure to keep proper books and records - The penalties for failing to keep proper books and records are lenient. As a result, many taxpayers, particularly the self-employed taxpayers, fail to keep proper books and records. The penalties will be increased to $200,000 or five per cent of the tax assessed, whichever is greater; ● Failure to present books and records when requested - Taxpayers fail to present books, records and other information in a timely manner. Audits are greatly affected by the lack of evidence to justify disclosures in financial statements. It is proposed to increase the fine to $200,000 and/or six months imprisonment; ● Distress Proceedings for non-payment of tax – In an effort to streamline the various tax Acts under the administration of the GRA, legislation currently in place in the VAT Act as regards distress proceedings will be inserted in the Income Tax Act to facilitate like action in cases of non-compliance and nonpayment of Income Tax. This legislation will help to strengthen GRA's collections and improve compliance by taxpayers; ● Garnishment - The provisions of section 102 of the Income Tax Act Chapter 81:01 will be revised to provide authority to the GRA to garnish funds from bank accounts held by taxpayers who have outstanding tax arrears.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

PPP rails against $250B budget …says estimates big on taxes, unresourceful

By Vanessa Braithwaite MINISTER of Finance Winston Jordan and the Coalition Government on Monday came in for much criticisms from the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo and his fellow party members after being audience to an over three hour $250 Billion budget speech presented by Jordan.

During a news conference immediately after the budget presentation, Jagdeo, accompanied by members of Parliament, Bishop Juan Edgill and Irfaan Ali described the budget as a ‘taxation budget’ and “immensely unresourceful.”

Jagdeo said he was prepared to listen to a pro-growth budget but instead was forced to listen to a speech filled with cliché’s and repetitions and scanty information. Backing up his opinion, the former President alluded to the several items and services that have now been deemed taxable and the impact that will have on the ordinary man, the economy and the investment sector.

“In all my lifetime this was probably the worst budget I have ever seen, the budget that brought in the most taxes in the history of our country and in a fundamental way has destroyed any possibility of any recovery in our economy, it will create more hardships for thousands of people,” Jagdeo, a Russian trained economist argued.

DECREASE ON THE VAT BY 2% The opposition leader expressed concerns about the taxation that has been placed on several items, even those locally produced and basic services such as electricity and water. These criticisms came even as Minister Jordan announced a 2% decrease on the value added tax (VAT).

Minister Jordan, in his presentation projected that revenue is expected to increase by 8.9 percent to $162.6 billion, reflecting a considerable increase in collections of VAT, due to the measures to be implemented, in 2017. Higher revenues are also supported by an increase of 15.1 percent in excise tax collections, which are projected to reach $34.4 billion, in 2017.

He revealed that there is an expansion of zero-rated items; however these exclude

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo (centre) flanked by MPs, Irfaan Ali (left) and Bishop Juan Edghill (right) (Adrian Narine photo) those pertaining to exports and manufacturing inputs. These exclusions, in addition to the announcement of the 14% taxation on water consumption over $1,500 and electricity consumption over $10, 000 came in for high condemnations as Jagdeo argued that the grass root people, the normal man on the street is who will be affected. “Poor people and mothers, single- parents who have to find milk for their babies now have to pay vat on the milk…how could this be helpful to anyone,” Jagdeo said.

This new tax regime, the Opposition Members concluded, will bring disincentives to the ordinary people, to investors and will be immensely ominous for the future of Guyana, for job creation and growth and business development. The trio affirmed that the highly taxed budget will find its funding in the local financial markets, which will create unwarranted competition with the private sector that will also be seeking funds from the same market.

“What this will do, it will compete with the private sector for funds because they will both be seeking funds from the same market, the capital markets. If you have greater competitions for funds, interest rates will rise and therefore choke off growth in the future, and it will have that major impact in the country…a lot of people will be discouraged from investing because the state will be sucking up most of the liquidity in the system.”Jagdeo said.

UNPLANNED PROJECTS Another area that was criticized is the several infrastructural projects that will be embarked on in 2017 such as the Linden to Lethem highway

that will cost the state in totality $80B. According to Jordan, the Linden to Lethem corridor is essential for creating a link between our road and sea transportation networks. “We intend to exploit the competitive advantage of our strategic geo-physical and geo-political location on the South American mainland along the Atlantic Coast. In this regard, in 2017, our Government will commence the first phase of the Linden to Lethem road project which spans Linden to Mabura Hill.”

Alluding to this particular project, Jagdeo said that it was not well thought out and no feasibility study was done.

“At this point in time given the traffic flow to Brazil and Guyana that it is unsustainable to spend US$400M on a road of that nature which is $80B in the long run so a lot of these ideas I believe were not well thought out.”

THE GREEN ECONOMY Jagdeo also rubbished the Finance Minister’s claims that the budget is advocating for a diversified green economy according to the theme “Building a Diversified, Green Economy: Delivering the Good Life to All Guyanese”. He posited that the 2017 budget is an articulation of a Green Agenda, which spans social, environmental,

and economic sustainability issues.

“Mr. Speaker, overall, the renewable energy and energy efficiency interventions in 2017 will result in annual energy savings of approximately 2.8 GWh or 1,800 barrels of oil equivalent per year and an annual cost saving of approximately $193 million, and avoided carbon dioxide emissions of 1,674 tonnes per year.” To achieve the goal of the green economy, several tax exemptions will be placed on the importation of products and services that will show appreciation for this vision.

The PPP however poured cold water on these plans saying that it is actually going to stifle the green economy rather than to promote it. The Opposition leader described his conclusions and arguments as preliminary as he did not carefully sift through the budget as yet but from listening to the presentation he is extremely disappointed and very concerned on its effects on the common man. He also expressed concern on several sectors such as the mining sector which he said will not benefit the sugar sector, the business sector and the contracting sector among others.

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

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05:00hrs

Wednesday, November 30, 2016 - 05:00hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

$29.1B for Security Sector

By Ariana Gordon

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

In 2013, the Government of Guyana was the recipient of funding from the Inter-American Development Bank to engage in studies for the construction of a road to facilitate the movement of goods from northern Brazil to Port Georgetown. This study has been completed and its final results were handed over to the Government a little over a week ago.

In delivering the Government’s remarks at a ceremony held to hand over the Report, Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson said, among other things, that: “Guyana can increase the competitiveness of its exports, and lower maritime cost. Guyana can also benefit from stimulating activity along the road leading to regional economic benefit in terms of employment and GDP. When we also take into account the need for tolling, this may also take another dimension of economic returns for Guyana.”

In the 1970s when the project for building such a road was conceptualised, the objective of the Forbes Burnham Administration was to link the communities in Region Seven, Eight, Nine and Ten with easy access to Georgetown, for the growth and development of Guyana and Guyanese.

Such linkages had at its primary aim to open markets, primary and secondary, for local produce. For example this road is supposed to facilitate food grown in the hinterland moving to the mainland; improving and optimising the logging industry in Region Seven, Eight, Nine and Ten; miners and traders travelling not only in comfort but shorter time to and from various locations.

It was felt too that with the road infrastructure, wastage would have been minimised, since it would have been easier for producers and sellers to move their products to and from the marketplace.

Notwithstanding the justification now being used to build this road, now dubbed the Georgetown/Brazil road, Guyana cannot lose sight of maximising opportunities for its indigenous development. Direct efforts to ensure sustainable economic development for Guyanese must not be lost sight of, though it is recognised primacy is being given to facilitating Brazil having access to the Atlantic port at shorter time. In addition to Guyana, Guyanese must also be major beneficiaries.

Prioritisation of things that matter to Guyana and Guyanese is important to nation building and forging the sense of nationhood from which nationalism springs. Guyana cannot afford to pay the price where our interests are put on the backburner, our culture face erosion, our resources exploited not to our benefit, citizens’ rights transgressed, and more so keeping persons trapped in perpetual poverty.

It is to the nation and its people’s advantage should its Government place emphasis on linking the hinterland communities with the capital as matter of policy and

With Government budgeting $29.1B for the Public Security Sector there would be a 20 per cent Increase in the recruitment of police officers to boost the police presence as a deterrent to crime and restore public confidence.

Under the heading “safeguarding public security, rebuilding public trust” Minister of Finance Winston Jordan stressed the importance of the safety of the country’s citizens while noting that the maintenance of public order is also one of his government’s key priorities.

He acknowledged the fact that almost on a daily basis criminal activities occur whether petty or fatal across the country.

“Mr. Speaker, this Government will continue to keep our crime prevention and reduction strategy under constant review, and will implement a menu of measures aimed to both prevent and respond efficiently to crimes against our people and property.”

Among the measures to be implemented are the boosting of the police presence as a deterrent to crime; equipping the police with vehicles and improve mobility and response times to reported crimes; expanding patrols in key areas to deter criminal activity, for which over $740M has been budgeted, complemented by the expansion of the mounted branch in key hinterland locations; Re-establishing and operationalising the 911 service to restore public confidence in the response capability of the security services.

Additionally, government intends to strengthen the Integrated Crime Information System to ensure sister agencies such as the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) and National AntiNarcotic Agency (NANA) share intelligence to enable the police to coordinate, intercept and detain criminals; strengthen the Office of Professional Responsibility to deal with rogue cops; and expand surveillance, utilising closed circuit television camera at both airports and in the city, as well as the development of the Smart City Framework over the period 2017 to 2019.

AT-RISK YOUTH The Finance Minister noted that prevention mea-

sures will also target over 1000 at-risk youth who are to be trained in a 9-month programme in technical and vocational skills in 2017. It is anticipated that the 57 empowerment and education of youth in livelihood-building skills will help to reduce the incidence of delinquency and crime.

“Mr. Speaker, another measure that is being implemented is the launching of a multi-agency collaboration to tackle narcotics, smuggling, and human-trafficking. In December of this year, the National Anti-Narcotics Agency (NANA) will be launched to promote greater coordination between the agencies that are involved in the fight against illegal drugs, as well as transnational crimes such as contraband smuggling, and gun and people trafficking,” said the Finance Minister. He added that the National Drug Strategy Master Plan and a draft of the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Master Plan, both of which were completed in 2016, will serve as a strategic guide for ongoing crime fighting efforts.

Additionally, Jordan noted that as the country advances in the Information Communication age, the Integrated Crime Information System (ICIS) will be expanded. That system he said is designed to connect “our different security-sector related infrastructure, with the goal of improving intelligence and prevention and response tactics.”

To facilitate the expansion, $42M was expended this year to procure equipment and network infrastructure to enhance the connection of police stations to the data center. In 2017 approximately 30 police stations in Regions 3 5, 6, and 10, as well as Georgetown and New Amsterdam Prisons, will be connected to the System.

“Mr. Speaker, we will continue to improve the capacities of our security services on all fronts. To this end, in 2017, we will be upgrading 12 police stations across the country to handle domestic violence interviews, interviewing and case management.

In tandem with the establishment of Community Action Councils, the Government will develop community safety plans for 20 communities with the highest crime and violence rates, the Finance Minister stated.

“The plans will serve as a guide to improving com-

priority. The benefits to be derived from such focus not only stand to increase production and productivity within and around communities, but also population movement and development with the increasing movement of skills and talents from around Guyana, and easier movement of goods and improvement in services both ways. The hinterland communities have a high level of poverty. Building infrastructures to benefit these communities will create employment and economic opportunities, direct and indi-

munity awareness, towards reducing the risk of crime and anti-social behaviour,” he stated.

The Minister said too that a study on violence against women and a study on crime and violence in indigenous communities, as well as a Safe Neighbourhood Survey, are to be conducted in 2017.

‘GREATLY EXPANDED’ Addressing overcrowding in the Georgetown Prison, the Mazaruni Prisons will be “greatly expanded” at a cost of $2.2B of which $369M has been budgeted for in 2017.

This will see the expansion of offices, inmate living facilities, staff and family living facilities, training facilities, as well as the construction of a school, day care center and places of worship.

Meanwhile, the Finance Minister said for the first time, a Port Georgetown fireboat will be added to the fleet of fire vehicles, at a cost $250 M, to service Port Georgetown. In addition, expanded fire protection services has resulted in $49.4 M being allocated for two water tenders in Leguan and Wakenaam as well as two ambulances to augment the integrated 912 and 913 emergency services to improve response time.

Three new fire stations, costing about $77.5 M, will be constructed at Mahdia, Mabaruma, and Melanie Damishana.

On the foreign Policy, economic diplomacy, and diaspora relations front, Minister Jordan said $5.2B has been budgeted towards diplomatic efforts, in 2017. He noted that Guyana will be chairing the 28th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

The bloc will be addressing critical regional issues, including the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). Also, at the multilateral level, within the framework of development cooperation between the European Union and the African, Caribbean, and Pacific Group of States (ACP-EU), Guyana will examine the option of pursuing an E-Visa regime, which is expected to reduce the cost of and improve access to visa applications and processing for foreigners wanting to visit the country.

Next year will see the Government exploring new options and avenues for

growth and development, while it continues to engage our partners in critical issues such as human rights, democracy, environmental sustainability, trade, and investment at various multilateral fora, including UNASUR, Mercosur, and the United Nations.

“In addition, we will also reinvigorate our engagement with the Diaspora with the development of a Diaspora Strategy, which will guide our engagements with Guyanese abroad with more precision and concerted effort,” said Minister Jordan.

REDEPLOYMENT AND REINFORCEMENT He recounted that in 2017 there was the redeployment and reinforcement of the country’s Foreign Service personnel en masse while noting that Guyana’s diplomatic presence abroad has been restored and bolstered with the stationing of 18 Heads of Mission across the globe, including at the two newly established missions in Trinidad and Tobago and Switzerland.

