Guyana chronicle may 12 2014

GUYANA No. 103825

MONDAY MAY 12, 2014

The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com

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‘There must be a watchdog for the watchdogs of the nation’ POA project coordinator ...

New US$1.3M ‘agri’project sees progress across socio-economic spectrum Page 7

–Complements the Jagdeo Initiative

Caribbean centre wants more than one-size-fits-all ––for dealing with climate change

GoInvest head calls on M&CC to set aside their differences Page 9

–urges they work together ‘for the betterment of Georgetown’

PYO to hold candlelight vigil tonight –for kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls Making home-grown pesticide

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

Attorney-General declares....

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‘There must be a watchdog for the watchdogs of the nation’ GUYANA recently joined in observing World Press Freedom Day 2014, and during an interview on freedom of the press, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr Anil Nandlall reiterated his call to local journalists to partner with the government towards building a better nation.

Giving his views on what freedom of the press means during an interview on Channel 28, Minister Nandlall said, “Apart from life itself, in my view there is no greater freedom to the human being than freedom of the press, freedom of expression, and freedom of thought.”

Noting that societies have been largely built upon the freedom of being able to think, Minister Nandlall said, “I often express my view by quoting a judge of the Supreme Court of India who said that intellectual paralysis creeps over any society that denies, in however subtle form, attempts in any manner whatsoever to interfere with freedom of thoughts and expression of its people.”

With the PPP/C administration holding a similar view, Minister Nandlall said “that is why when we assumed office, as a political party, we held on to a long and glorious record of standing on the side of press freedom and against those who may want to interfere with and censor the press in however subtle form.

“That is our track record. And when you look at our accomplishments in government, you see very clearly that over the last 22 years, you see the proliferation of over 20 privatelyowned television outfits operating in the country; you see two newspapers operating, established under this government; you see over eight or more radio stations operating in the radio spectrum.”

He said that with the establishment of all these and more media outlets, a lot of the content coming from these entities is not government friendly, but yet they are allowed to

operate without any hassle.

“They are not supposed to be friendly,” he said, “but the point is that they are operating under a free environment, where they are free to disagree with the government; they are free to criticise the government. And not one of them have I heard come forward to make an allegation that any member of the government ever attempted to intimidate them, or to impose upon them a view or to express any form of censorship on them.”

Noting that he is of the firm belief that Guyana has acceptable standards overall, in terms of freedom of the press and freedom of expression, the Minister said, “I stand by my comments made, [that] our society is a testimony of the freedom that exists in this country. How can we assess where we are, if we cannot reflect from where we have come?”

Recalling that Guyana is notorious for abusing reporters, Minister Nandlall said: “A writer from the Catholic Standard was murdered; some were jailed; some fled the country. There was only one source of information in the country; the government controlled that. The political parties, when they attempted to speak to their supporters, were deprived of materials needed to do so.”

But in spite of all this, he said, the PPP/C pressed on with its fight for press freedom. “We have to refer to the past to understand what existed in this country, and move to the present; so I have no doubt that we satisfy international standards when it comes to freedom of the press and freedom of journalists to discharge their function and to pursue their trades, ” he said.

When compared with India, where eight journalists were assassinated in 2013 in the discharge of their function, and the ‘big’ United States, whose world rating has dropped by as much as 13 points, Minister Nandlall said, “I think Guyana did reasonably well, having regard

to us being a Third World country.”

Speaking directly to the issue of abuse of press freedom, he said, “The government is free to criticise, and the press is free to criticise. I don’t subscribe to the view that a

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr Anil Nandlall

government or press must not express critical view when it is necessary; that is the democracy in which we live.” A case in point, he said, was that although it’s a known fact that Kaieteur News’ Adam Harris has no love lost for the government, he readily admits that there is press freedom in Guyana.

In his view, the Attorney-General said, when covering a story, a journalist should do so objectively. “If he wants to write a commentary or a column,” he said, “that’s a different matter. But when you are covering an event, I think the ethical requirements are that you give an objective, dispassionate description of that event; you know press freedom

is a great power, and with power comes responsibility. The press can destroy government; they can destroy characters of people and communities.

And that’s why they are referred to as Fourth Estate, in recognition of that power.”

Hence, the Attorney-General stated that the law has fashioned certain obligations, which devolve upon the press, or those who seek to enjoy and exercise freedom of expression to do so within certain limitation. “…For example you cannot injure the reputation and character of others, you can’t jeopardise a nation’s security, naturally you will find different degrees of abuse in different press outfits, I’ve had to take two newspapers to court for things that are libellous.”

He added that other instances of abuse by the press include columns under satirical language.

“Those who believe they use satire to libel people, satire is not a defence to libel so those who believe that they can use different linguistic devices as a guard to insulate them

from the responsibility that they have as journalists they are completely wrong.”

Minister Nandlall added that he has no problems with media houses and operatives being critical of the government as that is a part of their democratic right, but there must also be complimentary reports when compliments are deserving.

“Positive achievements and acts of good deeds of the government and those in government must also receive the same prominence,” he said.

Meanwhile, the AG added that efforts to ensure a free and fair press are being stymied by the opposition which have been calling for balance.

He added that the government’s efforts have been met with strong resistance by both APNU and the AFC. He pointed out that this was shown by the recent budget cuts to the Government Information Agency (GINA) and the National Communications Network (NCN).

“They have been invited to sit with members of the government on NCN

to discuss matters of public importance and they declined, you know of the series of debates to discuss corruption and transparency.”

For this debate, the opposition were invited but the APNU showed up once while the AFC was represented twice.

Further, to improve the environment for freedom of the press Minister Nandlall said he believes there needs to be a “watchdog for the watchdogs of the nation”.

“We have to continue to train journalists and improve the standard of media operators, training is an important aspect of their role and responsibility, significantly we need some form of ethical guideline which must be in writing.”

He added that the media demands accountability from all, “but to whom do they account to, who watches the watch dog?

The media cannot be rotating in an unregulated atmosphere, there must be rules that are known and rules to which we can hold them accountable by must be promulgated.” (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

Nigeria president optimistic over finding abducted schoolgirls

By Matthew Mpoke Bigg ABUJA , (Reuters) - Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan said yesterday international military and intelligence assistance made him optimistic about finding 200 schoolgirls abducted last month by Islamic militants in an attack condemned globally.

Israel became the latest country to offer help to Nigeria since April 14 when militants from Boko Haram stormed a secondary school in the northeastern village of Chibok and seized 276 girls who were taking exams.

Some managed to escape but around 200 remain missing.

Prime Minister Benjamin

Netanyahu’s office gave no details of its proposed assistance but Jonathan said Netanyahu offered during a phone conversation to send a team of counter-terrorism experts.

The United States and Britain have flown in experts and this, coupled with the deployment by Nigeria of two army divisions to the border region, signals that the search effort is gathering pace.

But it comes against a backdrop of sharp criticism of Jonathan’s government for responding too slowly to the crisis.

“Nigeria would be pleased to have Israel’s globally acknowledged anti-ter-

rorism expertise deployed to support its ongoing operations,” said a statement from State House in Abuja.

Jonathan is “very optimistic that with the entire international community deploying its considerable military and intelligence-gathering skills and assets in support of Nigeria’s efforts ... success will soon be achieved,” it said.

Outrage over the attack has focused attention on Boko Haram, a group that has destabilized parts of northeast Nigeria and killed thousands since 2009 in its fight for an Islamist state.

French President Francois Hollande on Sunday offered to host a summit

People demand for the release of 200 secondary school girls abducted in the remote village of Chibok, during a protest at Unity Park in Abuja, yesterday. (Credit: Reuters/Joe Penney)

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in Paris next Saturday with Nigeria and its neighbors focused on the militant group.

“With Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, I have proposed to hold a meeting with the countries bordering Nigeria,” Hollande said during a visit to the Azeri capital, Baku.

The leaders of Benin, Cameroon, Chad and Niger might also attend and Britain, the European Union and the United States would likely be represented as well, Hollande’s aides said.

A campaign on social media using the Twitter hashtag #BringBackOurGirls has stoked concern over the kidnappings, which have touched a chord because of the vulnerability of the girls and the brutality of the attackers.

Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau this month threatened to sell the girls “in the market”, deepening concern about their fate.

U.S. first lady Michelle Obama on Saturday called the attack an “unconscionable act”.

Around 100 people protested in Unity Park in central Abuja on Sunday over the girls, chanting: “Bring back our girls now and alive.” Scores of police watched the rally in a city that has seen dozens killed in two attacks in the last month.

“The government might see it (this protest) as an embarrassment but we have the right to gather.

This is not about painting Africa in a bad light,” Rotimi Ozawale, a spokesman for daily protests, told Reuters.

Members of a local election commission sort ballots as they start counting votes of yesterday’s referendum on the status of Luhansk region in Luhansk.. (Credit: Reuters/Valentyn Ogirenko)

Rebels declare victory in East Ukraine vote on self-rule

By Matt Robinson and Alessandra Prentice D O N E T S K / S L AV I ANSK, Ukraine (Reuters) - Pro-Moscow rebels declared a resounding victory in a referendum on selfrule for eastern Ukraine, with some saying that meant independence and others eventual union with Russia as fighting flared in a conflict increasingly out of control.

Organisers in the main region holding the makeshift vote yesterday said nearly 90 percent had voted in favor.

Well before polls closed, one separatist leader said the region would form its own state bodies and military after the referendum, formalizing a split that began with the armed takeover of state buildings in a dozen eastern towns last month.

Another said the vote simply showed that the East wanted to decide its own fate, whether in Ukraine, on its own, or as part of Russia.

“Eighty-nine percent, that’s it,” the head of the separatist electoral commission in Donetsk, Roman Lyagin, said by telephone when asked for the result of a vote that the pro-Western Ukrainian government in Kiev has condemned as illegal.

A festive atmosphere at makeshift polling stations in some areas belied the potentially grave implications of the event. In others, clashes broke out between separatists and troops over ballot papers and control of a television tower.

Zhenya Denyesh, a 20-year-old student voting early at a university building in the rebel stronghold of Slaviansk, said: “We all want to live in our own country”.

But asked what he thought would follow, he replied: “It will still be war.”

In the southeastern port of Mariupol, scene of fierce fighting last week, there were only eight polling centers for a population of half a million. Queues grew to hundreds of meters in bright sunshine, with spirits high as one center overflowed and ballot boxes were brought onto the street.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

President Bouterse says he could visit the Netherlands in the future

PARAMARIBO, Suriname, (CMC) – President Desi Bouterse says he is not adverse to travelling to the Netherlands in the future, if the Dutch country reverses an 11-year-jail sentence imposed on him on drug related charges.

Bouterse, whose attorney, Inez Weski, announced earlier this week that the head of state in Suriname would be appealing the sentence, said his visit would also depend on improved relations between the two countries.

“I would (still) rather travel to the hinterlands of Suriname than Australia, Asia or the Netherlands. But if matters between Suriname and the Netherlands would normalize, I could go yes. The Surinamers there deserve that,” he said.

“Surinamers who live there deserve to see their president too,” Bouterse said as he sought to clarify statements his lawyer made on Tuesday about him holding a big political rally on Dutch soil as soon as the court quashes the sentence he received in absentia in 1999 for drugs trafficking.

PRESIDENT DESI BOUTERSE

Weski has appealed the conviction on the grounds that the State’s main witness, Patrick van L, said he had lied during the trial.

Weski said she has irrefutable proof that Van L., a 47-year-old Belgian, was coerced by the Prosecutor’s Office into saying that Bouterse ran the Suri Cartel ring that shipped Colombian cocaine from Suriname to the Netherlands. She said the entire case that led to Bouterse’s conviction was founded on fabrications and bothersome wanderings of the law that she had brought to light.

Another of Bouterse’s attorneys, Irwin Kanhai, said Bouterse, the leader of the National Democratic Party (NDP) who will be running for a second term in the 2015 elections, would be staging a rally in the Dutch capital, Amsterdam, where most of Suriname’s nationals reside.

Bouterse said that Kanhai was “just joking” but admitted that he too was happy the “case has crumbled” and his lawyer saw an opening to appeal the 1999 verdict.

