Guyana Chronicle New York Edition 23 09 2016

New York Edition

/■ CUYHIA

UM TIC

<ri)roniclc /T HE

^uysnach ronicJc. com ISSUE HO. 16

L

1NHK ENDING

i

N AT | O M ' &

V

NEWSPAPER

7

SEPTEMBER 23, 2016

FRlE DISiniBUTIQN

Six-month

maternity

- Minister Norton ? 13 eave

Lewis

set

to

soon

take 'We

command

of

got

GDF

...as Brigadier Phillips bows out COLONEL George Lewis, Deputy Chief-of-staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is set to take over command of the military when current chief, Brigadier Mark Phillips retires early next month.

A farewell parade billed for October 3 in honour of Phillips will be the same day when Lewis will take up office. The Guyana Chronicle was told that Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. President David Granger, will soon promote Col Lewis to the rank of Brigadier in time for his ascension to the chief-of-staff post.

Phillips who hails from Linden where he attended the Christianburg Primary School and the Christianburg Wismar Secondary School (Multilateral School), joined the GDF in December 1980. He is a graduate of the Royal Military Academy. Sandhurst, in the United Kingdom and has held several appointments, including Colonel (Administration and Quartering), and Colonel (General Staff) in the GDF's Defence Headquarters, during his 30 years of military service. He was also Guyana's Head of Delegation to the Inter-American Defence Board from 2008 to 2009. and was up to 2011 Guyana's non-resident Military Attache to Venezuela. He was promoted to the rank of Brig-

adier back in 2013 by then President Donald Ramotar before he took command of the GDF. He succeeded Rear Admiral. Gary Best.

Meanwhile, asked about the impending change of command in the GDF. President Granger said there is a "succession plan" when Phillips demits office. ".. .the next senior officer is going to take his place." he told the Guyana Chronicle.

The President made it clear that there will be a smooth transition and more details will become available in the next few weeks.

"There is no surprise there. The present Deputy Chief-of-Staff is Colonel Lewis, [there is] Colonel Nazrul Hussain. Colonel Persaud...about half a dozen colonels." he added, noting that the Defence Board has a wide field of choice.

He told the Guyana Chronicle that the Defence Board will meet when he returns to Guyana and make its choice on who will manage the GDF. "The defence board will make the final decision." said President Granger who is Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.

to

it

stamp

out'

- Minister Lawrence alarmed at rate of child abuse in Linden Colonel George Lewis Members of the Defence Board also include Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. Minister of State Joseph Harmon. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams. Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan and the Commissioner of Police.

Colonel Lewis's appointment as Chief of Staff means that he joins the number of esteemed Chiefsof- Staff including, Colonel Ronald Pope, Brigadier Clarence Prince, Major-General Retired Norman McLean, Major-General Joseph Singh, Major-General Michael Atherly, Brigadier Edward Collins and Rear Admiral Garv Best.

Soyini

the

scores

big

one Page 16

Britanny takes Miss

India

Guyana

title

wmmm •

BAKERY ■NOW

IN

&

RESTAURANT

NEW VOBKil

Best Tasting Guyanese Chinese dishes and pastries and bread 127-08 liberty Ave, Richmond Hill. Ny 11419

Tel: 718-322-5600/5601

Free DellWCni

2

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Guyanese local and abroad might want to keep their eyes on many of the economic activities currently taking place in the country, including the recent expression of interest by the European Investment Bank (EIB) to invest in the country's various sectors.

A delegation of the foreign based finan- medium-scale enterprises, was in the year cial institution met with President David 2000. The EIB is the largest multilateral Granger days ago relating their interest and public bank in the world and 10% of its reconnecting ties with the country. lending targets investments outside of the EIB Investment Officer, Mr. Floris Ver- Ettropean Union. It is owned directly by the meulen. Vice President, Mr. Pin van 28 European Union member states and Ballekom, his adviser Ms. Malaya Zumel works on their behalf seeking investment and Loan Officer, Mr. Angel Diez Fraile opportunities that also sit well for these Eumet with Minister within the Ministry of Fi- ropean nations. nance, Mr. Jaipaul Sharma and President President David Granger has noted that David Granger at the Office of the Presi- the agenda for Guyana's development over dency to advance the relationship between the next four years requires significant inthe bank and the country. vestment from foreign sources, particularly The government's information agency as it relates to developing the green econstated that the Bank's Vice President was omy, improving infrastructure and reducing basically interested in the areas the Flead of poverty by creating small and micro enterState has highlighted for investment. He prises. As such, he said that Guyana welsaid that based on the priority areas that comes the re-engagement with the President Granger has outlined, he is con- European Investment Bank (EIB), whose vinced that the EIB can be of value to officials he met with, earlier today.

Guyana. "We are looking into the possibilThe delegation, led by the Bank's Vice ities and if it's a good quality project and an President, Mr. Pin van Ballekom engaged interesting investment, then we will go with government officials and private secahead." tor entities during a two day meet with The Bank's last transaction with Guyana, these entities to discuss possible areas for a micro-financing facility for small and partnership.

1

* I

i

11

f * 1 Third and second left respectively: President Granger and Minister within the Finance Ministry Jaipaul Sharma along with members of the EIB delegation "We very confident that the European Investment Bank is going to be an important vehicle to provide credit to enable the developments we need to take place," the President told the delegation.

With regard to the 'green' agenda. President Granger informed the team that while there is an existing financial arrangement between Guyana and Norway, the country has tremendous eco-tourism and biodiversity potential. Additionally, there are great prospects in the development of renewable energy sources such as hydropower, wind and solar. He also spoke of the need for access to financing for small and medium-

scale enterprises development.

"We need to diversify, but we have not been able to do so as rapidly as we need to... We need to have a strategy, which is broad-based that deals with our existing resources," he said.

Guyana is currently positioning itself firmly within the take off stage of economic growth; calling local and foreign Guyanese to invest in the country. Outside of that the government has continuously stated its intention to have foreign-based partnerships and connections to assist in developing the country and its resources, which also includes developing human resources.

Reggae on the river1 to attract touring international yachters MEMBERS of the Guyana tourist sector hosted for the first time 'Reggae on the river' using local acts that could possibly become an annual feature to draw, specifically yachters to the country. This was announced as 14 yachts from across the world decided to sail from the Caribbean to South America, at a time deemed to have unfavorable weather patterns within the regular hurricane season experienced by the region.

The yachters docked in the Essequibo

River, near the Hurakabra Resort River, close to Region Seven. The fourth Nereid's Yacht rally 2016 was hosted by the Business Ministry and Department of Tourism and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).

The yachtsmen journeyed all the way from the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Canada and France among other countries.

The rally was organized by David Matelicani who expressed delight at being able to pull off a successful event. Matelicani said that he has been involved in the rally from the inception.

GOLD PALACE JEWELRY

He explained that lots had been said about traveling the Caribbean at this particular time, that it might be too difficult. He said however that he was bent on defying the odds. He expressed nonetheless that the main objective of the yacht rally is about tourism and promoting the locations they travel to. "Well the Nereid's rally is all about promoting the destinations, encouraging sailors to come

Designed by Cold Palace 122-18 Liberty Ave. Richmond Hill, NY 11419 Phone718-835-4298 Fax: 718-835-3108

Promotional Price for each Bracelet is $120.00

A

www.goldpalaceshop.com

SFT

Some of the yachts that were docked in the Essequibo River. and visit the region in the hope of kick -starting the development for yachting tourism," he said.

Kit and Gem Nascimento who own the Hurakabra resort, are said to be the first facilitators of the yachtsmen; considering their participation in the yacht rally to be a labour of patriotism. The biggest contribution to this event and newest additional was for the first time, a 'reggae on the river' concert which was held on September 17, 2016.

Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin welcomed the yachters on behalf of the government and people of Guyana, expressing how much of an honor it was to have them.

"On behalf of the Government of Guyana I am proud and honored and delighted to welcome this fourth Nereid's yacht rally to our country, to our continent and to the Guianas," he had said.

The Minister pointed out that the yacht rally is another way of exploiting the use of Guyana's waters as a major means of transport.

Persons taking part in the Nereid's Yacht rally are mostly retirees and persons interested in touring the world by sea. The youngest sailor was a 26-year-old from France. Yachtsmen were first hosted in 2013.

The rally left Guyana September 22 after visiting different historic sites in Georgetown and sites such as Kaieteur, Orinduik and Marshall Falls. The contingent will then head to French Guiana where the rally usually ends. However, other sailors tend to move on to Brazil and Suriname to view those countries' scenery.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23., 2016

3

7The NATIONAL SPORTS POLICY WILL HELP GUYANA TO Peter Haynes Column BE CONTENDERS AND STOP BEING PRETENDERS The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today"-h. Jackson Bnmn jr.

Countless theories have been proposed for Guyana to improve its performances at international sports championships, following its sub-standard showing at the Rio Olympics. However, without a National Sports Policy which will be the basis for selection, funding

• WM Mil frt i*Hn tAMBM f. SR! nf I 7?*51

BMOK1

etc. for Guyana,s participation at these forums, it is difficult to expect that there will be any significant change in -I

their sub-standard performances.

Investigations into the issue of a National Sports Policy indicate that the previous administration, after being questioned about it, finally acquired the services of a Canadian Consultant to assist in the formulation of a 'Policy.' It is not clear how long before May 2016 the draft of the Policy was submitted, but it is known that no action was taken for the document to be made public for discussion and possible implementation.

It was further learnt that the current administration will dust the document and take steps to have some discussions with the expectation to have implementation as soon as possible .

It is submitted that the consultation must involve all stakeholders viz. The Ministry responsible for Sports and the National Sports Commission, the Guyana Olympic Association, representatives of ALL Regions and representatives of all National Sports Associations and Federations.

must be a requirement for consideration for Government's financial assistance.

Compliance with this requirement should not be just a requirement for Government's assistance, but for the efficient management of the Associations and Federations, given the fact that they also receive funds from other sources such as corporate Guyana. As is well known these entities use these 'donations' for tax purposes. Therefore, this will provide another source of monitoring the tax 'write-offs.'

The policy should also include clearly defined requirements for National Associations/Federations to submit to the Ministry for Sports annual audited reports no later than the end of first quarter every year. This

X

An inside view of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall ball. Squash, Weightlifting etc.

The coaches' programs must be concentrated in all the Regions and schools, as these are the areas where sustained growth could be achieved.

These are some aspects of the National Sports Policy which should be considered absolutely necessary for inclusion, and finally, the establishment of a commission to monitor the welfare of sportsmen and sportswomen after their competitive days are over.

The reintroduction of a cadre of coaches working out of the National Sports Commission should include but not be limited to Cricket, Soccer, Rugby, Lawn Tennis, Table Tennis, Flockey, Amateur Boxing, Volleyball, Basketball, Cycling, Athletics, Swimming, Archery, Badminton, Judo, Net-

*

I*

It is expected that the discussions on the Policy will include setting of specific targets, inclusion of all age groups, performance goals and budgets - sources of funding e.g. the IOC, FIFA, FIBA, FINA, the IAAF and Government. Vital for the Policy must be the building and developing existing facilities across the country and the establishment of Regional Sports Councils.

Reliable sources indicate that when the National Sports Policy is implemented, it will be the sole responsibility of a "Deputy Director of Sports" to ensure that all guidelines and parameters arc strictly adhered.

k

Interestingly, there is a Commission of Inquiry currently dealing with

*

c

k

y

*

%

the welfare of ex-servicemen and women. The Chairman of that Commission at the end of the exercise would have valuable information which could also be used for the improvement of the welfare of retired sportsmen and sportswomen. That Chairman will also be ideally suited to lead a similar exercise for the welfare of sports personalities.

These are some items which should be included in the National Sports Policy in order for Guyana to become contenders and not pretenders in international sports competitions.

k c

c

Delicious Home Breads Tastes So Good... A// You Need Is Water ykai

- Also sample our mouth-watering pastries — — Guyanese Home-style Cooking — ♦ Black Pudding

^ Souse

&

♦ Cook-up

are Just a few of our specialties

■ k "LVA ' -;

— We Cater For All Occasions —

[Visit us @ 917 Utica Ave. in Brooklyn snyderAvest or call (718) 485 -2020 to place your order

4

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

9

■

1

'P';'

If you ask what the most important asset in a country is, the response would most likely be the people. This means regardless of how wealthy the land is, it is empty without its people. If there is no one, particularly those equipped to harness and utilize those bountiful resources, then that country cannot grow and develop properly. It is for this reason that countries strive and work extremely hard to train, develop and equip its people with all the necessary skills that make them an integral part of its working system, and allow them to make meaningful contributions to its advancement.

It is also understood that should a is almost as if the people had been forgotpeople display low morale, motivation and ten and the aspects pertaining to their adwillingness, then this may very well be a vancement and development as citizens general indicator of some missing links totally abandoned. within that country's administration. It The unemployment rate, especially may be that all the institutions necessary among young people — the future of the for their improvement are not functioning country — is very high, semi-professional properly. If this is so, the quality of its peo- operators, inadequate institutions and exple will more than likely reflect what type tremely poor quality of service are basiof services are being meted out to them. cally the startup pack that literally push In this light, be sure that the more ad- people out of a country, and Guyana has vanced people, or rather, those who can been exception. afford it will seek out a resting place caterIt is well known that many persons ing to their advancement. This can unfor- leave their country in search of better lives tunately mean constant movement — or better jobs overseas. Many who leave persons abandoning their homeland and their country have the intention of returnseeking better opportunities overseas. ing to their homeland, but is hopeful that If one takes a look at Guyana, this when they do, it will be in a better situaunhealthy scenario can very well be used tion financially and academically. Persons to describe what has happened to it over sometimes spend many years of their lives the years. It will not be hard to see that it overseas working or preparing themselves

for the world of work.

Many persons who have left Guyana, have improved themselves and gone on to do great things. Many opt to go to successful First World countries like the United States, Canada and Europe seeking that big break. In many cases, Guyanese have done remarkably well in areas they would have been unable to, had they stayed at home. There are successful Guyanese and persons of Guyanese lineage who have made it in the international movie and, music industries, academics and other areas.

>

Some have beautiful sto- Captain Oriando Charles and his Production manager ries of trials and failures, but Tricia Azaire, are local Guyanese who help young refused to let that keep them Guyanese make1 good life choices with their magazine down. Against all odds, they 'Inspire Guyana (photo by GTvibes) have left their country and cess there, but one lesson to be learnt and become respectable citizens of their passed back to locals is that regardless of adopted countries; persons we are proud the situation, persistence can be used to of and can use as role models. There are overcome any setback. also those who migrate and do not turn Many locals sometimes hear of the their backs on their country, giving back 'land of opportunity,' and they believe it in whatever way they can and as often as is easy migrating to a country like Amerthey can, making regular donations to in- ica and becoming successful. It is a know stitutions and individuals. that this is not always true. Many persons This is why the Diaspora can be a have to work very hard for what they great motivation and inspiration to local need, especially when living in the major Guyanese. Indeed these people may live cities. Making it in these countries are lesoverseas and may have gotten their suc- sons of try and try again until you succeed, working hard and making it in the freezing cold.

I \ These are stories of inspiration we 0: \ Boston Shipping should heed if Guyana is to sprout, the confidence of its people has to be rebuilt.

As President David Granger has stated, he j wishes to bridge the gap between local Inc. Guyana and its people living abroad.

'Guyana Sprouts'' has noted before that the We Make Shipping Overseas as Easy as Shipping Next Door Diaspora should be more vocal in what it -v TO wants to happen in Guyana. This means WE SHIP not only voicing their opinions on the GUYANA, JAMAICA BARRELS physical and political development of the TRINIDAD & TOBAGO country, but its standards and opportuniBOXES ties for its people.

GRENADA, BARBADOS DOCUMENTS There are many successful GuyanST. VINCENT LUGGAGE ese all over the world, but most are unknown. Guyanese may be encouraged to ST. LUCIA, HAITI APPLIANCES seek success outside of their country, but & Other World Wide Destinations FURNITURE should be cognizant of the fact that with persistence and the will to succeexd it is CONTAINERS FAST RELIABLE SERVICE possible.

CARS Recently, CCH Pounder a very suc& REASONABLE RATES cessful actress visited her homeland Guyana. Many people did not know she was Guyanese. It might be beneficial that BOSTON SHIPPING ENTERPRISES, INC. local Guyanese know that others arc doing 506 Occalur Street (Corner of Ralph Avc.) Brooklyn, NY 11233 great things outside of the country, and for those who do not wish to travel or cannot afford to, maybe these great stories will in718. 443.8400 Fax: 718. 443.8403 spire them to demand better opportunities Licensed and Bonded as Required By The Federal Maritime Commission — For Your Protection and services in the country.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

5

The Handel

Thincps

That

1Bother

1Me

Andrews Column

Solving

the

problem

w

ISIS

6 Av

our psyche. This is only natural since terrorist ▼

of

acts have become tragically common around the

world. Sunday morning, a bomb blast which rattled a New York City neighborhood was thought to be connected to international terrorism. It has since been officially ruled an intentional act; but not linked to global terrorism. Is

,13

fear of global terrorism producing overreaction? In some cases, ''yes." Are some personal freedoms being abrogated as a result? It depends. Can anything be done to stop terrorism?

The Oxford Concise Dictionary defines terrorism as, "the unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians in the pursuit of political aims." The English word derives from the French word terrorisme, which, in turn, derives from the Latin verb terrere, meaning "to frighten". Hence, to cause fear.

Most historians agree that the modern age of terrorism began in 1968, when the Popular front for the Liberation of Palestine (PLO) hijacked an Israeli air carrier on route to Rome on July 23, 1968. As one writer observes, "This was the first time that a carrier (Israeli) and its symbolic value was a specific operational aim. Also a first was the de-

Xfall

specials

mmmmm frv y A E.N.G. Caribbean Vision Center 1012 Fiatbush Avenue (Next door to Radio Shsckj •y -jj jjji 8131 We Accept Medicaid and RR Most Union Insurance Plans HH

EYE

EXAM

PURCHASE OF COMPLETE PAIR OF PRESCRIPTION GLASSES See store for details.

COMPLETE

PAIR

O^LASSK See store for details. starting at E.N.G. CARIBBEAN VISION CENTER • COUPON FASHION

COLOR

Reg. $25 j CONTACTS s wrtnmJt 1 Pair only coupon Offer valid wi" Cannot . combined vyitb an 'othercoupon or discount on^^m^oisale.^nnitsdume im© offer otter. ' LE PLUS GRAND CENTRE DE LUNETTES DE BROOKLYN Vous y trouverez une vaste selection de lunettes de qualite • Venres de contact • Lunettes de soliel a d6 prix tres has • Execution d'ordonnances medocaies • Duplication de verres Optometristes qualities Nous acceptons Medicaid et d'autres assurances VISA

I

1

T.

Scene from Chelsea bombing — Sunday, September 18 liberate use of the passengers as hostages for demands made publicly against the Israeli government."

Since then, Palestinians have carried out many attacks — some by warfare, some by guerrilla tactics and others by suicide bombings — against the Israeli population for their stated aim of gaining complete independence and return of lands confiscated by Israel.

In these United States two terrorist incidents come to mind. (1) In October 1953, a Lebanese suicide bomber attacked an American Marine barracks in Beirut - 216 US Marines and hundreds of civilians were killed; (2) on February 26, 1993, Muslim extremists detonated a 550 kilogram (1,200 pound) bomb in the parking basement of the World Trade Center, New York - six persons were killed and thousands injured. On September 11, 2001 a suicide mission, linked to A1 Qaeda, hijacked four airliners; one aMiner crashed, one was flown into the Pentagon and two were flown into the towers of the World Trade Center - more than 2,000 persons were killed.