“This mobilisation of our foreign service comes at a most opportune time, for, in addition to garnering support for our national interests, and protecting our national sovereignty and territorial integrity, it has begun to deliver economic benefits,” he told the National Assembly.

Jordan said too that Guyana’s efforts in Cuba have resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between a private Guyanese rice company and a Cuban import agency. He noted that the market demand in Cuba is anticipated to reach as high as 200,000 metric tonnes in 2017.

Meanwhile, in the Justice Sector, the Finance Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to the justice sector reform as one of its priorities. He said the APNU-AFC government continues to place highest priority on the maintenance of a strong justice system, given its role in upholding civil liberties and maintaining the rule of law.

“To this end, key areas that have been earmarked for strategic interventions, in 2017, include strengthening legislation to counter money laundering and the financing of terrorism; review of pre-trial detention policies; use of alternative sentencing; and constitutional reform.”

rect. Region Seven, Eight, Nine and Ten can also play a more assertive role in Guyana improving and competing in products such as cashew nuts, palm oil, guava cheese and fruit juices which are in demand in the marketplace, local and international.

The objective of any developmental project reaps greater dividends when it starts with Guyanese as the focus. When the indigenous objectives are being met, the benefits derived by country and partners are assured.

7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Mega solar farm for Mabaruma …Gov’t unveils multiple measures to drive ‘green agenda’

By Vanessa Braithwaite GOVERNMENT on Monday laid out comprehensive measures to drive its green agenda next year, among which are the construction of an ambitious $264M largescale solar farm at Mabaruma, North West District, and a series of tax emptions for importation of energy-efficient equipment, including hybrid electric vehicles.

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

Furthermore, he said, Government has advanced the pursuit of additional solar farms with a capacity of 800 kilowatts at Lethem, 400 kilowatts at Mahdia, and 1.5 megawatts at Bartica.

Jordan said some immediate measures will be taken towards this expansion, which are: the lowering of the excise tax on hybrid and electric vehicles; granting of tax exemptions to set up electric vehicle charging stations; Zero-rating the excise tax on biofuel and specially designed refuse trucks; restriction of the importation of used tyres; and a reduction of taxes on new tyres. $1B ALLOCATION In addition, he said, Government will prioritise evidence-driven and cost-effective options to determine renewable energy choices across the country, in order to successfully transform the energy mix and reduce the share of non-renewable energy sources in the overall ratio.

“In this regard, we will shortly be releasing the outcome of a review of the Amaila Falls Hydroelectric Project which was undertaken

by Norconsult, the Norwegian-contracted consultants, after the comments of both the Kingdom of Norway and the Co-operative Republic of Guyana are incorporated into the final document.”

Last Saturday, the Opposition called for the release of the document.

In addition, Minister Jordan said, Government has allocated almost $1 billion next year to implement a series of renewable energy and energy-efficiency projects, following the charge given by President Granger for the public sector to lead the way in transitioning towards greater renewable energy use.

These interventions will be channelled through, and managed by, the Guyana Energy

Agency (GEA). The renewable energy programme for 2017 would entail the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on the rooftops of 64 government buildings. With a combined installed capacity of 1.36 megawatts (MW), these installations would result in: annual energy savings of 1.86 gigawatt hours (GWh) or 1,200 barrels of oil equivalent per year; annual cost savings of approximately $140 million; and environmental benefits in the form of avoided carbon dioxide emissions of about 1,116 tonnes per year.

Additionally, he said, to complement public sector investment, Government would be granting a one-off tax holiday of two years for corporation tax to importers of items for wind and solar energy investments, and for investors in water treatment, waste disposal, and recycling facilities.

These interventions, he said, when finalised, would significantly improve the lives of citizens, especially in the hinterland, by incentivising behavioural change, boosting investor confidence, and ensuring energy reliability.

“Our Government’s energy efficiency programme will involve, also, the replacement of inefficient lights and the installation of 10,427 light-emitting diode (LED) lamps and 3,766 occupancy sensors in government buildings; as well as 360 energy efficient outdoor lights.

This intervention will result in annual energy savings of 0.93 GWh, or 600 barrels of oil equivalent, with an estimated annual cost savings of $54 million, and avoided carbon dioxide emissions of 558 tonnes per year,” Jordan said.

Jordan told the House that, overall, the renewable energy and energy-efficiency interventions in 2017 would result in annual energy savings of approximately 2.8 GWh or 1,800 barrels of oil equivalent per year, and an annual cost saving of approximately $193 million, and avoided carbon dioxide emissions of 1,674 tonnes per year. The simple payback period would be approximately 5.2 years, based on the combined investment cost.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT STREET LAMPS He said, too, that in 2017, the administration would consider utilising the balance of the current Japanese non-project grant aid facility to the private sector to procure 5,000 energy efficient street lamps. This endeavour, he said, would result in replacement of the existing inefficient 250W street lights with 120W LED street lamps, resulting in energy savings of

about $158 million annually; with other benefits such as a reduction in power demand of about 0.7 MW and environmental benefits of about 2,000 tonnes carbon dioxide emissions per year avoided.

According to Jordan, based on the annual energy savings, this investment in energy efficiency would have a simple payback of less than 2 years.

Furthermore, in the pursuit of best practice and due diligence, Government will conduct further geotechnical studies for the Moco Moco Hydropower Development Project. The results of the geotechnical studies, which are expected to be completed in 2017, will be used to invite bids for the hydropower redevelopment contract.

Also, in the coming year, Government will see data collection studies being conducted on wind energy via a demonstration wind project.

GREEN AGENDA Jordan said Government’s Green Agenda, which has been consistently ventilated by President David Granger, and expressed in many forms – be it green economy, green development, or green pathway – sets out a vision that takes a broad, multi-dimensional approach towards achieving a “good life for all”.

He said the Green Agenda encompasses environmental protection, citizen security, employment and value chain creation, energy, health, education, social protection, and resilience against climate change and economic shocks. “It is about sustainable development, embracing a broad range of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aligning perfectly with multi-dimensional progress,” Jordan said.

According to him, each of us, as responsible citizens of this land, must strive to ensure that our actions leave minimal carbon footprints. “Whether we are making energy smart decisions on the type of appliance to purchase for our homes; whether we choose to drive to the corner store instead of walking; whether we remember to turn off lights in unoccupied spaces; or whether we design and construct our homes to use more natural light and ventilation, are all important decisions which will determine the magnitude of carbon footprint we amass.

“The Government will prioritise resource allocations to advance our nation along this green trajectory.”

He said that in recognition of its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and our Guyana’s nationally

determined contributions to the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, “we have committed to expand our protected areas by an additional two million hectares, by 2020.” Next year, the Government will engage in consultations with stakeholders; begin the process for delineation of the expanded area, and design a related management plan.

“These actions are consistent with meeting our commitments under the Paris Declaration and in keeping with Guyana’s commitment as a signatory to the Convention on Biodiversity,” the finance minister said.

He said sustainable management of the country’s environment will see additional resources being allocated for greater compliance and monitoring and strengthening of operations by regulatory agencies. To complement these initiatives within the regulatory framework and curb Guyana’s less-than-desirable consumption and production patterns, Jordan said, Government will be introducing an environmen-

tal levy on the manufacturers and distributors of products that use non-returnable metal, plastic, and glass beverage containers.

In addition, he said, “We will grant exemptions of customs duties and taxes on greenhouses and their component parts, among other concessions.”

He said, too, that to create an overarching framework to guide the management of the country’s biodiversity and chart a course for national development, Government will embark on the design of a Green State Development Plan, with support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The plan will serve as the template to guide the rapid transformation of our economy, reorienting the structure of Guyana’s production base and promoting diversification to reduce the reliance on the ailing traditional sectors.

“These efforts will lay the path to eliminating our dependency on fossil fuels and moving us closer to the target of 100 per cent renewable energy supply by 2025,” he explained.

He said that building on previous initiatives with a low

carbon focus, including the use of renewable energy sources and co-generation alternatives, the Government would review and expand the scope of alternative energy solutions.

CLIMATE PACT WITH NORWAY On the forest and climate partnership agreement between Guyana and Norway, Jordan told the House that the prime features of this agreement, which was signed in 2009, are to safeguard Guyana’s rainforest, improve forest governance, and support Guyana’s holistic green development, including the transition to green and renewable energy.

He said that in a recent meeting held in the margins of the United Nations Climate Change Convention in Marrakech, Morocco, both President Granger and Minister Vidar Helgesen of Norway agreed to have in place, early in 2017, an agreed work plan for detailing Guyana’s clean energy transition. Jordan said the two officials also agreed to continue a dialogue on how to develop their partnership in the 2020-2030 period.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Housing for low-income, state …$2.8B poured into employees next year water sector GOVERNMENT would be focusing on building houses for low-income and state employees as part of an overall strategy to reform the housing sector here, Finance Minister Winston Jordan announced in his budget on Monday.

He also said that in keeping with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Government has allocated $2.8 billion in 2017 towards achieving universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water.

However, much work remains to be done to ensure an equitable and efficient delivery of high-quality pure water.

HOUSING Jordan told the House that the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) has reviewed the process of allocating house lots, given the approximately 25,000 applications on file, of which almost 18,000 are low income individuals. Concerns about the low occupancy of many housing developments and areas have led to reviews of the mechanisms used to enable home ownership.

“What has been revealed is the lack of a holistic approach in providing quality, affordable housing in safe, well-serviced communities.

Many recipients of house lots remain unable to start construction, while others have

been allocated lots in areas that are woefully under-developed and without basic infrastructure. Still, many more are saddled with poorly constructed turnkey homes,” the minister said.

He said the Housing Profile study is in progress, and would be the basis for the preparation of the National Housing Policy, which is expected to inform the revitalisation of the sector so that it can fulfil its catalytic role within the economy.

“This year, a total of 1,921 new house lots were allocated to potential home owners; 4,208 land titles were distributed, and 173 squatters were regularized,” Jordan disclosed.

He said a new model for providing for the housing needs of the thousands of low-income individuals is being considered, in recognition of the critical links between housing construction, home ownership, consumer spending, revenue generation, and economic growth. Going forward, the mode of providing affordable housing would include a mix of multi-storey apartment buildings, duplexes, and single family homes within sustainable community structures.

“In keeping with our green agenda, structural designs will integrate elements for improved natural lighting and ventilation. While this is ongoing, works will be

accelerated to complete the infrastructural development of prioritised housing areas, where allottees have indicated their readiness to begin construction. The Authority is expected to access its own funds to undertake this ambitious programme in 2017.”

Jordan said that for 2017, the Government’s priority action areas in housing would be initiatives targeting low-income and state employees. These initiatives would involve a comprehensive feasibility assessment of existing housing areas, squatting areas and land for future development; the consolidation of planned housing areas; and the upgrading of regularised squatting areas.

Given the huge demand for house lots and the limited availability of serviced lots for distribution, the Government intends to pilot a project to construct apartments, condominiums, and wooden houses in existing planned areas such as Stewartville, Cummings Lodge, Perseverance, and Amelia’s Ward.

Also, in 2017, the Government has allocated $100 million under the Hinterland Sustainable Housing Programme for the construction of 115 subsidised housing units, and 45 roof-and-water catchment system subsidies in Regions 1 and 9. On the softer side, Government, through the CHPA, would strengthen its planning func-

tion in this sector by holding national planning forums, formulating development plans, organising community development projects, sensitising the general public on building codes and standards, and building the capacity of small local contractors.

WATER ACCESS Meanwhile, turning his attention to the water and sanitation sectors, Jordan said that over the next five-year strategic cycle, starting from next year, Government would be using a five-pronged approach in pursuit of this objective, involving: improved levels of services and water supply across the country; increased treated water coverage; an expanded metering programme; loss reduction programme, and improved billing and collection of water rates.

Jordan said, too, that a portion of the allocation for 2017 is earmarked for the construction and installation of filters, aerators, and quality assurance systems at the Central Ruimveldt, Covent Garden, Grove, and New Amsterdam water treatment plants.

In addition, new wells will be constructed at Section ‘B’ Sophia, Vergenoegen, Pouderoyen, Westminster, and New Amsterdam; and water supply systems will be installed at hinterland locations, including at Chenapau,

Tassarene, Matthew’s Ridge, and Yarakita.

“We will also improve energy efficiency in water supply by utilising solar photovoltaic systems for schools, health facilities, and Government buildings in Regions 1, 7, and 9 that will benefit over 2,500 residents.”

According to Jordan, next year, under the Non-Revenue Water Reduction Programme, provision has been made to replace deteriorated pipelines and increase metering coverage, which will see 15,000 meters installed by the end of 2017. Further, the water authority will be pursuing investment in an upgraded billing system in support of its loss reduction initiatives.

In the area of water safety and quality, a laboratory has been established at the Shelter Belt water treatment plant, and will be complemented by the establishment of 50 mini-laboratories at each of the 23 remaining treatment plants across the country.

“This will ensure the water distributed to the customers is of the highest quality, in accordance with World Health Organisation (WHO) standards,” the finance minister said.

He disclosed that the administration would, in 2017, launch a National Integrated Solid Waste Management Strategy which will focus on maintaining a cleaner envi-

ronment and providing better public health protection. In order to minimise the public health hazards that have arisen from improper waste dumping, the Government has allocated $338 million for the design and construction of new sanitary landfill sites in Bartica and Linden.

In addition, landfill sites at Belle Vue, Lusignan, Lethem, and Mabaruma will be upgraded, while a new temporary holding area at the Haags Bosch Sanitary Landfill will be created. “Further, to maintain the aesthetics of our communities, we have allocated a sum of $150 million for the Community Organised for Restoring the Environment (CORE) programme, which will employ 20 small community groups throughout the country to undertake upgrading, refurbishment, rehabilitation, and beautification of the immediate and contiguous areas of public works sites.”