“I knew it was coming. They promised Patrick van L. all sorts of things, but he retracted his statements because they did not keep their promises. Gods mills grind slowly but surely,” he said.

He acknowledged that a reversal of the verdict would mean he could visit the Netherlands again.

Bouterse has not visited the Netherlands since the verdict and the Netherlands has steadfastly said that he would only be allowed to visit if he came to start his jail term.

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Venezuela frees most students detained in camp raids CARACAS,(Reuters) Venezuela said yesterday it had freed most of the 243 youth activists arrested in raids last week on street camps set up to protest against President Nicolas Maduro’s socialist government.

Although the government hoped the demolition of four camps in Caracas would snuff out a threemonth protest movement, activists vowed the measure had only strengthened their resolve to demonstrate against Maduro.

The students had been camping for weeks outside U.N. offices on a major highway, and in several other public squares.

The Venezuelan public prosecutor’s office said in a statement that 11 detainees had been kept behind bars, accused of a range of crimes including possession of arms

and drugs.

Authorities freed 155 with cautions and orders to report to courts periodically, and instructed 15 to undergo medical treatment for drug abuse, the statement added.

Anti-Maduro protests have been raging since February, with activists complaining about high inflation and crime rates, scarcities of basic goods, and repression of opponents.

Maduro, the 51-year-old successor to the late Hugo Chavez, says the demonstrations are part of a wider, U.S.-backed “coup” attempt against him.

Maduro’s position in power does not appear under threat, given that the protests have not spread far from middle-class opposition enclaves, and military chiefs are behind him.

In what has been the OPEC member’s worst un-

PRESIDENT NICOLAS MADURO

rest in a decade, at least 42 people have died in violence around the protests - with victims on all sides - and about 800 have been injured.

About 160 people remain in jail in total from roundups since February.

Demonstrators marched on Saturday to protest the breakup of

the student camps, with masked youths battling riot police at the end of the rally in scenes that have become familiar to Venezuelans over the last three months.

Security forces again used tear gas to disperse the youths, who were throwing stones and petrol bombs.

PM calls for EU to provide funds for projects in Caribbean ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer has called on the European Union to provide funds for two projects in his homeland and St. Kitts-Nevis which he

PRIME MINISTER BALDWIN SPENCER

said will have an immense impact on the tourism sector.

Spencer said the projects - the restoration of the St John’s Cathedral here and the Brimstone Hill National Fortress in Basseterre – had already been submitted to the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) Directorate under the 11 th European Development Fund (EDF) CRIP Multi-Country Programme.

“The project seeks to

restore two important historical landmarks in Antigua and Barbuda and St. Kitts and Nevis that have a significant bearing on both countries’ tourism product,” he told visiting European diplomats, telling them that the restoration project here is being financed through local fund raising efforts. “However, the Cathedral restoration programme is in dire need of an urgent injection of donor

resources to enable the first phase of the work to be completed. I therefore, use this opportunity to call on the EU to look at the overall project and see how best it could be financed,” he added.

Spencer said that his country was grateful to Europe for assistance over the years, saying “for us, the EU is an important partner who continues to contribute significant financial and tech-

nical assistance, grant aid to develop the different sectors of our economy.

“The EU has been there through our good times and bad times. Of particular note, is the nine million Euro Vflex (One Euro=US$1.29 cents) support that we obtained from the EU to help mitigate the effects of the severe global fiscal and economic crisis.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

Georgetown is infested with young criminals

EDITORIAL In Memory of a Special Mother THE political awareness, especially among women, that began in the decade of the 40s was essentially catalysed by the Jagan-led agitation against exploitation of the labour force. But today, the focus is on a special mother who led this nation during times of travail.

Mrs. Janet Jagan co-founded the Political Affairs Committee in 1946. This was the predecessor of the Peoples’ Progressive Party. During that year also, she and Mrs. Winifred Gaskin formed the Women’s Political and Economic Organisation (WPEO).

In 1947, she joined the British Guiana Clerks’ Association and became its Assistant Secretary, and her mobilisation of women against oppression gathered impetus from thereon.

Born Janet Rosenberg on October 20, 1920, in Chicago, Illinois, USA, Janet Jagan breathed her last in her adoptive homeland on March 28, 2009.

She married Cheddi Jagan on August 5, 1943 against much family turmoil on both sides, and their union produced two children: Joey and Nadira.

Like the biblical Ruth, Janet Jagan came to British Guiana in December 1943, making her husband’s homeland her own, and worked for 10 years as a Dental Nurse in Dr Jagan’s clinic. She almost immediately became involved in the labour struggle, and was a member of the colony’s first-ever union, the British Guiana Labour Union. She worked with labour hero, Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, to organise domestics.

Her love affair with journalism began with the PAC Bulletin, of which she was editor. In 1947, she contested the general elections under limited franchise in Central Georgetown, but lost.

One of the founders of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Janet was elected the party’s General Secretary, and held that post between 1950-1970.

Since then, she was a Member of the Central Committee and Executive Committee of the People’s Progressive Party. She has served as International Secretary and Executive Secretary.

She was appointed first editor of Thunder, the PPP’s official organ, and the first elected woman to the Georgetown City Council. In 1953, she co-founded the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), and continued to hold the post of President of this premier women’s association until her death.

That year also, she was one of the three women to enter the House of Assembly as a representative of the Essequibo constituency. In 1953, she was the first woman to become Deputy Speaker of the Legislature, but in 1954, following the suspension of the Constitution and the ouster of the PPP Government by the British colonialists, she was jailed for six months, and restricted, after release, to the city of Georgetown. She had to report to the police weekly.

During the period 1957-1961, Janet Jagan

I WAS just about to write on the “shot-in-the-mouth kid” when the incident involving the shooting death of felon Lloyd Hazel Jr. hit the headlines.

From reports gathered, this 19-year-old and another youthful accomplice had robbed a businessman, and they were about to make good their escape when they were cornered by passing armed security, who shot and killed Hazel.

This latest incident comes on the heels of an incident involving another teen, who is accused of a similar offence but has somehow managed to get help from his criminal associates to now make up a story of police brutality. It is the usual criminal-turn-victim scenario that is a prominent feature of Region 4, Georgetown in particular.

However, lest I be sidetracked, let me return to the most recent of criminalities, that involving Lloyd Hazel Jr.), another youngster whose life could have been categorized as an “asset” to society had he engaged himself in a more productive existence.

Lloyd Hazel and accomplices were caught in the very act of armed robbery, and he paid the ultimate price, bringing to an end another sad chapter in what has become the criminal landscape of the capital city.

Now his family cannot craft an excuse for him, because the tell-tale facts in this case are too revealing; so let us try a few mitigating circumstances to shore up his horrible image. His mother says that she sent him to get some photographs which she wanted to send off to a friend in the United States. His father, on the other hand, gives a completely different story, in which he states that his son, who is the owner of a Toyota Premio, left his car at home and went to town in a minibus to buy cigarettes.

There are two contrasting stories, one from his father and another from his mother; so which is true? This is the million-dollar question only they can answer, but let us scrutinize these statements from the two parents.

For academic purposes, let us give both parents the benefit of the doubt: that the lad was indeed given two instructions, one from either parent. However, the question remains “What was he doing with a helmet on his head?” Is it the newest craze to cover one’s head with a helmet when one boards a bus? Certainly not! You do not wear a helmet to board a bus, you wear a helmet when you are riding a motor cycle; which in this case was the getaway vehicle.

How many times haven’t we heard of armed robberies committed around the Georgetown area and the vehicle used to flee the scene was a CG motorcycle? There have been

numerous sightings of that very same motor cycle leaving the scene of a crime. So, here again, Papa and Mama Hazel need to be very careful with the statements they make, because in making those statements they might very well be giving their son away.

Even more revealing is the father’s testimony, whereby he asserts that his son, who is the owner of a Toyota Premio (very expensive car), left his car at home to go buy cigarettes. Well, that is a shocker: At 19 years of age he was the “proud” owner of such an expensive vehicle. By revealing one of his son’s assets to the public out there, he has unwittingly unearthed valuable information into his son’s criminal past.

He, in his haste to show that his son is not a thief because “he owns millions,” never stopped to think that questions would be raised as to the vile methods he employed to get the millions.

So it all goes to show how lucrative criminal enterprise is in the city, and that is why the age for such activities keeps getting lower and lower.

The point I am making is Georgetown is a haven for juvenile criminality - the city is infested with them. I must admit that law enforcement has a real hard task tackling this problem

NEIL ADAMS

was returned by the constituency of Essequibo to the Legislature, and was appointed as Minister of Labour, Health and Housing, in which capacity she made dynamic and transformational changes to those sectors.

On the death of the Minister of Home Affairs, Claude Christian, she became Minister of Home Affairs and a member of the Senate in 1963, but resigned as Minister in protest over the murderous incidents in Wismar.

She was Editor of the Mirror Newspaper from 1973 - 1997. After the PPP ended a boycott of Parliament in protest of the rigging of the elections in 1973, she returned to the House as an opposition MP. She served in the House continuously, and was returned in 1980, 1985 and 1992. In April 1997, she was acclaimed the longest serving member of Parliament.

After Guyana’s first free and fair elections in post -independent Guyana in October 1992, she was designated First Lady of the Republic. She continued her work as Editor of Mirror.

Mrs. Jagan served a three-month stint as Ambassador to the United Nations when Guyana’s Permanent Representative, Dr Rudy Insanally, was elected President of the General Assembly. She was subsequently appointed Chairperson of Castellani House Committee of Management, home of the National Art Gallery Collection; and Chairperson of National Commission on the Rights of the Child from 1992-1997.

On a historic day, March 17, 1997, Janet Jagan was sworn in as Guyana’s first woman Prime Minister and First Vice-President. She again created history on December 19, 1997 when she was sworn in as the first woman President of the Republic of Guyana and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. She resigned on August 8, 1999 due to ill health.

In March 2009, Mrs. Jagan indefatigably poured her energy into the establishment of the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre. Simultaneous to the multiplicity of activities she also authored several publications, including works on the history of the PPP and Rigged Elections in Guyana; and five children’s story books, among them ‘When Grandpa Cheddi was a Boy’, ‘Children’s Stories of Guyana’s Freedom Struggles’, and ‘Alligator Ferry Service’.

Mrs. Jagan became the recipient of the nation’s (Guyana’s) highest honour - Order of Excellence (O.E.) and a Woman of Achievement award from the University of Guyana. In 1997, she was awarded the Gandhi Gold Medal for Peace, Democracy and Women’s Rights by UNECSO. Mrs. Janet Jagan is one of the greatest daughters the United States of America ever produced; but that she became such an indomitable freedom fighter and national leader is a matter of pride for Guyana, and today, she is rightfully called the Matriarch of Guyana.

GT&T responds to letter in media THANKS for providing us the opportunity to respond to Mr. Micah Williams’s letter to the editor.

We wish to advise that Mr. Williams’s letter, dated April 30, 2014, was received by the CEO’s Office on May 6, 2014. The CEO immediately responded to the letter via post, acknowledging receipt of the correspondence and informing Mr. Williams that the matter is currently engaging the attention of the company.

ALLISON PARKER PRO GT&T

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

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POA project coordinator ...

New US$1.3M ‘agri’project sees progress across socio-economic spectrum

–Complements the Jagdeo Initiative

By Derwayne Wills

International (CASRI).

THE new US$1.35M Hydroponic and Organic Vegetable Production and Marketing project is an agricultural initiative which is seeing progress across the socio-economic spectrum, says Partners of the Americas (POA) Guyana Chapter Coordinator, Kelvin Craig.

Almost a decade after economic and agricultural setbacks brought on by the devastating floods of 2005, Guyana continues to be an innovator and shining example for the

ALTERNATIVE MECHANISM Hydroponics is an alternative production mechanism for growing crops, which utilises lowcost, low-technology and environmentally-friendly methods. Craig, in highlighting the possible socio-economic benefits of the project maintains that the initiative is consistent with government policy, and complements the Jagdeo Initiative in Agriculture.