THE ISLAMIC STATE These days, the threat of international terrorism comes from ISIS and its copycats. The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), also known as the Islamic State of Iraq

and Syria (ISIS) and Islamic State (IS), its aim is to create an Islamic state across Sunni areas of Iraq and in Syria. The group first began referring to itself as the Islamic State in June 2014, when it called itself a worldwide caliphate and named Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi as its caliph.

THE GROWTH OF ISIS Like so many other terrorist organizations, its rise and growth is complex. Some analysts have blamed it on President Barack Obama's decision to withdraw US forces from Iraq, without leaving a significant residual force to maintain internal stability and counter any threat that might arise from Islamist radicals. They also blame the rise of ISIS on Obama's refusal to send ground troops to Syria to oust Bashar al-Assad.

There is some truth in this argument. Obama could have made an agreement with Iraq that could have left an ongoing U.S. residual force in that country. Lack of such a force might have contributed to the rise of ISIS. Not toppling Syria's President has led to a stalemate in Syria, which allows ISIS to secure territory. Although some of its acquired territory has been retaken by the government of Iraq and Syria, ISIS still controls vast stretches of land. (continued on page 11)

6

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016 New Vork Edition dVonlcla ^

K,

fV-Ceftcw iidtwi ÂŁdte^)ÂŁette>0

I'll itor-lii-dhicf Nigel Williams

Harry

Gill

out to

mislead

public

Kditor Godfrey Wray Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guy a n uch ronid exom wnigcl 1 O^'hutmuii.cuni gnnleditorial@gmaiLcoTii For All Publishing and Advertising in New York consult our New York Representative: Dennis A. Nelson dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.coni Tel: 917-379-6590

Ciittorial

Humane

Governance GOOD governance, also known as humane governance, has to do with management of the people's business within the confines of laws, international conventions, charters and time-honoured principles, tempered by respect for the people.

President David Granger is known to express his thoughts on matters impacting Guyanese and decisions taken by the state and government, irrespective of tier, by calling for a humane approach in doing things. For quite some time this thought, much less expressed view, was absent or played minimal part in influencing decisions. It cannot be over-emphasised that all Guyanese, irrespective of historical experiences, have more in common with what unite us. It redounds to the strengthening of nationhood when attention is paid to our commonalities. As such, it would be difficult to find amongst us anyone who does not want to be treated humanely, including those who act inhumanely to others.

It is oft overlooked that in making decisions or what is being said, what the person first registers is the tone/treatment being meted out and from this would flow acceptance or rejection. Colloquially said, it is not what you do but how you do it. Within recent weeks. President Granger weighed in on the relocating of Georgetown vendors and called for the matter to be handled humanely. In his Weekly Public Interest programme broadcast on 9th September, he said: "I would urge the City Council to deal with these issues in a humane manner, at the same time ensuring that before any move is made, any action is taken, there is an alternative."

APNU+AFC councillor Andrea Marks also took a similar approach at the Council's statutory meeting on 13th September. where in expressing the need for City Hall to do its work, called on her colleagues and the town's administration to. "let's do it in the right way." Another issue the President spoke to is the less-than-humane treatment meted out to NCN staff. Natasha Smith and Jocelle Archibald-Hawke.

Ms Smith's issue surrounded her pregnancy and the latter was disciplined for expressing an opinion, for which an apology was requested and made, but was found not to be to management's satisfaction.

Another noted public pronouncement on pursuing the humane approach came recently from Vice- President and Minister of Public Security. Khemraj Ramjattan. New prison officers were charged by him to seek "balance between security and control in the prisons on the one hand, but maintain humanity and justice on the other." He went

on

drug

Dear Editor, I refer to a letter carried on the letter page of the Guyana Chronicle dated Wednesday September 21 and captioned "Contradicting Region 5 RHO by personal experience."

This letter was submitted by Mr. Harry Gill MP (PPP/C). In his letter Mr Gill saw it fit to make several sweeping generalisations about the status of the health care system in the Region, the majority of which are amazingly based on a single personal experience he said he had at one institution.

It is my view that in recent times more and more Guyanese are developing the perception that the political opposition finds it difficult to find hard evidence to support the allegations that they would like to make and are in fact reduced to making sweeping allegations based on nothing more than emotions and conjecture with the whimsical hope of fooling the naive and the gullible.

Mr. Gill's letter is a glaring example of the depths to which these opposition politicians are willing to sink in the hope of scoring some points against the Government. Mr. Gill writes of a shortage of drags at the Fort Wellington Hospital. As Regional Executive Officer. I have successfully exposed the inaccmacy of this claim before and I will not deal with this further but merely wish to draw the attention of the public to a recent highly successful healthcare exercise held in the Region on Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th September last.

On these two dates the visiting overseas-based Bridges Global Medical Team and Senior Medical personnel from the Georgetown Hospital and the Fort Wellington Hospital held a medical outreach at the Fort Wellington Hospital during which they saw and treated over two thousands residents of the Region for a wide range of ailments. The

supplies

visiting teams did not bring any drags to Fort Wellington Hospital with them yet each one of the two thousand odd patients who requested help from this outreach were supplied with all the medications prescribed by the doctors.

In the face of the spurious allegation by MP Gill that there is a shortage of essential drags in Region 5. where did the drags to provide relief to two thousand odd people over a period of two days, come from? From out of thin air?

Mr. Gill, writing that the face masks given to his wife by staff at the Fort Wellington Hospital when she experiences attacks of asthma are unsanitary, is another case in point of a politician callously twisting the facts to support his theory. These face masks also known as nebulizers are sterilized for re-use using highly expensive equipment at the Hospital bought incidentally by the People's Progressive Parly/Civic during its term of office, for the very purpose of ensuring that they can be re-used.

Mr. Gill wanted special treatment for his wife: brand new face masks, immediately discarded after use (at least three during an hour and fifteen minutes of treatment ) even though medical science has proven that it is impossible for nebulizers to host bacteria/germs during use and impossible for bacteria/ germs to survive the rigorous process of sterilization after use.

Mr. Gill has been in the habit of trying to bully the staff of Fort Wellington Hospital using his credentials as a Member of Parliament. He once got upset when he wanted to sit in a restricted area of the said Hospital and was told

by Staff that he could not do so. He once demanded of senior staff of the Hospital that they provide him with a list of the drags available at the hospital and he took umbrage when he was told that he had no authority to make such

on to say. "It is very important that we know the two hands as it were. Proper balance betiveen security and control and humanity and justice is very vital for a public service that is as vital in the public security sector."

What is encouraging is that should the charge be enforced. it could minimise conflicts in the prison population, which adversely affect the society. Andrew Coyle's handbook. 'A Human Rights Approach to Prison Management' (2nd edition) notes that human rights are an integral part to good prison management, not only because it is the right thing to do. but because it works in ensuring operational efficiency and stable relations betiveen staff and inmates.

When society sees officials, elected and appointed, are placing emphasis on humane governance such are encouraging signs in responding to calls to make the political culture receptive to and respectful of the people. It breathes life

In

Region

demands.

In his letter to the Chronicle. he further alleged that only one thermometer was in use at the Hospital at the time he visited. But I have been advised that this is standard procedme at the Hospital. Nurses on duty specialize in the use of equipment. One Nurse is assigned to take blood pressure . another assigned to giving the injection, another nurse assigned to the dressing of injuries and another to using the thermometer to take temperature and so you will have just one thermometer in use at any one point in time.

Indeed I have been advised that if each Nurse was given a thermometer in addition to other equipment while on duty, then this would increase the possibility of mistakes being made. But MP Gill is not a medical professional and instead of accepting this and seeking clarifications he chooses to speak from the bottomless depths of his ignorance on such issues. His portrayal of the status of the Health Centre at Bath Settlement West Coast Berbice though is downright dishonest.

The Health Centre at Bath Settlement was built by the People's Progressive Party/Civic while in Government. smacks in the middle of a catchment area (Woodley Park to Catherina's Lust) which was already being effectively served by the Woodley Park Health Centre.

Its construction at that location amounted to a redundancy since the population was already being adequately served. Contrary to his allegation that this Health Centre is being neglected by this Regional Administration, this facility was put into operation in August of this year.

Because of its location in a catchment area already being adequately served, our healthcare people have literally had to beg people to come to this Health Centre for treatment. I am advised that on any given

5

clinic day not more than four or five people would turn up for treatment.

Instead of saying, as he alleges that the Centre is being ignored by the Regional Administration because it is located in a PPP/C stronghold. he should ask why it was built in that location in the first place.

This Health Center at Bath Settlement is in fact a glaring example of the arrogant misuse of public funds for tenuous political gains employed by the former Administration.

His puzzlement of why patients from New Amsterdam and Georgetown Hospitals are being referred to the Fort Wellington and Mahaicony Hospital for drugs again reveals his lack of understanding of how the system operates. When Staff at the Georgetown Hospital or New Amsterdam Hospital finishes diagnosing patients, if they are residents of Region 5, they don't give them medication, they send them back to Region 5 to collect medication. I am advised that on some days staff at Fort Wellington Hospital get countless referrals from the Georgetown and New Amsterdam hospitals and this influx can cause drugs on the shelves to be fully used up on a given day.

However those who do not get medication on that day are requested to return the very next day to collect their medication and they do get their medication without fail. Mr Editor, it is indeed a sad day when an educated person who is a Member of Parliament can feel free to jump to conclusions based on emotion and conjecture rather than verified and independently verifiable facts.

Then to arrogantly assume that readers are fools.

Regards Ovid Morrison Regional Executive Officer (REO) Region 5

into the society and its motto. "One People. One Nation.

One Destiny."

Many can recall the truism instilled in us from young to 'do unto others as you'd like them to do unto you.'

This is the principle that not only informs religious thinking, but underpins human rights declarations and laws. There is an abundance of literature and best practices on humane governance and management and in the technological age such are easily accessible. Treating each other humanely ought not to be reliant on status in society ~ social, economic, or political ~ but because it is the decent thing to do and necessary for establishing and maintaining human relations sans conflicts. It is also the making of good politics/ management to avoid internecine, confrontational relations with the very people relied on for support and success.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

7

A view from New York Gotham's WITH MICHAEL DEREK ROBERTS ^ robcrtsconsuitang49mx.com * (343) 329-6668

Afy Money Is

On

Politics And The

DeBlasio

Bill For A

Conundrum

Second Round

The ruling political elite in Gotham City would not like things to remain as they are today, come 2017.

For them, there is something that must change and they're all aching to send the city's most liberal mayor in over 50 years packing. For sometime now, I've been keep-

WMk

ing my ears close to the ground to pick up on and monitor the whisper campaigns against Mayor Bill DeBlasio as he continues to

u

take charge of the city" and run things his

own way. I have to say that as a proud Progressive Leftie of the Marxist kind, the good mayor oftentimes gives me quite a few really bad cluster But of late he's settled down and is getting the job done much to the chagrin of his political detractors, especially those Democrats on the political Right and the Republican conservative machine that would rather things go back to the 1950 days of "bobby socks and stockings." But that does not mean that all is easy sailing for a mayor that I personally admire and know to be a good and decent man deep down. The thing is that New York City was ruled for about 20 years by some pretty God-awful people ranging from the ultra-conservative, race bating, Rudy Giuliani, to the short-tempered, dictatorial, and autocratic billionaire Michael Bloomberg.

It's as if we've become so used to their brand of brash, selfish, anti-people politics that says that "White was right and if you've Black get the hell to the back, " that we cannot stomach the sharp departure which DeBlasio represents. Hurricane Giuliani, the darling of the NYPD and other punitive elements in New York City, went on a campaign of alienating the most racially diverse city in the nation. His Administration did not reflect the ethnic and racial composition of the city and he looked with contempt and disdain at Black and Latino leaders as if they had just crawled out from under a large stone.

Mike Bloomberg decided to make New York City a "nanny state" and to feud with any and all groups that disagreed with him. While he was not as extreme in his actions and policies as Giuliani he did very little to head the city's racial pain in the light of the devastation wrought by the Giuliani Years. More concerned with is image and resume, Bloomberg muffed the Hurricane Sandy response and demonstrated just how incompetent and inept his administration really was so much so that the New York Times published a story highly critical of Mayor Bloomberg's recovery efforts.

"By the time Mr. Bloomberg left office at the end of last year [2013], the program had paid $8.3 million to one of the nation's most expensive business consulting firms. Another consulting firm was poised to collect several hundred thousand dollars to run contests seeking ideas that

headaches. might help businesses in future storms.

Nearly $300 million had been awarded to the mayor's coveted long-term disaster planning effort. But the rebuilding of people's homes was completely stalled, a situation that remained largely unchanged through the spring, several months into Mr. de Blasio's tenure." [Hurricane Sandy Recovery Program in New York City Was Mired by Its Design/Broken Pledges and Bottlenecks Hurt Mayor Bloomberg's Build It Back Effort/www.nytimes.com] Bill DeBlasio was a breadth of fresh air and won an election with he backing of a broad cross-section of the city's voters.

He also had the support of organized labor and the Working Families Party (WFP).

That grand coalition propelled the former Public Advocate to victory as he positioned himself as the candidate of the "common people," showcasing a modern, racially mixed family. New York loved it and decided to give the Brooklynite a shot.

Admittedly, Mayor DeBlasio's first year in office was a rocky one. I believe that he was pulled every which way as he tired to "pay the people he owed." His spats with the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the vitriol hurled in his direction by police unions formerly mollycoddled by BOTH Giuliani and Bloomberg, when he stood up their perceived wrongdoing, did not earn him many spurs. I suppose the vast majority of the NYPD's rank and file will not vote for him.

Then a local media culture historically petted and pampered by successive mayors decided to give him a hard time over access and the fact that he was focused too much on "doing the people's work" and not on a spoiled, thin-skinned media corps. He paid for that with the kind of nasty, scurrilous reporting that only a peevish and childish press corps could manage. Through it all the mayor took his blows and pressed on. His careful endorsement of his old boss, Hillary Clinton, for president of the United States again gave the media a new manufactured story as if somehow Mayor DeBlasio was a mindless zombie who just "played trump and followed suit." And when the fandango about the NYPD bribery scandal broke ALL of

L

MAYOR BILL DeBLASIO the mainstream media was just drooling on themselves to try and tag DeBlasio with it.

That too failed to stick.

Finally, there is the still ongoing lowlevel political war between DeBlasio and New York's Governor Andrew Cuomo.

m;

This war revealed some very important things. First, it exposed Cuomo's absolute spitefulness and juvenile behavior as evidenced by his handling of the Ebola issue and other political power-plays where he (continued on page 25)

LIBERTY■

■animal clinic 92-12 LIBERTY AVE., OZONE PARK, NY 11417 (718) PET-6666; (718) 738-6666 WWW.GATEWAYVETSHOP.COMINFO@GATEWAYVETSHOP.COM NEW EXTENDED HOURS; OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9AM TO 9PM WE HONOR ALL COMPETITORS DISCOONT CORPONS rajras?

6-8 weeks

DA2PP

dSIb General Physical Examination, Health Record Deworming, Fecal, Discuss prophylactic flea, tick, heartworm control Deworming, Fecal, Start heartworm prevention Deworming, Fecal Check heartworm prevention dose

fTISnSRfj $40.00

10-12 weeks DA2PPL $40.00 14-16 weeks DA2PPL $60.00 Rabies t»fal ;ia emm* W ww-rhrif? $40.00 6-8 weeks FVRCP-C General Physical Examination, Health Record Deworming, Fecal, Discuss prophylactic flea control 10-12 weeks FVRCP-C Deworming, Fecal, Start heartworm prevention $40.00 14-16 weeks FVRCP-C Deworming, Fecal $60.00 Check heartworm prevention dose Rabies NON-CORE VACCINES ARE GIVEN ON BASIS OF RISK ASSESSMENT AND AT AN ADDITIONAL COST BORDETELLA $35.00; LYME $35.00; CANINE FLU $35.00; FELV $35.00

❖Skin Care ^Pharmacy ❖Flea Control ❖Surgery ❖Dentistry ❖Drop Off ❖In-House Lab Service mopay ❖Soav ❖Behavior ❖Neuter Counseling ❖Radiolo

❖Dietary Counseling ❖Diagnosis ❖Treatment ❖Vaccinations ❖Pain Management

PROFESSIONAL AFFORDABLE CARE FOR YOUR PETS fwviiw.gatewayvetsliop.coni info@gatewayvetsliop.coni Tel: (718) 738-6666

8

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

EMPHASIS ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM!

CTO

and

build

CHTA working

climate

with

resilience

in

regional

partners to

the tourism

sector

September 16, 2016 (Bridgetown, Barbados) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Regional tourism development agency, the Caribbean

*

Tourism Organization (CTO) and regional hospitality agency, the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) signed a Letter of Agreement (LoA) to join other regional agencies and institutions representing climate sensitive sectors as joint Tourism Partners on the Consortium of Regional Sectoral Early Warning Information Systems Across Climate Timescales (EWISACTs) Coordination Partners currently being spearheaded by the

m

Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH).

State-of-the-art, tailored climate information delivered through this agreement will better position the tourism sector to become more resilient to extreme climate events while enhancing various aspects of its business operations, including marketing.

Dr. David Farrell, Principal of the CIMH, which functions as the Secretariat for the EWISACTs Consortium, presented the LoA for signing to Mr. Hugh Riley, CTO Secretary-General and Mrs. Karolin Troubetzkoy, CHTA President during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) at the Hilton Hotel in Bridgetown, Barbados.

V.O* sor

m m.m "The CTO recognizes that there is an urgent need to develop initiatives to enhance tourism sector resilience to climate variability and extremes utilising a very holistic and proactive approach. Through this partnership, we will seek to develop climate information tools and services which can be used by the tourism industry, particularly public and private sector decision-makers to direct marketing efforts, inform policy formulation and guide decisionmaking" , said Mr. Riley.

Mrs. Troubetzkoy also affirmed the engagement of the hotel sector saying, "CHTA is keenly aware that our sector is highly vulnerable to the

CHTA president Karolin Troubetzkoy (left) and CTO secretary general Hugh Riley (Centre) signs Letter of Agreement, while CIMH principal Dr. David Farrell looks on. effects of climate, and we are committed to being proactive in ensuring Caribbean tourism is more resilient.

This agreement recognizes the need for smart, effective partnerships that will allow us to develop strong, strategic policies and practices for addressing climate impacts".

In the coming months, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the Caribbean Agricultural Research & Development Institute (CARDI), the Caribbean Water and Wastewater As-

JFK TO

We carry all airlines including

ONE WAY: 199.00 + Taxes | RETURN: 408.00 + Taxes

A Delta 232.00 465.00 ALL FARES ARE BASED ON AVAILABILITY AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. CALL FOR DETAILS

Dynamic Airways (ZiriUeaM /Airlines1 the wamnh of the islands and much more..

jetBlue AIRWAYS

Also check LOWEST SUMIVIER FARES to GUYANA or any DESTINATION

* KM -A A H-C In)

Sunita Travel Agency Lie. E WHERE COURTESY AND PROFESSIONALISM MEET 129-02 Liberty Avenue (side street) Richmond Hill, NY 11419 www. SUNITATRAVELAGENCY .com Tec

718-738-1700

T tio0 5 m Sot'

CRUISES CAR RENTALS

FLIGHTS WITHIN USA caEMminEiig

sociation (CWWA), and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) will follow the lead of the CTO and the CHTA and sign the LoA to formalize their participation on the Consortium.