Besides, Jordan said, Government will roll out a nationwide public relations campaign that would seek to effect behavioural change in the populace.

“Having already focused on the schools, the wider public will be targeted for education in proper solid waste disposal practices, including the separation of organic from inorganic litter, and waste reduction principles,” he said.

Over-passes high on 2017 capital works agenda ‒ as gov’t moves to curb carnage on the roads PLANS are afoot to do something about the carnage on the roads, and according to Finance Minister, Mr Winston Jordan those plans will include, for starters, the placement of a number of pedestrian over-passes at strategic points along the East Coast and East Bank Public Roads.

Addressing the House Monday during the presentation of the 2017 National Budget, Minister Jordan said: “Mr. Speaker, in spite of the huge investments in our road transport network, the number of fatal road accidents remains alarm-

ing; it has reinforced the need to improve road safety practices.

“As a means of promoting pedestrian safety while improving the flow of traffic, we will construct the first ever pedestrian over-passes in the country at Liliendaal, Houston, Eccles, and Peter’s Hall, as well as the first ever vehicle overpass at the Diamond main access road.”

In addition to the foregoing interventions, the Finance Minister said the National Road Safety Education Guidance Document and Best Practice Guide has been completed, and will be adopted by the Ministry of

Education for incorporation into the school curricula in 2017.

INFRASTRUCTURE SPENDING According to the minister, the government has allocated some $37.2B towards shoring up the country’s infrastructure spending, while the government pursues other financing options for large-scale transformative projects.

The sum at reference, Minister Jordan said, is an improvement by some $7.4B on the current fiscal year’s allocation.

He told the House that under the 2017 Budget,

$14.1B have been allocated to the continued development and maintenance of roads and bridges, and that of this sum, $2.3B have been earmarked for capital projects in the hinterland.

Targeted interventions include the Port Kaituma Road, from the airstrip to the Fitsburg Housing Scheme in Region One (Barima-Waini); the Issano Road and Karrau to Buckhall Roads in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); the Karasabai to Monkey Mountain Roads in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni); and the Aishalton Junction to Shea Roads in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper

Essequibo).

Jordan also disclosed that approximately $262.5M will be expended in 2017 to prevent the further deterioration of the existing road network in the hinterland.

RIVER TRANSPORTATION Meanwhile, efforts will continue to improve river transportation, and next year will see some $294M being spent on the rehabilitation of the stellings at Bartica, Supenaam, Mazaruni, Morawhanna, New Amsterdam and Rosignol.

In addition, about $240M have been allocated to the reconditioning of MVs Malali, Sandaka, and Lady Northcote, while an additional $295M

will be used to purchase a barge and to dry-dock several vessels. The continued maintenance and upgrading of these stellings and vessels, the minister said, will facilitate a normalised and safer flow of private and commercial traffic across our waterways.

Said Minister Jordan: “Mr. Speaker, our sea and river defences remain as critical to our safety and future as ever, given the effects that climate change is having across our country. As a result, we have allocated a total of $2.5B towards the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of sea defence infrastructure in Regions Three, Four, Five, and Six.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Gov’t pumps $213M into GO-Invest ‒ to make it more economically viable

By Ariana Gordon RECOGNISING that maintaining a strong and resilient private sector is one of the cornerstones of a healthy and robust economy, the Government of Guyana, in its 2017 Budget presentation, has allocated $213.2M for the continued strengthening of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) next year.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan said on Monday, during his 2017 Budget presentation before the National Assembly, that GO-Invest has a target of $139.8B in investment, and that the composition of the investment portfolio would be restructured to ensure greater diversification within the economy, with specific focus being placed on the tourism, agriculture and light manufacturing sectors.

“These ventures are estimated to create an additional 3,870 jobs. In addition, ongoing institutional strengthening will result in a more-data-driven, client-friendly, one-stop investment portal,” he stated.

SWAPS The minister disclosed that, as per plan, there will be the implementation of

the Single Window Automated Processing System (SWAPS), which would enable information-sharing between licensing agencies and the Customs & Trade Administration.

He said that with the implementation of SWAPS, there will be a reduction in the “red tape for new investors as well as local businesses.”

The implementation of SWAPS will begin after the successful installation of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA). Accordingly, the minister said, the APNU+AFC coalition Administration’s interventions are aimed at promoting “a healthier and more diverse business environment” that not only focuses on companies and firms, but on the empowerment of individuals and the facilitation of small and micro-enterprises.

“While expanding its existing programmes aimed at fostering youth entrepreneurship, the Small Business Bureau will be extending its reach into educational institutions, to expose students to entrepreneurial initiatives and skills,” Minister Jordan said.

He added: “This new venture will include a competition which will see at

least ten students receiving grants to start their very own businesses.”

Additionally, the Micro and Small Enterprise Development (MSED) project will continue with its financing and training and development activities which target prospective and established entrepreneurs and small businesses. Some 40,600 clients are being targeted for training and business support, while a total of 600 micro-enterprises will be visited to review their business plans.

And so as to ensure a level playing field in the bidding for Government contracts, the Government is enforcing the requirement that 20 per cent of public contracts be awarded to small businesses.

SLED “The establishment and growth of small and micro-enterprises will continue to be supported through a suite of programmes, including the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) programme, which provides business grants and training for vulnerable groups,” Minister Jordan said.

Moreover, in 2017, the management of industrial estates will be centralised

under the Ministry of Business; and with that move, it is expected that there will be more effective monitoring and appropriate zoning, the minister said.

Focus, he said, will also be placed on analysing the outputs of the occupants of the industrial estates, to ensure greater value-added production and job creation targets are being achieved.

“To facilitate improved rates of occupancy and reduce lag time between plot allocation and production, an initial (sum of) $95M has been set aside for the establishment of two business incubators (to be placed) at the Belvedere and Lethem Industrial Estates,” Jordan added.

Stressing that the coalition administration intends to maintain a strong and resilient private sector, the Finance Minister said efforts would be made to ensure that business owners and future entrepreneurs prosper.

“To re-inforce and continue to promote such an economic structure, the Ministry of Business has launched its 2015-2020 Strategic Action Plan, which focuses on improving the ease of doing business; attracting increased foreign investment; supporting the development and export of value-added industries; increasing economic opportunities for, and capa-

bilities of, vulnerable groups; and increasing capacity to develop and promote sustainable business-friendly policies,” the minister said.

He recalled that Guyana, between 2015 and 2016, has seen an improvement in its ranking on the World Bank’s Doing Business Index by advancing 16 places. Describing this ranking as “the largest single improvement achieved in our history of being on the index,” Minister Jordan said: “To further improve our 39th position, the Government will examine the viability of the recently recommended reforms of the World Bank in the areas of starting a business, registering property, trading across borders, getting electricity, and obtaining construction permits; and we will develop an action plan for implementation.”

TOTAL INVESTMENTS He said that during last year, total investments, including foreign direct investments (FDI) facilitated by GO-Invest, totalled $114.8B, representing a significant improvement over the $89.3B inflow of 2015. This year’s investment, the minister said, would yield over 6000 jobs in various sectors: 1,327 in agriculture; 1,366 in energy; 1,500 in ICT; and 1,483 in the tourism and services sectors.

During the budget debates of January 2016, Business Minister Dominic Gaskin had told the National Assembly that an allocation of approximately $1.2B to the Ministry, with current expenditure standing at $668,564,000, and capital budget standing at $547,253,000, would go a long way.

Gaskin explained that $212M would be used to develop and fix industrial estates, while noting that it would result in much job creation.

“Two new sites, Mr. Speaker: One in Lethem, Region 9, which once completed will be able to accommodate at least 100 businesses; and another one in Belvedere, Region 6, which is smaller and has space for about 20 businesses… These projects have been languishing in the pipeline for well over a decade, and our government will complete them so that appropriate work space can be provided for investors in value-added industries,” Minister Gaskin declared.

Additionally, the minister had said that the two industrial sites would come within his ambit, and he promised not to “allow them to degenerate into replicas of the badly managed Eccles and Coldingen Estates.”

Sheriff St. fatal accident...

Drivers charged with causing 4-y-o’s death ‒ each granted $400,000 bail

By Clestine Juan THE two drivers involved in the Sheriff Street accident which killed fouryear-old Ambeka Providence almost two months ago was on Monday charged before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

Derrick Bailey, 56, of Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara, and Heeranand Boodhram of Sachi Bazaar, Prashad Nagar appeared on separate charges for the death of Providence.

The charge alleged that on September 10, at Sheriff and Garnette Streets, Georgetown they drove their motor vehicles in a dangerous manner as to cause the death of Ambeka Providence.

Both men denied the charge when the Administration of Justice Act (AJA)

was applied by the prosecutor, Inspector Neville Jeffers.

REASONABLE BAIL Boodhram’s lawyer, Mr. Glen Hanoman in his application for reasonable bail explained that his client is a newlywed, the father of a three-month-old baby, and the sole breadwinner for his family. Hanoman further pointed out that his client was placed on $100,000 station bail during police investigation.

According to the prosecution facts, on the day in question, September 10 at around 22:20hrs, Boodhram was the driver of motor pickup GPP 3500, while Bailey was the driver of motor car PMM 1426.

The deceased, along with her mother and grandmother were occupants of Bailey’s

Derrick Bailey and Heeranand Boodhram after their appearance before the Chief Magistrate

car, which was parked along Sherriff Street, at the Royal Castle parking lot.

Boodhram, the prosecution said, was driving his motor pickup proceeding along Sherriff Street approaching the Garnette Street traffic light, which was reportedly ‘green’ at the time, when Bailey suddenly

drove out from the parking lot in an east to west direction, and collided with the pickup.

As a result of the ensuing impact, the four-year-old occupant flung through a window of the vehicle and onto the roadway. It was reported that she died on the spot.

Police said that a breathalyzer test performed on Boodhram at the time of the accident had revealed that his blood alcohol content was above the prescribed limit.

The prosecutor strongly opposed the men being released on bail on the ground that a young life was lost.

Jeffers also stated that Boodhram will soon have to answer to an additional charge, that of driving under the influence of alcohol.

The Chief Magistrate released both men on $400,000 bail each, and transferred the matter to City Magistrate Leron Daly for December 20.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

…as Gov’t projects 8% growth in mining/quarrying sector

vate sector, youth, and the diaspora, among other stakeholders,” the minister said.

Concessions to miners intact WITH the mining and quarrying sector projected to grow by 7.9 per cent next year, Finance Minister Winston Jordan on Monday assured that, contrary to assertions ventilated by certain operators, Government would maintain existing concessions to the industry, and would continue to work closely with all the stakeholders while ensuring adherence to declaration, tax, and environmental obligations.

Making his presentation of the budget, Jordan said output of gold is targeted at 694,000 ounces, while that for bauxite is budgeted at 1,726,008 metric tonnes. He said Government would continue to focus on the promotion of other minerals in the mining and quarrying sector, and he noted that continued growth in the construction industry is expected to underpin growth in the quarrying sub-sector.

“Mr. Speaker, the profile of our extractive industry is poised to be diversified in the not-too-distant future… gold’s stellar performance

in 2016 is expected to continue in 2017, maintaining its position as a key driver of economic growth,” Minister Jordan told the House, to loud thumping of the desks by government MPs. Gold miners had, some weeks ago, railed against rumours that some of the concessions granted them by the Government would have been revoked.

BLACK GOLD Meanwhile, Jordan told the House that Guyana stands on the cusp of being a significant oil producer within the next five years, if all goes to schedule. According to him, following the discovery of oil at the Liza Well, two additional wells were dug in that area, and “I am pleased to report that on November 16 of this year, Exxon Mobile made discoveries confirming that the Liza Well is of commercial interest, and that we can look forward to the production of oil, for the first time ever, within the next five years.”

He said that other companies are currently proceeding

with exploration works on their various concessions, including Mid Atlantic/Esso, Tullow Guyana B.V., and Eco (Atlantic) Guyana. Additionally, new venture interests with respect to the ultra-deep water and shelfal areas are being examined.

The finance minister said the infusion of oil revenues could fund substantial industrial and social development in this country, moving it from a primary commodity-driven economy to a regional trade and services hub, with substantial value-added production potential in its main commodity sectors.

“With substantial oil resources in the region, and given the geopolitical challenges faced by our neighbours, Guyana, with the right amount of investment and technical expertise, can become a regional oil-and-gas services hub. This would create a substantial number of skilled and semi-skilled employment opportunities for our people,” Jordan said.

He said that with the aim of ensuring maximum local participation in the oil and

gas sector, the Government has been seeking guidance and studying various policy approaches.

“As demonstrated in this Budget, we intend to kickstart our development agenda by investing heavily in critical infrastructure: power, transportation, and logistics, among other areas. Also, we have developed a three-year programme, 2017 – 2020, that will cost approximately $650 million, to build capacity in various fields and disciplines, including petroleum engineering, fiscal accounting and analysis, petroleum and revenue management, and national income statistics.”

Jordan added that Government would be embarking on a nationwide outreach programme, to enlighten citizens on the implications of the Liza discovery and to present policies and legislation pertaining to the various aspects of the burgeoning oil and gas industry.

“Apart from covering all ten administrative regions, this outreach programme would engage, also, the pri-

BAUXITE Turning his attention to the bauxite sector, Jordan said the performance in the industry is programmed to improve further in 2017, benefiting from efficiency gains from increased investment in the more economical Kurubuka mine, opened in 2015; as well as the anticipated rise in global prices. Additionally, he said following the purchase, by Bosai Mineral Group, of the Canadian interest in the Matthew’s Ridge manganese project, manganese mining is about to renew its contribution to economic growth, while providing jobs and other opportunities in a depressed area in the North West Region of our country.