The POA Coordinator says further that the coast-

and vegetable peel, cardboard wrappers and toilet paper spoils, although eyebrow-raising, has been instrumental in the process of hydroponics in providing nutrients for crops.

KITCHEN WASTE Craig also notes that the alternative use of kitchen waste could see a 50% reduction in the garbage and waste material output per household.

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH The Saint Stanislaus

An assortment of peppers, flowers and celery grown in substrate of charcoal, paddy husk and coconut husk Caribbean region, according to Craig.

This new initiative, known as the Sustainable Livelihoods and Community Economic Growth through Hydroponic and Organic Vegetable Production and Marketing project, is being funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Japanese Trust Fund (JPO), in collaboration with the Partners of the Americas (POA), Inter-American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA), and Caribbean Self-Reliance

land and rural areas will see the improved economic welfare of vulnerable and disadvantaged men, women and youth.

According to him, the traditional method of soil and weather has proven itself to be unreliable considering the inevitability of climate change and drawing on the devastating experiences of the 2005 floods, but the hydroponic medium allows for human intervention to produce a product that is nutritionally superior in a shorter production period.

The use of compost made from rotting fruit

College Training Centre (SSTC) has been the home of the initiative from its inception and has been the operations site for a number of workshops held monthly which provide hands-on training in areas of compost production, natural pesticide production, planting in containers, the use of soilless medium, the use of plant nutrients and care and management of the organic vegetable gardens.

Similarly, the production component of the initiative includes development of hydroponic

Partners of the Americas (Guyana)Coordinator, Mr. Kelvin Craig showcases the nutrient film technique method using PVC pipes shade-houses, natural/ organic farms and homebased gardens in areas with limited yard space.

According to the POA Coordinator, these training exercises are conducted free of charge. Craig maintains that these workshops facilitate the sensitisation of the populace regarding the cost-benefits of the initiative. He acknowledges that there is certainly room for human error, often resulting in an undesired outcome; but maintains that this would not be felt economically but instead would add to the learning experience.

Craig notes that there has been some reluctance in accepting an initiative which utilises unconventional methods of crop production; although the method had been developed and utilised for some 2,000 years.

The Coordinator says that there has been trials aimed at exploring other mediums for crop production, thus drawing away from the need for paddy husk, which could mostly be found along the coastland, to charcoal mostly found in Linden and coconut husk which is native to coastal areas.

BENEFICIARIES The socio-economic development component has seen the SSTC in collaboration with the Deaf

Making innovative use of an old sneaker Association as well as the Phoenix Rehabilitation Centre in Mon Repos.

According to Craig, the programme, in the latter case, has aided persons who have been victims of substance abuse and has curtailed the operations cost of the Centre by providing an avenue for students to learn and develop new traits.

JAGDEO INITIATIVE IN AGRICULTURE In 2002, former President Bharrat Jagdeo put up a document proposing to a Caribbean Heads of Government Conference that the Re-

gion should build a Regional Policy and Strategy to strengthen food security and alleviate poverty.

The Jagdeo Initiative was aimed at addressing the declining role of agriculture in the Region along with a rapidly increasing extra-regional food import bill. It also identified the need for environmentally-friendly methods as well as a “strategically repositioned” Region, based on the twin pillars of “global competitiveness of agri-products and balanced development of rural areas and communities.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

Sonu Nigam: Klose to Guyana’s soul

By Parvati Persaud-Edwards

INDIA’S MAN with the Golden Voice, Mohamed Rafi, was described as inimitable. Well, that is no longer so, because decades after the death of the legendary Rafi Saab emerged one of India’s most versatile singers – the inimitable Sonu Nigam. And Sonu is inimitable because, apart from singing in his own rich voice, he can imitate a host of other outstanding singers without a flaw.

Sonu caught the eye and ear of the international public when he hosted the SaReGaMa Li’l Champs competition; and his renditions, whereby he corrected the tonality and vocal modulations of the competitors, had audiences craving for more of Sonu.

Today, dacades later, Sonu has hit the zenith of superstardom, and now inhabits the hearts of music lovers on the international spectrum of audiences; and Guyana was blessed to experience – not once, but twice, the magic of Sonu Nigam – up close and personal, with the compliments of local promoters, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

cess; while simultaneously superlatively multi-tasking in various areas of endeavour.

But then Vindhya was the product of the influences of the Jagans themselves and a father who was practically a legend in his own lifetime, all iconic figures in the Guyanese nationhood who greatly influenced the shaping of Vindhya’s super-achieving characteristics.

Combining all her various social arms to embrace a concept espoused by her late father: “Service thy Duty, Reward not thy Concern”, Vindhya did not wring her hands in lamentation, did not merely issue platitudinous speeches from public platforms; but she envisioned ways of addressing in productive efforts detrimental scourges decimating families – with a focus on children and women; thus the conceptualization and consequential implementation of protective and empowering devices to address the needs of abused and disempowered children and women – the most vulnerable groups in any society.

Today ‘Bal Nivas’ , a shelter for abused children and empowerment centre for women, is a tribute by a

daughter and all those whom he mentored to an outstanding father, guru, and spiritual leader, the late Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud.

And Sonu Nigam’s golden voice is embedded in the foundation of the beautiful structure -- situated on spacious lands donated by the Government -- that was built to shelter abused

children and empower women through skills training, counselling, and other motivational mechanisms to arm vulnerable groups with coping mechanisms that will enable them to rebuild lives shattered by abusive and/ or other anomalous situations that inhibited personal growth and development; because the proceeds from

his first concert launched the undertaking approximately one year ago.

Sonu Nigam first superstar in series of Dharmic Sabha’s fund-raising concerts After his first appearance on a Guyanese stage in 2012, in a concert promoted by the Dharmic Sabha, Sonu stunned Guyanese with

another mesmerizing performance at the Guyana National Stadium on Sunday, May 4.

The concert was part of his 2014 world concert tour, titled “Klose to My Soul”, and all of the proceeds will go to the Sabha’s Bal Nivas home for vulnerable children.

(Please see page 10)

Sonu, his son Nevaan, and estranged wife, Madhurima

VINDHYA’S LEADERSHIP STYLE Dr. Vindhya Vasini Persaud’s leadership style reminds one of Mrs. Janet Jagan, who was a handson, never-say-die achiever; not merely envisioning, but bringing to a satisfactory conclusion; gracefully and seemingly effortlessly pushing boundaries beyond parameters of what seem improbable, if not impassable; people-empowering, and bringing developmental projects and programmes to a satisfactory conclusion, even if she has to move figurative mountains in the pro-

First couple, President Donald Ramotar and First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar, enjoying the concert with AG Anil Nandlall (who is also a talented singer) and his beautiful wife, Hessaun.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana ...

APNU admits to PNC targetting Indo-Guyanese while in power

––but absolutely refuses to apologise on their behalf OLD KAI had predicted in his last column, written on Thursday, May 8 and published on Saturday, that the APNU would soon bring up the ‘race card’ once again (of course, making themselves the victims against the big, bad PPP), because it is currently under pressure.

My exact words were: “They (APNU) will use anyone to hold on to their support base; and just as someone drowning, they will clutch at anything to keep them afloat. Hence, don’t be surprised that they will soon begin another scheme which brings up the ‘race card’ politics again. It is the only way they know of keeping their supporters in check.”

Sure enough, the very day after the column was written, APNU, at a press conference, expressed concern that the ongoing Walter Rodney CoI may breed Indo-Guyanese resentment against them.

It is a claim they have repeated in the past. However, this time around, the mask of the PNC = APNU has inadvertently admitted that Indo-Guyanese were indeed targeted when they were in Government.

How else can one interpret the statements in the media attributed to no less a person than David Granger, who was quoted as saying, “It is clear that the administration is more interested in seeking to gain a political advantage by unashamedly provoking resentment against the PNCR.”?

There would be no cause for ‘resentment’ if Mr. Granger’s PNC, now APNU, did not target this section as well as other sections of our population during their dictatorship. Granger was a senior figure then, and even wrote extensively, including attempting to justify the killing of the ballot box martyrs in Corentyne, referring to them as ‘gangsters’ when they only sought to protect the legitimacy of their votes. So he

of all persons would know what he is talking about now.

One would expect that even at this 11th hour, Granger, who has been preaching the virtues of racial reconciliation, and A Partnership for National Unity, having inadvertently admitted that there was reason for resentment in the past, would now do the honourable thing by taking responsibility and apologizing for their actions.

If he was truly committed to these ideals he would have done so; but, sadly, this was not forthcoming. It did not surprise Old Kai as, clearly, the PNC/APNU have not changed from their past misadventures; as only recently Granger was publicly articulating their ‘jook fuh jook’ policy.

How can we ever have racial reconciliation and overcome this ethnic barrier with such a mindset from the opposition? The only way is to isolate these individuals, and let all progressive Guyanese continue to build on the foundations of the 1992 elections.

We have come a far way in overcoming many hurdles, overcoming differences that once kept our people apart. Today they socialize together more than ever in our history, and the fastest growing demographic is the mixed race, which indicates that there is greater commingling of the races. What this means is that there has been a dramatic increase in the percentage of Indo-Guyanese persons who have relatives that are Afro-Guyanese, and vice versa; and this goes for other races as well. By virtue of this fact, the chances of either of these races taking up arms against the other, or trying to harm the interest of each other have greatly diminished.

This is where the devious machinations of the PNC/ APNU will be exposed, as they are hoping to reign in their traditional base by using the race card and a bit of reverse psychology. By crying that the Walter Rodney

CoI will stir up Indo-Guyanese resentment against them, they are hoping this will result in Afro-Guyanese rallying behind them. Their aim has always been to condition the minds of their supporters, so that if there is Indo-Guyanese resentment against the PNC/ APNU, Afro-Guyanese would be the de facto targets.

Such is the wicked trickery by this opposition cabal.

As established earlier, there is a greater commingling of the races today than at any other point in our history, so the chances of inter-racial strife have been dramatically reduced. Therefore, the PNC must stop trying to drag an entire race behind them to serve as protection from their actions in the past and in the present.

These people have no concern for anyone expect themselves. As Old Kai had revealed, the PNC’s X13 terrorist plan would ‘destroy their own brother’ if that person did not fall in line with the objectives of the party.

Let us also consider the reason for the current CoI -- the assassination of Guyana’s most famous scholar of African ancestry, Dr. Walter Rodney.

So if there is Indo-Guyanese resentment against the PNC for the death of an Afro-Guyanese, it shows that the ‘jook fuh jook’ perception Mr. Granger is trying to create to divide the races is misplaced. It shows that contrary to what the cabal of extremists would like to have you believe, our people are more united than at any other point in our history.

However, they want to undermine that unity for a selfish reason -- political preservation. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what kind of future you and your kids would live in, the ‘jook fuh jook’ one, as announced by David Granger, or one of continued peace, progress and prosperity.

GoInvest head calls on M&CC to set aside their differences –urges they work together ‘for the betterment of Georgetown’

By Derwayne Wills CHAIRMAN and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), Mr Keith Burrowes, is calling on the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) and “the appointed Town Clerk” to work in unison in the interest of progress, and to improve the current situation at the Council.

“I wish to beg all parties to put their differences aside and work for the betterment of Georgetown, [and to] acknowledge the embarassing spectacle you are all making of yourselves, moreso Guyana,” Burrowes said in a paid advertisement carried in all the dailies yesterday.

The situation at reference is the unravelling of the events at City Hall, or “the daily shenanigans”, as Burrowes prefers, whereby the Mayor and Councillors had opted to illegally oust Acting Town Clerk, Ms Carol Sooba in favour of the preferential installment of Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mr. Royston King.

Such goings-on, Burrowes said in his “appeal”, are not only “in poor taste” and “usually associated with trashy sensational journalism,” but also pander to “attention seekers while the city of Georgetown continues to suffer.”

He also touched on the negative impact their open hostility is likely to have on the country, saying, “While most persons measure the performance of the Georgetown Mayor & City Council mainly by the garbage that seems to be on every corner of the city, they should also understand that there are many other economic factors to be considered, for example promoting tourism and other investment opportunities in Guyana.”