Dr. Farrell noted that "the signing of this Letter of Agreement by the representatives of the regional tourism sector places the region at the leading edge of research and development activities geared at identifying, designing and delivering climate services solutions to advance the regional tourism sector. The CIMH looks forward to a long and successful partnership working with the CTO, CHTA and other climate sensitive sectors through the EWISACTs Consortium."

The agreement makes the Caribbean the first region globally to officially create and implement a joint commitment between climatesensitive sectors and a climate services provider to build climate resilience. It also makes the CTO and the CHTA the first regional sectoral organizations to formally join the Consortium, a multi-sectoral partnership established through the Programme for Building Regional Climate Capacity in the Caribbean (BRCCC Programme), a three-year project made possible through the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by the CIMH.

8

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

9

EMPHASIS ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM! 'Suspicious

CTO

and

CHTA working

with

regional

climate

resilience

in

the tourism

gional tourism development agency, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and regional hospitality agency, the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) signed a Letter of Agreement (LoA) to join other regional agencies and institutions representing climate sensitive sectors as joint Tourism Partners on the Consortium of Regional Sectoral Early Warning Information Systems Across Climate Timescales (EWISACTs) Coordination Partners currently being spearheaded by the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology

V.O* sor

"The CTO recognizes that there is an urgent need to develop initiatives to enhance tourism sector resilience to climate variability and extremes utilising a very holistic and proactive approach. Through this partnership, we will seek to develop climate information tools and services which can be used by the tourism industry, particularly public and private sector decision-makers to direct marketing efforts, inform policy formulation and guide decisionmaking" , said Mr. Riley.

Mrs. Troubetzkoy also affirmed the engagement of the hotel sector saying, "CHTA is keenly aware that our sector is highly vulnerable to the

CHTA president Karolin Troubetzkoy (left) and CTO secretary general Hugh Riley (Centre) signs Letter of Agreement, while CIMH principal Dr. David Farrell looks on. effects of climate, and we are committed to being proactive in ensuring Caribbean tourism is more resilient.

This agreement recognizes the need for smart, effective partnerships that will allow us to develop strong, strategic policies and practices for addressing climate impacts".

In the coming months, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the Caribbean Agricultural Research & Development Institute (CARDI), the Caribbean Water and Wastewater As-

JFK TO

We carry all airlines including

7 ONE WAY: 199.00 + Taxes | RETURN: 408.00 + Taxes

A Delta 232.00 465.00 ALL FARES ARE BASED ON AVAILABILITY AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. CALL FOR DETAILS

Dynamic Airways jetBlue AIRWAYS

1

(ZiriUeaM /Airlines the wamnh of the islands and much more..

Also check LOWEST SUMIVIER FARES to GUYANA or any DESTINATION

* KM -A A H-C In)

Sunita Travel Agency Lie. E WHERE COURTESY AND PROFESSIONALISM MEET 129-02 Liberty Avenue (side street) Richmond Hill, NY 11419 www. SUNITATRAVELAGENCY .com Tec

718-738-1700

T tio0 5 m Sot'

CRUISES CAR RENTALS

FLIGHTS WITHIN USA caEMminEiig

mystery

plane

sector

September 16, 2016 (Bridgetown, Barbados) — Re-

(CIMH).

State-of-the-art, tailored climate information delivered through this agreement will better position the tourism sector to become more resilient to extreme climate events while enhancing various aspects of its business operations, including marketing.

Dr. David Farrell, Principal of the CIMH, which functions as the Secretariat for the EWISACTs Consortium, presented the LoA for signing to Mr. Hugh Riley, CTO Secretary-General and Mrs. Karolin Troubetzkoy, CHTA President during the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) at the Hilton Hotel in Bridgetown, Barbados.

reported

partners to where

build

activity'

sociation (CWWA), and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) will follow the lead of the CTO and the CHTA and sign the LoA to formalize their participation on the Consortium.

Dr. Farrell noted that "the signing of this Letter of Agreement by the representatives of the regional tourism sector places the region at the leading edge of research and development activities geared at identifying, designing and delivering climate services solutions to advance the regional tourism sector. The CIMH looks forward to a long and successful partnership working with the CTO, CHTA and other climate sensitive sectors through the EWISACTs Consortium."

The agreement makes the Caribbean the first region globally to officially create and implement a joint commitment between climatesensitive sectors and a climate services provider to build climate resilience. It also makes the CTO and the CHTA the first regional sectoral organizations to formally join the Consortium, a multi-sectoral partnership established through the Programme for Building Regional Climate Capacity in the Caribbean (BRCCC Programme), a three-year project made possible through the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by the CIMH.

THE authorities are still seeking to determine whether the abandoned aircraft found at the Yupukari airstrip, Upper Takutu- Upper Essequibo (Region Nine) is linked to drug trafficking.

The police and army are speaking with nearby residents with the hope of turning up leads in the case and this has resulted in a number of them sharing information they deemed as 'suspicious activity.' such as the presence of motorcycles frequently at midnight in the area.

They also reported that the abandoned aircraft had previously been sighted circling the area on numerous occasions in the past, a release from the Ministry of the Presidency noted.

JOINT TEAM The plane, bearing registration number N767Z. was first brought to the attention of officials on September 13 by a resident of the area. The following day. a joint army and police team, inclusive of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU). were dispatched to the location to

conduct a full investigation and it was later revealed by Minister of State Joseph Harmon that the United States registration was bogus. since there is another active aircraft in the U.S. with the same registration number.

SEVERAL PIECES Meanwhile, the release noted that on Saturday morning, a team including Head of CANU. Mr. James Singh and GCAA officials, ventured into the area to further assess the aircraft for damage and capabilities in order to make recommendations on what should be done with it.

During a search of the aircraft, several pieces of communication equipment were discovered. These have been secured to be further examined for any potential leads.

According to the release. Harmon said that while the government is yet to receive a full report on what had transpired over the last few days.

President David Granger and the entire government are committed to ensuring that a full investigation

—

TT

—

found

i A

m

> m

•w

Mr. r5^m --

§

1 i

22

>5T M :ri« v.

rI/O -if]

m Wti m

m

I

"IJ

V-:

:r^Zc.rrr^T

* ••

• .*

•>' J* mm 'mm

;

isU-

5?: i v7

" "

' C,

■

A w* m m " ' ' : ; .

The twin-engine Cessna, which has been secured by the Joint Services on Tuesday last into the matter is complet- expensive aircraft, with an minus fuel and has a range ed. The minister noted aviation official putting of 2500 miles on fuel.

Harmon had exthat reports received from the price at US$2M. The residents near the area official said too that it is plained that the area has where the aircraft was dis- extraordinarily strange for been under regular and covered. have raised seri- such type of craft to be constant surveillance, ous concerns for those in- found at the location. The because in the past an volved in the investigation. Guyana Chronicle was also airstrip not very far from The Cessna 441 Con- told that the payload of the that location was actualquest 11 is said to be a very plane is about 4000 pounds lv used for aircraft that

after it was discovered were connected to the illicit drug trade. The aircraft was discovered partly hidden, as it was off the airstrip itself and according to Harmon, there seemed to have been some kind of a camouflage net that was thrown over it.

—

A. wv-

»

■ -u.

wm ■sx. m

mm :&

.

m

it*;:-. am

mm i m

"M m

•T"

i

Vi m I

m

ma

ISii in tfm\

Wmmf' m

ATGS mm

Si m m ^2' ats.

-

m

h.w. v,. 'hMUN mm m

=--- "( ft w IS

.)

m 1

:

icn

m

A

St 1

' -Intr^Vi r/d' it T fTr ^ The plane was cleverly hidden by branches and other materials, making it difficult to identify from a distance

m

■im

immmn m.y> c , \ s IV"

-A.:'. kM3.

- at The stashed-away, twin-engine Cessna which was discovered at the end of the Yupukari Airstrip

10

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

n NATURE

IS

DRIVEN

BY SOLAR

Dr. Basil Springer's

ENERGY

Column

"/ will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; / will counsel you with my eye upon you."

Last week's column was the start of a nine part miniseries on Biomimicry, which is spreading like wild fire these days. Biomimicry is the study of "how nature creates sustainable life and how we should imitate nature to design the future in a way that does not tear the system down, but rather creates life in the best way possible" (Agneta Nyholm Winqvist, author of the book "wahi sabi").

The following spontaneous response was received by a reader of the first column: "Very well stated! If only we really believed in emancipating our minds from mental slavery as Bob Marley sang about. If we accomplish that then mimicking nature will come naturally".

Our challenge in this column is to discuss how we can innovatively map nature's propensity to create sustainable life onto a launching pad for businesses to generate sustainable business success and hence stimulate economic growth.

The late Professor the Hon. Oliver St. Clair Headley (1942-2002) and I conceived a vision for the use of renew-

able energy in the Caribbean on Whit Monday in 1969 at the St. Augustine Campus, UWI, Trinidad where we were both recently appointed to the faculty, he in Chemistry and I in Biometrics.

The challenge? Limited irrigation water in the Caribbean for crop production despite an abundance of sea water. The potential solution? Solar desalination.

Our discussion at lunch signaled the start of a research and development programme which led to the joint publication of three papers: (1) Oliver St. C. Headley and Springer, B. G. F. (1970) Effects of design and empirically variable parameters on solar still performance. Proceedings of the 3rd

— Psalm 32:8 International Symposium on Fresh Water from the Sea Vol. 1. Dubrovnik, Yugoslavia. 669-677; (2) Headley O. and Springer B. (1971) Distilled Water from Solar Stills. Journal of Chemical Education, Vol. 48; and (3) Headley O. and Springer B. (1973). A natural convection solar crop dryer. Proceedings of the ISES/UNESCO Solar Energy Conference, "The Sun in the Service of Mankind," Paris, Paper No. V 26.

We actually registered the company Solar Energy Enterprises Ltd. for the manufacturing of solar energy application devices but the commercialization of this never materialized, probably because of the competition for our time with our primary responsibilities at UWI. Oliver went onto to become an internationally recognized expert in solar energy applications involving distillation, drying, water heating, electricity and refrigeration before he was prematurely plucked from us at the age of 59. Given the abundance of insolation in the Caribbean, the commercialization of solar applications is

an opportunity waiting to happen. We know what the opportunities are but we need the vision, shepherding and investment finance.

Plants and animals are primary sources of food which are necessary to sustain life. The one main resource to produce food is solar energy (photosynthesis and irrigation water). Quo vadis?

A colleague has recently been instrumental in bringing solar cars into Trinidad and Tobago. Barbados already imports solar cars. The first round-the-world solar flight project (Solar Impulse) was completed in July 2016 - www.solarimpulse.com.

Let us, with each breath, seek Divine counsel and get on with it. Let us exploit renewable energy resources to save planet Earth. It is not too late.

(Dr. Basil Springer GCM is Change-Engine Consultant, Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust Inc. CBET. His email address is basilgf 57@gnuiil.com and his columns may be found at www.cbetniodel.org and www.nothingbeatsbusiness.com.

;estrial ■smoN IOUNCEMENT

LAMUEL STANISLAUS, AN ICON HAS PASSED AWAY

* *Jk ?»

The Guyana Tri-State Alliance Inc express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of former Grenada Ambassador to the United Nations, Dr. Lamuel Stanislaus, who passed away Sunday in New York City. He was 95. Dr. Stanislaus, who was also a dentist by profession died in Brooklyn at a hospice Sunday morning after an illness.

He served as Grenada's ambassador at the UN twice. He was Grenada's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Representative at the United Nations from 1985-1990 and again from 19982004." He was a stalwart and a very strong advocate of the Caribbean

a 133 Community."

Dr. Stanislaus is survived by five children — Lamuel, Galen, Karen, Eugene and John and seven grandchildren.

A mass and viewing for Dr. Stanislaus will be held on Saturday Sept. 24, 2016 at the St. Francis of Assisi/St. Blaise Church on Nostrand Ave. between Lincoln Road & Maple St. in Brooklyn, New York.

The viewing will be from 10:30 am to 11:30 a.m. The mass will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. He will be laid to rest at Canarsie Cemetery, 1370 Remsen Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11236.

A repast will follow at: EL Caribe, 5945 Strickland Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11234.

■

i v'- ■

luJ V 1

■ ' ;

It is with great sadness we are giving you this information;

the

transitioning

of

one

of

our

fellow Guyanese, Dr. Berman Oliver Saunders on Tuesday, September 20,2016, in East Hanover, New

REST IN PEACE

Jersey, USA.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

11 Lighte

Solving

the

\ A

problem

*

4 ISIS said, "1 hose who do not remember (from page 4) their past are condemned to repeat WHAT IS THE SOLUTION their mistakes." Bashar al-Assad is I agree with President Obama not an enlightened Despot or a Dethat there is no military solution to mocrat; but he is in a stronger posithe problem. There are only politition to restore law and order in his cal solutions. First, the Iraqi govcountry if we support him. ernment must be more inclusive We said that Muammar and allow Sunni to occupy positions of importance in the govern- Gaddafi was a terrible dictator and ment. ISIS has support from Sunni supported the opposition. After we tribal leaders who have suffered killed him, the country became a during the U.S. invasion and now failed state.

ISIS will only be weakened; it arc suffering under the US-backed Shi'a-controlled sectarian govern- cannot be wiped out. The mindset of its supporters must be changed ment of Nuri al-Maliki.

Many see ISIS as the only by our actions in their best interest. champion for their rights. Many of We must engage with Iran, among them control large and powerful other players. Tehran has more inmilitias, now fighting alongside fluence in Baghdad than WashingISIS against the government in ton does. If we wish to encourage Baghdad. Weakening ISIS requires the Iraqi government to accept a ending the support of these leaders, truly more inclusive approach, the military figures, and ordinary Iraqi best hope for success lies in joint pressure from the U.S. and Iran.

Sunnis.

In Syria, the US and its allies Even though Iran is predominantly must stop supporting the so-called Shi'a itself, a secure Iraq is in its moderates. As George Santayana best interest.

Cv

of

Telephone:

\

r> IT'S BEAN SOUP When the waitress in a New York City restaurant brought him the soup of the day, the Englishman was a hit dismayed. "Good heavens," he said, "what is this?"

"It's bean soup," she replied.

"1 don't care what it's been," he replied. "I want to know what it is now?"

$5,000 bird A successful businessman sent his elderly mother a very special gift for her birthday, a rare South American endangered bird valued at $5,000.

When he called his mother to see how she liked the surprise gift he was shocked when she said, "It was quite small, hut tasted very good."

He asked her, after her shocking reply, "Mom, that was a $5000 bird that can speak five languages and you ate him?"

"Well, if he could speak all those language, why didn't he speak up.

TWo Passengers A Guyanese and a very rich European passenger were travelling on a 'Fly Jamaica' aircraft to New York City.

The European who was full of himself and thought he was more intelligent than Caribbean people, said to the Guyanese, "I will ask you a question and if you can't answer it, you will give me G$1,000, then you will ask me a question and if I can't answer it, I will give you US$5,000," the Guyanese agreed.

So the European asked the Guyanese, "How many miles it is from Guyana to the United States," without blinking an eyelid the Guyanese gave him G$1.000, and said "Now it is my turn."

OK said the European.

The Guyanese asked him "Which animal stands on four legs and sleeps on three." The European checked his phone, looked into a book he had, but could not come up with the answer, so he reluctantly gave the Guyanese passenger US$5,000.

The Guyanese took the money counted it, placed it in his pocket and pretended to go to sleep as he did not want any further conversation with this guy.

The European still wondering what the answer the question was, awoke the Guyanese and asked him what the answer was, the Guyanese looked at him with a smile on his face and gave him G$1,000 and said, "Let's not play this game anymore."

4620 Church Avenue

PA (Vl \ AKERY.

(718) 703-0393

Brooklyn, New York (corner of

(718) 703-0394 FROM

V

Schenectady Ave.)

A

rvrCake

Decorating

Center,

Inc. / 5n m .0

j)

✓ Guyana/West Indian Baked Products ✓ Bread

✓ Cakes

✓ Tennis Rolls

✓ Pastries

✓ Butter Flaps At)', *

✓ Catering for Weddings and all other occasions ✓ Black Pudding &

v/mJ •'

::

I ?

✓ Roll & Curry tiitreW j

Friday & Saturday

i *»11

K Established: 1989

E

Pamela McKenzie Cummings Founder/President

4

( A

A

12

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

13

% m U

Ombudsman 1 -Minister Norton

\

7

im

Is j 31

iniiiiiiiiiiiniiiiiiijjJ '

dead

RETIRED Justice Winston Lennox McLennon Moore, serving as Ombudsman, passed away on Friday night after a period of illness.

Justice Moore assumed the post of Ombudsman on January 13. 2014. filling a position that had been vacant for eight years. His duties were to investigate and resolve complaints by citizens with the aim of identifying issues that lead to poor service or breaches of citizens' rights.

The Ministry of the Presidency noted that Justice Moore began his legal career as an attorney-at-law in 1983. and was appointed a High Court Judge in 1998. He also served as the Judge Advocate for the Guyana Defence Force in 2007. before assuming the post of Ombudsman.

"His Excellency Brigadier David Granger, MSS, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, extends heartfelt sympathy to (the wife of Justice Moore) Ms. Viera Moore and children: Nichole, Gary, Gavin and Kevin, as well as other family members

mbassador meets i President Obama Guyana's Ambassador to bassador Insanally and job since September 1, the United States, Dr Ri- the US President posed the day he presented his yad Insanally on Friday for a photograph follow- credentials to the Deputy last presented his Let- ing the ceremony. Am- Chief of Protocol at the ters of credence to Pres- bassador Insanally, who US State Department. ident Barack Obama at was appointed by Pres- He succeeds Ambassador the White House. In this ident Granger earlier Bayney Karran, who has White House photo, Am- this year, has been on the been posted to China.

ift % , d i V

{ iR J i v/

Justice Winston Moore taking the oath of Ombudsman before then President Donald Ramotar in January, 2014 PM:

Ban

can

lasting Till forging of a definitive resolution regarding Guyana's border concerns with neighbouring Venezuela could be a part of the legacy which United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon can leave behind.

This is according to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo.who is performing the funchons of President.

The Prime Minister made the remarks after issuing a call for solidarity from legal luminaries from across the Commonwealth on Guyana's border matter with Venezuela.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo was at the time addressing participants at this year's Commonwealth Magistrates' and Judges' Associahon (CMJA) conference which commenced on Monday morning at the Marriot Hotel. Kingslon. Geoigetown.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo told reporters that Guyana expects that the UN Secretary General, who will demit office soon, can advance the proposal that the border controversy be sent to the world court.

"We are demanding a judicial settlement of this matter, it is (a) matter of the rule of law. the international rule of law." he said.

leave

legacy

Earher. he told the gathering. which included other Government officials and visiting Trinidad and Tobago President Anthony Carmona, that he was addressing the participants in the absence of President David Granger.

President Granger is currently attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York.where he plans to push for a juridical settlement of the issue.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo told the CMJA conference participants of Guyana's contention that Venezuela's aggressive stance "haunts us".

He said after 50 years of Independence. Guyana deserves a better life.

"At last Guyana is on the threshold of an exciting future." he said, noting that the country has proposed to the United Nations a juridical settlement.

He said that he raised the issue at Monday's meeting.since those present represent "a wide cross section of (the) Commonwealth jurisdiction and for a cause we seek your solidarity".

Guyana's border controversy with Venezuela dates back to over a century, with renewed and forceful claims by Venezuela after the American oil firm Exxon Mobil announced a giant oil find offshore Guyana

last year.

With the oil discoveiy approximately 120 miles offshore Guyana. Venezuela extended its land claim and sought this country's Atlantic front. This decree was deemed by Guyana's President as "obnoxious".