“The promotion of other minerals, such as rare earth elements, will remain a priority within the national portfolio of mineral offerings, as the Government continues its drive to diversify the economy,” the minister said.

TIMBER AND WOOD PRODUCTS In the troubled timber

industry, Jordan said, the Government, in collaboration with the private sector, will in 2017 be working on a suite of measures to strengthen and improve the forestry sector’s performance, including: the reallocation of expired concessions that reverted to the State in 2016, the promotion of value-added products, and support to the private sector for the expansion and diversification of export markets. He said the implementation of these measures is expected to aid in restoring robustness to the sub-sector, improving productivity, and reducing the vulnerability of our economy to external shocks. “…the industry will continue to promote sustainable forest management principles, with the Forest Training Centre Inc. set to train at least 300 loggers in various areas of sustainable forest management. The Government will also explore opportunities for non-timber uses, such as conservation value, carbon value, non-timber forest products, etc,” Jordan told the House.

Education gets largest slice of budget EDUCATION again has taken the largest slice of the national budget, some $43.1B or 17.2 per cent of the budget, as Government places increased emphasis on the delivery of quality education across all levels.

Included in this allocation is a sum of $1.9B for the School Feeding Programme and $578 million to purchase textbooks. Together with the President’s 5 Bs Programme, these measures are expected to result in improved attendance, attentiveness, and productivity.

In a bid to address issues of overcrowding and facilities’ improvements, over $3.5B has been allocated to construct, extend, rehabilitate and maintain schools, teachers’ quarters and other buildings.

Within this, several new schools are slated for completion, including Yurong Paru Nursery and Hiowa Nursery in Region Nine, Bamia Nursery and Primary in Region 10, and Baramita Nursery in Region One. Also this year, a total of 481 trained teachers were added to the pool of qualified teachers in the public school

system.

“In 2017, we will aim to add another 600 to afford each student increased quality contact time. Furthermore, we will step up distribution of 61 computers under the One Laptop per Teacher Initiative, which was launched this year,” Finance Minister Winston Jordan told the National Assembly in his budget presentation on Monday.

He said approximately 9,500 laptops will be distributed to teachers countrywide to improve classroom instruction and productivity.

And in the area of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET), about $2.4B will be invested in the coming years to improve learning outcomes of students, at the secondary level, with the aim of expanding the pool of employable, certified labour that can adequately bridge the skills gap.

This investment will see the expansion of TVET programmes into four hinterland regions. Special focus will be placed on improving access for persons with disabilities. Next year, $2.5B is allocated for TVET interventions countrywide.

Some $43.1B or 17.2 per cent of the budget has been allocated to the Education Sector as Government places increased emphasis on quality education delivery

DEPRESSING Looking specifically at Mathematics and English, Jordan said this year, the Mathematics and English Language results at the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) examination and, more particularly, the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), were very depressing.

And the results for English and Mathematics, at the Grade 6 levels, were distressingly alarming, he told the House.

“Our 10 and 11 year old boys and girls took tests on core subjects, which resulted in 14 per cent passing Mathematics, revealing that over 12,000 of our children were not numerate, while more than half of those writing

English could not sufficiently comprehend our official language to attain a 50 percent score. This is a crisis!” he said.

But, he noted that Government has wasted no time in tackling this crisis headon.

In the near and medium terms, interventions to address the problem include implementing the $337.4M

Programme for Emergency Education Reform (PEER), which provides an initial and rapid response that will: i) administer diagnostic and needs assessments across the country for school, class, and child; ii) recruit and retain mathematics specialists; iii) train school administrators for improved monitoring; iv) train teachers in content and methodology; v) roll out a parent involvement strategy in every region; and vi) expand immediately, the number of class periods assigned to mathematics at both the primary and secondary levels beyond the existing meagre four periods; (ii) Commencing and completing the curriculum reform across the entire public education system.; and (iii) accelerating the development of appropriate job descriptions and commensurate remuneration packages, in order to attract specialists and relevant personnel, in conjunction with the Public Service Department and the 60 Public and Teaching Service Commissions, to fill critical human resource gaps across the country by Turn to page 13 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Agriculture sector gets $20.6B SOME $20.6B has been allocated to the Agriculture Sector next year and expenditure will be concentrated on rapid diversification and enhanced competitiveness.

The sum will also go towards improving drainage and irrigation systems, increase cultivation and productivity in traditional agriculture, promote large-scale agriculture in the Intermediate and Rupununi Savannahs, and strengthen the livestock and fisheries subsectors.

In addition, the Government will be exploring options for the incorporation of efficient green technology in agricultural production and practices.

According to Finance Minister Winston Jordan in his budget presentation Monday, over the last 150 years, Guyana’s agricultural fortunes have been anchored mainly on rice, sugar, and a small scattering of other crops.

“Our un-diversified agriculture sector has become the albatross around our neck, as our main crops are often subjected to the vagaries of price, climate change, and indifferent management,

among others.

“As such, there is great urgency for us to evolve with the changing times and, post haste, pursue an aggressive, diversified, agricultural programme. This programme, of necessity, must involve not only primary-staged commodities, but also inputs into the value-added production of food, energy, medicine, and industry, to name a few,” he said.

In 2017, Jordan said the Government will begin to responsibly open the vast Intermediate and Rupununi Savannahs and the arable lands on the upper reaches of the banks of our many rivers, for large agricultural plantations, with a focus on applications for agro-processing and agro-industries.

“We will explore options for non-traditional agricultural crops, such as corn, spices, and quinoa.

“Mr. Speaker, to ensure the benefits gained from the agricultural diversification and transformation process are realised equitably, the Government will invest in the 54 construction and upgrading of extension offices and facilities in the Interme-

Government will begin to responsibly open the vast Intermediate and Rupununi Savannahs and the arable lands on the upper reaches of the banks of our many rivers, for large agricultural plantations

diate and Rupununi Savannahs,” he told the House.

These facilities will cater for research and other services to the people of the hinterland regions.

Provision is made for the extension of farms at Ebini and Hosororo to facilitate the expansion of orchard crop production and demonstration farms for turmeric, black pepper, ginger, and citrus for farmers and potential investors.

Further, accommodation

and laboratory facilities in Region Eight will be rehabilitated to support food security in the region, Minister Jordan said.

In the area of drainage and irrigation, he said, in excess of $2.3 billion is allocated, in 2017, for the completion, construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of structures, including pump stations and sluices, and the purchase and installation of drainage and irrigation pumps.

The NDIA will also complete a comprehensive mapping of all drainage and irrigation structures and systems.

“To build a more robust and competitive livestock sub-sector, the Government will continue to focus on animal health, through greater disease surveillance and control, genetic improvements for enhanced productivity and profitability of cattle, and animal production,” the finance

minister said.

To this end, in 2017, the Government will train its veterinary diagnostic laboratory technicians in areas such as microbiology, serology, pathology, and molecular biology.

Efforts will also be made to enhance embryo transplant services, which play a critical role in producing pure-bred calves.

“In an effort to promote a more mature and well-rounded fisheries sub-sector, the Government has signed on to the Port States Management Measures Agreement, which seeks to combat illegal, un-reported, and unregulated fishing. In addition, we will explore the option of the further promotion of deep sea fishing, as it is currently, an under-utilised resource that is within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The private sector has already taken the initiative to pursue this option and has invested US$15 million in a processing plant for tuna– the first ever commercial tuna venture in the country,” Jordan said.

Collective effort needed to end violence against women ‒ Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo tells Tain symposium THE Tain Campus of the University of Guyana was transformed into a sea of orange as the fourth year Social Work students held a walk and symposium in observance of ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women’.

The colour orange is in keeping with the UN Secretary-General’s Campaign, ‘Unite to End Violence against Women’, which has declared the 25th of each month as “Orange Day” -- a day to raise awareness of, and to take action to end, violence against women and girls, as opposed to an annual day.

The students earlier staged a walk to help raise awareness about violence against women, and several messages were promoted via posters and banners. Messages were also delivered verbally as the students, accompanied by members of the public, marched in the Port Mourant community to the Tain Campus.

Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, wife of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, and others at the symposium in observance of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, at the UG Tain campus in Berbice

The keynote address was delivered by Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, who got the gathering riled up as she called for “an end to the silence”.

She noted that violence against women was not a random act, as many may perceive it to be, but was rather a product of societal and cultural structures.

“We should at all times promote and advocate against violence directed at women at all levels. We need to end the silence. Violence against women is not confined to any one culture, religion, country, or any one group of people; but rather it is widespread across all ages, cultures, religions,

social, economic and educational levels.”

Mrs. Nagamootoo disclosed that, according to studies, more than eight trillion United States’ Dollars, which represent about 10% of the world’s GDP, are spent annually on violence against women. This sum, she stressed, can be used

to make the world a better place.

“The world can truly be a better place with the end of violence against women and girls. The world will save trillions of dollars, which can be better used for the healthy development of our women and girls, by empowering them to be equal partners in life.

“We need to start at the root of the problem, and create a new culture in which women are treated as equals to men. We need to educate our boys to respect girls, and empower our girls through education, and change the way we perceive each gender.

We need to prevent early child marriages, and give our girls an opportunity to educate themselves and to gain access to skills and training to reverse economic inequality among genders.

We need to demand equal pay for women in all sectors of employment. We need to demand strict enforcement of laws, such as (the) Domestic Violence Act, to

punish those guilty of acts of violence, whether it is physical, emotional or economic, committed against our women.

“We must protect the human rights of our women by ensuring that our health care workers respect women’s rights and allow them to make their own decisions.”

She concluded her message by getting everyone to repeat after her the following words: “Human rights are women’s rights and women’s rights are human rights.

The UN, on December 20, 1993, made a declaration to end violence against women; and in 1999, the UN General Assembly declared November 25 International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Current statistics provided by the UN shows that one in three women is still a victim of some form of violence, which translates to approximately 1.2 billion women worldwide.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

By Svetlana Marshall

These include replacement of inefficient lights, installation of 10,427 light-emitting diode (LED) lamps and 3,766 occupancy sensors in government buildings, as well as 360 energy efficient outdoor lights. These interventions, the Finance Minister noted, will result in annual energy savings.

Minister Jordan is of the strong view that the measures designed to reduced inequality and simultaneously increase disposal income will be of significant benefit to Guyanese.

According to the measures he has implemented, the current income tax threshold of $660,000 per annum has been increased to $720,000 per annum, or one-third of the employee’s salary. As such, 7,600 persons will be taken off of the tax register, he said.

Additionally, Government has taken a decision to reduce the Personal Income Tax rate from 30 per cent to 28 per cent for individuals earning less than $2,160,000 per annum, or $180,000 per month.

PM: ‘This is a win-win budget’ INTRODUCED in Guyana under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP) Administration in 2007, Value Added Tax (VAT) has been reduced in the 2017 budget -- from 16 per cent to 14 per cent. However, this reduction has been accompanied by implementation of VAT on both electricity and water.

Persons consuming $10,000 and more in electricity will be required to pay 14 per cent VAT, while persons consuming $1,500 and more on water will pay similar taxes.

Minutes after the 250-billion-dollar- budget for 2017 was presented to the National Assembly by Finance Minister Winston Jordan, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo explained that, despite the naysayers, the APNU+AFC Administration has made good on its promise to the people of Guyana by reducing the Value Added Tax (VAT) by two per cent, thus Guyanese should not be distracted by the pessimists.

Based on information received, Prime Minister Nagamootoo explained that of the 138,000 customers subscribed with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL),

105,000 residents and 4,800 businesses pay less than $10,000 per month for electricity. Thus approximately 80 per cent of the consumers will not be affected by this new measure, he said, adding that a similar vast group of persons pay less than $1,500 per month for the supply of water from the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), and as such would not be made to pay VAT. According to the Prime Minister, the measure introduces a mechanism that allows for conservation of electricity. “While GPL would want to make money, it also has a national responsibility to ensure that people use electricity responsibly,” he said, while calling on consumers to conserve on their electricity.

In giving an overview of the budget, themed “Building a Diversified, Green Economy: Delivering the Good Life to All Guyanese,” Prime Minister Nagamootoo said the 2017 budget is people-centered, and has a wide geographic spread. “The geographic spread is greater than any budget I have listened to,” he posited, noting that it takes into serious account the hinterland regions, the areas of electricity infrastructure, and the creation of jobs.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Finance Minister Winston Jordan take questions from members of the media following the budget presentation (Adrian Narine photo)

FOCUS ON PEOPLE “I believe that in this regard it is a qualitative new leap into distributing the resources of the state, and focusing on the people who matter – the rural poor, the hinterland folks, Amerindians, the elderly, students and children (and) women,” he said. He noted that the budget also addresses the issues of inequality and inefficiency.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan, who also addressed the media in the presence of the Prime Minister minutes after he would have presented the budget, also said that a study has shown that many consumers utilise less than

$10,000 in electricity.

“We have done the study and it showed us that $10,000 is a very high threshold relative to electricity consumption; therefore, most people would not be troubled by the VAT on electricity. It is only when it goes past $10,000,” he said.

It was pointed out, too, that systems would be put in place for the utilisation of energy saving bulbs for persons consuming large amounts of electricity. In the 2017 budget, the Government has made a budgetary allocation of almost $1B for the implementation of a series of renewable energy and energy-efficiency projects.

TAX THRESHOLD “I don’t think people understand the measure. It’s $720,000 or 1/3 of your gross salary, which one is higher.

So if you are working for $300,000, your tax threshold is $100,000; it is not $60,000, it is $100,000. If you are working for $500,000, you take a third of that. Right away that is your take home, the third alone; and the tax on the difference is 28 per cent, not 30 per cent; 28% up to $2.160M or 40%,” he explained.