In closing, Burrowes said, “My proposal to you all is to attempt to work together for at least six months; perhaps by this time we will begin to see some progress and improvement in the current situation.”

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, has since called the Motion by the Mayor and Councillors as both “illegal and unconstitutional.”

Chairman and CEO of Go-Invest, Keith Burrowes.

Burrowes was some time ago elected Head of the Implementation Committee set up to look into the operations of the Georgetown Mayor & City Council. The 45 recommendations proposed in the Burrowes Report are yet to be implemented.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

Sonu Nigam: Klose to Guyana’s ...

(From page 8) The concert also featured Bollywood playback singer Jonita Gandhi, who is also an accomplished singer of Canadian nationality.

Apart from being part of the celebratory events of the Sabha’s 40th anniversary programme, the concert was also held to commemorate the 176th anniversary of Indian arrival in Guyana. Sonu was accompanied by a 25-member troupe from Mumbai, including his own father and mentor, whom he described as his guru, his educator, and the protective umbrella over his head. The love and respect for his father, whom he described as an honourable man, was palpable as he reverently touched his father’s feet before they sang a duet that moved the hyped up audience to quietude before they erupted in a roar of applause.

Sonu’s father, Agam Kumar Nigam, also held the audience enthralled as he sang several Rafi hits, including the soul-stirring “Chaudvi ka chand” in a voice no less richer than his legendary son’s; and everyone wished for an encore from Sonu’s dad, which was granted when Sonu recalled his dad on stage to join him in a duet that rocked the National Stadium.

Apart from his own original chart-breaking hit songs, Sonu paid tribute to musical legends such as Mohammed Rafi, Mukesh, Manna Dey, Lata Mangeshkar, RD Burman, Jagjit Singh and Kishore Kumar with a limitless range that defied vocal parameters; which included his latest hit “Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin”, a song which swept all of the Indian musical awards last year.

Sonu’s concert last Sunday evening was much anticipated, and he did not disappoint his sold-out audience. His incredibly superlative performance thrilled an already hyped-up audience that roared appreciation every time Sonu’s glissade of fluid, liquid vocal gold resonated in the velvet-dark Guyana night skies and into the soul of Guyana. He indeed wound himself close to the soul of his audience, who braved intermittent spatters of rain in their craving for more of Sonu’s incredible showmanship and limitless range of renditions of hits in a repertoire that spans transcending parameters.

Sonu’s first appearance on a Guyana stage was the first superstar appearance on a Dharmic Sabha programme of mammoth fund-raising activities to generate the eighty-odd

(Please see page 11)

Two Living legends: Sonu with the Nightingale of India, Lataji

Third superstar in the Nigam family, son Nevaan, following in his dad’s and grandfather’s footsteps

Sonu with Madhurima, Nevaan and his beloved and super-talented dad Agam

Getting married to Madhurima in February 2002

GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

11

This Georgiana Su picture shows a section of the mammoth crowd that travelled from Guyana’s three counties to enjoy the legendary Sonu Nigam’s flawless mega-concert that held spellbound a mesmerized audience from start to finish.

Sonu Nigam: Klose to Guyana’s ...

(From page 10)

million dollars for the establishment of the “Bal Nivas” centre for abused children.

PART OF THE DHARMIC FAMILY Sonu’s interactions and cooperation with Vindhya and the Dharmic family, beyond expectations of a superstar of his calibre, denotes his affection for Vindhya and the members of the organization that was founded by her father under

volatile circumstances. Despite achieving the zenith of superstardom, Sonu has not become arrogant, but instead humbled by the great heights he achieved, which he ascribes not to his own efforts, but to the blessings of the divine mother; and he paid beautiful tribute to this gift with his rendition of his “Tum Binte Suno” in praise of Durga Maa. Speaking of his affinity with Guyana and Guyanese, and empathy with Vindhya and her feeling of loss of her

iconic father, Sonu revealed that he also lost his mother, Shoba Nigam, last year.

Vindhya ascribes his bonding with Guyanese people to the fact that Sonu’s family originated from Haryna State in Utter Pradesh, from where most Guyanese ancestors hailed.

After an hours-long mega concert in Trinidad on Saturday night, then travelling to Guyana before his performance at the National Stadium on Sunday, Sonu stayed onstage for almost

four hours; and his performance was so electric that no-one suspected that he was feeling very ill throughout, until he addressed the audience the next day at Ankerville during the opening ceremony of “Bal Nivas” and one could clearly hear the hoarseness attributable to a flu virus in his voice; and this discipline is another admirable feature of Sonu’s.

TRANSCENDING MUSICAL BOUNDARIES

Sonu and family seek Durga Maa’s blessings at North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Pandal, where he rendered an ode to the divine Mother with his “Tum Binte Suno”

Sonu Nigam is not above experimenting with his music; with drumming and harmonica medleys and a rendition of the Caribbean’s chutney soca music, which he said “caught my imagination...it is different and it is rhythmical. It’s just a great form of entertainment.”

He plays a variety of musical instruments as a professional, but his virtuosity with his vocals is compellingly sublime.

In 2012, at the Guyana National Stadium, Sonu Nigam came close to the hearts of Guyanese with his “Klose to my heart” super brilliant concert.

With his return to Guyana on Sunday, May 4, for another fabulous concert organised by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, during his 2014 world concert tour titled “Klose to My Soul”, Sonu became firmly entrenched in the soul of the Guyanese music lovers, whom he captured with his soul-stirring music and humble persona.

The proceeds of the concert will go to the Sabha’s Bal Nivas home for vulnerable children.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s shelter for children and empower-

ment centre for women was launched in 2010, and the building plan for the shelter was unveiled in April 2012

by President Ramotar and Sonu. The completed building was opened at a special ceremony last Monday at Ankerville, Corentyne.

The opening ceremony featured cultural performances by children in the Dharmic Sabha’s family, with accompanying music by the E-Networks Orchestra and speeches by President of the GHDS, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, and Guest of Honour Sonu Nigam, with President Donald Ramotar delivering the feature address.

A facebook blurb describes Sonu thus: “Sonu Nigam is a genuine artiste, a student of life! A musician who strives to better himself everyday! A performer par excellence who can energize souls with merely his presence! A multi-talented showman whose capabilities are limited by no boundaries! An intellectual who craves for knowledge from all walks of life!

Born on 30th July 1973, Sonuji started singing on stage at the age of 3. In his teenage years, he accompanied his father on several

(Please see page 16)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

PYO to hold candlelight –for kidnapped vigil tonight Nigerian schoolgirls

THE Progressive Youth Organization (PYO), youth arm of the ruling Peoples Progressive Party, will be hosting a candlelight vigil tonight, from 18:00hrs to condemn the April 14 abduction of over 234 Nigerian school girls by Abubakar Shekau, leader of the

Boko Haram terrorist group in northeastern Nigeria.

The PYO has declared in a press statement that attacking and abducting young girls simply for going to school is despicable, and must never be tolerated.

It further made it clear

that all children deserve the opportunity to obtain an education without fear, and that those responsible for the heinous crime of abducting the schoolgirls will be held accountable for their actions.

“When young girls and boys have equal access to educational resources,

economies flourish, families are strengthened, and societies move forward”, the PYO declared.

The PYO release registered its horror at reports that the kidnapped girls are being sold into child marriage for the mere act of seeking an education.

The release condemned this practice as most despicable, saying that it may rob the girls of their dignity, health, and freedom.

The release said that targeting civilians, including children, in havens such as schools is awful, repulsive, unacceptable, and callous; and that all must condemn Boko Haram in Nigeria in the most forceful of terms.

“The Progressive Youth Organization is therefore inviting the general public to gather at Sheriff Street and Rupert Craig Highway, where we will be holding a candlelight vigil to remem-

ber these young schoolgirls and their families, and their nation in a public way”, the release informed, adding that the public is invited to join in prayers for the safe return of the innocent, young, kidnapped girls.

Moreover, the PYO is inviting persons to check its website at http://pyguyana.org/ for updates and further details; or to make telephone inquiries at 592-600-4230.

PYO announces inaugural Independence Anniversary Essay Competition THE Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) has announced its inaugural Essay Competition as part of observations to celebrate 48 years of the Republic of Guyana enjoying Independence.

The competition is open to persons between 13 and 18 years old, and the essay, not exceeding 1500 words, must be on the topic: “Dr. Jagan’s struggles for an Independent Guyana”. Deadline for submission of essays is May 31, 2014, and schools are strongly encouraged to participate in the competition.

Entries can be sent via email to essay@pyguyana.org, or be dropped off at the nearest Freedom House/PPP office in the respective regions across the country.

Submissions must be clearly labelled: Progressive Youth Organization

Independence Anniversary Essay Competition, and should be clearly written or typed. \ Each participant is required to have the following information accompany his/her submission: Name, date of birth, contact information, details for being inspired to write the essay.

The best essays will be edited, compiled and published in a book to be launched on September 6, 2014.

Prizes vary from $25,000 plus a trophy for the submission winning first place, to $20,000 and a trophy for the submission winning second place; and $15,000 and a trophy for the third placed winning submission.

Members of the public are urged to contact Tel#600-4230 or BBM #@25C5826A for further information. (Derwayne Wills)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

12 schools attend D’Urban Park Lions Club career fair

By Michel Outridge

T W E LV E s e c o n d a r y schools in South Georgetown attended the career fair hosted by the Lions Club of D’urban Park last Friday at the Guyana Girl Guides Pavilion, Brickdam.

Coordinator, Jocelyne Josiah told the Guyana Chronicle that the event took a lot of planning, but she was pleased that it attracted some 25 companies drawn from both the public and private sectors.

She noted that the aim was to make second and third formers aware of the opportunities in the working world and to allow them to pursue suitable courses so they can make an early start towards achieving their career goals.

Josiah stated that the annual career fair hosted by the Lions Club of D’urban Park is the framework of their educational and health

activities since their focus is on schoolchildren and they chose South Georgetown schools because they come under their jurisdiction.

She said, however, that the club is not in any way restricted to those schools but it does community work in all areas. The Lions Club of D’urban Park has also undertaken many health and career fairs in which they checked for anaemia in children and distributed dietary supplements.

They also focus on dentistry and sight and recently had a Sight Day Walk to raise funds to promote and restore vision. The club has a health programme in which children and the elderly benefit from free eye tests and spectacles.

In addition, they also host a spelling bee activity for primary school children, and a life skills programme that allows children to overnight in a camp setting while participating in a learning

Students at the Lions Club of D’urban Park career fair Friday (Photo by Michel Outridge)

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seminar.

Josiah said that the Lions Club of D’urban Park has been in existence for 20 years and was founded by its late president Deborah Backer and they operate out of a den in Festival City.

The club has about 60 members as well as a Board of Directors and their aim is to foster education and health through planned programmes.

Taneisha Munroe of Brickdam Secondary School told the Guyana Chronicle that she was very pleased with the activity since she was able to safely pick a career of her choice and pursue such studies.

She deemed the career fair a success because there were many interesting booths and they got a firsthand look at the operations of many businesses.

Another student, Shawn Clarke of Lodge Secondary school, said that it was a very informative event.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

Caribbean wants more

––for dealing with climate change

By CMC’s Peter Richards WHEN it comes to dealing with the impact of climate change on the agricultural sector, Caribbean countries are letting it be known that the “one- size-fits-all “strategy is not for them.

In fact, as they emerged from a closed-door meeting with the Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agri-

culture Organization (FAO), Dr José Graziano da Silva on Thursday, representatives of the Caribbean delegations said that was the message conveyed to the head of the UN body.

“We have requested the FAO to deal with the Caribbean in a differentiated manner rather than lump us together with Latin America and the Caribbean,” Guyana’s Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).

“Whenever that happens, we get pushed aside as small states, and we believe that (as) small vulnerable states, our special vulnerability to climate change should be taken into consideration,” he added.

And as they made their way back to their respective countries on Friday, the Caribbean delegations remain convinced that “we have put forward a very strong position with respect to climate change…and the response was very positive from the director general because we all agree that climate change is going to play a very significant part in how we look at what we would call the new agriculture.”