It was back in 1966. on the eve of Guyana's Independence from Britain, that Venezuela claimed that the 1899 arbitral award.which defined the countries' borders.was null and void.

That triggered the so-called Geneva Agreement, which mandated the United Nations Secretary General to dictate a mechanism to settle the controversy as provided for in Chapter VI of the Charter of the United Nations.

The then UN Secretary General selected the Good Officers Process as one of the specific means available under the Charter. However.

President Granger contended last year that after 25 years, the Good Officers Process has been exhausted.

In July this year,he expressed hope that the outgoing United Nations Secretary General will declare a move to the International Court of Justice within a four- month timeframe, to settle once and for all the border controversy with Venezuela.

and friends of the late Justice Winston Moore", the Ministry of the Presidency stated.

Justice Moore presided over a number of cases, including the high-profile treason trial of activist Mark Benschop. After spending five years in prison. Benchop was later pardoned by former President Bharrat Jagdeo.

While serving in his last portfolio. Justice Moore had indicated that another activist, columnist and former University of Guyana lecturer. Freddie Kissoon. was wrongfully dismissed from the tertiary institution in January 2012. and had recommended that Kissoon be compensated by the university.

He also investigated a claim by former Chief Executive of the New Building Society (NBS). Maurice Aijoon. that there was a multiplicity of wrongs done to him by two senior managers of NBS. He concluded that Mr. Aijoon and his colleagues Kent Vincent and Kissoon Baldeo. who were dismissed from the employ of the NBS. had suffered an "injustice", as he found no credible evidence of wrongdoing against them.

The Office of the Ombudsman was created in 1967; its jurisdiction was however extended in 1971 to include certain public corporations and local government organs. When the new constitution was extended in 1980, it continued the Office of the Ombudsman as contained in Articles 191-196 of the Constitution.

Relatives Savory's Relatives of Shawnette Savory, 37, believe that something sinister has happened to her following her disappearance more than three weeks ago.

They have contended that it is unlikely that Savory, a mother of one. would have left home and not returned.

The missing woman was last seen on August 30.

2016 when she left her Lot 222 Last Street. Prospect.

East Bank Demerara home A check at her rented apartment saw everything intact, including her cell phone charger, passport and other documents.

The woman's aunt.Ruby Ramcharran.said her niece is a very reserved individual and rarely spoke about her

praying

safe

mi

r

Missing: Shawnette Savory problems with anyone.

She related that two weeks after Savory went missing, a woman telephoned her to say that she saw her photo and story in the newspapers and she believes that it was the same woman she observed head-

for

A NATIONAL symposium focused on addressing the protection, promotion and support of exclusive breastfeeding was held Monday as part of activities in observance of National Breastfeeding Week that began on September 18.

Minister of Public Health. Dr George Norton delivering an address at the event held at the National Cultural Centre, urged local recreational businesses to create and put in place infrastracture that will facilitate and support exclusive breastfeeding.

The minister said.

"Breastfeeding is everybody's business" and that the implementation of the six-month maternity leave is soon to be part of Guyana's legislation.

Dr William Adu-Krow.

Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) Country representative said that the organisation will continue to play its role in the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding.

Dr. Adu-Krow also advocated for at least six weeks paternity leave for fathers to assist, and to further support exclusive breastfeeding.

The PAHO/WHO representative supported the six-month maternity leave for mothers and said that

My

through the strengthening of health information systems, workplaces will be able to better support this imple-

with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. Virtually all mothers can breastfeed.

large.

The theme of this year's National Breastfeeding Week is. 'Breastfeeding:

way people think towards valuing well-being from the start of life. The theme also shows the links among

■ +K ■

fe. 'ion

■

T

Minister of Public Health Dr. George Norton and PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr. William AduKrow and other officials after the unveiling of a breastfeeding message at the symposium on breastfeeding (GINA photo) mentation.

WHO regards breastfeeding as the normal way of providing young infants

provided they have accurate information, and the support of their family, the health care system and society at

Card

a key to sustainable development'. It speaks to breastfeeding being the key element in recreating the

Is

breastfeeding and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that Guyana along with other countries

My

signed onto in 2015.

These goals focus on ecology, the economy and equity worldwide. It has been noted that Guyana expects to achieve a 50 per cent exclusive breastfeeding rate by 2025; therefore health officials strongly recommended exclusive breastfeeding from birth up until six months.

The expansion of exclusive breastfeeding awareness is currently being facilitated through accreditation of a number of hospitals to 'baby friendly status".

Eleven hospitals attained baby friendly hospital status under the Ministry of Public Health's Baby Friendly Hospitals Initiative (BHFI).

This initiative, in collaboration with the WHO and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). seeks to recognise health institutions adhering to the breastfeeding policy.

Twenty-nine other local hospitals are expected to attain baby friendly status after their evaluation. It has been noted that only 38 percent of babies across the world are exclusively breast fed.

A large billboard, highlighting the ministry's full support of exclusive breastfeeding will be erected during this week at the football field, east of the Public Health Ministry, Brickdam. (GINA)

Bond

return ing to the interior.

The caller stated that she believes that Savory is being held against her will and was forcibly taken away.

The missing woman works part-time at a toilet paper factory at Diamond.

East Bank Demerara. and has an 18-year-old daughter who resides with her father overseas.

Calls to Savory's cell phone are forwarded to voicemail. Relatives told the Guyana Chronicle that they are hopeful she will return and are praying for such.

Anyone with information as it regards to Savory's whereabouts are asked to contact relatives on 233-3699, 689-0171 or 654-1536.

EMERALDS GROUP FAMILY DAY CARE FOR CHILDREN 6 MONTHS TO 1 2 YEARS OLD Licensed by N.Y.C. Dept. of Health — We Accept All Vouchers _ ♦ Early Childhood Program ^fl^i ♦ After School Program ♦ Summer Program We Serve: Breakfast — Lunch - & Snacks Tel: (718) 859-4106 — Ask for Margaret email: mah7255@aol.com 537 E. 28th St Brooklyn ♦ New York 11210 Open: 7a.m. to 6 p.m. — Monday-Friday

—,

BOGEY'S TYPE Fon All your typesetting requirements _ ♦ Journals ♦ Books ♦ Newspapers ♦ All types of programs (funerals, etc.) ♦ Booklets, Etc. ♦ Other Services Indude: Proofreading and Copy Editing We Give You Professional, Personalized Service No Job Too Big or Too Small Try Us ... You Will Like Us Call: (917) 379-6590 — Ask for Dennis

IVIIIMERVA TRAVi AccEstBLE Travel Specialist C LI A/I ATA OSSN/SATH APTA/PATA TPOC/IGLTA M/W/DBE CERTIFIED ■ Elaine Henry, cta, mcc If Vi Travel Consultant 1053 E 40th Street Tel: 718-377-2071 Brooklyn, NY 11210 Fax; 718-377-1291 email: minitravel@hotmail.com www.minervatravel.net

COMPUTERICK We Specialize lir. ♦ New Computers ♦ Upgrades ♦ Custom Configurations ♦ Repairs ♦ Network Design & Installation

»■,

FREE ESTIMATES on PCs and MACs Call Derrick @ 347-849-6581

Place Your Business Card on this Page AND SEE YOUR BUSINESS GROW We offer reasonable rates to suit your pocket WE ALSO INVITE PROMOTERS TO ADVERTISE THEIR EVENTS WITH US Call Dennis Nelson @ (917) 379-6590 — To Secure Your Place In This Paper

12

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

13

% m Ombudsman

^ronriii

if&Maiirni

1 i

/

■rfl^ im

Is J 31

iniiiiiiiiiiiniiiiiiijjJ (mmMm

dead

RETIRED Justice Winston Lennox McLennon Moore, serving as Ombudsman, passed away on Friday night after a period of illness.

Justice Moore assumed the post of Ombudsman on January 13. 2014. filling a position that had been vacant for eight years. His duties were to investigate and resolve complaints by citizens with the aim of identifying issues that lead to poor service or breaches of citizens' rights.

The Ministry of the Presidency noted that Justice Moore began his legal career as an attorney-at-law in 1983. and was appointed a High Court Judge in 1998. He also served as the Judge Advocate for the Guyana Defence Force in 2007. before assuming the post of Ombudsman.

"His Excellency Brigadier David Granger, MSS, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, extends heartfelt sympathy to (the wife of Justice Moore) Ms. Viera Moore and children: Nichole, Gary, Gavin and Kevin, as well as other family members

mbassador meets i President Obama Guyana's Ambassador to bassador Insanally and job since September 1, the United States, Dr Ri- the US President posed the day he presented his yad Insanally on Friday for a photograph follow- credentials to the Deputy last presented his Let- ing the ceremony. Am- Chief of Protocol at the ters of credence to Pres- bassador Insanally, who US State Department. ident Barack Obama at was appointed by Pres- He succeeds Ambassador the White House. In this ident Granger earlier Bayney Karran, who has White House photo, Am- this year, has been on the been posted to China.

ii •• ;.i -• v

,

{ iR I i v/

Justice Winston Moore taking the oath of Ombudsman before then President Donald Ramotar in January, 2014 PM:

Ban

can

lasting Till forging of a definitive resolution regarding Guyana's border concerns with neighbouring Venezuela could be a part of the legacy which United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon can leave behind.

This is according to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo.who is performing the funchons of President.

The Prime Minister made the remarks after issuing a call for solidarity from legal luminaries from across the Commonwealth on Guyana's border matter with Venezuela.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo was at the time addressing participants at this year's Commonwealth Magistrates' and Judges' Associahon (CMJA) conference which commenced on Monday morning at the Marriot Hotel. Kingslon. Geoigetown.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo told reporters that Guyana expects that the UN Secretary General, who will demit office soon, can advance the proposal that the border controversy be sent to the world court.

"We are demanding a judicial settlement of this matter, it is (a) matter of the rule of law. the international rule of law." he said.

leave

legacy

Earher. he told the gathering. which included other Government officials and visiting Trinidad and Tobago President Anthony Carmona, that he was addressing the participants in the absence of President David Granger.

President Granger is currently attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York.where he plans to push for a juridical settlement of the issue.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo told the CMJA conference participants of Guyana's contention that Venezuela's aggressive stance "haunts us".

He said after 50 years of Independence. Guyana deserves a better life.

"At last Guyana is on the threshold of an exciting future." he said, noting that the country has proposed to the United Nations a juridical settlement.

He said that he raised the issue at Monday's meeting.since those present represent "a wide cross section of (the) Commonwealth jurisdiction and for a cause we seek your solidarity".

Guyana's border controversy with Venezuela dates back to over a century, with renewed and forceful claims by Venezuela after the American oil firm Exxon Mobil announced a giant oil find offshore Guyana

last year.

With the oil discoveiy approximately 120 miles offshore Guyana. Venezuela extended its land claim and sought this country's Atlantic front. This decree was deemed by Guyana's President as "obnoxious".

It was back in 1966. on the eve of Guyana's Independence from Britain, that Venezuela claimed that the 1899 arbitral award.which defined the countries' borders.was null and void.

That triggered the so-called Geneva Agreement, which mandated the United Nations Secretary General to dictate a mechanism to settle the controversy as provided for in Chapter VI of the Charter of the United Nations.

The then UN Secretary General selected the Good Officers Process as one of the specific means available under the Charter. However.

President Granger contended last year that after 25 years, the Good Officers Process has been exhausted.

In July this year,he expressed hope that the outgoing United Nations Secretary General will declare a move to the International Court of Justice within a four- month timeframe, to settle once and for all the border controversy with Venezuela.

and friends of the late Justice Winston Moore", the Ministry of the Presidency stated.

Justice Moore presided over a number of cases, including the high-profile treason trial of activist Mark Benschop. After spending five years in prison. Benchop was later pardoned by former President Bharrat Jagdeo.

While serving in his last portfolio. Justice Moore had indicated that another activist, columnist and former University of Guyana lecturer. Freddie Kissoon. was wrongfully dismissed from the tertiary institution in January 2012. and had recommended that Kissoon be compensated by the university.

He also investigated a claim by former Chief Executive of the New Building Society (NBS). Maurice Aijoon. that there was a multiplicity of wrongs done to him by two senior managers of NBS. He concluded that Mr. Aijoon and his colleagues Kent Vincent and Kissoon Baldeo. who were dismissed from the employ of the NBS. had suffered an "injustice", as he found no credible evidence of wrongdoing against them.

The Office of the Ombudsman was created in 1967; its jurisdiction was however extended in 1971 to include certain public corporations and local government organs. When the new constitution was extended in 1980, it continued the Office of the Ombudsman as contained in Articles 191-196 of the Constitution.

Relatives Savory's Relatives of Shawnette Savory, 37, believe that something sinister has happened to her following her disappearance more than three weeks ago.

They have contended that it is unlikely that Savory, a mother of one. would have left home and not returned.

The missing woman was last seen on August 30.

2016 when she left her Lot 222 Last Street. Prospect.

East Bank Demerara home A check at her rented apartment saw everything intact, including her cell phone charger, passport and other documents.

The woman's aunt.Ruby Ramcharran.said her niece is a very reserved individual and rarely spoke about her

praying

safe

r

Missing: Shawnette Savory problems with anyone.

She related that two weeks after Savory went missing, a woman telephoned her to say that she saw her photo and story in the newspapers and she believes that it was the same woman she observed head-

for

A NATIONAL symposium focused on addressing the protection, promotion and support of exclusive breastfeeding was held Monday as part of activities in observance of National Breastfeeding Week that began on September 18.

Minister of Public Health. Dr George Norton delivering an address at the event held at the National Cultural Centre, urged local recreational businesses to create and put in place infrastructure that will facilitate and support exclusive breastfeeding.

The minister said.

"Breastfeeding is everybody's business" and that the implementation of the six-month maternity leave is soon to be part of Guyana's legislation.

Dr William Adu-Krow.

Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) Country representative said that the organisation will continue to play its role in the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding.

Dr. Adu-Krow also advocated for at least six weeks paternity leave for fathers to assist, and to further support exclusive breastfeeding.

The PAHO/WHO representative supported the six-month maternity leave for mothers and said that through the strengthening of health information systems.

My

workplaces will be able to better support this implementation.

WHO regards breast-

healthy growth and development. Virtually all mothers can breastfeed, provided they have accurate information.

The theme of this year's National Breastfeeding Week is. 'Breastfeeding: a key to sustainable develop-

people think towards valuing well-being from the start of life. The theme also shows the links among breastfeed-

K xs

J* jr

Minister of Public Health Dr. George Norton and PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr. William AduKrow and other officials after the unveiling of a breastfeeding message at the symposium on breastfeeding (GINA photo) feeding as the normal way of providing young infants with the nutrients they need for

and the support of their family. the health care system and society at large.

Card

ment'. It speaks to breastfeeding being the key element in recreating the way

Is

ing and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that Guyana along with oth-

My

er countries signed onto in 2015.

These goals focus on ecology, the economy and equity worldwide. It has been noted that Guyana expects to achieve a 50 per cent exclusive breastfeeding rate by 2025; therefore health officials strongly recommended exclusive breastfeeding from birth up until six months.

The expansion of exclusive breastfeeding awareness is currently being facilitated through accreditation of a number of hospitals to 'baby friendly status'.

Eleven hospitals attained baby friendly hospital status under the Ministry of Public Health's Baby Friendly Hospitals Initiative (BHFI).

This initiative, in collaboration with the WHO and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). seeks to recognise health institutions adhering to the breastfeeding policy.

Twenty-nine other local hospitals are expected to attain baby friendly status after their evaluation. It has been noted that only 38 percent of babies across the world are exclusively breast fed.

A large billboard, highlighting the ministry's full support of exclusive breastfeeding will be erected during this week at the football field, east of the Public Health Ministry, Brickdam. (GINA)

Bond

return ing to the interior.

The caller stated that she believes that Savory is being held against her will and was forcibly taken away.

The missing woman works part-time at a toilet paper factory at Diamond.

East Bank Demerara. and has an 18-year-old daughter who resides with her father overseas.

Calls to Savory's cell phone are forwarded to voicemail. Relatives told the Guyana Chronicle that they are hopeful she will return and are praying for such.

Anyone with information as it regards to Savory's whereabouts are asked to contact relatives on 233-3699, 689-0171 or 654-1536.

EMERALDS GROUP FAMILY DAY CARE FOR CHILDREN 6 MONTHS TO 1 2 YEARS OLD Licensed by N.Y.C. Dept. of Health — We Accept All Vouchers _ ♦ Early Childhood Program ^fl^i ♦ After School Program ♦ Summer Program We Serve: Breakfast — Lunch - & Snacks Tel: (718) 859-4106 — Ask for Margaret email: mah7255@aol.com 537 E. 28th St Brooklyn ♦ New York 11210 Open: 7a.m. to 6 p.m. — Monday-Friday

—,

BOGEY'S TYPE Fon All your typesetting requirements _ ♦ Journals ♦ Books ♦ Newspapers ♦ All types of programs (funerals, etc.) ♦ Booklets, Etc. ♦ Other Services Indude: Proofreading and Copy Editing We Give You Professional, Personalized Service No Job Too Big or Too Small Try Us ... You Will Like Us Call: (917) 379-6590 — Ask for Dennis

IVIIIMERVA TRAVi AccEstBLE Travel Specialist C LI A/I ATA OSSN/SATH APTA/PATA TPOC/IGLTA M/W/DBE CERTIFIED ■ Elaine Henry, cta, mcc If Vi Travel Consultant 1053 E 40th Street Tel: 718-377-2071 Brooklyn, NY 11210 Fax; 718-377-1291 email: minitravel@hotmail.com www.minervatravel.net

COMPUTERICK We Specialize lir. ♦ New Computers ♦ Upgrades ♦ Custom Configurations ♦ Repairs ^ Network Design & Installation

»■,

FREE ESTIMATES on PCs and MACs Call Derrick @ 347-849-6581

Place Your Business Card on this Page AND SEE YOUR BUSINESS GROW We offer reasonable rates to suit your pocket WE ALSO INVITE PROMOTERS TO ADVERTISE THEIR EVENTS WITH US Call Dennis Nelson @ (917) 379-6590 — To Secure Your Place In This Paper

14

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Work

hard

always

- Britanny Singh, Story: Tamica Gamctt Photos: Samuel Maughn Brittany Singh was just six years old when she entered her first pageant - Little Mss Herstelling Nursery - and won, and ignited her dream to one day win at the national level and represent Guyana on the big stage.

Fast forward thirteen years later and she is about to live that fantasy. She is set to represent Guyana at the Miss India World Wide Pageant next month in New Jersey after winning the local crown three Sundays ago.

Singh is scheduled to travel to the US laterthis week ahead of her participation at the October 3 international pageant where she will be vying with over 20 other beauties fiom across the globe for the revered Mss India World Wide tide.

With just 13 days of preparation, Singh along with two other young ladies - TahirihBoodhoo and Abigail Mohabir - contendedfor the local crown and when all the dust settled, a surprised and tearful Singh was crowned the winner.

"I was beyond surprised but I knew with all my hard work and praying I would have been successful. I remembered back stage I was saying to myself that the only thing missing from my outfit is the crown!"

The former Business School Valedictorian dedicated her win to her late mother, who had always wanted to be there to see her win a national pageant always believing that her Brittany could.

"Throughout the years she was alive and even now after her death all I ever want to do is to make her proud "When my mother was alive, sire always encouraged to model and dance. She supported me in my every wish and desire."

Singh was just tw elve years old when she lost mom. She was able to pull through thanks to a great support system of mother figures who all helped to craft her into the beautifirl young lady she is today.