According to him, more Guyanese would have a beter “take home” pay under this administration.

The Finance Minister said the APNU+AFC Administration wanted to do more for the people of Guyana, but is faced with a number of expenditure commitments. The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO), he lamented, is a major financial burden to the country. In less than 18 months, the corporation has received a $32B bail out.

“Just imagine, if we didn’t have to transfer monies to GuySuCo, $32B would have been available; and part of what we could have done was to reduce the tolls (at the Berbice River Bridge) even further,” he posited.

It was noted, too, that the measures on the income tax will also cost the treasury close to $4B. “That is $4B in lost income,” Minister Jordan told reporters.

$31.2B injected into Health Sector

By Alva Solomon EQUIPPING and upgrading district hospitals to deliver the full suite of mandated services will take priority in 2017 -- a move which the Government views as reducing the deficit in reach between the hinterland and coastland.

The move will be covered by the $31.2B allocated for the Health Sector in next year’s budget. This sum translates to 12.5 per cent of the 2017 budget which was presented to the National Assembly on Monday by Finance Minister Winston Jordan.

Drawing from the 2016 budget, Government expects to spend over $27B or 12 per cent of that year’s budget on the health sector.

Jordan, in providing a breakdown of allocations, noted that a sum of $2B has been allocated for the improvement and maintenance of health infrastruc-

ture countrywide.

He said that emphasis will be placed on upgrading health facilities for district level hospitals and comfortable living quarters, to attract the necessary medical personnel in the hinterland. Several areas targeted include Baramita, Bartica, Kamarang, Mahdia, Port Kaituma, and Annai.

In addition, he said that specialists, skilled professionals in the areas of paediatrics, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynaecology, dental, and general surgery, will be deployed in Regions One, Eight and Nine.

According to Jordan, the Government continues to prioritise the health and well-being of the people as a pillar for ensuring economic development, happiness, productivity, and prosperity.

He said that the national health sector strategy – the Health Vision 2020 – continues to guide investments and interventions in the

sector, with the ultimate aim of achieving universal coverage for health care.

He noted, however, that one cannot plan to achieve this vision without an efficient, modern health system, with adequate human capacity and quality health infrastructure.

“We must address these core issues which hamper our ability to address serious health challenges, such as the proliferation of non-communicable diseases, mental health, and emerging diseases such as Zika,” Jordan said.

He told the National Assembly that investment in health infrastructure and the ability to attract skilled health human resources are critical for delivering specialist health services, especially in remote hinterland communities.

Last year, the Ministry of Public Health expended $48.4M on medical evacuation services, called “medevac”, for 93

cases that were unable to be treated in the respective administrative regions. Such cases were referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Next year a sum of $110M will be expended for the Food and Drug Analyst Department, for the construction of a new laboratory and administrative building.

In addition, $65M will be used to procure laboratory supplies, quality control aids, and proficiency testing materials.

Minister Jordan said that progress is being made by the Analyst Food and Drugs

Department to gain accreditation for its laboratories, those which certify food product manufacturers, exporters, and re-packagers.

Minister Jordan said Government will launch a National Integrated Solid Waste Management Strategy in 2017, and it will focus on maintaining a cleaner environment and providing better public health protection.

To carry out its mandate, a sum of $338M was allocated for the design and construction of new sanitary landfill sites in Bartica and Linden.

In addition, landfill sites at Belle Vue, Lusignan, Le-

them, and Mabaruma will be upgraded, while a new temporary holding area at the Haags Bosch Sanitary Landfill will be created.

In addition, a sum of $150M has been set aside for the Community Organised for Restoring the Environment (CORE) programme, which will employ 20 small community groups throughout the country to undertake upgrading, refurbishment, rehabilitation, and beautification of the immediate and contiguous areas of public works sites.

The aim of the programme is to maintain the aesthetics of communities.

Man shot trying to disarm cop LASHAY Saul went on Monday to the Golden Grove Police Station on the East Bank of Demerara to make a report of domestic abuse against her reputed husband, claiming he was a habitual abuser.

A rank was sent to the couple’s home to arrest the suspect. In resisting arrest, the suspect allegedly held on to the armed constable

and grabbed his firearm. A round was discharged and it struck the suspect’s left elbow.

He was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where he was treated and discharged.

He is presently in police custody, and the police are working to complete their case file on the matter, after which charges would be instituted.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Lack of ‘hard evidence’ – man freed A 26-YEAR-OLD man on Monday walked out the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court a free man after City Magistrate Dylon Bess dismissed the charge of murder that was instituted against him.

The court was forced to dismiss the charge since there was no “hard evidence” to commit the accused to stand trial in the High Court.

Orell Cooke, of Lot 70 Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara was represented by attorney Mark Conway and

FREED Orell Cooke

acquitted from the charge which claimed that on August 1, 2016 he killed John Knight at Soesdyke.

After almost four months on trial and remand the matter against Cooke was dismissed.

Education gets largest... mid-2017.

Also, in keeping with Government’s commitment to ensure that all sectors incorporate the fundamentals of a green economy, the Ministry of Education has partnered with the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) to reduce the usage and cost of electricity in schools, having conducted energy assessments at 29 secondary schools.

“We have rehabilitated 1,870 watts of photovoltaic systems and installed systems at selected schools in the hinterland regions, so as

to facilitate the resumption of the Interactive Radio Instruction (IRI) programmes and improve lighting in these schools.”

UG Turning his attention to the University of Guyana (UG), Jordan said the country’s premier institution remains critical to enhancing the human capital stock necessary for the diversification and ‘greening’ of the economy.

“We look forward to the on-going repositioning of the university and the

efforts to generate revenues and pursue investments that will create a more financially sustainable institution. In 2017, the Government will allocate $2.9B to support the university operations and construct a teaching and learning complex for mathematics and science,” he said.

The Student Loan Agency will also be restructured to ensure institutional sustainability; achieve efficiency in processing of student loans; enable an electronic database to improve client interactions; and improve customer service.

13 From page 10

“Mr. Speaker, increased financial allocations alone will not suffice to transform our sector, if teachers are either unpunctual, are frequently absent from classes, or when they do show up for classes, are deficient in classroom instruction and management; It will not suffice if parents are not investing their time and effort to support learning outcomes; It will not suffice if a head teacher fails to care and to supervise,” the finance minister told the House.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

FFP donates medical items to hospitals THE Paediatric Department of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and the Linden Hospital Complex, were recent recipients of a wide variety of much needed medical items from Food for the Poor (Guyana) Incorporated (FFP).

GPHC Paediatric Surgeon and Coordinator of the Baby Heart Programme, Dr Seepersaud, thanked FFP for its generosity in donating the necessary equipment and supplies that would ensure

the comfort of the babies, their mothers and other relatives whenever the infants are admitted to the institution.

She further stated that the department is forever grateful to FFP, which is always willing to assist when there is a need.

Speaking on behalf of the Linden Hospital Complex, Donella Drakes, Stores Supervisor, said that she was highly appreciative of the items received and would ensure that they will be

properly utilised.

Sleep chairs, cribs, mattresses, liners, basins, tables, carts and laboratory tools, among other essentials were distributed to the two medical institutions.

FFP Public Relations Manager, Wayne Hamilton said the non-governmental organisation will remain committed to helping the health sector and continue to provide medical equipment and supplies whenever items are available.

Dr Seepersaud with Food for the Poor (Guyana) Incorporated Public Relations Manager Wayne Hamilton and Field Officer Compton Giddings

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Casual workers should undergo certificate programme - Broomes urges GGMC

By Svetlana Marshall MINISTER within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, is of the view that a certification programme should be instituted for casual workers attached to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, particularly within the Geological Services Division.

“They may not have a degree -- a master’s or a bachelor’s -- but they have

the working experience,” Minister Broomes said.

The certification programme, she said, should be mandatory, so that with a certificate in hand, casual workers would be able to gain meaningful employment at other companies when their stint at GGMC is over, allowing them to begin new employment at a higher entry level. She has recommended that the certificate be issued seasonally.

“This would allow them

to become marketable, and so I think this is something that should be done,” Minister Broomes said.

Minister Broomes made this recommendation to Gordon Nestor, acting manager of the Geological Services Division, and other senior geologists after being informed that workers from communities near and far would offer support to the division during many of its projects.

Currently, there are approximately 40 casual work-

ers toiling alongside a team of 12 geologists and geo-technicians on the Mazaralli Regional Geochemical Exploration Project in the Cuyuni/ Mazaruni District. Their work primarily involves the collection of 410 sediment samples which would be analysed for their mineral resource potential, and simultaneous mapping of the area.

Nestor, who appeared very receptive to the minister’s recommendation, said it is possible for the casual workers to receive a certificate, but posited that the programme must be carefully thought out.

“I would recommend that

One of the casual workers assisting in the collection of sediment samples if you work four seasons with us and you would have obtained a lecture, specifically on how we go about our sampling, the ability to use a GPS and a compass, you should be presented with a certificate,” Nestor said.

Lawrence Simon, one of the geologists attached to the division, said that during each season, the casual workers, who hail from places like Moruca in the North West District and Linden in Region 10, and even Itaballi in Region Seven, would be taught the fundamentals of sampling, mapping, and the use of the GPS and compass.

“We do training, so when they are finished they are versed with the compass, the GPS and the map. And as you said, they don’t have the qualification but they have the know-how,” Simon posited.

Casual worker Fabian Ramdiall, who hails from the mining town of Linden, applauded the minister’s suggestion. “I think it would be good for us as individuals, because I have been working with GGMC since 2014, and I have learnt a lot. I learnt how to use the GPS, the compass, and mapping a bit,” he told Guyana Chronicle.

Another Lindener, Vibert Dickson, said he has been working with the GGMC since he was 20 years old.

“I think it would be good for GGMC to provide us with certificates, just in case we want to work with another company. We would have the certificate to show that we have experience in this field,” Dickson posited.

He also expressed hope of gaining permanent employment at the GGMC through the Geo Services Division.

“Is years now I working with them, and I would like for it to be a permanent job,” he added.

The project to which the casuals are currently giving support covers approximately 1,800 square kilometres located between the Cuyuni and Mazaruni rivers, with Itaballi and Takutu to the east and west, and Piari and Oku to the north and south. The work is expected to be completed in early December.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Possibility of year-end bonus for public servants slim – says Jordan WITH Christmas proverbially just around the corner, Finance Minister Winston Jordan has said the chances of public servants receiving a bonus as they did last year are “very slim”.

Speaking just after the presentation of the 2017 National Budget in the National Assembly on Monday, the Finance Minister said the APNU+AFC Administration would love to pay a bonus to all public servants, but at the moment there is no evidence of money being available to do so.

“Well, we’d love to, once we could find money to do bonus,” said Jordan. Last year, the administration paid a $50,000 Christmas bonus to all public servants.

That was the first time that public servants acrossthe-board received a Christmas bonus. In the past, only members of the Joint Services were given a month’s salary untaxed.

While, the minister dis-

closed the slim possibility that public servants would benefit from a similar payout, efforts are ongoing to see what is possible in this regard.

“I think what happened this year is that we paid a slightly bigger salary than last year overall, and also I think we took on some more numbers… I think the security service, in a sense, took away what we could have had to (give as) bonuses.

“We are still looking, but at this stage it is a very slim possibility. Up to last night, when we were doing numbers, I was hoping to find something; but, like I said, we took on a few people in the Security Sector and their bill has to be added up.”

The minister acknowledged his recognition that public servants are eagerly awaiting Government’s announcement of another Christmas bonus, but he stressed that “at this stage, (there is a) very slim, very slim possibility”.

Additionally, Minister Jordan made it clear that if the administration is going to make a payout to public servants before Christmas,

it would be across-the-board, and not only to members of the disciplined services.

“Nurses don’t work for as much money as (mem-

bers of the) disciplined services or teachers… [It is] difficult to single out certain categories of workers…everybody works

hard, and like I’ve said, if we could find (the money), then everybody -- not just the army and so on -- (would get).”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Mother prays for daughter’s safe return

SINCE the mysterious disappearance of Indira Jaipersaud, 19, an Internet café employee on November 23, family members remain hopeful of locating her as they continue to appeal to members of the public to assist them.

The teen also called “Indy” of Good Hope, West Coast Demerara, left her workplace and told her mother that she was going to run an errand before returning home, but she never did.

Several calls to her cell phone went unanswered

Budget... for outstanding payments; ● Increase penalties for offences - The penalty imposed for offenses committed against the Income Tax Act under the provisions of Section 109 to 111 would be increased from $15,000 to $100,000 to force voluntary compliance; ● Non-resident companies failing to keep accounting records in Guyana - Nonresident companies, which fail to keep relevant books and records in Guyana, thereby causing unnecessary delays during audit, will be subject to a fine of $1,000,000; ● Failure to inform the GRA about the commencement of business (Registration) - Many persons commence business but do not inform the GRA about this activity. Many businesses are non-compliant with the law regarding filing of returns, especially at the early stages.

The law will be amended to give persons a maximum of three months from the commencement date of business to inform the GRA; ● Cost for TIN - There is currently no fees for the issuance of TIN certificates, even though GRA incurs an administrative cost. It is proposed to impose a fee of $1,000 for the first TIN certificate and $5,000 for reprinting of TIN certificates.