St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Mobilisation and Social Development Minister, Frederick Stephenson said that the region had proposed that there be more studies regarding the impact of climate change on the Caribbean,

Chilean President, Michelle Bachelet, FAO Director-G Vice-President for Social Matters, Hector Rodriguez (th Ministers from the 33 countries that comprise Latin Ame Dr Leslie Ramsammy (extreme left, second row) as well as that “the implementation of more projects [be] geared towards mitigation of the effects of climate change on our region.”

The FAO head was told by the Caribbean delegations that the region was experiencing heavy rains, as well as long dry spells, a combination that is having a great impact on the agricultural sector.

Ashton Stanley, a senior government official in St. Kitts-Nevis, said that without adequate forage for animal production, and adequate water for crop production, agriculture in the true sense is being minimised.

“The intensity of rainfall is greater; the duration may not be longer, but the intensity is greater. And what we have found is that with these increased rainfall, we are losing a lot of the soil…which is, of course, one of our most precious natural resources that actually drive agricultural production,” he told CMC. The FAO has noted that while Latin America and Caribbean countries have increased their agricultural, forestry and fishery production at rates above the global average over the past decade, they also face serious problems of soil degradation, water depletion and pollution, deforestation, environmental sustainability threats and increased risks associated with climate change.

The FAO held its 33rd regional conference that brought together agriculture ministers from the 33 Latin America and Caribbean countries, with delegates underscoring the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday May 12, 2014

e than one-size-fits-all importance of promoting a sustainable system of food production, based on greater role of the families and better prepared to cope with the effects of climate change in agriculture.

Among the topics discussed during the three-day conference, that ended on Friday, were the challenges for sustainable development, and adaptation to climate change, governance for food and nutrition security, as well as the prospects for production and food trade in Latin America and the Caribbean.

An FAO document acknowledged that 20 years after the Rio Summit, Latin America and the Caribbean are in a better position to achieve sustainable development, given the progress that has been made in reducing poverty, malnutrition and hunger and increasing food production.

But it noted that the region is facing increasingly significant situations of change, including the need to adjust food production and consumption patterns, the ethical commitment to eradicate poverty, the urgency of mitigating

General, Dr José Graziano da Silva and Venezuela’s hird, fourth and fifth left, respectively) with Agriculture erica and the Caribbean (LAC), including Guyana’s own emissions and adapting to climate change. da Silva acknowledged that in the Caribbean, the inherent challenges to the agricultural sector is that most of the region comprises small island states, and as a result, agriculture needs to be a ”very protected sector”, given that it is also affected by climate change, which is also being blamed for the region facing a greater spread of diseases.

FAO Coordinator for the Caribbean Sub-region, Deep Ford, said that the impact of climate change on countries like Barbados and the nine-member Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) “is enormous, and this is why risk management is one of the major pillars of the FAO” in helping them deal with the situation.

“With climate change, we are seeing increasing numbers of hurricanes, and increasing intensity and impact of hurricanes, but historically, when we look at the last 20 years, we know that this two-per-cent loss (in gross domestic product) is what’s happening.

“So, from that standpoint, climate change on the risk management is a major part of our programme in the region,” he said, adding “the loss of the pillars of the agricultural sector, and the two pillars that have driven the Caribbean economy -- sugar and banana -- those markets have been lost over the past Uruguay Rounds in 1995.”

Stephenson recalls the devastation caused by the unusual rains over the last Christmas Season that not only killed 12 people, but left millions of dollars in damages to agricultural lands as well as infrastructure.

In addition, he says in Caribbean countries, including his own, “we are noticing that the seas are encroaching on our land space, due to high surges and the rising sea levels.”

“You are seeing tremendous damage to our coastal areas,” Stephenson said, while Stanley notes that damage to the coral reefs are seriously depleting the fish population.

“Coral reefs are responsible for fish aggregation in its natural sense,” Stanley said, adding that the waters are becoming much warmer resulting in the migration of fishes particularly those that are sensitive to the increase in water temperatures.”

“What we have found is that they (fishes) are migrating

15

further north, which means that fishermen have to increase their efforts and these have serious problems in terms of increase expenditure because of increased efforts to get to the fishes wherever they are,” he said, adding that in the case of St. Kitts-Nevis, the authorities are now deploying fish aggregating devices “in order to have the fishes congregate in a particular area so as to reduce the search for them.”

Ramsammy said one of the outcomes of the talks is the decision for an annual meeting between the FAO and Caribbean agriculture ministers, with the first likely to take place in October in Suriname, coinciding with the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA).

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GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

Sonu Nigam: Klose to Guyana’s ...

(From page 11)

singing assignments, and also worked as a child artiste in several movies. He came to Bombay in 1991 to make a

career as a singer, and started off by singing cover versions to Rafi Saab’s songs; Rafi Saab, whom he lovingly refers to as his musical father.

His first hit was Accha Sila Diya from Bewafa Sanam, which gave him the recognition as an established playback singer. And with

Sonu with his wife, mom Shoba, niece and nephew, and son (in blue suit)

Superstar in the making? President Donald Ramotar doing a duet with Sonu

songs like Sandese Aate Hai from Border, Satrangi Re from Dil se and Yeh Dil Deewana from Pardes, Sonu Niigaam the Star was born...

The rest is history!!

All coveted awards adorn his mantlepiece, the most significant being the National award for the song Kal Ho Na Ho in 2003. His pop albums, like Sapne Ki Baat, Naya Naya Pyar, Kismat, Deewana, Mausam, Jaan, Yaad, Sanskar, Chanda Ki Doli (self-composed, programmed and arranged), Classically Mild, Rafi Resurrected, Maha Ganesha and Neene bari Neene have, over the years, all appealed to the masses and have collectively demonstrated his versatility and prowess as a musician!!

He is also the safest choice for any music director to do justice to their compositions, and he has a voice which suits actors of all ages. He is a complete musician and an institution in himself - he plays almost every instrument, and is a composer, programmer and lyricist!!

He has travelled all around the globe and enthralled audiences with his live performances, and still continues to do so, so much so that he got invited to perform at Harvard University

in 2007 - a very big honour!!

He has also featured as an actor (Jaani Dushman, Kash Aap Hamare Hote, Love in Nepal), TV Host (TVS Sa Re Ga Ma, Kismey Kitna Hai Dum), RJ (Life Ki Dhun with Sonu Niigaam for Radio City) and judge (Indian Idol and Sa Re Ga Ma Pa), all of which have added value to his profile.

He is a legend at the age of 36, and his journey has just begun. He is an international icon today, with millions of fans and admirers all over the world!!”

The Dharmic Sabha has set precedents in a multiplicity of ways in the socio-cultural/religious spheres; but one can safely say that bringing the legendary Sonu Nigam and his greatly talented father to bedazzle Guyanese audiences is a superlative achievement by this organization, one which will

continue to glitter in the firmament of achievements of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha and its current president, woman of substance, Dr. Vindhya Vasini Persaud.

Sonu married Madhurima on February 15, 2002, and the two are blessed with a son, Nevaan, born in 2007.

Nevaan captured the hearts of many when he recorded his own version of Dhanush’s popular track Kolaveri Di. The Guyana leg of Sonu’s “Klose to my Soul” concert fittingly began with a vandana to the Lord, choreographed by Vindhya and performed by the Dharmic Nritya Sangh, which also danced an ode to the divine in accompaniment to Sonu’s vocals; which he described as Guyana and India meeting and melding as one.

Jonita Gandhi, the opening performer of Sonu’s “Klose to my Soul” concerts, made her mark in Bollywood with the title track of “Chennai Express”.

GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

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Aries March 21 - April 19

Your focus for the next few days will be on one thing, and one thing only: Making sure your dear ones feel warm, wonderful and, above all else, well-loved. And you’ll be extremely well equipped for the job. The universe has sent several planetary envoys to help you -but then, as fiery and determined as you are by nature, you may not need them. Defence is second only to offense on your list of specialties.

Taurus April 20 - May 20

With any luck, you haven’t committed all your free time to one particular person -- because more interesting, exciting and exotic admirers are en route, one of whom might disrupt the routine of your day in a wonderful way. Of course, if you’re attached, your best bet will be to smile, say thank you to the fans and move along. Stay focused on that one quality person you so wisely chose -- who’ll be delighted to let you know just how much you’re adored.

Gemini May 21 - June 21 The Ptolemy Reid Rehab Centre on Carmichael Street

Digicel-sponsored works at Ptolemy Reid Rehab Centre nears completion

By Michel Outridge

IN December 2013, Digicel Guyana and the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre (PRRC) at 131-132 Carmichael Street, Georgetown signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for major rehabilitation works to be undertaken at the facility.

The collaboration came about as a result of a request made by the PRRC to Digicel which saw the venture as an asset in Guyana’s future.

“Assisting children is always an investment in the future. This will also not only benefit the children of the centre but also the lives of persons assisting our children of the PRRC”, said Gavin Hope, Events and Sponsorship Manager.

The works included repainting of the building, refurbishing of the access ramps, the physiotherapy flooring, roof and other areas.

A recent visit to the centre by Digicel’s Sponsorship Manager revealed that works are moving apace with over 89% completed. To date the PRRC has received over 90% of the funds that were allotted to this project.

“It is indeed a pleasure to see that the PRRC has honoured its commitment, staying true to the deadlines and with works being almost completed we are elated at

the fact that the students of the PRRC will be benefiting from this collaboration sooner rather than later,” Hope said.

This is the second collaborative project of its kind between Digicel and the PRRC. Recently Digicel sponsored the refurbishment of the dining area and wash-

room facilities.

The PRCC has 64 children in its nursery, primary and vocational education department as well as 30 others in day care. Another 20 are seen by experts on days when rehabilitation services are provided.

And 80 children were seen by the rehabilitation unit for the year.

For better or worse, someone has captured your attention, totally and completely. You can’t remember the last time you felt this way. And there’s a good reason for that: You probably haven’t ever felt this way. At least, not since becoming an adult. It’s called passion, and this wave of it is here for at least the day. What you do with it is up to you, of course, but you can cross arguing off the list right away.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

Who loves entertaining more than you do? Right, no one. And who loves coming to your place? Right, everyone. So don’t be surprised if the urge to open up your home for dinner, drinks and some light-hearted socialising comes along -- or if you answer that urge by doing some serious shopping for provisions. Remember, though, that it wouldn’t hurt to let the guests bring dessert.

Leo July 23 - August 22

Be careful who you flirt with today, because it will be all too easy to capture someone’s heart without even trying. Does that mean you can’t talk to anyone at all? Well of course not -- but confine yourself to your very own sweetie as much as you possibly can. It would probably be best for all parties concerned. Especially since getting rid of any new admirers won’t be easy.

Virgo August 23 - September 22

Thinking of doing something different with your hair, your body or your wardrobe? Good for you. Change is good for the soul and refreshing to the spirit. Just don’t get too carried away. You wouldn’t want a dear one to walk by you without recognising you, right?

Besides, you’re pretty darned close to perfect in the eyes of your sweetie. Better have a powwow before you do anything too drastic.

Libra September 23 - October 22

Finally, at long last, you’re ready to come out of your cocoon. And not a moment too soon, in the opinion of your sweetheart and your friends, all of whom have probably been pouting since you decided to hide out a few days ago. Well go ahead and call them now, or see them tonight if you feel like it. And before they have a chance to give you a hard time, explain that absence really does make the heart grow fonder.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

It’s easy for you to become rather focused on -- okay, even obsessed with -- a tiny thing.

So if you’re worried about something and you don’t see any end in sight, talk to someone about it. Why live with the worry when you don’t have to? Wouldn’t it be better to set your mind at ease, once and for all? At the very least, spend some time relaxing with a friend you’ve known forever.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21 For Monday May 12, 2014 -14:30hrs For Tuesday May 13, 2014 -14:30hrs For Wednesday May 14, 2014 -14:30hrs

Who’s jealous? You? Believe it or not, you just might be. And if you feel guilty about working so much and taking time away from your loved ones, the attention that someone else shows them could be enough to stretch even the most open-minded, freedom-loving person past the breaking point. That’s if you’re not careful. But you’ll be careful. And more attentive?