"After she died I was battling depression, constantly. I was fighting within myself to be happy. There's no one that could replace my mother, however I have a beautifirl and loving stepmom whom is

be

and

genuine

the new Miss India

practically my best friend. I also have many mother figures in my life - my primary school teacher, who proudly calls me her daughter and accepts me as her own; my godmother who is very supportive in the things I embarked on; and I can't forget all my amazing aunts. I beheve all their support has made me into the young woman I am today."

And what a gorgeous, adventurous young lack she is. one who does not back down from challenges, or sly away from criticism In fact these are traits that did her well following her Miss India Guyana win as many w ere not pleased that she was awarded the win Some evenpersonally reached out to harass her. But she was nottobe daunted, taldng it all in stride, believing it to be all a part of the pageant life.

"I believe in every competition there will be some drama, demeaning comments and gossips; but everyone had their own favourites.

I do beheve that I deserved the crown! Besides, the score sheets were opened to the public and I saw for myself how and why I was crowned, where I fell down which areas I need to work on" Singh explained.

Following Singh's crowning many beheved that she was not the most competent of the delegates based on Coronation day. However the Miss India Guyana Organization reminded that the pageant was looking for the most all-rounded delegate, and pointed out that the contestants were being jrrdgedbased on their preliminary activities as well.

In the interest of fairness, the organization posted the score sheet for the pageant online, but this still did not deter persons from also harassing executives of the organization Most of the spectators particularly based their opinions on how the girls performed during the final question segment of the pageant.

But the Organizationfirrther explained that if persons really looked at the question, Ms. Singh actually had the answer closest to what the judges were looking for. despite the fact that Boodhoo. had a more extensive answer.

"The question was asking for what they can carry to the international stage not what they would ask the patrons to do when they come to Guyana. As a panel, the judges sat down at the beginning and decided upon the question and the answer we w ere looking for. Ms

Guyana

Boodhoo's was articulate, since she is seasoned, but she didn't directly answer the question Nonetheless, she still scored more point than Brittany in that segment." said franchise holder. Uma Bnx. The final question at the centre of the controversy read: "My heritage, my home: As an Indian woman, how would you showcase this on the International stage?"

Singh, who stumbled through the question at first said she would do this through dancing, and would do whatever else she could to showcase Guyana's culture, it's beauty and natural resources.

She said she could do this because "I know my heritage. I know my home." hi the end Singh scored 931 points, while Boodhoo had 899. and Mohabir finished with 714 points, after being judged in six categories.

Boodhoo had missed out on crucial points in the preliminary judging after she had missed one of the activities, despite knowing it was important to attend.

A confident Singh however said it's all water under the bridge and despite the controversy, she remains friends with the other two contestants and she is now focused on ensuring she puts herbestfoot out there when she steps on that stage to represent Guyana.

She is currently under around the clock training, seven days a w eek, which was necessary given the short preparation time.

Her preparation includes fitness training with Genesis Fitness.

Pageantry training with Derek Moore. Pubhc Speech training with NCN's Paul Moore, makeup training with Tenisha Gamett and Talent Training with Euphoria dance group founder James Lomonga and the Kathak dancer Kenrick Cheeks.

As she heads to the international stage, she hopes to be a beacon to other young women out there who may think that they can't for whatever reason She implores them to reach for the stars "Nothing is impossible; you can dream and it can come true. Just be true to yourself, believe aril work hard, always be genuine. Nothing is impossible once you put your mind to it "With the amazing support of the Mss India Guyana Organization, my friends, and family I will get through this and come out shining!"

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

$

15

'

. uu 1

1 * jÂť

V

.

k

Sonia

Noel

Global

Ambassador

By Shauna Jemmott

.J U 9 m* ,Kf'<*

oo^ lop

e o Qooh

I c

. â&#x2013; A Global Ambassador, Dr. Sonia Noel

appointed

GUYANA'S renowned fashion ambassador, Dr Sonia Noel, has been appointed Global Ambassador for unite4: good, an internationally dedicated movement for sustainable social good.

Dr Noel's appointment came after completing an intense training programme in Chicago which was hosted by the united: good founders Anthony and Natalie Melikhov.

The organisation said its goal is to involve individuals in spreading good universally, through social networking and specially developed services.

"We develop services that support our goal. It's our feeling that by building these destinations we can utilise the power of social networking to showcase the best of the best in social good. But that's not the full remedy. Technology is only for support. The real change comes when we as individuals stand up and decide to take positive action to support a specific social good goal." united: good said.

The organisations utilise "networks of social influencers. Governments, world leaders, and businesses." in a bid to change "the signal of our entire culture and economy from negative to positive."

Dr Noel said she is "elated to be introducing united: good to Guyana and the Caribbean because this can have a major paradigm shift in society".

Her responsibilities as Global Ambassador include recruiting ambassadors and encomaging businesses to be socially conscious.

A recent recipient of the Caribbean Philanthropic Award, she told the Guyana Chronicle. "I am passionate about things that will better society, so aligning with U4: G is in-keeping [with] what I believe in."

She is encouraging all to "join in this movement to unitdgood."

Noel in a post on social media said the organisation makes it easy for its members to connect with partners ~ organisations. influencers and like-minded people - in a positive environment, and engage in virtual and real-world opportunities.

They are rewarded for their good work and have opportunities to truly enjoy the experience of giving.

"U4: G's ultimate goal is to motivate people to integrate doing good into their lives on a sustainable basis, creating a life-long habit of kindness that is both life-changing and world-changing. We are a social

.

platform for a new generation. whose mission is to encourage people to live meaningful lives."

Its co-founders Anthony and Natalie Melikhov are entrepreneurs and global philanthropists, and have devoted their lives to improving communities individually.

They now have expanded their borders, "focusing their efforts on building a global culture that embodies the values of kindness and compassion."

The two are also the driving forces behind many other philanthropic ventures. including Bright Future International (BFI).

DoMored: Good (DM4G).

BFI Curriculum for the Children of Quebrada Negra. BFI and Brighton Ballet Theater Company (BBT) Junior Ambassador Programme. and the Children Affected By HIV/AIDS (CHABHA) After School Programme.

They also host numerous charitable events highlighting the heroes of the social good movement, such as united: humanity, Day of Unity Miami, Variety's Power of Women and united: good.

16

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

iphasls oi Real Estate, Soyini

scores

the

big

one!

\

£r m

| The Edgar Henry Column

l IjH

% -M

iP

Networking

!

Business

. T"etwork Marketing" are two words that most

^

^1 people resent. Mainly because they, or some-

ffel

^ one they knew got burnt by some 'ponsey'

D*

Skills

£

scheme in the past. Make no bones about it; in this current economic crisis networking is key.

Therefore it is /I

crucial that John Public make more and better connections in putting your mind and skill sets in gear for business networking.

;

When you're thinking about becoming a more skilled networker, you usually think about what you can do to communicate or network more effectively. This includes asking for referrals from your clients, and giving incentives for those referring them to you. These are all components of your skills set.

r*

i V 0

contain my heart right now.

At the announcement of the top five I was just happy to be the first person called; I was just crazy excited. You can't even understand how hard it is when you're up here and von have so manv

a

beautiful women in one place and you just wish that you are the one that the judges think can take the next step." Soyini will represent Guyana at the Miss Universe pageant in the Philippines on Janu-

ary 1,2017. In photo, from left to right are 4th runner up Ayana Whitehead, 1st

Fraser

Guyana T ^.C&tacCKZClt & jlo-u-a-ty 7 t aM.

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

w

Acquire

3ii Taxes and Business S TAXES

She has won so many pageants before that we almost thought there wasn't another one she could enter. But Soyini Fraser decided to give the Miss Guyana Universe pageant another shot and won the crown in stunning fashion Saturday evening at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, closely edging out Rafieya Husain, another pageant powerhouse who two years ago ended Guyana's drought at the Miss World pageant when she landed a place in the finals. Soyini was the 2010 Miss Earth Guyana, Guyana's 2011 representative to the Miss Princess of the World pageant, the 2012 Miss United Nations, the 2014 Miss Jamzone Guyana queen, as well as first runner up in the 2011 Miss World Guyana pageant.

After winning the crown Saturday evening, Soyini, the public relations officer at Hits and Jams TV said: "My chest is just trying to

17

Guyanese Chinese Dishes

^ Dinner and Drinks Special - with this ad

Buy One Entree... Get the second

half Price

GREAT FOOD — Parkins Available FREE DELIUERY KARAOKE ic DJ EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT OPEN! DAYS A WEEK CELEBRATING OUR 19th ANNIVERSARY WE CATER FOR ALL OCCASIONS 171-16 Hillside Aveiwe Jamaica, New York 11432 (718) 298-6500

(718) 298-0785

runner-up Rafieya Husain, the new Miss Guyana Universe Soyini Fraser, 2nd

runner-up Ariella Basdeo and 3rd runner-up Ashley John.

crowned

Universe

THE second time was definitely the charm for former Miss Universe Guyana first runner-up Soyini Fraser, who was crowned Miss Universe Guyana on Saturday.

Fraser beat out tough competition from former Miss World Guyana Rufeiya Husain. among others, when the pageant was hosted at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston. Georgetown.

"My chest is just trying to contain my heart right now. At the announcement of the top five I was just happy to be the first person called; I was just crazy, excited. You can't even understand how hard it is when you're up here and you have so many beautiful women in one place and you just wish that you are the ones that the judges think can take the next step." Fraser told reporters following her win.

Husain finished as first runner-up. Ariella Basdeo was the second ranner-up. followed

by Ashley John and Ayana Whitehead in the third and fourth positions.

Dressed in her red Sidney L Francois evening gown. Fraser was crowned by outgoing queen Shauna Ramdyhan.

Fraser also saw herself picking up the pageant award for "Best Talent", while in other awards Malika Russell won "Miss Congeniality". Xameira Kippins deservingly took the "Miss Fitness Award"; Ariella Basdeo took the "Beautiful Heart" award; and Ashley John earned the "People's Choice Award."

There was no award for best gown, but obviously if there was. Soyini would have seen herself copping another award, in her fish-tail designed dress, with designer Francois continuing to show that he is the "Pageant King" when it comes to evening gowns.

The pageant got off to an embarrassing start- one hour and a half late. And added to that, the VIP section was overloaded and

Miss

2016

when host Sherod Duncan invited the attendees to take their seats, many VIP patrons found themselves without one.

Things started off with the traditional presentation of the young ladies, with the beauties entering to Timeka Marshall's "Come Go Down Deh." The crowd favourites were quickly identified as Ashley John and Kippins.

As a singer sweetly serenaded the audience to "Mermaid Fantasy." the swimsuit segment got underway with the lovely young ladies stratting their stuff in their Kandice Pelletier two-piece bikinis.

As if the late start did not afford patrons enough time to mingle, the night then headed into intermission, where more worries awaited the VIP patrons when it was soon realised the bar was out of many drinks.

BETTER FIND...

"I've only had two glasses of wine and they're out of wine already. I paid $15,000 for my ticket, they better find more wine." commented an irate patron, sending organisers once again scrambling to fix things.

During intermission, supporters were given the opportunity to mingle with the newly minted Miss Guyana India queen, the radiant. Brittany Singh. It was then time for the evening gown segment, and then it was time for the suspenseful announcement of the top 10 finalists.

The top 10 finalists had already been decided upon based on the delegates' performance at the preceding, lacklustre Miss Universe Guyana "Preliminary and Talent Night" last week Tuesday at the Savannah Suite of the Pegasus Hotel.

(Turn to Page 18)

And while it's important to know the right things to do while networking, it's equally important to start thinking the right way to make sure your networking efforts are as successful and dynamic as they can be. This involves altering your mindset as well. Let's take a close-up look at some elements you'll want to include to alter your mind-set to ensure networking success.

SELLING YOURSELF You cannot disassociate or alienate yourself from established organizations. Certain groups include service clubs such as the Rotary or Lions Clubs, your local chamber of commerce, and other professional organizations. Look for other ways to be very visible in your circle of influence. Be active in your child's school PTA or your church organizations.

Keep your eye open for opportunities to be involved in groups of people who come together for a common cause, even at funerals. It does not hurt. Always try to be a prominent in different group settings and distribute your business cards or brochures selling your service or product on a constant basis .

< f

These opportunities will afford you the chance to build relationships, and that's what social capital is all about. Visibility leads to credibility which, in turn, leads to profitability.

The dynamics of developing a strong word-of-mouth-based business transcend your business location.

cast for referrals.

THE GIVING SYNDROME You should never approach networking thinking that one good turn deserves another. Or I did this for you, now what are you going to do for me? This limits you to your friends or people you know. You have to branch outside that realm to gain and access to the "Joe The Plumber" of the outside world. In this way, you'll broaden the net you seek to

O.G.

There are many great networking organizations out there. If you stay only in groups that focus on your discipline and expertise, you lose the breadth of your scope. You need to develop a wide-reaching networking community.

The law of reciprocity takes the focus off of what you stand to gain from the networking relationship, and in doing so, create bonds based on trust and friendship. Put it to the test and you'll be amazed with the outcome.

dinary success, your mentality must be that of a farmer. He prepares the soil for months before ever planting the seeds. He tends the seedlings with care, feeding and watering them regularly avoiding and making provisions for flooding, putting up a scarecrow to keep the birds away. It's a long, drawn-out process to go from seeding a field to harvesting the crops. There's no quick fix, it's a process. As the saying goes "Rome was not built in a day."

Approaching networking with a

FARMING MENTALITY For networking to yield extraor-

SHIPPING

&

(continued on page 26)

BUSINESS

INC.

HX??\nG

06 s SHIPPING TO GUYANA

&

THE CARIBBEAN &

VIA AIR ^bu

OR OCEAN

h/?heve

WORKING FROM HOME You might work from home, but no matter what, you still have to get out there and network to build relationships for your business. Working from home has its own unique rewards and challenges via social media. Although most of the networking techniques that work for any business work for most home-based businesses, a different approach is necessary at times. The first relates to

c

introducing yourself to others in networking environments. The other relates to breaking out of that shell, at the same time welcoming new thoughts and ideas.

.

.

.

N nprinli71 ♦ MOVING

♦

Qet

yheve

In'

PICK-UP & DELIVERY SERVICE

958 ROGERS AVE , (betTildenAveTAIbemarleRd.) BROOKLYN, NY 11226

TEL 347-23441783 / 347-787-7443. FAX: 347-240-7983 email: ogshippinggt@gmail.com 7 PUBLIC RD. ♦ LaPENITENCE, G/TOWN., GUYANA ♦ 225-4099 or 225-0627

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Emphasis on Real Estate,

17

Acquire

Networking

Taxes and Business S TAXES

Business

The Edgar Henry Column

Skills

"etwork Marketing" are two words that most people resent. Mainly because they, or some"Nione they knew got burnt by some 'ponsey' scheme in the past. Make no bones about it; in this current economic crisis networking is key.

Therefore it is

crucial that John Public make more and better connections in putting your mind and skill sets in gear for busi-

*

*

ness networking.

When you're thinking about becoming a more skilled networker, you usually think about what you can do to communicate or network more effectively. This includes asking for referrals from your clients, and giving incentives for those referring them to you. These are all components of your skills set.

And while it's important to know the right things to do while networking, it's equally important to start thinking the right way to make sure your networking efforts are as successful and dynamic as they can be. This involves altering your mindset as well. Let's take a close-up look at some elements you'll want to include to alter your mind-set to ensure networking success.

SELLING YOURSELF You cannot disassociate or alienate yourself from established organizations. Certain groups include service clubs such as the Rotary or Lions Clubs, your local chamber of commerce, and other professional organizations. Look for other ways to be very visible in your circle of influence. Be active in your child's school PTA or your church organizations.

Keep your eye open for opportunities to be involved in groups of people who come together for a common cause, even at funerals. It does not hurt. Always try to be a prominent in different group settings and distribute your business cards or brochures selling your service or product on a constant basis .

introducing yourself to others in networking environments. The other relates to breaking out of that shell, at the same time welcoming new thoughts and ideas.

These opportunities will afford you the chance to build relationships, and that's what social capital is all about. Visibility leads to credibility which, in turn, leads to profitability.

The dynamics of developing a strong word-of-mouth-based business transcend your business location.

cast for referrals.

THE GIVING SYNDROME You should never approach networking thinking that one good turn deserves another. Or I did this for you, now what are you going to do for me? This limits you to your friends or people you know. You have to branch outside that realm to gain and access to the "Joe The Plumber" of the outside world. In this way, you'll broaden the net you seek to

O.G.

There are many great networking organizations out there. If you stay only in groups that focus on your discipline and expertise, you lose the breadth of your scope. You need to develop a wide-reaching networking community.

The law of reciprocity takes the focus off of what you stand to gain from the networking relationship, and in doing so, create bonds based on trust and friendship. Put it to the test and you'll be amazed with the outcome.

dinary success, your mentality must be that of a farmer. He prepares the soil for months before ever planting the seeds. He tends the seedlings with care, feeding and watering them regularly avoiding and making provisions for flooding, putting up a scarecrow to keep the birds away. It's a long, drawn-out process to go from seeding a field to harvesting the crops. There's no quick fix, it's a process. As the saying goes "Rome was not built in a day."

Approaching networking with a

FARMING MENTALITY For networking to yield extraor-

SHIPPING

&

(continued on page 26)

BUSINESS

INC.

H\ppm6

06 s SHIPPING TO GUYANA

&

THE CARIBBEAN

VIA AIR ^bu

OR OCEAN

h/?heve

WORKING FROM HOME You might work from home, but no matter what, you still have to get out there and network to build relationships for your business. Working from home has its own unique rewards and challenges via social media. Although most of the networking techniques that work for any business work for most home-based businesses, a different approach is necessary at times. The first relates to

(

.

.

.

N nprinli71 ♦ MOVING

♦

Qet

yheve

In'

PICK-UP & DELIVERY SERVICE

958 ROGERS AVE , (bet. lien Av&HlbeiMleRd.) BROOKLYN, NY 11226

TEL 347-23U783 / 347-787-7443. FAX: 347-240-7983 email: ogshippinggt@gmail.com 7 PUBLIC RD. ♦ LaPENITENCE, G/TOWN., GUYANA ♦ 225-4099 or 225-0627

18

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

19

Fraser Guyana crowned

Miss

Guyana..

•i.

Ji-i

(From Page 16) Many seemed sufficiently satisfied with this list, which outside of the top five also included Kippins. Odessa Grogan.

Iman Jaisingh. Denisha Rogers, and Meleisa DeFreitas. It was the end of the road for Keliesha Kelly. Aysya Kelly, and Ashley Cameron.

Moving at a mercifully fast pace, just over one horn after its start, the pageant was already down to its final five, and it was time for the final questions.

Each delegate was required to answer tw o questions: one universal question given to all of the delegates, as well as a second question individual to each delegate. The first general and easy question asked the ladies: "Why should you be chosen to be Miss Universe Guyana 2016?" To which almost all of the top five answered wonderfully, making it tough for the audience to begin assessing a winner.

In her answer to this question. Soyini noted that she felt being a confidently beautiful young woman, of determination and strength, are traits that she believes should give her the crown.

Her second question was: "There has been much debate and discussion about the University of Guyana; I know generally education in Guyana. If you could make a difference in education in Guyana, what would it be and how would you do it."

Fraser beautifully noted that she would "ensure that teachers' salaries are raised", a very well received answer. And in the end this was obviously the best question and answers that stood out to the judges.

Soyini now moves on to representing Guyana at the Miss Universe Pageant in the Philippines on January 1, 2016, when she will be hopeful of making it into the top 15 and ending Guyana's poor standing at the pageant over the years.

By Ariana Gordon GUYANA remains hopeful that there will be a favourable response to its request for a juridical settlement to the border controversy with Venezuela before United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon demits office in December.