MEASURES TO ENHANCE REVENUE • Travel Tax - The departure tax payable by persons leaving Guyana has remained unchanged for years. As a result, it is amongst the lowest in the world. Government proposes to increase the travel tax from $2,500 to $3,500. Government wishes to announce, too, that measures will be implemented to enable airlines to collect and remit the tax to the Revenue Authority, thereby making for one less departure line at our airports, and reducing the cost and administrative burden on the GRA while ensuring consistency with international practices in the

From page 4

travel industry; • Premium Tax on Re-insurance Premiums for Local Aircraft Operators - Based on representations made by the Aircraft Association, the Government has acceded to their request to waive premium taxes charged on insurance premiums payable by aircraft owners and accumulated for the past eight years exceeding. The loss is $80M, but Government believes it will stimulate growth and improve flights to interior locations. It is proposed that the tax will be now payable from January 1, 2017; • Capital Gains Tax - In moving the property tax valuation to 1/1/2011 as per the Property Tax Act in 2014, the Capital Gains Tax Act was inadvertently left unchanged, thereby allowing for taxation not in keeping with the taxation principles on the calculation of Capital Gains. Government believes that this inadvertence has created an unfair burden on persons selling properties that were revalued. Consequently, Government is proposing a change in the relevant sections of the Capital Gains Tax Act to bring them in line with the Property Tax valuations; • Fee for Passport - It is proposed to increase the fee for a passport from $4,000 to $6,000. However, persons 65 years and above will be exempt from the payment of the passport fee. This measure takes effect from January 1, 2017; • Abolishment of Certificate of Compliance to process Transfer of Motor Vehicle Registration - It is proposed to dispense with the requirement for Motor Vehicle Compliance, since this will reduce the duplication of documents submitted to GRA and the processing time for the completion of transfer of registration. At the same time, it is proposed to increase fees for transfer of motor vehicle registration for motor cycle and other vehicles, ranging from $5,000 for motor cycles

and her location remains unknown, according to her mother Deowattie Singh.

Jaipersaud was last seen at Tuschen Public Road, East Bank Essequibo at about midday on November 23.

Singh told Guyana Chronicle that she is hoping

that someone would call and say something as she has been searching for the teen ever since she failed to return home.

“I am so worried and I am praying that she is okay,” the mother said.

A missing person’s report has since been made to the police and anyone with information as it regards to the locating of the missing teen are asked to contact the nearest police station or her parents on 682-7058.

to $25,000 or two per cent of sale price, whichever is higher; • Fees for permits and other documents - Government proposes to impose a fee of $2,000 for a Driving Permit issued to drivers residing abroad but visiting the country temporarily, and $2,000 for persons requiring a Letter of Authenticity for verification of drivers' licences; • Miscellaneous fees – Many customs fees are over 20 years old and cannot cover the administrative and other costs attached to performing the service. Government proposes to amend Section 275 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01

to bring these fees in line with current reality.

• Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act & Tax Act, Chapter 82:21 - Government propose an increase in fees for Application and Renewal of Intoxicating Liquor Licences. These fees were in existence since 1992; and increase in penalties. Government proposes to amend the legislation to increase the penalties relating to Licences for Spirituous Liquor.

vious two budgets, and the removal of the passport fee in this budget, Government has announced an increase in Old Age Pension to $19,000.

Since coming to office a mere 18 months ago, the Government has increased this assistance to elderly citizens by 45 per cent. Over 53,000 persons are expected to benefit. At the same time, Public Assistance will increase to $7,500. Both increases are to take effect from January 1, 2017.

MEASURES IN SUPPORT OF THE ELDERLY ● In addition to benefits granted to the elderly in the pre-

MEASURES TO IMPROVE WORKERS' DISPOSABLE INCOME ● In addition to the substantial increase paid to public

Missing teen Indira Jaipersaud

servants over the last 18 months, the Government has used other means to increase workers' disposable income, including raising the income tax threshold by at least 20 per cent, removing the income tax on the workers contribution to NIS and paying a one-off bonus.

The Government will continue to engage the unions in negotiations to find common ground to issues pertaining to wage and salary adjustment, de-bunching and allowances, taking into consideration the state of the economy and our desire to maintain macroeconomic stability.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Pepsi Hikers men... very next minute, the Hikers responded with two more of their own in less than two minutes from MVP Aroydy Branford and captain Robert France.

The high-paced game seemed to be leaning in Hikers’ favour and despite some fine goalkeeping at both ends, Queen’s Park Dominic executed an accurate penalty corner shot to give Queen’s Park their second goal while Hope smashed home his second to move the score to 4-2 for the Hikers.

The second half saw no letting up by either side and the crowd continued to enjoy blistering counterattacks and an abundance of goals. Young Trinidadian international Jordan Vieira was first on the sheet in the second half as he foiled a Hikers attack, dished a pass to Toussant, and outsprinted his marker down court to finish with a diving deflection goal.

Robert France, however, restored the two-goal cushion for the Hikers with a penalty corner deflection in the 28th minute nudging the score to 5-3.

Vieira scored his second at the 30th minute mark and Hope his third immediately after, for Queen’s Park and Hikers respectively, as supporters were held at the edge of their seats.

Two goals from striker Toussant and Trinidad Under-21 captain Jordan Reynos for Queen’s Park drew the scores level with five minutes remaining in the match. With the momentum in their favour, Queen’s Park could have secured their first lead of the match when they earned a crucial penalty stroke drawing a deafening uproar from supporters of both sides, either in support or disapproval.

The diminutive Toussant stepped forward to take the stroke against the towering Jason Hoyte in goal for the Hikers, and eventual Best Goalkeeper Award winner Hoyte produced for his side when it was needed most with a save to his right.

Hoyte’s heroics seemed to inject a shot of adrenaline into his teammates who continued their relentless search for the final goal.

Fittingly, it was the vet-

eran Devin Munroe who was instrumental in all six previous festival wins for the Hikers, to close out Queen’s Park and the match with a terrific shot from the right. With just four minutes remaining, Queen’s Park launched several futile attacks and the final whistle saw the Pepsi Hikers earn their record seventh men’s title.

The ladies final, though entertaining, did not prove to be quite as competitive as the men’s with the Toronto Toros crushing the Woodpecker Hikers by 5-1.

After an opening penalty corner goal in the second minute of play, competition MVP and Highest Goal Scorer, Toros right-back Kaelan Watson punctuated her performance with the final goal of the match in similar fashion 35 minutes later.

Teammate Danica Jayme managed a hat-trick of goals for the Toros to complete their five goals while Hikers guest player Allana Lewis managed their lone goal through a penalty corner early in the second half of

From back page

the match.

The veterans final between Queen’s Park and the Bal-wash-ers was another one to go the distance with the final score of regulation time was dead even at 4-4.

After all six attempts were saved in the resulting first round of a penalty shootout, Bal-wash-er Inderjeet Bath and teammate Jesse Larson pulled off the win, both scoring in the sudden-death round of the shootout.

In the veterans division, Gregory Garroway (Balwash-ers) was awarded the Best Goalkeeper with most goals going to Rafael Gouveia (Queen’s Park) and the MVP to Jerazeno Bell (Queen’s Park).

In the Ladies’ division, Latoya Fordyce (Woodpecker Hikers) was the best goalkeeper with Most Goals and MVP going to Kaelan Watson (Toronto Toros) while on the male side of things, Best Goalkeeper went to Jason Hoyte (Pepsi Hikers), Most Goals Jordan Vieira (Queen’s Park), and MVP Aroydy Branford (Pepsi Hikers).

Army take early command... gave a much improved performance after the interval.

Caesar’s goal four minutes from full time makes him the leading goalscorer of the League with 4 goals.

After two rounds of matches (six) that have produced 23

goals, the Army are the only side with a perfect winning record and sit at the top of the 6-team table on 6 points. Fruta Conquerors, the only side not to concede a goal, are second on 4 points while Monedderlust FC on 3 points with a zero

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goal difference are ahead of Buxton United with a -3 goal difference and 3 points as well.

Victoria Kings are second from the bottom on one point and Topp XX at the bottom without a point.

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continue this coming Friday at the Tucville Community Centre ground with another double-header, featuring Kings versus Buxton in the first game at 18:00hrs and at 20:00hrs, Monedderlust tackle Conquerors. (Ras Wadada)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Argentina fight back to win Davis Cup AREGENTINA fought back to beat Croatia 3-2 and win the Davis Cup for the first time in a dramatic final in Zagreb.

Croatia led 2-1 going into the final day and looked on course for their second title when Marin Cilic led Juan Martin del Potro by two sets to love.

However, del Potro staged a remarkable comeback to win 6-7(4-7), 2-6, 7-5, 6-4, 6-3 in four hours 53 minutes.

Federico Delbonis then swept past Ivo Karlovic 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the decisive fifth contest to clinch victory.

Argentina had lost in four previous finals but, roared on by a vociferous 1500-strong group of travelling fans that

Argentina finally win the Davis Cup after final defeats in 1981, 2006, 2008 and 2011.

included 1986 World Cup winner Diego Maradona, the visitors secured a stunning win. del Potro set the victors on their way from a seemingly desperate situation at two-

sets down to world number six Cilic.

The victory capped a terrific year which has seen the 28-year-old return from four wrist surgeries to win Olympic silver and beat the

likes of Novak Djokovic, Stan Wawrinka and, in the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup, Andy Murray.

"This was an emotionally exhausting match and one of the biggest wins of my career," said del Potro.

"Thanks to all those who prevented me from retiring; I was very close to never playing again and, well, here I am."

Argentina captain Daniel Orsanic added: "His comeback is the comeback of history, his comeback today was the comeback of the Davis Cup. "He's a genius. His heart is so big."

Delbonis is ranked 21 places below Karlovic at 41 in the world but brilliantly returned the 6ft 11in Croat's huge serve.

"He was on top of every ball," said Orsanic. "He played a perfect match. I'm surprised, in a good way. I thought he couldn't win so easy." (BBC Sport)

Mayweather rematch still a possibility ‒ Pacquiao (REUTERS) - Filipino boxing great Manny Pacquiao has left the door open on the possibility of a rematch with Floyd Mayweather if the American ever comes out of retirement.

Mayweather, now 39, beat Pacquiao by unanimous decision in May 2015 and announced his retirement four months later with a 49-0 record.

"If he comes back into boxing there is a possibility, but right now we are not talking or discussing about

that," Pacquiao told Kyodo news agency on a visit to Japan yesterday.

The 37-year-old ended his own brief retirement earlier this month by taking the WBO welterweight title off American Jessie Vargas in a unanimous points decision.

"I don't know when my career will end," the southpaw added.

"I realised I felt lonely inside because ... I am no longer active in the sport of boxing. I asked myself if I can still fight, and I decided to come back and continue

the journey of my career."

Discussions about Pacquiao's next fight have been put on the backburner for the time being while he focuses on his career in politics.

The former eight-division world champion served as a Congressman before being elected to the Philippines Senate in May. "Actually, we are not talking about or discussing about my next fight because I am so busy working in the office as a senator," he said. "That's my focus right now."

Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquiao

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Jadeja, Ashwin guide India to brink of victory INSPIRED by Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, India are on course to take a 2-0 series lead after reducing England to 78-4 in their second innings in Mohali.

The tourists trail by 56 runs at stumps on day three of the third Test, with just six wickets remaining and Virat Kohli’s team having only batted once.

The sole hope of any meaningful resistance for Alastair Cook’s men appears to be Joe Root, who will resume on 36 today, alongside Gareth Batty (0 not out).

Beginning the day on 271-6, India reached 417 all out, a lead of 134. Jadeja built on an overnight score of 31 to get to a career-best 90, falling just short of a ton

when he picked out Chris Woakes at long-on off Adil Rashid (4-118).

Ashwin had earlier departed for 72, edging to Jos Buttler trying to drive Ben Stokes (5-73), bringing an end to their stand of 97 for the seventh wicket.

The tail continued to wag, though, Jayant Yadav (55) supplying a valuable first Test half-century as he and Jadeja put on 80.

E n g l a n d w e re t h e n forced to rearrange their top order, Haseeb Hameed unable to bat due to a finger injury, prompting Root to be elevated to partner Cook.

The skipper survived two lbw appeals in the space of four deliveries, with one India review overturned and

a second from Cook upheld, as he passed Steve Waugh to sit 10th on the list of leading Test run-scorers with 10 934, behind Allan Border.

Nothing could save the captain, though, when Ashwin (3-19) bowled him through the gate for 12.

Moeen Ali could only add five from 20 deliveries before chipping Ashwin to Jayant at mid-on.

Wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel did brilliantly to hold a catch when Jonny Bairstow (15) tried to chop down on a delivery that stayed low from Jayant (1-12).

And a final late blow came when Stokes (5) fell victim lbw to Ashwin, a successful review showing the delivery hitting the top of off stump. (Omnisport.com)

SCOREBOARD

Ravindra Jadeja played his longest Test innings and brought out the sword dance to celebrate his half-century

Taylor’s 16th Test ton sets up NZ victory push

(REUTERS) - Ross Taylor ended a poor run of form to score his 16th Test century and bat New Zealand into a potentially series-winning position at the end of the fourth day of the second Test against Pakistan at Seddon Park in Hamilton yesterday.

Already 1-0 up in the twomatch series courtesy of an eight-wicket win in Christchurch, New Zealand declared their second innings at 313 for five, just after Taylor reached the milestone, and set Pakistan a victory target of 369.

Azhar Ali and Sami Aslam safely batted out the three overs they needed before play ended to take their side to one for no wicket.

They will face a minimum of 98 overs today.

Taylor finished on 102 not out, with BJ Watling on 15.

Zimbabwe in August, brought up the century when he cut Imran Khan backward of point for his 16th boundary.

Captain Kane Williamson declared one run later.

The wickets of Henry Nicholls (26) and Colin de Grandhomme (32 from 21 balls), fell after tea.

Pakistan have not lost a series since they were beaten 2-0 in Sri Lanka in August 2014, winning five and drawing two, which included one drawn series in England earlier this year that gave them the top Test ranking before India moved past them.