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

Someone is working hard from behind the scenes to cause a problem between you and a person you love. So if you’ve had that feeling lately and you thought you were losing your mind, you can rest assured that you’re not. But what are you going to about it? Well, there’s only one thing to do: March right up to them, tell them you know what they’re doing and demand that they stop. You can bet they will.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18

You’ve been thinking about this for days -- weeks, even. Are you going to stay and try to work this out, or let go of the whole thing and start over? You’ve laid out all the pros and cons in your mind and you’re still just not sure. Well, talking to a friend about it will help. But in the end, you’ll have to make up your mind all by yourself. How about taking some time alone?

Pisces February 19 - March 20

Intimacy isn’t something that comes easily to you. At least not now that you’ve had time to tuck a couple of years under your belt and learn how fickle some people can be. There’s someone in your life at the moment, however, who seems not just sincere, but also legitimately interested in you. At this point, you can trust your own judgment and you know it.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

Clinical Man City wrap up title in style

By Mike and Collett LONDON, England (Reuters) - The curtain fell on one of the most dramatic Premier League title races for years yesterday, with Manchester City acclaimed as champions while Liverpool looked on from the wings dreaming of what might have been.

City avoided any last-minute twists in a season when the lead at the top changed hands 24 times to

beat visitors West Ham United 2-0 ensuring the league trophy returned to the Etihad Stadium for the second time in three seasons.

Liverpool came from behind to win 2-1 against a Newcastle United side that finished with nine men at Anfield but it proved an empty victory for manager Brendan Rodgers, captain Steven Gerrard and the rest of the deflated team in red.

Liverpool’s only hope of ending a 24-year wait to be crowned champions was if City lost and they won but that outcome never looked remotely likely as Manuel

a 2-0 win at Carrow Road.

Aaron Ramsey scored a stunning goal from an acute angle while defender Carl Jenkinson got his first for the Gunners.

Norwich and Cardiff will play in the Championship next term along with Fulham, who had already been relegated and ended 13 years as a Premier League club with a 2-2 home draw in a London derby with Crystal Palace.

The only other issue to be decided on the final day of the season was which club would finish sixth and take the final Europa League

subdued as an own goal from Martin Skrtel saw Newcastle ahead at the break.

However, second-half strikes by Daniel Agger and Daniel Sturridge ensured Liverpool ended the season with a win against opponents who had Shola Ameobi and Paul Dummett sent off.

Liverpool have now finished runners-up four times since winning their last title in 1990 but, despite the disappointing end to the season, coach Brendan Rodgers was upbeat.

“It’s been brilliant,” he told Sky Sports.

“We’ve been on an in-

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany celebrates after winning the English Premier League trophy, following their soccer match against West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester. (Credit: REUTERS/Nigel Roddis)

Pellegrini’s side dominated West Ham from the first minute to the last.

There was a massive roar at the Etihad when the final table was flashed on to the giant screens showing City with 86 points, Liverpool on 84, Chelsea 82, Arsenal 79, Everton 72, Tottenham Hotspur 69 and deposed champions Manchester United on 64.

Goals from Samir Nasri after 39 minutes and captain Vincent Kompany 10 minutes later ensured City’s triumphant march to the title was completed with a comfortable victory.

City’s Chilean coach Pellegrini, in his first season in England, became the first non-European to guide a team to the English title and told Sky Sports: “It’s a very special time.

“My first year is not easy to get used to English football but I think I managed a great group of players.

“But big teams cannot be satisfied with one title.

It’s very important. Celebrate, today, tomorrow and Monday and on Tuesday start working for next season because this club and players deserve more titles.”

Chelsea finished third after a 2-1 win at bottom side Cardiff City while fourth-placed Arsenal rubber-stamped Norwich City’s drop into the second tier with

spot along with fifth-placed Everton and FA Cup finalists Hull City who meet Arsenal at Wembley next week.

Tottenham Hotspur duly clinched it with a 3-0 home win over Aston Villa thanks to first-half goals from Brazil midfielder Paulinho, a Nathan Baker own goal and an Emmanuel Adebayor penalty in what could be Tim Sherwood’s last match in charge.

Manchester United would have finished sixth if they had won at Southampton and Spurs had lost but United’s miserable season petered out with a 1-1 draw at St Mary’s in Ryan Giggs’ last match as interim manager.

A Juan Mata freekick in the second half cancelled out Rickie Lambert’s opener for the Saints as United finished seventh a year after being crowned champions.

It was their lowest finish since they came sixth in 1991 and there will be no European football at Old Trafford next season for the first time since 1990.

BLUE HALF There will still be European football in Manchester though, albeit in the blue half of the city as City challenge for the Champions League.

While there were scenes of unbridled joy at The Etihad, 30 miles away at Anfield the atmosphere was

credible journey this year.

To finish with 12 wins and a draw is an incredible achievement.

“It was a tough game for us today so it was a great way to finish. It was unfortunate not to win the title but we’ve shown great hope for the future going forward.

“It’s a huge privilege to be manager. We’ve helped the supporters dream here and we’re a team on the up and we have momentum.

“I don’t think we failed to cope with the pressure. We won 12 and drew one and we just had an unfortunate result against Chelsea. We were just unable to get the result.

“This has been an incredible run for us. This is a group that could cope with the pressure but we’ll learn from this.”

Skipper Steven Gerrard, who has never won the title during his 16 years with Liverpool, had a different view.

“I’m absolutely devastated. Personally gutted and gutted for the fans,” he told the BBC. But he added: “We can’t be too down because it’s been a great season and we have to bounce back for next season. Hopefully we can keep improving but we have to congratulate Man City because they’ve been the best for 38 games.”

Demerara retain U-19 title with innings victory over...

From back page Demerara enforced the follow-on and after seeing Sunil Singh 14 (2x4) and Ryan Shun 21 (2x4) add 29 for the first wicket on a good batting track, must have pondered their decision.

But Morris bowled Singh, followed by the quick demise of Avishkar Sewkarran without scoring and when Rutherford, who worked up some pace and got bounce out of the track, dismissed Shun via lbw, President’s XI were 39 for 3.

It quickly became 69 for 7, following the quick demise of Nick Ramsaroop (2), Kareem Mentore (4), Michael Shalim 23 (14 balls, 5x4) and Waldron 1, before Mohammed and Moriah took them to the tea break on 81 for 7, with Mohammed on 8 and Moriah 4.

After the break, Demerara gave Mohammed two lives for which the right-handed batsman said thanks with two sixes off Morris in one over, forcing a ball change with the second six, while Moriah drove Rutherford authoritatively through extra cover for his second four.

However, Morris had the last laugh in his next over, when Mohammed, in his attempt to drive the right-handed Transport Sports Club medium pacer through the cover region, got a edge through to Kemol Savory, bringing his eighth-wicket partnership with Moriah, that was worth 52 valuable runs, to an end.

Mohammed struck two fours and a similar number of sixes in his 59-ball 37 and he was quickly followed back to the pavilion by Moriah 24 (59 balls, 3x4), who looked on in amazement as Morris held a low return catch to his left, at 132 for 9.

It was not how the end came but rather when and with the umpires signalling the start of the final hour’s play, Demerara skipper Brian Sattaur turned to the left-arm spin of Chanderpaul who completed the job in his second over.

Daniel Lewis (1) was lured out of his crease by a well-flighted delivery and

failed to get back, as Savory completed the stumping and at the same time got his fourth dismissal of the innings, leaving Matthew Shivtahal on 10. The President’s XI folded for 143 in 51.3 overs, with Morris 4 for 32 and Rutherford 3 for 46 being the chief destroyers.

Attention now turns to the one-day version of the tournament which bowls off tomorrow with Essequibo playing the President’s X1 at the Everest Cricket Club ground, while Demerara face Berbice at the Wales Community Centre ground.

English Doncaster 08:40 hrs Lightning Shower 09:10 hrs The Ducking Stool 09:40 hrs Muhaarar 10:15 hrs Spirit raiser 10:50 hrs Azrur 11:25 hrs Tanqeya 12:00 hrs Petergate 12:35 hrs Trillion Astra Lingfield 08:50 hrs Howlin’ For You 09:20 hrs Miss Tiger Lily 09:55 hrs Baltic Brave 10:30 hrs Speed Society 11:05 hrs Sleeping Venus 11:40 hrs Rasameel 12:10 hrs Glennten Musselburgh 09:00 hyrs Vicky Val;entine 09:30 hrs Dominic Cork 10:05 hrs Jebel Tara 10:40 hrs Madrasa 11:15 hrs Noble Asset 11:50 hrs Canal 12:20 hrs Cyflmder Irish Racing Tips Killarney 12:05 hrs Martello Tower 12:40 hrs Sailors Warn 13:10 hrs Chute Hall 13:40 hrs Memories Of Milan 14:10 hrs Usuel Smurfer 14:40 hrs On The Fringe 15:10 hrs The Herps Garden South Africa Racing Tips Flamingo Park 08:20 hrs Tudor Star 08:50 hrs Wind At Your Back 09:20 hrs Gee I Jane 09:50 hrs Black Pepper 10:25 hrs Carlisie

GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

25

Smith and Faulkner stun RCB

BEFORE the 14th over of the Rajasthan Royals chase, it was the Yuvraj Singh show. He had shrugged off poor form with a pulverising 83 off 38 to revive his side to 190 for 5 from 40 for 3.

He had then taken four wickets to leave Rajasthan Royals reeling on 106 for 5. Royals needed 65 from the last four overs, but Steven Smith and James Faulkner catapulted them home with an over and a delivery to spare.

Steven Smith and James Faulkner embrace after Rajasthan Royals’ stunning win in Bangalore.

Scores: Rajasthan Royals 191 for 5 (Nair 56, Smith 48*, Faulkner 41*, Yuvraj 4-35) beat Royal Challengers Bangalore 190 for 5 (Yuvraj 83, de Villiers 58) by five wickets Mitchell Starc went for 21 in the 17th over, Ashok Dinda for 23 in the 18th and Varun Aaron for 21 in the 19th.

Smith blitzed 48 off 21 deliveries while Faulkner ended with a 17-ball 41.

Yuvraj’s fourth wicket had been Karun Nair, whose 56 off 39 had given Royals a fine start, but his innings ended just as the team were beginning to lose steam.

Aaron leaked 14 in the next over as Smith pulled, lofted and flicked him for boundaries. Still, Royal Challengers seemed to be ending the possibilities of any scares as leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal completed his spell by giving away only four runs in the 16th over.

What followed was so unexpected for them! Virat Kohli could only grit his teeth in helpless frustration as every bowler disappeared for plenty.

Starc bowled some length balls in the 17th, and Faulkner drove and swung him for four and six before an outside-edged slog brought a third boundary in the over.

Dinda began the 18th with two full deliveries that were taken for four and six. Dinda went wider now, and Smith responded by steering him to the deep-point boundary. Just as it seemed nothing further could go wrong for Royal Challengers, Dinda overstepped and bowled under the bat to be carted for a straight six.

Smith could not get anything off the free-hit, but Faulkner took charge in the penultimate over with 21 needed.

Only a single came off the first ball before Aaron sent one down the leg side allowing the batsmen also to scamper for a bye. Royal Challengers continued to crack as Aaron delivered a length ball which was powered for six over long-on.

A high full toss followed a wide full toss. Faulkner hit the first to the deep-cover rope and sent the second into the stunned Chinnaswamy crowd over deep square leg.

He then ran towards Smith, jumped into an embrace and

took his fellow Australian down on the ground.

Royal Challengers have now lost six of their previous seven games, and this one will take some time to forget. Their desperation to win was evident when they chose to bat after having bowled first six out of six times earlier this season, and when Kohli came out to open alongside Chris Gayle instead of batting at No.3. The pair were tied down, however, by some tight swing bowling from Kane Richardson and Shane Watson.