Speaking with Guyanese journalists at Guyana's Mission in New York on Monday. President David Granger said he is satisfied with what the UN Secretary General has done thus far in the process, but noted his displeasure with Venezuela's approach to the matter.

"I am satisfied with what the Secretary General has done. I am not satisfied that the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has acted in good faith...

"After 50 years, we had hoped we would have been further along the line towards a solution. It is quite clear to us that much more need to be done by Venezuela if this matter is to be resolved."

President Granger said.

The President praised the work of Mr. Ban ahead of his address on Tuesday at the 71st United Nations (UN) General Assembly.

"We are satisfied that he has been working within the limitations of his office." the President said.

Accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge; Guyana's Permanent Representative to the UN. Michael Ten-Pow; and former Commonwealth Secretary-General Sir Shridath Ramphal. President Granger made it clear that the UN Secretary General has been the most engaged of the Secretaries General on the issue over the last 50 years.

"I have not seen a Secretary General so engaged in this matter... He has done everything possible, particularly within the last year... since our first meeting in Bridgetown, to ensure that his Chef de Cabinet, his representatives. shuttle between Caracas and Georgetown; and whenever we've met. he is always fully abreast with the controversy."

The UN Secretary General visited Guyana last October. just after concluding climate change talks in Bolivia. At the 2015 United Nations General Assembly.

Ban Ki-moon had promised the Presidents of Guyana and Venezuela to have an

investigative team visit the two countries with the aim of resolving the border controversy.

Shortly after his visit to Guyana, his Chef de Cabinet at the time. Susanna Malcorra. and a team of UN officials visited Guyana and Venezuela to conduct their investigations on the matter.

Guyana has maintained that the juridical route is best suited to end the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela. Venezuela, on the other hand, has called for a restart of the Good Officer's Process.

President Granger has said he is convinced of Mr. Ban's "sincerity in trying to bring this matter to closure".

"I am very hopeful that this Secretary General, given his engagement over the last year or more, is going to do something that is going to lead to a favourable outcome." he remarked.

Like President Granger.

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge agreed that the UN Secretary General has "gone a long way towards trying to work on both parties to take steps necessary to resolve the matter".

"At this point in time, we can't tell you whether that process has actually gone forward in a meaningful way...

We'd have to wait on him to see what he says." said

hopeful we met... How he proposes to move, if not betw een now and the future, then certainly between now and when he demits office".

The option chosen by the Secretary General may not be revealed at the upcoming meeting with Guyana. Minister Greenidge has disclosed.

"It is essentially to exercise the responsibility that has been given to him in the context of the Geneva Agreement. in recognition of the fact that the tw o sides cannot agree on the way forward to resolve the controversy over whether or not the 1899 arbitral award is null and void."

Guyana has maintained its position that the border issue with Venezuela has been settled in 1899 by way of an Arbitral Award; but Venezuela is holding strong to its claim on the Essequibo region.

In May 2015. Venezuela's illegal claim to the Essequibo resurfaced following an announcement by US oil giant ExxonMobil of a significant oil find here. Following that announcement.

Guyana's Spanish-speaking neighbour issued a decree claiming part of Guyana's territorial space. The decree was subsequently recalled

by Venezuela's President following increased pressure from the international community.

AV y

From left to right are: Sir Shridath Ramphal; Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge; President David Granger; and Guyana's Permanent Representative to the UN, Michael Ten-Pow, at the media briefing at the Guyana Mission in New York on Monday (Ariana Gordon photo) Greenidge.

President Granger and team are likely to meet with the UN Secretary General on Saturday; that meeting is yet to be confirmed. He has said that, with the UN Secretary General recognising Guyana's position on the border controversy, it is Guyana's hope that the Secretary General can provide an "assessment as to what happened [since] the last time

President Granger would also be addressing the issue of climate change and Guyana's commitment to ensuring a greener world. He said Guyana is "way ahead" of other territories, and noted that the country will put forward its Policy Statement at the UN. In 1989. three years before the Rio Summit. Guyana dedicated a huge area of its territory ~ 371.000 square

kilometres — to the Commonwealth and the world, to prove we could manage our environment in a sustainable manner.

Guyana has very firmly adopted a "green agenda", and is part of the Guiana Shield, which contains "the most unique bio-diversity in the world". President Granger has said, while stating that the country is "part of the lungs of the Earth".

Guyana last Wednesday inked a US$5M agreement with the German Government to support implementation of the third phase of an ongoing programme to develop protected areas in the country.

The President said the work that Germany has been doing in the field of biodiversity and in supporting Guyana's environmental drive is providing a global service.

Guyana committed to the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21). not only to extend existing protected areas, but also to create new ones.

President Granger noted that with Guyana's ongoing relations with the Kingdom of Nonvay. this country is ensuring that the message of Guyana's green economy is one that is delivered to potential investors.

"We want to see green energy — solar, air. hydro, bio-gas generation; we want to contribute to countering the effects of climate change; we want to protect our own coastal zone; we want to provide education in bio-diversity. develop eco-tourism. exports."

Meanwhile. Minister Greenidge said Guyana will be participating in several bilateral meetings over the next few days. He said CARICOM member states will be speaking to the United States.

Japan, and other countries on the issue of correspondent banking and regional security. among other issues.

Additionally. CARICOM will be speaking with the African. Caribbean and Pacific Group (ACP) on its future and the way forward.

The Foreign Affairs Minister also said that the report of the "Wise men" (group) will be discussed.

Additionally, Guyana has bilateral meetings planned with Fiji, India and Nigeria with the intention to look at deepening political and economic ties.

Proud

Buxtonian

back

By Margaret Burke A BORN and bred Buxtonion, George Abrams is very proud of his village, even though he migrated to the United States of America since 1969.

On his arrival in that country, he attended the Howard University from 1969 to 1971. where he completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in marketing with honours.

The father of seven children is happily married to Clarice, also of Buxton. and is delighted to show off his second generation, which makes him a grandfather of 12.

Abrams spoke of enjoying his early days in Guyana, specifically Buxton, where he gained his primary education.

He stated that he more or less self-studied for the GCE examinations at both Ordinary and Advanced levels.

He later self-studied for even higher education, pursuing the Chartered Institute of Secretaries (London Professional Degree).

While in the United States. Abrams went on to attend the American University in Washington DC. where he completed a Master's in Marketing in 1973.

He later passed the Certified Public Accountant examination (CPA) in 1980; attended the Southeastern University, again in Washington DC. in 1993-1994. and again completed another programme - a Masters in Taxation with honours in 1994.

to

WORKING IN GUYANA AND THE US From an early age.

Abrams said, he enjoyed farming with his father, engaging in that activity for four years at the Buxton Backdam (farmland). He

community many other services."

States in 1969. Among the many jobs he worked at was controller for a non-profit company from 1971 to 1989.

"I began my accounting practice in 1989. and continued to this day. I provided several small black businesscs w ith markcling. account

PRIMO'S SEWING ESTABLISHMENT A man to his word, committed to his promise.

Abrams relentlessly pursued his dream, and delivered.

According to Abrams. the

f ^

gives

sonably-priced clothing for the people, especially school uniforms for our children".

Despite the challenges, he noted, and although start-up loans are almost impossible to obtain, even with large collateral; in addition to the fact thai the banking policies and

4 Vivl

\

k

A worker shows off some of the various patterns at the Primo's Sewing Establishment later worked at the Lusignan and Enmore sugar estates for five years, and then the Demerara Bauxite Company in Linden for nine years, before migrating to the United

NCN

ing and tax services; provide tax services to individuals; provide representation before the Internal Revenue Service for many; provided business plans to assist others, among

Primo's Sewing Establishment. situated at Lot 23.

Company Road. Buxton. was created "to provide employment in the village, and at the same time provide rea-

reverses

requirements are stringent and difficult for persons from the diaspora to adopt, he still made it happen.

"The biggest challenge is obtaining contracts to

maintain the operations...

There are no set-aside contracts to assist in developing the depressed areas." Abrams noted.

At the moment, he pointed out. there are 12 workers, most of whom are females and are drawn largely from Buxton.

However, the plan is to have at least 30 workers serve the establishment. which he hopes to accomplish as the service expands.

The Primo's Establishment has been training staff to have first-hand knowledge, so they could specialise in making well-fitted uniforms for schoolchildren as well as employees. They are also equipped to make properly tailored dress shirts for men. which can match international (brand name) standards.

The financing for this project was provided by Abrams, who indicated that "help is needed from the Government ministries to assist in obtaining contracts to supply uniforms etc for the workers, so as to keep the operation going. Despite all the challenges, we manage to produce excellent quality school uniforms at affordable prices for our future leaders, as well as fine clothing for men and women of Buxton and all over Guyana, in pursuit of enhancing our village economy."

decision

- agrees to pay suspended Sport Editor WHILE suspension of the National Communications Network Sports Editor Mrs. Jocelle Archibald-Hawke still stands, management of the stateowned entity has agreed to somewhat temper the severity of the punishment with what can be termed mercy.

Accordingly, she will now receive her salary in full for the month of September, whereas the mother of tw o

had been suspended without pay for an alleged infraction.

She is. however, expected to serve out the suspension in full, which means that she will be off the job until September 29.

The Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU). representing Mrs. Archibald-Hawke's interest, was reportedly verbally informed on Monday that she will be paid her salary for

September. The Union and the sports editor are awaiting written confirmation of this new development.

Having served the NCN for almost nine years, during which she has passed several performance-based assessments. consistently scoring 100 per cent therein; and having been promoted to the position of Sports Editor almost two years ago.

Mrs. Archibald-Hawke was

taken off the air because she had. on her Facebook page, expressed the view that she was "surrounded by idiots", after a colleague had asked President Granger what she thought was a really dumb question.

The NCN Human Resource Department had subsequently asked her to apologise. and she did; but she was nevertheless suspended, allegedly because the apolo-

gy was not to the liking of her colleague. Moreover, reports of past incidents of misconduct which had already been dealt with had allegedly been revisited in arriving at the decision to suspend Mrs. Archibald-Hawke.

A number of prominent individuals and organisations have strongly condemned the action by the NCN management. headed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lennox

Cornette. President David Granger himself thought the decision was "inhumane", and said as much during his weekly televised programme.

"The Public Interest".

"She has not committed a crime; it is not as though she's a murderer. I think it was inhumane to take away her salary or to suspend her from her job. I don't know she has committed any crime at all." the President said.

18

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

19

Fraser Guyana crowned

Miss

Guyana..

•i.

Ji-i

(From Page 16) Many seemed sufficiently satisfied with this list, which outside of the top five also included Kippins. Odessa Grogan.

Iman Jaisingh. Denisha Rogers, and Meleisa DeFreitas. It was the end of the road for Keliesha Kelly. Aysya Kelly, and Ashley Cameron.

Moving at a mercifully fast pace, just over one horn after its start, the pageant was already down to its final five, and it was time for the final questions.

Each delegate was required to answer tw o questions: one universal question given to all of the delegates, as well as a second question individual to each delegate. The first general and easy question asked the ladies: "Why should you be chosen to be Miss Universe Guyana 2016?" To which almost all of the top five answered wonderfully, making it tough for the audience to begin assessing a winner.

In her answer to this question. Soyini noted that she felt being a confidently beautiful young woman, of determination and strength, are traits that she believes should give her the crown.

Her second question was: "There has been much debate and discussion about the University of Guyana; I know generally education in Guyana. If you could make a difference in education in Guyana, what would it be and how would you do it."

Fraser beautifully noted that she would "ensure that teachers' salaries are raised", a very well received answer. And in the end this was obviously the best question and answers that stood out to the judges.

Soyini now moves on to representing Guyana at the Miss Universe Pageant in the Philippines on January 1, 2016, when she will be hopeful of making it into the top 15 and ending Guyana's poor standing at the pageant over the years.

By Ariana Gordon GUYANA remains hopeful that there will be a favourable response to its request for a juridical settlement to the border controversy with Venezuela before United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon demits office in December.

Speaking with Guyanese journalists at Guyana's Mission in New York on Monday. President David Granger said he is satisfied with what the UN Secretary General has done thus far in the process, but noted his displeasure with Venezuela's approach to the matter.

"I am satisfied with what the Secretary General has done. I am not satisfied that the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has acted in good faith...

"After 50 years, we had hoped we would have been further along the line towards a solution. It is quite clear to us that much more need to be done by Venezuela if this matter is to be resolved."

President Granger said.

The President praised the work of Mr. Ban ahead of his address on Tuesday at the 71st United Nations (UN) General Assembly.

"We are satisfied that he has been working within the limitations of his office." the President said.

Accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge; Guyana's Permanent Representative to the UN. Michael Ten-Pow; and former Commonwealth Secretary-General Sir Shridath Ramphal. President Granger made it clear that the UN Secretary General has been the most engaged of the Secretaries General on the issue over the last 50 years.

"I have not seen a Secretary General so engaged in this matter... He has done everything possible, particularly within the last year... since our first meeting in Bridgetown, to ensure that his Chef de Cabinet, his representatives. shuttle between Caracas and Georgetown; and whenever we've met. he is always fully abreast with the controversy."

The UN Secretary General visited Guyana last October. just after concluding climate change talks in Bolivia. At the 2015 United Nations General Assembly.

Ban Ki-moon had promised the Presidents of Guyana and Venezuela to have an

investigative team visit the two countries with the aim of resolving the border controversy.

Shortly after his visit to Guyana, his Chef de Cabinet at the time. Susanna Malcorra. and a team of UN officials visited Guyana and Venezuela to conduct their investigations on the matter.

Guyana has maintained that the juridical route is best suited to end the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela. Venezuela, on the other hand, has called for a restart of the Good Officer's Process.

President Granger has said he is convinced of Mr. Ban's "sincerity in trying to bring this matter to closure".

"I am very hopeful that this Secretary General, given his engagement over the last year or more, is going to do something that is going to lead to a favourable outcome." he remarked.

Like President Granger.

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge agreed that the UN Secretary General has "gone a long way towards trying to work on both parties to take steps necessary to resolve the matter".

"At this point in time, we can't tell you whether that process has actually gone forward in a meaningful way...

We'd have to wait on him to see what he says." said

hopeful we met... How he proposes to move, if not betw een now and the future, then certainly between now and when he demits office".

The option chosen by the Secretary General may not be revealed at the upcoming meeting with Guyana. Minister Greenidge has disclosed.

"It is essentially to exercise the responsibility that has been given to him in the context of the Geneva Agreement. in recognition of the fact that the tw o sides cannot agree on the way forward to resolve the controversy over whether or not the 1899 arbitral award is null and void."

Guyana has maintained its position that the border issue with Venezuela has been settled in 1899 by way of an Arbitral Award; but Venezuela is holding strong to its claim on the Essequibo region.

In May 2015. Venezuela's illegal claim to the Essequibo resurfaced following an announcement by US oil giant ExxonMobil of a significant oil find here. Following that announcement.

Guyana's Spanish-speaking neighbour issued a decree claiming part of Guyana's territorial space. The decree was subsequently recalled

by Venezuela's President following increased pressure from the international community.

AV y

From left to right are: Sir Shridath Ramphal; Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge; President David Granger; and Guyana's Permanent Representative to the UN, Michael Ten-Pow, at the media briefing at the Guyana Mission in New York on Monday (Ariana Gordon photo) Greenidge.

President Granger and team are likely to meet with the UN Secretary General on Saturday; that meeting is yet to be confirmed. He has said that, with the UN Secretary General recognising Guyana's position on the border controversy, it is Guyana's hope that the Secretary General can provide an "assessment as to what happened [since] the last time

President Granger would also be addressing the issue of climate change and Guyana's commitment to ensuring a greener world. He said Guyana is "way ahead" of other territories, and noted that the country will put forward its Policy Statement at the UN. In 1989. three years before the Rio Summit. Guyana dedicated a huge area of its territory ~ 371.000 square

kilometres — to the Commonwealth and the world, to prove we could manage our environment in a sustainable manner.

Guyana has very firmly adopted a "green agenda", and is part of the Guiana Shield, which contains "the most unique bio-diversity in the world". President Granger has said, while stating that the country is "part of the lungs of the Earth".

Guyana last Wednesday inked a US$5M agreement with the German Government to support implementation of the third phase of an ongoing programme to develop protected areas in the country.

The President said the work that Germany has been doing in the field of biodiversity and in supporting Guyana's environmental drive is providing a global service.

Guyana committed to the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21). not only to extend existing protected areas, but also to create new ones.

President Granger noted that with Guyana's ongoing relations with the Kingdom of Nonvay. this country is ensuring that the message of Guyana's green economy is one that is delivered to potential investors.

"We want to see green energy — solar, air. hydro, bio-gas generation; we want to contribute to countering the effects of climate change; we want to protect our own coastal zone; we want to provide education in bio-diversity. develop eco-tourism. exports."

Meanwhile. Minister Greenidge said Guyana will be participating in several bilateral meetings over the next few days. He said CARICOM member states will be speaking to the United States.

Japan, and other countries on the issue of correspondent banking and regional security. among other issues.

Additionally. CARICOM will be speaking with the African. Caribbean and Pacific Group (ACP) on its future and the way forward.

The Foreign Affairs Minister also said that the report of the "Wise men" (group) will be discussed.

Additionally, Guyana has bilateral meetings planned with Fiji, India and Nigeria with the intention to look at deepening political and economic ties.

Proud

Buxtonian

back

By Margaret Burke A BORN and bred Buxtonion, George Abrams is very proud of his village, even though he migrated to the United States of America since 1969.

On his arrival in that country, he attended the Howard University from 1969 to 1971. where he completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in marketing with honours.

The father of seven children is happily married to Clarice, also of Buxton. and is delighted to show off his second generation, which makes him a grandfather of 12.

Abrams spoke of enjoying his early days in Guyana, specifically Buxton, where he gained his primary education.

He stated that he more or less self-studied for the GCE examinations at both Ordinary and Advanced levels.

He later self-studied for even higher education, pursuing the Chartered Institute of Secretaries (London Professional Degree).

While in the United States. Abrams went on to attend the American University in Washington DC. where he completed a Master's in Marketing in 1973.

He later passed the Certified Public Accountant examination (CPA) in 1980; attended the Southeastern University, again in Washington DC. in 1993-1994. and again completed another programme - a Masters in Taxation with honours in 1994.

to

WORKING IN GUYANA AND THE US From an early age.

Abrams said, he enjoyed farming with his father, engaging in that activity for four years at the Buxton Backdam (farmland). He

community many other services."

States in 1969. Among the many jobs he worked at was controller for a non-profit company from 1971 to 1989.

"I began my accounting practice in 1989. and continued to this day. I provided several small black businesscs w ith markcling. account

PRIMO'S SEWING ESTABLISHMENT A man to his word, committed to his promise.

Abrams relentlessly pursued his dream, and delivered.

According to Abrams. the

f ^

gives

sonably-priced clothing for the people, especially school uniforms for our children".

Despite the challenges, he noted, and although start-up loans are almost impossible to obtain, even with large collateral; in addition to the fact thai the banking policies and

4 Vivl

\

k

A worker shows off some of the various patterns at the Primo's Sewing Establishment later worked at the Lusignan and Enmore sugar estates for five years, and then the Demerara Bauxite Company in Linden for nine years, before migrating to the United

NCN

ing and tax services; provide tax services to individuals; provide representation before the Internal Revenue Service for many; provided business plans to assist others, among

Primo's Sewing Establishment. situated at Lot 23.

Company Road. Buxton. was created "to provide employment in the village, and at the same time provide rea-

reverses

requirements are stringent and difficult for persons from the diaspora to adopt, he still made it happen.