Latham, who survived a close run-out chance while on 22 when substitute fielder Yasir Shah hit the stumps from side on, moved to his 11th Test half-century in the over before

ENGLAND 1st innings 283 (J. Bairstow 89) INDIA 1st innings (o/n 271-6) M. Vijay c Bairstow b Stokes 12 P. Patel lbw b Rashid 42 C. Pujara c Woakes b Rashid 51 V. Kohli c Bairstow b Stokes 62 A. Rahane lbw b Rashid 0 K. Nair run-out (Buttler) 4 R. Ashwin c Buttler b Stokes 72 R. Jadeja c Woakes b Rashid 90 J. Yadav c Ali b Stokes 55 U. Yadav c Bairstow b Stokes 12 M. Shami not out 1 Extras: (b-8, lb-4, nb-1, w-3) 16 Total: (all out, 138.2 overs) 417 Fall of wickets: 1-39, 2-73, 3-148, 4-152, 5-156, 6-204, 7-301, 8-381, 9-414.

Bowling: J. Anderson 21-4-480, C. Woakes 24-7-86-0, M. Ali 13-1-33-0 (nb-1), A. Rashid 386-118-4, B. Stokes 26.2-5-73-5 (w-3), G. Batty 16-0-47-0.

ENGLAND 2nd innings A. Cook b R. Ashwin 12 J. Root not out 36 M. Ali c Yadav b R. Ashwin 5 J. Bairstow c P. Patel b Yadav 15 B. Stokes lbw b R. Ashwin 5 G. Batty not out 0 Extras: (b-4, lb-1) 5 Total: (for 4 wickets, 38 overs) 78 Fall of wickets: 1-27, 2-39, 3-70, 4-78.

Bowling: M. Shami 7-2-17-0, U. Yadav 1-0-7-0, R. Ashwin 123-19-3, R. Jadeja 12-4-18-0, J. Yadav 6-1-12-1.

SCOREBOARD NEW ZEALAND 1st innings 271 (J. Raval 55; S. Khan 4-99) PAKISTAN 1st innings 216 (B. Azam 90no; T. Southee 6-80) NEW ZEALAND 2nd innings (o/n 0-0) J. Raval lbw b Amir 2 T. Latham c S. Ahmed b Riaz 80 K. Williamson c S. Ahmed b I. Khan 42 R. Taylor not out 102 H. Nicholls c S. Ahmed b I. Khan 26 C. de Grandhomme c Az. Ali b I. Khan

32 B. Watling not out 15 Extras: (lb-6, nb-2, w-6) 14 Total: (for 5 wickets declared, 85.3 overs) 313 Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-107, 3-159, 4-219, 5-254.

Bowling: M. Amir 22-4-86-1 (w-2), So. Khan 17-2-69-0, I. Khan 20.3-4-76-3, W. Riaz 19-353-1 (nb-2), Az. Ali 6-0-19-0, A. Shafiq 1-0-4-0

PAKISTAN 2nd innings (Target: 369 runs) S. Aslam not out 1 Az. Ali not out 0 Extras:

0 Total: (for no loss, 3 overs) 1 Fall of wickets: Nil Bowling: T. Southee 2-1-1-0, M. Henry 1-1-0-0.

Ross Taylor hugs BJ Watling after bringing up his century on the 4th day in Hamilton Taylor is now one century be- lunch with three fours off Mohind the New Zealand record hammad Amir to take his side of 17, held by Martin Crowe. to 97 for one.

Opener Tom Latham had earliHowever, just when he er scored 80 to anchor the New looked well set to score his Zealand innings. sixth Test century after lunch, Taylor, who had not he got an unplayable short passed 50 in 11 innings since delivery from Wahab Riaz and scoring 67 not out against ballooned a catch to wicket-

keeper Sarfraz Ahmed to be dismissed for 80.

Williamson was the only other wicket to fall after lunch when he received a delivery from Imran that angled in then straightened off the seam and was caught

by Sarfraz for 42.

Jeet Raval was earlier trapped in front by Amir for two.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Victoria Park, Kaisoca share spotlight at SCA gala

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada -- Victoria Park Cricket Club and Kaisoca Women’s Cricket Club shared the top honours when the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) held its 36th annual gala presentation, dinner and

sored trophy.

Kaisoca’s Chuntel Martin and Superstars’ Lorraine Kenton were the respective MVPs in the final, winning the Richard Ramlall- and Deo Samaroo-sponsored prizes.

The Premiere Division playoff champions Toronto

ganathan’s trophy. The MVPs were Harjeet Singh and Gusting Gibson.

Highland Creek B took top honours in the First division playoff final, winning the Richard Ramlall prize, sponsored by Caribbean Wave while the Conference A and B respective season winners

SCA president Shiv Persaud hands over the Elite trophy to the winning Victoria Park as the players celebrate their triumph.

Chief Financial Officer of the SCA, Vish Jadunauth, presents the Caribbean Wave-sponsored winners’ trophy to Kaisoca captain Mahwish Khan in the presence of other teammates. dance at the elegant and picturesque Scarborough Convention Centre, Scarborough here last Saturday night.

On a night when several players, both juniors and seniors as well as women were awarded for their outstanding performances during an eventful 2016 season, Victoria Park were crowned the inaugural Elite League champions while Kaisoca captured the women’s championships, having dethroned Superstars who won the crown in its first year.

After ending the season with the most points and earning the Trophy Stall (Guyana) prize, Victoria Park ensured their efforts were not in vain as they also emerged as the Elite division playoff champs, thereby winning the Shiv Persaud of Primerica-sponsored trophy with their victory over Scarborough Cricket Club (SCC).

The Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards for the final went to Anand Erramilli (Victoria Park) and Zainul Uniya (SCC).

Not to be outdone, the Kaisoca women carted off the Caribbean Wave Restaurant-sponsored winners’ trophy after upstaging Superstars in the playoff final, after the latter had led the season points table which saw them claim the Norman Sue Bakery-spon-

Cricketers waltzed away with the Frank Faubert trophy, sponsored by Scarborough Misubishi, turning back the challenge of season points champions Islanders Cricket Club who had to be content with realtor Lakshman Srian-

were Armor Cricket Club and Knightly. They secured the IR Construction and Action Honda trophies.

The second division saw Kaieteur International Sports Club claim the Norman Sue Bakery playoff winners’ tro-

A smiling Chuntel Martin collects one of her several awards from SCA’s Deo Samaroo.

phy while the season champs were Rangers in Conference A and Victoria Park in Conference B. The SCA also reintroduced the T20 competition in the 2016 season with the various winners being Highland Creek A in the Richard Ramlall’s conference, Durham United Cricket Club in the Deo Samaroo while Janbaaz Cricket Club and Rangers stole the limelight in the Bisham Singh’s

Conference One and Two respectively.

Individual awards for the Elite division went to Highland Creek’s Fahd Ali Khan for the most runs (326) and Bawa’s Abid Roowala the most wickets (22). In the Premiere division, Kush Yadav of Toronto Cricketers registered the most runs (360) while Durham’s Fareed Mohamed claimed the most wickets (24).

In the first division, Armor’s Kamran Nazir had

Superstars’ Lorraine Kenton receive on of her prizes from SCA’s Deo Samaroo.

the unique distinction of slamming three centuries on his way to tallying the most runs (512) with Zakir Gosla of Star Cricket Club took the most wickets (25).

Scarborough Cricket Association’s Yunus Motara, who clobbered a top score of 175, led all scorers in the second division with 495 runs while Gagandeep Singh of Janbaaz was the top wicket-taker with 26 wickets.

In the women’s division, Kaisoca’s skipper Mahwish Khan topped with 202 runs while Superstars’ Lorraine Kenton led the bowling with 18 wickets.

Towfeeq Ahmed registered the most runs in the Under-17 division which saw Trushil Patel of Superstars take the most wickets while in the Under-15 it was Anoop Chima of Toronto Cricket Academy and Faheem Motara of SCA with the most runs and wickets respectively.

In the junior division Mihir Patel of Action Zone Cricket Academy and his teammate Aditiya Pandya stole the honours with the most runs and most wickets.

Trophies and medals, sponsored by Action Honda, were also presented to the SCA women’s participants, including MVPs Mahwish Khan and Chuntell Martin, best bowlers Natasha Springett and Lorraine Kenton.

The SCA also took the opportunity to honour its T20 representatives who were runners-up in the Ontario Cricket Association (OCA) tournament and the Under-19 squad who captured the OCA title with a comprehensive win over Ottawa.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

GFF supports Masters FUTSAL Classic … Registration closes tomorrow

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF), yesterday handed over a cheque to chief organiser of the upcoming Masters FUTSAL Classic, Ras Wadada, to assist with offsetting costs for the December 2 to 18 competition, which will be played at the National Gymnasium.

The competition, to be

played on three consecutive weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday), will consist of three different age groups and is open to all teams throughout the country. The Junior Masters will be for 35 to 39 years, the Masters for 40 to 49 years and the Grand Masters will be for 50 years and over.

All team and individual trophies have been donated by the National Sports Commission and the match balls have been provided

by German’s Restaurant.

The organisers are currently awaiting a positive response with regard to prize moneys for the competition.

Meanwhile, teams have until tomorrow to register for participation. A meeting of all representatives of teams will be held tomorrow night at GFC where the draw for the various groups will be done.

Registration can be done between 17:00hrs and 18:45hrs before tomorrow’s meeting, which begins at 19:00hrs.

Strathavon prevail in last-ball

thriller over Enmore

GFF’s Executive Committee member Keith O’Jeer on behalf of GFF presents cheque to chief tournament organiser, Ras Wadada, in the presence of GFF General Secretary (ag), Trevor King.

Red Force, Hurricanes left frustrated as final day abandoned PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Both Trinidad & Tobago Red Force and Leeward Islands Hurricanes were left frustrated after rain, resulting in an impaired outfield, forced the abandonment of the final day of their third round game in the Regional FourDay Championship here yesterday.

Umpires carried out a number of inspections but any hopes of action at Queen’s Park Oval were

dashed as the outfield remained unfit for play, and officials eventually called time on the encounter about an hour into the final session.

All told, only 92 overs were possible in the game.

Friday’s opening day was completely abandoned, only 57 overs were sent down on the second day while Sunday’s penultimate day saw only 35 overs bowled.

Red Force, sent in by Hurricanes, were set to re-

sume on 287 for eight, in an innings where opener Kyle Hope stroked 86 and debutant left-hander Isaiah Rajah got 69.

Captain and part-time slow bowler Kieran Powell finished with three for 29 while off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall claimed two for 73 to move to 19 wickets for the season.

For their efforts, Hurricanes picked up 5.2 points while Red Force ended with five points.

The winning Strathavon team along with the sponsors and members of the East Coast Cricket Committee DAIARAM Hemraj held his nerve to take Strathavon to a thrilling last-ball win in the East Coast Cricket Committee’s T20 final against Enmore on Sunday at the Fairfield Community Centre ground.

(10) smashed eight off the first two balls, a double and a six.

However, Dyal bowled two dot balls before he claimed the wicket of Sukhanand; but Hemraj scraped over the line to secure the nerve-tingling win.

TTFA already in contact with possible Stephen Hart replacements THE Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) has already been in touch with four coaches as it seeks out a replacement for coach Stephen Hart who was fired last week Thursday after three years in charge of the country’s senior team.

President of the TTFA David John Williams made the revelation on Saturday during an interview with Fazeer Mohammed on Trinidad and Tobago’s magazine show TV6s Morning Edition. He said a new coach would be named soon.

Williams said a run of poor results was behind Hart’s dismissal.

Hart had guided T&T

T&T head coach Stephen Hart was fired last week.

to the Hexagonal Round of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying that got underway in early November.

However, the team got off to a disastrous start losing 2-0 to Costa Rica at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on November 11 before going doiwn 3-1 to Honduras at the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula on November 15.

Williams rejected the notion of the coincidence of the turn in the team’s fortunes with his assumption of the TTFA presidency last year.(Sportsmax.com)

Man-of-the-match Chanderpaul Hemraj collects his trophy.

The Cane Grove unit, chasing 116 for victory, needed nine runs off the last over, bowled by spinner Yuvraj Dyal, and made the perfect start as Gajanand Sukhanand

Enmore were under pressure from the start, after they were put in to bat. They lost opener Vishwanauth Ramlakhan early, when he was removed by pacer Sylus

Tyndall for four.

However, Imran Hassan (27) and Rudolph Singh (34) steadied the ship by adding 52 for the second-wicket but a disciplined performance

by Strathavon bowlers held their opponents in check, as they lost their remaining nine batsmen for just 59 runs, with Singh being the last man to be dismissed off the final ball of the innings.

Tyndall and Sukhanand, both had figures of 3-11, while man-of-the-match Chanderpaul Hemraj chipped in with 1-10 off his four overs.

In reply, Strathavon lost three early wickets but the Hemraj’s combination of Goberdan and Chanderpaul took the eventual winners within victory.

Goberdan finished on 34, inclusive of two fours and three sixes, while Chanderpaul made 30, with three fours and a six.

Satesh Jainarine had 3-16, while Dyal finished with 2-32. Strathavon pocketed the $100 000 first prize and winning trophy while the losing finalists received half of that amount.

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Wet outfield wipes out Scorpions, Pride clash play in Jaguars, Volcanoes ends in dull draw clash on day 3 SCOREBOARD

GROS ISLET, St Lucia, (CMC) – The adverse weather which has afflicted the third round of the Regional Four-Day Championship finally made its way here yesterday forcing the abandonment of the penultimate day of the day/night third round contest between Windward Islands Volcanoes and Guyana Jaguars.