Kohli soon thick-edged a swipe to third man off Richardson while Gayle was tied down further by Rahul Tewatia’s googlies and was eventually caught behind off the other leg-spinner Pravin Tambe for a slow 19. India Under-19 captain Vijay Zol succumbed to Tewatia’s seventh googly on the trot after hitting a few spunky fours, and Royal Challengers were going at under five an over when Yuvraj walked in.

Eleven overs later, Yuvraj walked back, having carted seven sixes and as many fours. His hitting was so severe and dominating, even AB de Villiers’ 58 off 32 was overshadowed. The pair put on Royal Challengers’ highest fourth-wicket partnership, scoring 132 runs in 10.5 overs.

Yuvraj got going with a series of sweeps against the leg-spinners. Batting with his back leg outside off stump, he found the combination of power and timing that makes him so destructive when he is in touch. Soon he was flicking the fast bowlers casually for six over the leg side. de Villiers hit five sixes and went at a strike-rate of 181.25 but it was hard even for him to take attention off Yuvraj.

Ajinkya Rahane and Nair put on 54 in seven overs for Royals but Chahal removed Rahane with his first delivery.

In the next over, Yuvraj bowled Watson with an arm ball.

Three balls later, Stuart Binny charged at Yuvraj and mishit to sweeper cover.

Yuvraj kept striking, having Sanju Samson pop one back before taking out Nair, but his quota ran out eventually, and Smith and Faulkner brought the curtain down on his show. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Ramdin sees challenges but KKR pull off Kings-size upset says he’s up for the fight

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – New West Indies skipper Denesh Ramdin is anticipating a myriad of challenges when he takes over the helm of the regional side, but says he is ready for the learning curve the role will present.

The 29-year-old wicketkeeper was on Friday named by the West Indies Cricket Board to lead the Test team, replacing Windward Islands all-rounder Darren Sammy who held the position since November, 2010.

Ramdin said despite his experience of captaining Trinidad and Tobago, the Windies role would require a greater skills set.

“With Trinidad and Tobago it’s been good. I’m just taking it to another level now. I think the concentration level and the tactical level will be higher and I’ll be making stronger decisions in terms of Test matches,” Ramdin said.

“To get guys out at that level is a lot more challenging, and having the bowlers to bowl at particular batsmen and getting them to work towards a plan which I would like our bowlers to do, [will also be challenging].”

Ramdin has already led West Indies in a One-Day In-

ternational and three Twenty20s, but has never captained in a Test. However, he said he would be seeking advice regularly from the senior members of the side.

“It’s going to be fun. I’m sure some of the senior players who will be around will help me as well. I will go to them for advice, I’m not going to do it on my own,” Ramdin stressed.

“That’s why we have all those players like Shiv (Chanderpaul), Chris Gayle, Marlon Samuels, all those players I will be looking to get advice from.”

Often criticised for his inconsistent batting, Ramdin has caught the eye recently with an enterprising run of form. He scored two of his four Test centuries in 2012 and hit another last year along with three half-cen-

New West Indies captain Denesh Ramdin

turies.

In fact, he has averaged 44 over the last two years which has seen his overall Test average rise to 27.25.

With the added role of captaincy, Ramdin said he was aware adjustments would have to be made to his game.

“The experience that I have I would like to use that but there are some circumstances where I will have to change certain things in terms of my batting, and adapt to situations and bat with the lower order,” explained Ramdin, who has played 56 Tests.

“There may be occasions where I need to work out the bowling and try to get quick runs for the team and put our ourselves in a better position.

“But it is going to be challenging. Wicketkeeping 90 overs or a day-and-a-half and then going out to bat the following day is going to be tough on me but I guess that’s what brings out the best in me .”

He added: “It’s a very tough challenge to represent the West Indies team as the captain and there are going to be a lot of ups and downs and a big challenge for me but a learning curve as well.”

KOLKATA Knight Riders (KKR) have made George Bailey’s Kings XI Punjab pay for a poor end to their first innings and notched an upset win in the Indian Premier League last night.

In a match that started in sweltering conditions, with temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius, Kings XI Punjab managed just 37 runs in their final six overs to finish with 8-149 from 20 overs.

KKR, who entered the game with just three wins from eight matches, always looked comfortable in the run chase with captain Gautam Gambhir (63 n.o. off 45 balls) and Manish Pandey (36 n.o. off 35) helping their side to the target with two overs to spare and nine wickets in hand.

Australians Mitchell Johnson (0-33 from three overs) and Glenn Maxwell (0-11 from one over) were expensive, with only Akshar Patel (0-20 from four overs) restricting KKR’s batsmen.

Earlier, Kings XI opener Virender Sehwag blazed away to notch a streaky half-century before being dismissed for 72 off 50 balls. His innings included 11 fours and a six.

GAUTAM GAMBHIR But Maxwell (14) and David Miller (13) couldn’t have the impact last night that they have had in previous games.

Johnson scored 14 at the end of the innings while Bailey was not out on 12, but the latter pair struggled to hit boundaries in the crucial final overs of the innings.

Morne Morkel was terrific for KKR with the ball and finished with 2-20 from his four overs while Piyush Chawla finished with 3-19 for the winners.

Chawla also snared the crucial wicket of Maxwell, IPL-7 leading run-scorer (and six-hitter), before he was able to break the shackles.

KKR are now 4-5 and up to fourth on the eight-team ladder, while Kings XI (7-2) stay on top. (CA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

Hamilton takes F1 lead with fourth win in a row

By Alan Baldwin

BARCELONA, Spain (Reuters) - Lewis Hamilton won the Spanish Grand Prix for Mercedes yesterday to chalk up his fourth victory in a row and wrest the Formula One championship lead from ‘gutted’ German team mate Nico Rosberg.

In what was also the fourth successive Mercedes one-two, and fifth win in five races for the dominant constructor, Hamilton took the chequered flag a mere 0.6 of a second ahead of his rival.

In a nail-biting finish to what had been a largely uneventful race, Rosberg piled pressure on Hamilton by slashing the Briton’s lead over the last six laps and looming ominously in his mirrors.

Hamilton, who now has 100 points to Rosberg’s 97 after his 26th career victory and leads the standings for the first time since 2012 when he was at McLaren, sounded increasingly anxious in radio traffic but held on for his first win in Spain.

“I wasn’t fast enough really today, Nico was quicker,” the 2008 champion said during the podium interview.

“Fortunately I was able to keep him behind.”

Rosberg, who declared himself “a bit gutted” to

finish second again and whose subdued body language alongside Hamilton on the podium more than backed that up, felt he would have got past with one more lap.

“Lewis did a great job the whole weekend, just that little bit ahead,” added the German ruefully.

Daniel Ricciardo was third for champions Red Bull in the first podium finish of his F1 career after being stripped of his second-place for a fuel irregularity in his home season-opener in Melbourne in March.

“We did not have the pace on Mercedes ... it is really nice to be on the podium and I am sure I will get to keep it this time,” said the smiling Australian, who had started third.

“A lonely third was not a bad result in the end”.

VETTEL FOURTH Quadruple world champion team mate Sebastian Vettel, who started 15th after a five-place grid penalty for a gearbox change, ended a weekend of setbacks with a strong fourth place.

The 26-year-old German had arrived at the first European race of the season with a different chassis to the previous four grand prix, in which he had made just one podium appearance, but Red

Bull remained an age away from Mercedes.

Ricciardo, as the best of the rest, crossed the line a massive 48.3 seconds behind Rosberg with Mercedes again in a class of their own and lapping all but four cars.

Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen was one of those passed by Hamilton, finishing seventh and just behind Spanish team mate Fernando Alonso - last year’s winner - in sixth.

Finland’s Valtteri Bottas took fifth place for Williams, while Brazilian team mate Felipe Massa sank from ninth at the start to 13th at the finish.

Frenchman Romain Grosjean handed Lotus their first points of the season with eighth place, ahead of Force India’s Mexican Sergio Perez and Nico Hulkenberg in ninth and 10th respectively.

Only two drivers retired, Toro Rosso’s Jean-Eric Vergne and Caterham’s Kamui Kobayashi, in a 66lap race that testified to the surprising reliability of the cars in the new V6 hybrid turbo era.

Venezuelan Pastor Maldonado, who crashed in qualifying and started last for Lotus, was handed a five-second stop/go penalty for causing a collision with Caterham’s Marcus Ericsson.

Marian blow out Charlestown in opening match

... wins for GTI, St Rose’s, President’s College and Plaisance

MARIAN ACADEMY began the defence of their national Under-19 title, blowing out Charlestown Secondary 45-7 when the Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) conference championships began last Saturday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

A 14-point and ninerebound effort from Judah Stephney led the winners while Jonathan Mangra and contributed nine and six

points respectively.

In other matchups, the Georgetown Technical Institute, led by Darroll Williams’ 18 points, defeated Bishops’ High 48-37 in their U-19 conference fixture. Carlos Edwards recorded 11 points and six rebounds in the win.

Leading the losers with 14 and 11 points were Marvin Durant and Daniel Haynes respectively.

Continuing in the same division, St Rose’s mauled

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: RCB vs DD, Delhi (May 10, 2013) MI vs KKR (April 16, 2014) Today’s Quiz: How many wickets Sunil Narine took in the last IPL tournament?

How many sixes Kieron Pollard struck in IPL 2013?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Brickdam Secondary 66-32, thanks to Nathan Saul’s 16 points while Keon Marks and Patrice Agrippa contributed 10 points each, as Joshua Lee had a double, scoring 13 points and collecting 14 rebounds in the loss while Michael Anderson recorded figures of 12 points and collected nine rebounds in support.

In the Under-16 matchup, President’s College blew out Bishops’ High 35-13, led

by Kadeem Perkins 17 points and six rebounds, before Plaisance edged President’s College 52-46 in their Under-19 East Coast Conference showdown.

A double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds by Nduka Horatio led Plaisance while figures of nine points and five rebounds were contributed by Kelvin Yorrick, with Shakeel Garnett netting 16 points and collecting six rebounds in the loss, receiving support from Jaleel Duke who got 13 points and nine rebounds.

Fi rs t- pl ac ed Merc edes For mula One dr iver L ewis Ha milton of Britain shakes hands with third-placed Red Bull Formula One driver Daniel Ricciardo of Australia (R) as Mercedes Formula One driver Nico Rosberg of Germany looks away after the Spanish F1 Grand Prix at the Barcelona-Catalunya Circuit in Montmelo, yesterday.

(REUTERS/Juan Medina)

LABA names 26 players to train for GABF Inter-Association clash TWENTY-SIX male players have been named by the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) as they prepare for their crucial clash against Georgetown this Saturday in the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation’s Inter-Association basketball championship which bounces off at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court in Linden.

The training session will commence at 19:00hrs and conclude at 21:00hrs at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court and all players named are invited to attend to vie for selection until Thursday when the final selection will be made.

Among those named are members of the last national team, captain Steve Neils (Jr), Neil Marks and Dwayne Roberts. The list of players are: Nevin Glen (Block 22 Flames), Michael Turner and Travin Dryden (Half Mile Bulls), Mark Louis and Quincy Jones (Wismar Pistons), Sheldron Noel, Neil Marks, Keiron Cameron, Stephan Tappin and Lawrence Da Costa (Retrieve Raiders), Orin Rose, Omally Sampson, Trevor Profitt and Steve Neils, Marvin Hartman (Kings) Allister Webster, Shane Webster, Emmanuel Archibald and Robert Parrish (Amelia’s Ward Jets), Chris Williams, Harold Adams, Orlando Glasgow, Alwyn Wilson and Dwight Cooper (Victory Valley STEVE NEILS Royals).

The coach is Kevin Joseph with Kerwin Abrams as his assistant, while Abdulla Hamid is the technical director. Players unable to attend are asked to contact Organising secretary Ashton Angel on 444-2712 or 644-6657.

Clippers’ late rally stuns Thunder, ties up series 2-2

LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Darren Collison scored 10 of his 18 points in the final 2:58, rallying the Los Angeles Clippers past the Oklahoma City Thunder 101-99 yesterday to tie the Western Conference semifinal series 2-2.

Russell Westbrook, who scored 27 points, missed a 3-pointer and Serge Ibaka’s tip attempt was too late at the buzzer, allowing the Clippers to salvage a game they trailed until the final 1:23.