"The biggest challenge is obtaining contracts to

maintain the operations...

There are no set-aside contracts to assist in developing the depressed areas." Abrams noted.

At the moment, he pointed out. there are 12 workers, most of whom are females and are drawn largely from Buxton.

However, the plan is to have at least 30 workers serve the establishment. which he hopes to accomplish as the service expands.

The Primo's Establishment has been training staff to have first-hand knowledge, so they could specialise in making well-fitted uniforms for schoolchildren as well as employees. They are also equipped to make properly tailored dress shirts for men. which can match international (brand name) standards.

The financing for this project was provided by Abrams, who indicated that "help is needed from the Government ministries to assist in obtaining contracts to supply uniforms etc for the workers, so as to keep the operation going. Despite all the challenges, we manage to produce excellent quality school uniforms at affordable prices for our future leaders, as well as fine clothing for men and women of Buxton and all over Guyana, in pursuit of enhancing our village economy."

decision

- agrees to pay suspended Sport Editor WHILE suspension of the National Communications Network Sports Editor Mrs. Jocelle Archibald-Hawke still stands, management of the stateowned entity has agreed to somewhat temper the severity of the punishment with what can be termed mercy.

Accordingly, she will now receive her salary in full for the month of September, whereas the mother of tw o

had been suspended without pay for an alleged infraction.

She is. however, expected to serve out the suspension in full, which means that she will be off the job until September 29.

The Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU). representing Mrs. Archibald-Hawke's interest, was reportedly verbally informed on Monday that she will be paid her salary for

September. The Union and the sports editor are awaiting written confirmation of this new development.

Having served the NCN for almost nine years, during which she has passed several performance-based assessments. consistently scoring 100 per cent therein; and having been promoted to the position of Sports Editor almost two years ago.

Mrs. Archibald-Hawke was

taken off the air because she had. on her Facebook page, expressed the view that she was "surrounded by idiots", after a colleague had asked President Granger what she thought was a really dumb question.

The NCN Human Resource Department had subsequently asked her to apologise. and she did; but she was nevertheless suspended, allegedly because the apolo-

gy was not to the liking of her colleague. Moreover, reports of past incidents of misconduct which had already been dealt with had allegedly been revisited in arriving at the decision to suspend Mrs. Archibald-Hawke.

A number of prominent individuals and organisations have strongly condemned the action by the NCN management. headed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lennox

Cornette. President David Granger himself thought the decision was "inhumane", and said as much during his weekly televised programme.

"The Public Interest".

"She has not committed a crime; it is not as though she's a murderer. I think it was inhumane to take away her salary or to suspend her from her job. I don't know she has committed any crime at all." the President said.

20

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Wings

Aviation

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

21

seeking

No

interference

... Gov V reaffirms commitment to independent judiciary to

launch

GUYANA may be closer to having a flag carrier sooner than expected since information reaching the Guyana Chronicle is that one local aviation company is poised to service the country's national Hying needs, and is ready to go on the green light of the relevant authorities.

It is understood that Air Guyana, a subsidiary of the well-established Wings Aviation Inc. also parent company of the popular Fly Jamaica, is experienced and has the capacity to provide the necessary service to popular international routes such as the United States and Canada.

According to information. Wings Aviation Inc is expected to acquire tw o new planes in the near future, but is ready to rebrand one of its two Boeings in vibrant Guyanese colours, boldly displaying an Air Guyana emblem and base it here for specihc service to the Guyanese people.

The company has recently hired an additional 25 flight attendants and has al-

ready designed a green Guyanese oriented overall for its onboard staff. They have the relevant authorisation from countries where they operate abroad and are now gearing toward local documentation to commence operation here.

"All they (authori-

national

The Guyana Chronicle was told that currently.

Wings Aviation Inc has 36 Guyanese flight attendants outside of the 25 recently hired. Of that number, there were five Amerindians from Hinterland communities.

Training for these attendants has already commenced.

I 7

GCA Director General, Egbert Field ties) have to do is say the word and they are ready to launch." an aviation source stated. "Wings Aviation is ready to launch Air Guyana.

They already have the staff and the training... they have enough capacity for both Air Guyana and Fly Jamaica."

It is stated that once Air Guyana gets the go ahead, it will commence with tw o weekly non-stop flights to Toronto and several other destinations. This is expected to improve airlift and provide several direct and indirect benefits.

Since Guyana Airways Corporation's fall some 15 years ago. the Guyanese public has endured about everything seeking reliable service to major destinations in the US and Canada. With the pull out of Delta Airlines some years ago. and limited airlift ability in the recent past, many Guyanese passengers were hounded with overpriced tickets, unscrapulous charter operators and even endured poor service, to the point where the Government had once threatened a foreign-based airline to be better to Guyanese passengers.

Caribbean Airlines. Dynamic Ainvays and Fly Jamaica. which was launched 2013. have been the notable three servicing Guyanese passengers on the major routes, with Fly Jamaica standing out. being owned

by Guyanese. That airline has risen to prominence for onboard service and continued improvement toward time schedules.

Guyana is currently without Category One status and this does not permit

carrier

operators registered here to fly non-stop to the United States. Guyana Civil Aviation (GCA) Director General. Egbert Field is confident of Guyana attaining the necessary status in the near future. The retired army officer and seasoned aviator has already registered intent to use his many years' experience to steer the Guyanese aviation sector in the right direction.

He told Guyana Chronicle that Wings Aviation has expressed interest in servicing Guyana, but the agency awaits the company's official application. When asked about the company's operation of Fly Jamaica in Guyana and whether he believes they can be trasted to operator under a Guyanese banner. Field said "Fly Jamaica is an organisation that really understands the way an airline is ran. and is running it the way it is supposed to."

Field, a former inspector with Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System (CASSOS) and who was flight operations

and oversight manager of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority and transnational inspector for the Regional Aviation Safety Oversight had been required to give Fly Jamaica its pass to operator during its certification process and remembered how diligently and professionally the company had gone through the motion.

He said had it not been for Guyana's failure to acquire Category One status, Fly Jamaica itself would have been a Guyanese registered company. He noted however the success and great support the Guyanese-owned company has gained from the Jamaican public. Senior Wings Aviation officials have confirmed the company's intent to service the Guyanese public through Air Guyana but provided no additional information.

The Wings Aviation Inc has been operational since 1984 and is located at the Eugene F Correia Airport in Ogle. It has extensive operations in Canada, the US, Jamaica and Guyana.

By Alva Solomon PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo has told a high-level conference of jurists that Government does not interfere with the work of the judiciary, and that the administration is committed to its independence in the discharge of its duties.

A lawyer by training, the Prime Minister made the remark during the feature address made at the Monday opening of the conference of Commonwealth Magistrates" and Judges" Association, being held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown. This conference is being held under the theme "The Judiciary as Guarantors of the Rule of Law".

Nagamootoo said that in the democracies which constitute the Commonwealth, "that guarantee provides a measure of comfort to our people and is an assurance of freedom and stability." He noted that since the APNU+AFC administration's assumption of office in May 2015. "we have made a conscious and determined effort at giving recognition and meaning to the declaration adopted on the 24th September. 2012 by the United Nations General Assembly at the High Level Meeting on the Rule of Law. which reaffirmed that; "Human rights, the Rule of Law and democracy are interlinked and mutually reinforcing, and that they belong to the universal and indivisible core values and principles of the United Nations."

Nagamootoo said Government is conscious of the distinction that must be made between

Guyana Linden

toll

booth

to

THE long-anticipated reintroduction of the Kara Kara toll station in Linden should begin in a few weeks, according to Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland.

It has been close to a month since Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan approved the by-laws governing the rates to be paid by commercial vehicles, especially lumber and container trucks plying the interior route.

Holland said the process would be carefully handled, so that the purpose of the booth would be fulfilled.

"We will let the public know when we will start. The rev-

operation

enues garnered are only to help the township undertake much needed work, such as road repairs, garbage collection. and other community services." Holland affirmed.

Minister Bulkan approved rates ranging from $2000 to $7000 to be paid by 18 categories of vehicles, particularly vehicles passing through the town with fuel, lumber or merchandise. With these rates, the Council will be raking in approximately $3M monthly, or more than $36M on an annual basis.

This revenue will assist the cash-strapped Council in many ways, including sufficient transportation for

garbage collection; paying workers' wages; and. most importantly, paying off the almost $200 million debt owed to the National Insurance Scheme. Guyana Power and Light, and other entities.

The Council successfully lobbied the Government to increase the yearly subvention from $12M to 16M. but this seems insufficient to fulfill all the needs of the Council.

Mayor Holland has reiterated that businesses registered in Linden would only pay a biennial fee for the use of the toll, and hire cars or vehicles entering the town for every purpose other than

commercial will not be subjected to paying the toll.

Track driver Trevor Hack told the Guyana Chronicle that reintroduction of the toll would mean "a little squeeze" on his and other drivers' pockets, but he is happy that Linden would finally see development.

"Yes. I know it gon be lil hard on we. but we gotta look on the bigger picture, and that is (that) the town gon benefit, and I would do anything for Linden." he said, in contrast to some other Linden businessmen, who are not in favour of paying the biennial fee.

The Kara Kara toll sta-

soon

tion was disbanded in 2013 by former Minister of Local Government Norman Whittaker. It was established in 1997 under the stewardship of then Mayor Stanley Smith, following an order by then Local Government Minister Clinton Colly mo re. According to reports, the booth was disbanded to accommodate the operations of giant lumber company Bishanlin. As a result of this subsidized operation, the Council lost close to $250M. according to former IMC chairman Orin Gordon.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, described

the intentional suspension of the boot by the previous administration as an effort to stymie the progress of the town. "They never wanted you to strive, they took away all of your financial abilities to spend money to look after yourselves. You used to take fees from those large trucks passing through Linden, the heavy lumber trucks and the bauxite container trucks; and you used to get a reasonable income from that as a Town Council.

Thirty-live percent of those revenues constituted your budget in this town of Linden," said the Minister.

L

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo addressing the conference "rale by law", whereby Government erroneously places itself above the law. and the "rale of law", which implies that everyone in society, including the Government, is bound by the law.

"It is on the latter that we have rested the structure of Government, recognising that constitutional limits on the exercise of governmental authority ~ which is a key feature of any democracy ~ require adherence to the rale of law. Indeed, the quality of governance is defined by observance of the rale of law.

Good governance depends on it." Nagamootoo said in his remarks.

business

The economic link between Brazil and Guyana via the Linden/Lethem Road can become a reality, as Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Pim van Ballekom, believes the business climate in Guyana is "welcoming".

While addressing members of the media at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston.

Georgetown on Friday evening. van Ballekom said he and other officials of the EIB had met with President David Granger. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. and other Government officials, and had discussed a range of possibilities in a well-prepared encounter.

Van Ballekom. on his first visit here, said that in addition to discussions on the local energy sector, the parties discussed the Guyana/

Brazil economic link, and he asserted that there are four separate projects which fall under that linkage, among which are the Linden/Lethem road link, a hydropower project, and the rehabilitation of the Georgetown Harbour ~ projects which he opined should be undertaken separately.

Since they are large projects. van Ballekom said, it is up to the promoter ~ in this case the Government ~ to determine whether they should be Public/Private Partnership projects, or solely Government-funded.

He said the EIB may look for a partner, such as the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). to undertake funding, since it does not provide 100 per cent funding for such large projects.

He said the Georgetown harbour being the possible initial project, it "will be a good thing", and he opined

INDEPENDENCE On the issue of judicial independence, Nagamootoo said: "Our government is unshaken in the belief that, in our state structure, the judiciary should be independent (to the fullest extent of the meaning that can be given to the phrase).

Our recognition is that an independent judiciary is the strongest guarantee for the protection of the rights of our citizens. We believe that an independent judiciary is the bedrock of the stability of our nation. We believe that only an independent judiciary could be the guarantor of the rale of law. So. within this focus and within this framework, our government has

climate

- says Vice President, European Investment Bank

By Alva Solomon

start

Currently performing the duties of President while President David Granger attends' the United Nations General Assembly. Nagamootoo told the conference that, in recent times, constitutional reformers and law-makers have adopted liberal concepts in the approach to governance.

"First, we recognised that there should be clear limits to the power of the Executive, or Government. We recognised that Government exercises its authority through publicly disclosed laws that are adopted and enforced by (an) independent judiciary with established and accepted procedures.

We are committed to the principle of 'equality before the law', and that the law must apply equally to the Government and the governed," he explained.

that it would provide access to larger container ships. He noted that, as a stand-alone project, it would be beneficial to Guyana's economy.

He said the EIB possesses "impressive" technical expertise in that field, as it funds habours all across the world. "So our expertise is also available for Guyana." van Ballekom added.

As regards the Linden/ Lethem Road, the top EIB official said he was informed that it is a project which is long overdue. He said a Government minister informed that the roadway should have been built some 55 years ago.

He described that project as one which is "mature", and said the task now is to examine and realise it.

The EIB has not undertaken operations here since 2000. and the visiting team's trip is aimed at engaging both the private and public sectors.

legislatively created the structure to give effect to true and meaningful judicial independence."

He affirmed that Government has repeatedly and publicly so declared; and asserted that judges, in their adjudicatory role, are not in any way subjected to any form of improper, inappropriate or unwarranted governmental influence.

"That is a matter of which we in this present administration are exceptionally proud, and I make this claim without fear of contradiction.

While we respect the separation of powers, we promote comity among the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary." the Prime Minister declared.

Nagamootoo said that not only does the local judiciary enjoy independence when it decides issues betw een citizen and citizen, or betw een citizen and the state; it also has independence over its administrative machinery. its registries and their personnel. "More importantly, however, our government, by legislative intervention, recognised the judiciary as a constitutional agency and made provision for its financial independence by ensuring that the state provides adequate resources for the judiciary to perform its functions."

The Prime Minister said, in sum. that the judiciary of Guyana enjoying adjudicatory, institutional and financial independence may be a first for the Commonwealth Caribbean. "...a recent achievement since our assumption of office," he declared.

welcoming

pm n

Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, Pim van Ballekom (centre) is flanked

by European Ambassador to Guyana Jernej Videtic (left) and EIB Loan Officer Angel Diez Fraile. Here he addresses the media at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown on Friday evening van Ballekom said Government officials raised similar projects during the discussions. and he described the situation as well coordinated.

To this end. he said, if the EIB is to re-engage funding projects here, "we want to have people who are focused on the priorities". He also noted that Guyana is in order. van Ballekom said the EIB is eager to engage the private entities, either directly or via the commercial banks; since the latter would

be familiar with the business opportunities on offer.

While describing the EIB as financially sound, he said it makes interventions when the economic climate is not favourable. He pointed out that the EIB's mandate is to bridge financial gaps when other banking institutions are not willing to so do. van Ballekom also visited the ports in Georgetown.

His visit follows meetings in Suriname. According to a release from the EIB. European Ambassador to Guyana

Jernej Videtic said the office is delighted to welcome the EIP delegation.

He said investment and financing opportunities will be welcome without doubt, both for the private sector and in light of the country's green agenda.

The EIB is described as the largest multilateral public bank in the world, and 10 per cent of its lending targets investments outside of the European Union.

It is owned directly by the 28 EU member states.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

No

21

interference

... Gov V reaffirms commitment to independent judiciary

By Alva Solomon PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo has told a high-level conference of jurists that Government does not interfere with the work of the judiciary, and that the administration is committed to its independence in the discharge of its duties.

A lawyer by training, the Prime Minister made the remark during the feature address made at the Monday opening of the conference of Commonwealth Magistrates" and Judges" Association, being held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown. This conference is being held under the theme "The Judiciary as Guarantors of the Rule of Law".

Nagamootoo said that in the democracies which constitute the Commonwealth, "that guarantee provides a measure of comfort to our people and is an assurance of freedom and stability." He noted that since the APNU+AFC administration's assumption of office in May 2015. "we have made a conscious and determined effort at giving recognition and meaning to the declaration adopted on the 24th September. 2012 by the United Nations General Assembly at the High Level Meeting on the Rule of Law. which reaffirmed that; "Human rights, the Rule of Law and democracy are interlinked and mutually reinforcing, and that they belong to the universal and indivisible core values and principles of the United Nations."

Nagamootoo said Government is conscious of the distinction that must be made between

Guyana

Currently performing the duties of President while President David Granger ahends' the United Nations General Assembly. Nagamootoo told the conference that, in recent times, constitutional reformers and law-makers have adopted liberal concepts in the approach to governance.

"First, we recognised that there should be clear limits to the power of the Executive, or Government. We recognised that Government exercises its authority through publicly disclosed laws that are adopted and enforced by (an) independent judiciaiy with established and accepted procedures.

We are committed to the principle of 'equality before the law', and that the law must apply equally to the Government and the governed," he explained.

L

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo addressing the conference "rule by law", whereby Government erroneously places itself above the law. and the "rale of law", which implies that everyone in society, including the Government, is bound by the law.

"It is on the laher that we have rested the structure of Government, recognising that constitutional limits on the exercise of governmental authority ~ which is a key feature of any democracy ~ require adherence to the rale of law. Indeed, the quality of governance is defined by observance of the rale of law.

Good governance depends on it." Nagamootoo said in his remarks.

business

INDEPENDENCE On the issue of judicial independence, Nagamootoo said: "Our government is unshaken in the belief that, in our state structure, the judiciary should be independent (to the fullest extent of the meaning that can be given to the phrase).

Our recognition is that an independent judiciary is the strongest guarantee for the protection of the rights of our citizens. We believe that an independent judiciary is the bedrock of the stability of our nation. We believe that only an independent judiciary could be the guarantor of the rale of law. So. within this focus and within this framework, our government has

climate

legislatively created the structure to give effect to true and meaningful judicial independence."

He affirmed that Government has repeatedly and publicly so declared; and asserted that judges, in their adjudicatory role, are not in any way subjected to any form of improper, inappropriate or unwarranted governmental influence.

"That is a matter of which we in this present administration are exceptionally proud, and I make this claim without fear of contradiction.

While we respect the separation of powers, we promote comity among the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary." the Prime Minister declared.

Nagamootoo said that not only does the local judiciary enjoy independence when it decides issues betw een citizen and citizen, or betw een citizen and the state; it also has independence over its administrative machinery. its registries and then personnel. "More importantly, however, our government, by legislative intervention, recognised the judiciary as a constitutional agency and made provision for its financial independence by ensuring that the state provides adequate resources for the judiciary to perform its functions."

The Prime Minister said, in sum. that the judiciary of Guyana enjoying adjudicatory, institutional and financial independence may be a first for the Commonwealth Caribbean. "...a recent achievement since our assumption of office," he declared.

welcoming

- says Vice President, European Investment Bank

By Alva Solomon The economic link between Brazil and Guyana via the Linden/Lethem Road can become a reality, as Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Pim van Ballekom, believes the business climate in Guyana is "welcoming".

While addressing members of the media at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston.

Georgetown on Friday evening. van Ballekom said he and other officials of the EIB had met with President David Granger. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. and other Government officials, and had discussed a range of possibilities in a well-prepared encounter.

Van Ballekom. on his first visit here, said that in addition to discussions on the local energy sector, the parties discussed the Guyana/

Brazil economic link, and he asserted that there are four separate projects which fall under that linkage, among which are the Linden/Lethem road link, a hydropower project, and the rehabilitation of the Georgetown Harbour ~ projects which he opined should be undertaken separately.

Since they are large projects. van Ballekom said, it is up to the promoter ~ in this case the Government ~ to determine whether they should be Public/Private Partnership projects, or solely Government-funded.