Rain in the morning left the outfield at the Darren Sammy National Stadium saturated, making the 3 pm start impossible.

Match officials carried out three inspections, the last of which came at 5 pm when it was determined that play would not be possible for the day.

On today’s final day, Volcanoes will resume on 90 for four in their second innings – a lead of 63 runs overall.

Meanwhile, Raymon Reifer followed up a career-best five-wicket haul

SCORPIONS 1st innings 224 PRIDE 1st innings (o/n 153 for four)

Raymon Reifer followed up a career-best five-wicket haul with his ninth first class half-century

with his ninth first class half-century to help put twotime reigning champions Guyana Jaguars on top on day two Sunday.

The left-hander hit 52 and wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble top-scored with 58 as Jaguars, teetering on 73 for four overnight, were bowled out for 219 in their first innings at the Darren Sammy National Stadium.

All-rounder Chris Barnwell chipped in with 33 and

captain Leon Johnson, 30, efforts which helped the visitors eke out a narrow first innings lead of 27.

Pacers Mervin Matthew (4-43) and left-armer Delorn Johnson (4-53) led the effort with four wickets apiece.

Fast bowler Keon Joseph then ripped through the Volcanoes top order in the hosts’ second turn at the crease, leaving them stumbling on 90 for four at the end of play.

SCOREBOARD

VOLCANOES 1st Innings 192 Jaguars1st Innings (overnight 73 for four)

R Chandrika c Smith b Matthew 16 S Hetmyer c Smith b Matthew 0 *L Johnson b Matthew 30 V Singh b Mayers 1 S Chanderpaul lbw b Johnson 8 C Barnwell c lbw b Mayers 33 R Reifer c Shillingford b Matthew 52 +A Bramble c Robinson b Johnson 58 V Permaul not out 13 G Motie c Smith b Johnson 0 K Joseph c Smith b Johnson 0 Extras (lb6, w2) 8 TOTAL (all out, 70.3 overs) 219 Fall of wickets: 1-8, 2-25, 3-33, 4-44, 5-91, 6-99, 7-203, 8-211, 9-213, 10-219.

Bowling: Matthew 19.3-4-43-4, Johnson 15.5-1-54-4, Mayers 15-3-43-2, Shillingford 13-4-30-0, Edward 6-1-30-0, Sebastien 1-0-13-0.

VOLCANOES 2nd Innings D Smith c Singh b Joseph 0 T Theophille c Motie b Joseph 39 J Robinson c Motie b Joseph 4 K Hodge c wkp Bramble b Barnwell 14 +S Ambris not out 28 L Sebastien not out 1 Extras (b1, lb1, w2) 4 TOTAL (4 wkts, 38.4 overs) 90 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-4, 3-52, 4-80.

Bowling: Joseph 9-2-26-3, Reifer 9-4-19-0, Permaul 11-5-13-0, Barnwell 9.4-1-30-1.

Position: Volcanoes lead overall by 63 runs.

Medal haul for GAWA team in Barbados IT WAS an impressive medal haul for Guyana Amateur Weightlifting Association (GAWA) as the Independence Phillips and Springer Weightlifting Invitational concluded yesterday in Barbados.

Each member of the team returned home with a medal. In the Masters category, Colin McKoy, Deion Nurse and Sean Cozier each secured a gold medal.

In the Open category, Cozier also secured a gold medal while teammates Nurse and

McKoy took home bronze. Dillon Mahadeo and Sean Bristol also copped a silver medal each in the Open category while Jonathon Ford took home bronze.

The team would like to thank all who made participation possible with mention being made of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), Wartsila, Muneshwar’s Limited, Gigi Pollard, Colors Boutique and Antarctic Refrigeration Services among others.

O. Phillips c Campbell b Green 4 A. Alleyne b Allen 66 S. Brooks b Jacobs 44 R. Chase lbw b Miller 23 K. Stoute c Leveridge b Miller 31 M. Rampersaud c Campbell b Leveridge 36 K. Williams b Allen 2 J. Greaves not out 22 K. Roach c wkp. Thomas b Leveridge 0 J. Warrican lbw b Jacobs 19 N. Charles c Thomas b Allen 2 Extras: (b-10, lb-11, w-3) 24 Total: (all out, 103.5 overs) 273 Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-116, 3-153, 4-153,

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – There were precious few sparks on a drama-less final day as the third round game between Jamaica Scorpions and Barbados Pride ended in a dull draw at Sabina Park here yesterday.

Resuming the day on 153 for four, Pride failed to muster anything spectacular enough to turn the tide and were dismissed for 273 nearly an hour after lunch.

Wicketkeeper Mario Rampersaud struck 36 and captain Kevin Stoute, 31, while Justin Greaves finished on 22 not out.

Debutant left-arm spinner Fabian Allen claimed three for 34 while fast bowler Reynard Leveridge (228), captain and left-arm spinner Nikita Miller (2-65) and leg-spinner Damion Jacobs (2-69) all picked up two wickets each.

Trailing by 49 on first innings, Scorpions confidently reached the close on 112 for two, with opener John Campbell missing out on his second half-century of the game with 49 and opening partner Shacaya Thomas getting 43.

Test left-arm spinner claimed two for 29.

Pride walked away from the rain-ravaged outing with nine points while the hosts picked up 7.6.

The visitors made a safe start to the day as Stoute and Rampersaud stretched their overnight fifth-wicket stand to 67.

Left-hander Rampersaud was ultra-patient in a knock requiring 133 deliveries and 144 minutes while Stoute, a right-hander, struck two fours and two sixes off 87

5-220, 6-233, 7-236, 8-238, 9-268.

Bowling: Leveridge 11-2-28-2, Green 14-432-1, Blackwood 1-0-1-0, Jacobs 22-3-68-2, Miller 35-11-65-2, Allen 12.5-2-34-3, McCarthy 5-1-10-0, Campbell 3-0-14-0.

SCORPIONS 2nd innings J. Campbell c Stoute b Warrican 49 S. Thomas lbw b Warrican 43 J. Blackwood not out 13 D. Thomas not out 4 Extras: (lb-2, nb-1) 3 Total: (2 wkts, 33 overs) 112 Fall of wickets: 1-92, 2-101.

Bowling: Roach 4-0-32-0, Greaves 3-0-190, Warrican 13-3-29-2, Charles 13-1-30-0.

Points: Pride 9, Scorpions 7.6.

John Campbell

balls.

Once the partnership was broken, Pride lost their last six wickets for 53 runs, after going to lunch at 237 for seven.

Faced with a tricky period before tea, Scorpions’ fears were eased by Camp-

bell and Thomas who put on 92 for the first wicket.

The left-handed Campbell, unbeaten on 45 at the interval with Scorpions on 81, faced 66 balls and struck nine fours while Thomas hit six fours in a 60-ball knock.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

COMPLIMENTS OF: THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE 176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 148-Evin Lewis (2) 4/48-Carlos Braithwaite Today’s Quiz: (1) Which SL scored most runs in the round-robin round of the Tri-Nations ODI series?

(2) Which SL took most wickets in the round-robin round of the Tri-Nations ODI series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Record-setting day at Powerlifting

All winners from Sunday’s powerlifting tournament. (Zaheer Mohamed photo)

IT was all action as the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) tournament came to a close last Sunday.

A total of 32 athletes grunted, shouted and lifted to their limits on the record-breaking day. However, it was Vijai Rahim, Carlos Peterson, Nadina Taharally, and Tinesha Toney who were the victors in their categories.

Rahim lifted in the 74kg class and finished with a wilks points total of 545.158 after squatting 250kg,

bench-pressing 160kg and dead-lifting 285kg for a total of 645kg. He finished as the male overall equipped winner.

Peterson finished as the male overall unequipped winner after setting a new 93kg (junior) class dead lift record (300kg). He also bench-pressed 140kg and squatted the same as Rahim.

His wilks points total was 433.527.

Taharally recorded a 332.5kg total with a wilks

points of 347.5 to claim her title as female overall unequipped winner, while female overall equipped winner Toney had a total of 365kg and 427.086 wilks points.

Another record came from Colin ‘Mr Clean’ Chesney, who literally put the world on his chest during the day. He bench-pressed 240kg, clearing the old record of 230kg by John ‘Big John’ Edwards.

Before his performance the 120kg plus Lindener

Walters blames rust for loss to Lomachenko NICHOLAS Walters has cited ring rust as the reason why he lost to WBO featherweight champion Vasyl Lomachenko in Las Vegas last Saturday night.

The 30-year-old Walters, nicknamed the `Axe Man’, a testament to his prowess for knocking out his opponents, quit after the seventh round of the main bout after being outclassed by the Russian, who was winning his seventh professional fight.

A stationary Walters found it hard to connect on the elusive Russian champion, who had no trouble hitting the Jamaican at will.

After a particularly bruising seventh round, Walters told the referee that he was unable continue.

“In the last round he hit me with some pretty good

shots and my corner decided to stop the fight,” said Walters who was paid US$300,000 for the fight much less than the US$500,000 he was being offered to fight Lomachenko in June this year.

“Unfortunately, the inactivity, it paid a toll on my body.”

Asked by the interviewer why he didn’t continue knowing that he had the power to hurt the Russian Walters, who last fought in December 2015 replied: “I tried.

I tried each and every round to catch him but what happened is that my power punches keep hitting his guard or were off range. The time that I haven’t been in the ring, if maybe I would have had one or to warm up fights

Nicholas Walters

and then take him on at the end of this year it would be a total different thing.”

In the end Walters acknowledged that Lomachenko is a very good fighter. “He is everything they say he is. He is a good fighter,” said the Axeman who was losing his first ever professional fight.

squatted 355k, and dead-lifted 272.5kg. However, he only had 499.507 wilks points and could not overtake Rahim.

Powerlifting is comprised of three disciplines, the squat, bench-press and deadlift with the winner of each weight category posting the biggest total in kilos.

The competition was run by the (GAPF) along with Fitness Express and Ticket Master Travel Agency, and was used as a selection tournament for international competitions next year. The GAPF’s new season will start in March 2017 with the traditional Novices competition. (Daniel Haynes)

Buxton United head points table in NAMILCO U-17 … Round one ends

BUXTON United have taken a two-point lead in the East Demerara FA zone of the NAMILCO nationwide U-17 football League with their nearest rival Mahaica Determinators close on their heels in the ten-team League.

At the end of the first round of matches Buxton have accumulated 25 points to top the table, followed by Determinators on 23, and Bachelor’s Adventure/Paradise Sports Club on 16 for the top three positions.

United have also scored the most goals, 46, and conceded the least number of goals, one.

The final two games played over the weekend at the Golden Grove ground resulted in victory for BV/Triumph over Buxton Stars 2-1 on Saturday, with goals from Samuel Garnett (24th minute) and Omari Glasgow (72nd). Shamar Scott (35th) netted the consolation for Stars who were left on 4 points in 9th position while BV/ Triumph moved to 15 points to

take 4th place.

The other fixture played on Sunday ended in a 3-0 blanking of Ann’s Grove by Golden Stars, thanks to goals from Cevon Montrose (6th), Asim Williams (26th) and Shamar Kingston (65th). The three points pushed Golden Stars to 13 points and 5th position while Ann’s Grove were grounded in 7th on 8 points.

Plaisance Panthers are in 6th on 11 points, Victoria Kings on 7 points are in 8th.

Propping up the table at the bottom are Buxton Developers on 4 points with a massive 40 goals against.

Buxton United’s Kobe Durant with 18 goals is the competition’s top goalscorer with BV/Triumph’s Omari Glasgow second with 11 conversions.

The others in the top five are Teshaun Gordon of Bachelor’s Adventure/Paradise with 9, Determinators’ Julius Hamilton 8 and Shemar Kingston of Golden Stars with 6.

The League will resume at the end of January next year.

Recordsetting day at Powerlifting P.31

Diamond Mineral Water Hockey Festival

Pepsi Hikers men, Toronto Toros women secure titles … Bal-wash-ers take Veterans title

Men's Champs Pepsi Hikers with DDL Marketing Rep Mr Larry Wills

FOLLOWING their pool round clash, which many considered to have been the match of the tournament thus far, Guyana’s Pepsi Hikers and Queen’s Park of Trinidad & Tobago squared off in a tense men’s final of the Diamond Mineral Water Hockey Festival on Sunday evening at the National Gymnasium.

The teams began dead even just as they had finished their first duel which saw several lead changes, only to finish with a tied score on 5-5.

Just four minutes into the match, powerful Randy Hope received a ball on the right of the scoring circle and dispatched his shot cleanly into the Queen’s Park net past diving goalkeeper Reiza Hussein.

Although top Trinidadian national striker, Akim Toussant drew his team level with a goal in the Turn to page 25 ►

Women's champs Toronto Toros with DDL Marketing Rep Mr Larry Wills

Army take early command of GFF-STAG Elite League … clobber Buxton United 4-0

THE Guyana Defence Force have taken a commanding early lead in season two of the GFF-STAG Elite League after another vintage performance last Sunday at Camp Ayanganna ground where they drubbed Buxton United 4-0.

The Army continued their rich vein of goal-scoring form with another emphatic win that was facilitated by poor goalkeeping from

Darren Marks, the Buxton custodian.

Delroy Fraser, like he did in the first game (20th minute), opened the scoring for the soldiers in the 9th minute then added another in the 20th minute. Eight minutes later, younger brother Delwin added his name to the scorers’ list for a comfortable 3-0 halftime advantage.

Last week’s hat-trick hero, Sherwyn Caesar netted the only goal of the second period as the Buxtonians Turn to page 25 ►

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The Army’s goalscorers against Buxton United last Sunday (L to R), Delroy Fraser, Delwin Fraser and Sherwyn Caesar TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2016