Blake Griffin led Los Angeles with 25 points, making 9 of 11 free throws, and Chris Paul had 23 points and 10 assists. Jamal Crawford added 18 points.

DeAndre Jordan had 14 rebounds, helping the Clippers win the boards, 45-43 - the first time in 11 playoff games the Thunder were outrebounded.

Kevin Durant scored 40 points, hitting 15 of 18 free throws, for the Thunder.

Game 5 is tomorrow night in Oklahoma City.

It was the 14th comeback by the Clippers this season after trailing by double digits. They rallied from 12 points down in the second quarter of Game 7 to oust Golden State in the first round.

The Clippers had no answer for Durant and Westbrook until midway the fourth quarter. That dynamic duo drove the lane with abandon, drew fouls and made free throws in leading the Thunder to an early 22-point lead.

Durant’s three-point play early in the fourth extended the Thunder’s lead to 15 points and they were still up by 10 with 7:44 to go.

But the comeback Clippers were not to be denied.

Paul willed his team back into it, scoring six straight points to get the Clippers within six. Griffin made three of four free throws before Collison got hot.

Crawford stole the ball and fed Collison for a fast-break dunk that drew Los Angeles within one. Griffin took a bounce pass from Paul, scored, got fouled and made the free throw for the game’s first tie at 94-94.

Durant made one of two free throws before Crawford, the NBA’s Sixth Man of the year, hit a 3-pointer. Westbrook’s basket tied it at 97.

Collison scored the Clippers’ final four points on layups. Crawford passed to a streaking Collison for a fast-break conversion on the second one for a 101-97 lead with 32 seconds left. Westbrook scored for the Thunder, but after Griffin missed, Westbrook did too, to end the game. (Yahoo Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE MONDAY May 12, 2014

27

Backing words with action can see Guyana James holds off Mathieu achieve more international medals to win ‘fun’ 200m … Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire tells GOA Awards ceremony

By Michael DaSilva “Backing words with action can see Guyana achieve more medals at the Olympics, Commonwealth and other international games.” These were the words of Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire when she delivered the feature address at the Guyana Olympic Association’s (GOA) Appreciation and Awards ceremony that was held at the Georgetown Club, Camp Street, last Friday evening.

Justice George-Wiltshire in a thought provoking address said the Rio 2016 Olympics is just two years away and if there is a commitment to continue the conversation that was started at the recently concluded Public Forum “backing words with actions, I have no doubt that Guyana would be well on the way to achieving more medals at future Olympic, Commonwealth and other games’.

She opined that we in Guyana seek to develop our athletes. “There are a number of skill sets that are required to provide them with the requisite support for them to excel,” she stated.

Justice George-Wiltshire, who is the wife of former Guyana and Caribbean men’s squash champion Garfield Wiltshire, gave her thoughts on the necessity for

a supportive environment for local athletes so as to create opportunities.

According to Justice George-Wiltshire, in order for our athletes to excel, they must operate in an environment that is conducive to excellent performances.

She said from interactions with executives of the GOA, she has gathered that the executives are grappling with a number of social is-

Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire delivers the feature address at the GOA Awards ceremony.

Sammy says he had no choice but to quit DELHI, India (CMC) – Darren Sammy says his decision to quit Test cricket came after he realised he was no longer part of the future plans of the West Indies team, in the game’s longer version.

The Windward Islands all-rounder, who was axed as captain last Friday after nearly four years in charge, said he “had no choice” but to retire after speaking to West Indies selectors and hearing the opinions of the team and its management.

“It was something I thought about after I discussed with the selectors.

After listening to the management and team’s views about the way they needed to move to the next level in Test cricket, I understood that my role wasn’t needed as captain or player.

This was the way forward,” Sammy said here.

“Now, West Indies cricket is at a new dispensation. It has a new force and direction and I am no longer required to play a role in Tests. I had no choice but to retire from Test cricket.”

Sammy sent shockwaves through the Caribbean when he announced his retirement from Tests

late last Friday. The decision came just hours after the West Indies Cricket Board axed him as captain in favour of wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin.

He remains Twenty20 captain and available for selection to the one-day team.

Darren Sammy

The 30-year-old, who is currently involved in his second season in the Indian Premier League where he turns out for Sunrisers Hyderabad, dismissed suggestions his involvement in the lucrative Twenty20 tournament had influenced his retirement.

“I am having a great time in IPL. But my decision was not based on IPL or things like this,” Sammy stressed.

“It was solely on the direction the Test team was heading and there were no plans for me as a captain and as a player.”

Sammy was appoint-

ed West Indies captain in November, 2010 following Chris Gayle’s tenure, and has been credited with returning stability and discipline to the side.

However, his personal record – he averages 21 with the bat and 35 with the ball – came under constant scrutiny along with West Indies’ continuing struggles in Test cricket. Heavy losses to India and New Zealand on away tours last year increased the pressure on Sammy.

His axing as Test captain comes a year after he was also relieved of his duties as one-day captain, with experienced all-rounder Dwayne Bravo taking over at the helm.

Sammy said it is important to deal with change when it occurs.

“It is not about right or wrong. I was captain at a point of stage of all formats.

I was asked to captain at a time when the team needed stability. Change is inevitable,” he pointed out.

“Sometimes we might not like it. Sometimes we may not agree with but we have to accept it.”

Sammy led West Indies in 30 of his 38 Tests, finishing with eight wins, 12 defeats and 10 draws.

sues that affect local athletes and hence there is a need for sports psychologists to work with local athletes to strengthen their mental fitness to compete at the highest level.

Justice George-Wiltshire also called on the GOA to engage the services of social workers to assist with addressing social issues that local athletes face.

She said certain steps should be made to ensure our athletes perform at their best internationally.

Justice George-Wiltshire suggested that a call can be made for more persons who have the required skills to offer their support “so a database of persons who can be called on to assist in the specialised areas required can be created.”

She also suggested that the GOA disseminate information about what skill sets are needed so that a larger number of persons would know what career choices are available in the field of sports.

The GOA, through its affiliates, can implement an Olympic Solidarity programme whereby it identifies persons who can be trained in the required fields, she added.

TOKYO, Japan (CMC) – Grenadian star Kirani James won the 200 metres in a photo finish at the Golden Grand Prix here yesterday, and says he will now turn his attention to his opening Diamond League 400 metres contest in Eugene in two weeks’ time.

The reigning Olympic 400-metre champion, who said before the race that he was out to have fun in the half-lap, clocked 20.63 to finish in a dead heat with Bahamian Michael Mathieu.

James looked the winner when he led off the curve but was caught on the line by the fast-finishing Mathieu.

While the results screen initially showed both runners as clocking 20.63, the results were later revised to show Mathieu finishing second in 20.64.

“First or second doesn’t really matter. As long as I Kirani James come out here and I finish the race healthy, then I’m happy with that,” said James. “It’s a fun run, it’s not to try to run a world lead or rank or anything like that.”

James intends to take his next outing more seriously, however. He faces nemesis and World champion American LaShawn Merritt at the Prefontaine Classic, on May 31.

“I’m going to go back home and rest up a bit after this race and train,” he said.

In the women’s 200m, reigning women’s World junior sprint queen Bahamian Anthonique Strachan clocked 22.82 seconds to give the Caribbean another victory at the meet.

The 20-year-old, who won gold in the 100 and 200 metres in Barcelona two years ago, finished ahead of Amantle Montsho in 23.25 seconds while American Deedee Trotter was third in 23.29 seconds.

American Justin Gatlin, meanwhile, won the 100 metres in 10.02 seconds – the fastest ever 100m time recorded running into a wind stronger than -2.0m/s.

The wind was -3.5m/s.

Sport CHRONICLE

The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com

Demerara retain U-19 title with innings victory over President’s XI

By Calvin Roberts

DEFENDING champions Demerara easily retained their Guyana Cricket Board Under-19 Inter-county title yesterday afternoon, following an innings-and-49-run victory over the President’s XI at the Georgetown Cricket

Club ground.

This was mainly due to the bowling of Keon Morris and Shurfane Rutherford, who did well to supplement Tagenarine Chanderpaul’s first-innings 167, which piloted the defending champions to a mammoth 407 for 7 declared.

Resuming yesterday’s

final day on 152 for 7 with Ronaldo Ali Mohammed and Damion Waldron on 6 and 9 respectively, in search of 255 more runs to make Demerara bat again, President’s XI folded for 215, 20 minutes before lunch, with Morris picking up 3 for 31 and Rutherford 3 for 36, backed

by Steven Sankar’s 2 for 60.

Mohammed went on to make 18 (23 balls, 3x4) and Waldron 38 (110 balls, 6x4) before they were both dismissed, while skipper Gavin Moriah made a valiant 21 that was decorated with three fours.

With a lead of 192,

Please see page 24

The victorious Demerara Under-19 team pose with coach Garvin Nedd (sitting right) and manager Robert ‘Pacer’ Adonis (sitting left), after defeating the President’s XI to claim the GCB Inter-county title.

Change of captain no guarantee of success, says Findlay

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Former West Indies chairman of selectors Mike Findlay says there is no guarantee the change of captain will result in a turnaround in the Test fortunes of the regional team.

Long-standing captain Darren Sammy was axed last Friday in favour of wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin, with the West Indies Cricket Board noting their intention of “getting maximum performance for each format of the game.”

H o w e v e r, F i n d l a y told the Trinidad Express newspaper only time would tell if the change would be successful.

“In fairness to the selectors, they are in a desperate situation now. Whether it is the right time or not depends on what happens from here on,” said Findlay, a wicketkeeper who played ten Tests for West Indies between 1969 and 1973, and went on to also serve as a team manager.

“Sammy was put as captain with the hope that he would improve the per- Former chairman of formance of the team. It selectors Mike Findlay. materialised very briefly.

The move (to replace him) is a hope rather than anything else, because let’s face it, performance is what is important and the West Indies team has not been performing.”

Sammy led West Indies in 30 of his 38 Tests, winning eight, losing 12 and drawing ten. His replacement Ramdin has led West Indies in a single One-Day International and three Twenty20s but has never captained in Tests.

With the latest move leaving West Indies with different captains for each of the three formats, Findlay believes only two captains are necessary.

“I think the two captains are ideal, one for Twenty20s and One-days and one for the Tests,” the 70-year-old said.

“If you have three captains it’s always difficult because they have different ways of leading, so you will always be adjusting to the leadership on the field of three people.”

GOA’s headquarters moving apace

… over $68M spent so far on facility THE construction of the Guyana Olympic Association’s (GOA) headquarters at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, is moving apace and president of the association K. Juman-Yassin said he is pleased with the works that have been done so far.

Speaking at the GOA’s Appreciation and Awards Ceremony last Friday night at the Georgetown Club, Camp Street, Juman-Yassin

who has been head of the association for a number of years – more than ten – said, at the moment, another one million dollars is needed to complete the installation of potable water to the structure and David Patterson has been given the contract to supply the modules for the building.

Juman-Yassin said the government of Guyana has given the association the land and the GOA is working to arduously to get the build-

ing completed.

He said it is his hope that in 2014 the Ministry of Sport, along with the Government of Guyana and the GOA, will be able to work together to achieve the association’s aim.

Meanwhile, General Secretary of the GOA, Hector Edwards, in presenting his report on the GOA’s achievements for 2013 said the association has to date expended $68M on the GOA’s Liliendaal headquarters and

that sum of money has been used mainly to erect fencing around the perimeter of the land.

He mentioned that executives of the GOA visited the site recently and were all pleased with how work on the facility is moving ahead.

Edwards, a former national cyclist said during last year, sports administrators and coaches benefited significantly from courses and scholarships that were of-

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fered to the GOA by Olympic Solidarity Movement among other organisations.

He said 18 persons, drawn from various associations and the disciplinary forces benefited from a Sports Administration Course.

Edwards said last year the GOA held a fundraising event, but four of the associations that are affiliated to the governing body did not sell a single ticket for the event.

GOA president K.Juman-Yassin MONDAY, MAY 12, 2014