He said the EIB may look for a partner, such as the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). to undertake funding, since it does not provide 100 per cent funding for such large projects.

He said the Georgetown harbour being the possible initial project, it "will be a good thing", and he opined

that it would provide access to larger container ships. He noted that, as a stand-alone project, it would be beneficial to Guyana's economy.

He said the EIB possesses "impressive" technical expertise in that field, as it funds habours all across the world. "So our expertise is also available for Guyana." van Ballekom added.

As regards the Linden/ Lethem Road, the top EIB official said he was informed that it is a project which is long overdue. He said a Government minister informed that the roadway should have been built some 55 years ago.

He described that project as one which is "mature", and said the task now is to examine and realise it.

The EIB has not undertaken operations here since 2000. and the visiting team's trip is aimed at engaging both the private and public sectors.

n

Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, Pim van Ballekom (centre) is flanked

by European Ambassador to Guyana Jernej Videtic (left) and EIB Loan Officer Angel Diez Fraile. Here he addresses the media at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown on Friday evening van Ballekom said Government officials raised similar projects during the discussions. and he described the situation as well coordinated.

To this end. he said, if the EIB is to re-engage funding projects here, "we want to have people who are focused on the priorities". He also noted that Guyana is in order. van Ballekom said the EIB is eager to engage the private entities, either directly or via the commercial banks; since the latter would

be familiar with the business opportunihes on offer.

While describing the EIB as financially sound, he said it makes interventions when the economic climate is not favourable. He pointed out that the EIB's mandate is to bridge financial gaps when other banking inshtutions are not willing to so do. van Ballekom also visited the ports in Georgetown.

His visit follows meetings in Suriname. According to a release from the EIB. European Ambassador to Guyana

Jernej Videtic said the office is delighted to welcome the EIP delegation.

He said investment and financing opportunities will be welcome without doubt, both for the private sector and in light of the country's green agenda.

The EIB is described as the largest multilateral public bank in the world, and 10 per cent of its lending targets investments outside of the European Union.

It is owned directly by the 28 EU member states.

22

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

mI

k

r

AMlH

Protecting,

preserving

I

T'llliwn ,

a

Lr

MOU

fr:>

I

4#

9 n President Granger is presented with a token of appreciation during the Launch of Indigenous Heritage Month 2016 THE Indigenous peoples of Guyana make up over ten percent of our population, and reside in 215 communities scattered across 30,000 square kilometres of our national territory. In honour of their heritage, Guyana observes Indigenous Heritage Month in the month of September.

This year, the month is being observed under the theme "Our Culture, Earth s Future; Saving the Enviromnent, Live the Indigenous Way".

The culture of the Indigenous Peoples of Guyana serves

promnlgating

the

I

mi

■ •. ■*

and

as a core foundation of our patrimony; and as our first peoples, the protection, preservation and promulgation of their cultural heritage is therefore enshrined in the Constitution of Guyana. At the opening ceremony of the Indigenous Peoples festivities'. President David Granger renewed Govermnent's commitment to ensuring that the right to the preservation of the heritage of Indigenous peoples is not diminished.

However, the President acknowledged that the cultural heritage of our Indige-

A SIDE PRESIDENT DAVID GRANGER

nous communities is under threat due to issues affecting them, including the slow pace of economic growth within communities, and limited economic activity over the past two decades. The President said that issues such as these have caused not only distress, but, in many cases, the loss of human capital due to migration. These concerns add to the existence of social issues, such as low levels of education, vector-borne diseases, trafficking in persons, teenage pregnancy, crime, and other social ills.

The President has said that though significant strides have been made by the Indigenous Peoples, there still exists inequality in hinterland conununities. Since taking up office, the Head of State has also outlined key areas of interest, and proposed solutions that hold the key to developing the way of life of the Indigenous Peoples of Guyana.

With education as a major focus on his agenda, the President has pushed the importance of education in these communities. While speaking at the Heritage Day Celebrations at Mainstay/ Whyaka, at Pomeroon-Supenaam, the President said, "We, too, have an obligation to our children: that if the children are to be productive citizens, we, their parents and grandparents, have to make sure that we plan for their education, upbringing and welfare." He added that education must also include Information Communication Technology (ICT,) so as to stay on par with the ever changing technological age.

At this event, the President also announced that Government would seek to develop ICT by ensuring that every public building — particularly schools, hospitals and airports ~ is equipped with WIFI.

President Granger has also plugged entrepreneurship as a means of economic advancement for the hinterland communities. During visits to communities across the country, the President has urged citizens to develop the spirit of entrepreneurship, which will serve as a means of tackling unemployment in those areas while they utilise the abundance of resources the hinterland has to offer.

Efforts to promote entrepreneurial development can be seen through establishment of the Hinterland Employment Youth Service (HEYS), which is aimed at providing skills training for approximately 2,000 young people in those areas. The HEYS initiative was announced by President David Granger last year at the National Toshaos Conference, and it is now coordinated by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs.

Vice-President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Mr. Sydney Ahicock, has described the HEYS initiative as a progranune aimed at investing in, and strengthening, the youth, as the Indigenous Peoples need strong leadership to help them to move fonvard successfully.

Plans to expand the initiative, the Minister said, are well

■Jl

X,1 ft

on the way, since investing in young people is an investment in the future wellbeing of the Indigenous Peoples. "It is our intention to inject into the curriculum of HEYS a cooperative module, because we believe in the ways of the Indigenous Peoples is to be working together. Unity is strength. We expect that our youths will strengthen the resolve of the Indigenous Peoples of Guyana to self-determine and to attain a higher level of economic independence," the Minister said.

President Granger has also commended the Ministry for helping to push entrepreneurial development, stating that it creates an enabling and empowering enviromnent for young entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, the push toward entrepreneurship is also seen as a gateway for the development of value-added products, as residents will move to make use of farm produce beyond raw production. But moving towards the improvement of the lives of our Indigenous Peoples must also come with administrative policies which would seek to ensure that priorities are managed and that their interests are addressed in a timely and responsible manner.

Apart from the Ministry,

i-

4

IS n IN HIS OWN WORDS 44 Indigenous Heritage Month is a celebration of the breadth and the wealth of Guyana's indigenous cultures. It is a month to savour our diversity.

It is a month to take action to preserve this rich culture; to protect, to promote and to preserve the customs and traditions of our Indigenous peoples - the Akawaio, the Arawak, the Arecuna, the Carib, the Makushi, the Patamona, the Wai-Wai, the Wapishana and the Warrau.

' .... rs The President interacts with students from Barima-Waini (Region One) during a visit to commission a school bus under the Five Bs Initiative

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

23 V'

1 m

: f*-

"f V,

ViMfL

4 ^ -? ► I

#

A

mi

I

I Hgeis^

.W f -,-1

SE".**

IvJ ^ y;;

4

" 2' i.;

VI

i

1

/'

■?/

MLTJI

k%C21

■ ,. ■ 7J>

HX

j \J I \JM

:;

jr.*~ S

'sa ' /:

V

4

1

cr'-

1

"«

dfl

i^

\ -

L\

-

s v ^ Xs-' -

V -

«t<

N

i

—

The Surama Dancers are one of the country's most recognised Indigenous culture groups and have travelled across the country to perform at several events the structures responsible for managing the affairs of Indigenous Peoples are the National Toshaos Council (NTC) and the Village Councils located within individual communities. The NTC meets annually to discuss matters affecting Indigenous communities and to implement decisions that seek to solve their concerns.

It was at the National Toshaos Conference in 2015 that President Granger outlined a 10-point action plan for the hinterland region.

The Plan sought to address issues such as youth employment, infrastmcture, tourism, culture preservation, land titling, and other areas which develop hinterland communities.

At opening of the Tenth Annual National Toshaos Council Meeting in August this year. Minister Allicock said the Ministry he heads has made considerable progress with the implementation of the plan.

The Minister also encouraged the Toshaos to bring to the fore issues affecting the people, so that the conununities could get the best representation and have their concerns addressed. Meanwhile, President David Granger called for the establishment of a five-person National Indigenous People's Authority which will oversee and monitor the implementation of decisions taken by the NTC and other local indigenous bodies, and aid in better administering the affairs of the Indigenous Peoples within individual communities.

"It is... very difficult for a single annual conference to ex-

a

i :-Vs >• •

1

£

^mx

.

have resonated with the people w ithin many of the conununities, who believe that working together would also help hinterland communities to move forward. These words were echoed by Regional Chairman of the Barima-Waini region (Region One), Mr. Brentnol Ashley, on the occasion of the conmussioning of the twelfth school bus to the region under the President's Five Bs Progranune.

"I firmly believe that the issue of development needs all people on board. Every one of us has the God-given responsibility to better our

community," Mr. Ashley said.

But overall, it is believed that the betterment that Government is aiming for can be achieved only through a collaborative effort of all Ministries, Indigenous communities and other stakeholders. The Ministry is therefore collaborating with other Ministries to address issues of infrastructural, social and other issues that need addressing, while also looking to develop other projects and strategies that would aid in improving the lives of our Indigenous Peoples.

GUYANA IS WE OWN

President Granger greets a student from Mabaruma Primary School during a visit to Barima-Waini (Region One) ecute day-to-day management of these complex problems of which I have spoken about over such a vast area from north to south and east to west.

The conference must therefore ask itself whether there can be a different administrative approach to resolving these problems, rather than meeting once a year and not being able to monitor the implementation of your decision for 365 days," he said.

The President said that body would not take away from the role of the NTC or the Ministry, but would aid in the effective implementation of decisions taken by the Council.

This year's conference also sought to deal with

amendments to the Amerindian Act, which has received proposals to be renamed the Indigenous Peoples Act; as well as effects of mining in hinterland communities and land titling concerns, the latter of which remains a top priority for Govermnent.

On the September 2 edition of the Public Interest, President Granger explained that the matter of land titling would be addressed expeditiously by his government.

"My intention is to re-estabhsh a form of Indigenous Peoples Lands Commission. This is what I have conmutted to, so that demarcation can be done to the satisfaction of both sides. I don't feel it is fair for us to go further into the future

without dealing with this issue. Land is life for the Indigenous Peoples; they are not interested in house lots, they want land to hunt, farm, fish, cut timber... We have to deal with this issue once and for all... This is my commitment to the Indigenous Peoples, and it is going to happen," the President said.

The President has, however, continued to spread his message on the benefits of education, entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency as a means of encouragement for hinterland communities to aid in their own development, even as the administration continues to work toward infrastructural measures.

The President's words

This country is our country and we will

the President and this

<*x

nation to let it remain as Guyana. Why should other conn

power to come and suppress usPWewill stand up in solidarity I

guyanaisweown.com

U AMES (Mar. 21-April 20) Your energy will be high. Put your time and energy into home improvement. Look to a close friend for advice. Communication will be your strong point and you should be able to persuade others to see things your way. Your luckiest events next week will occur on Friday.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) If they're too demanding, reconsider this union. Chances to express your ideas and beliefs can bring popularity as long as you're not arrogant. Use discrimination and play haid to get. Do not overspend on entertainment. Your luckiest events next week will occur on Friday.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Chances to express your ideas and beliefs can bring popularity as long as you're not arrogant. You need to interact with others if you want to expand your knowledge. Don't hesitate to come right out and ask for the pertinent information. Get back into the swing of things. Your luckiest events next week will occur on Sunday.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Problems with your boss could lead to unemployment. Most partner problems are a result of both people not living up to their promises. Take a close look at contracts and agreements that have been offered to you. Those you live with may be experiencing problems.

Your luckiest events next week will occur on Thursday.

c

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You're in a high cycle for romance. Your home environment appears to be a little shaky. Don't let your work and your personal life interfere with each other. Educational pursuits can bring interesting, helpful people. Your luckiest events next week will occur on Thursday VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Be aware that you might be at fault as well. Work on legitimate financial deals that may enable you to bring in some extra cash.

You can make money if you are careful not to let it trickle through your fingers. You can make positive changes in your home. Your luckiest events next week will occur on Monday.

LIBRA (Sept 24 - Oct. 23) Your ability to work with detail will bring recognition. Your high energy, original ideas, and excellent memory will aid your accomplishments. Try to include the one you love in your plans next week. Get involved in physical activities that will stimulate you. Your luckiest events next week will occur on Tuesday.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Don't let relatives stand in the way of your personal plans. You need to do more research before you make your final decision. Organize social events or family gatherings. Spend some time on yourself. Your luckiest events next week will occur on Saturday.

M

SAGITTAMUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) Don't be too quick to judge your loved ones. Deal with the needs of children and get into groups that deal with self-awareness. Make changes in your domestic scene. Deception is evident around you.

Your luckiest events next week will occur on Thursday.

CAPMCORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Try to deal with the problems of those less fortunate; however, don't allow them to make unreasonable demands. Take care that arrangements to spend quality time with a loved one is made in advance. Your dynamic, determined approach will win favors as well as a helping hand. Your luckiest events next week will occur on Wednesday AQUAMUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) You could be cornered, so be prepared to tell the truth. Take your time be fore making personal decisions. Get involved in creative projects that could turn into moneymaking ventures. Don't be too quick to judge. Your luckiest events this month will occur on Monday.

PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) You can make a difference if you're willing to stand up and be counted. This will not be the day to start new business ventures or make drastic changes in your career. This may not be the day to get involved in risky joint financial ventures. Your luckiest events this month will occur on Tuesday

z

S

V

L

L

E

D O M

w

\

H

A

R

A

N

M

E

G

1

R

1

T

R

O

A

Z

F

Y W

O

E

D

V

A

T

F

T

C

u

E

S

A

H

u

N

T

S

ISSUE15 CROSSWORD ANSWER 2 E D T N B C • a G A Z A 12 L E 0rR 1 E s O L D " 1" 15 F UA N N E L S H 1 R T S 17 E G G T E D 1" 18 19 ■ 20 u* G E S O D O M T 0 M R 1 P AH S O F A 21 22 23 E Y E N F L S T A F F 25 26 271" 28 29 30 N A G S E L ,6 A N E E ■ 32 ■ A T A R S IL S C H 31 33 35 E P A M E A I ■ " 36 38 39 P RjE s E N T A T 1 " N S " ■ 1 ■ E IN ■ A D A M WO E 40 41 43 N OG K Y R A 11 N N W ■ ■ 1 44 45 H46 5. Shoe fastener 47 6. Maximum effort 48 49 50 51 52 7. Endurable ■ >3 54 55 8. Threaded nail ■ 56 57 58 9. Hathaway of "The Intern" I 10. Red root 1 11.Bed ACROSS 39. Country resort 17. Ain't, correctly 1. Parts of plays 40. Singer Redding 19. Actress Armstrong 5. Chem. rooms 42. Plymouth Colony 21. Min. part 9. As easy as leader John 22. Pueblo Indian 12. extinguisher 44. Lunar loop 23. " Island with You" 13 Baldwin or Guinness 46. Greek letter (2 wds.)

14. Recent (prefix) 47. Reason a team has to 24. Bob and Liddy 15. Pigeontravel (2 wds.)

27. Rise 16. Benny Goodman's 49. Elation 29. Between instrument 53. Documentary-maker 30. Scourge 18. Lincoln or Vigoda Burns 33. Mud bath sites 20. Adjust back to zero 54. English school 35. Wolf Blitzer's channel 21. Glistened 55. They take more than 37. Pass (2 wds.)

24.Sunup their share 41. Striped cat 25. Geologic period 56. Request 43. Pale 26. Messy person 57. Tim of "WKRP" 44. Has invoices 28. Bill 58. Horn's sound 45. Military rating 31 Busy bee at tax time 46. Be undecided (abbr.)

47. Wanted poster inits.

DOWN 48.

Me (Fr.) 32. Goes door-to-door 1. Towards the stern 50. Bathroom, to a Brit.

34. Singer Davis 2. AFL's partner 51. Self-esteem 36. Verb suffix 3. Uno plus due 52. Superlative suffix 38. Biden. informally 4. Kind of car c

Nm M Ckruicle Horosco

9

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016 0

24

FK OSS 3 6 ■ ■

C A

H

L

A

W A Y

N G 1 N G

ADAPT ADJUST ALTER AMEND BEND COIL CONTORT CONVERT CURL DIMINISH EVOLVE GARBLE MODIFY MODULATE MOVE MUTATE PIVOT REMODEL RENOVATE

in 7

SI3 10 11

E

R

P

c

T

H

G

E W A

1

R

P

G

1

R

R

F

Y

O

A

U

R

A

R

D W

G

1 W R T E E

D

B

C

A

A

G

R

T

T

J

L

N

T

Y

C

L

V

L

O

U

E

H

A

F

R W

E

R

A

O

S

T

D

D

1

E

P

R

A

U

1

N

G

L

T

M

N

N

D

N

1

W

1

R

M

N

E

E

1

N

E

E

O O

V

T

T

N

T

R

1

C

V

1

B

M

M

V

O

C

H W K

A

1

M

N

P

O

A G

A

T

E

C

O

1

L

Y

U

1

S

O U

L

T

R

N

R

U

T

N

E

A

Q

D

T

T

1

E

V

T

S W

1

U

S

D

E

C

O

N

V

E

R

S

V E L | W T

RETOOL SHIFT SPIN SQUIRM SWIVEL TRANSFORM TURN TWINE TWIRL TWIST VARY WARP WEAVE WIND WRAP WRIGGLE WRINKLE ZIGZAG

T

ISSUE #15 W0RDFIND ANSWER (T U R N T (K C

SI A W) P

L L tJl Ml

IN-

CRN Y .u i \s.

TTro rtJ PT ERA

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

Gotham's

Politics And The

(from page 7) tried to upstage and deliberately outflank the mayor on his own turf solely to embarrass him. Cuomo's infantile reaction to the mayor's request for control of the city's public school system was laughable as was his behavior over the Pre-K and housing programs championed by the mayor.

Cuomo just had to show everybody who was "the boss."After DeBlasio called him out for his petty spite and really stupid shenanigans there were attempts to patch things up but they will never be buddies.

The reason? Cuomo is an arrogant control freak and DeBlasio, for all his gentleman's qualities, will have nothing of it. He's not going to be a "yes man" to a governor who always wants to have his way and anyone who opposes him will "draw his fire and ire So now we're nearly at the end of 2016 and going into an election year.

While Gotham's political elites are hoping to find a suitable and qualified candidate to run against DeBlasio, aided and abetted behind the scenes by Governor Cuomo, the lift may be a very, very tall one indeed.

I'm no a betting man, but my money is on DeBlasio for a second term. Cuomo et al can jack up Bronx Borough President Reuben Diaz or Brooklyn Congressman Hakeem Jefferies all they want but DeBlasio will have a good record to run on for his first term. Plus, Diaz does not have the

No ... Gov

By Alva Solomon PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo has told a high-level conference of jurists that Government does not interfere with the work of the judiciary, and that the administration is committed to its independence in the discharge of its duties.

A lawyer by training, the Prime Minister made the remark during the feature address made at the Monday opening of the conference of Commonwealth Magistrates' and Judges' Associahon, being held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown. This conference is being held under the theme "The Judiciary as Guarantors of the Rule of Law".

Nagamootoo said that in the democracies which constitute the Commonwealth "that guarantee provides a measure of comfort to our people and is an assurance of freedom and stability." He noted that since the APNU+AFC administration's assumption of office in May 2015. "we have made a conscious and determined effort at giving recognition and meaning to the

name recognition in the other boroughs that the mayor has nor can he bank on the counties political clubs to back him against DeBlasio - even Bronx.

But here are the reasons why I believe that New Yorkers will re-elect Bill DeBlasio. Let's start with some of his accomplishments.

• He settled long outstanding labor contracts covering approximately 300,000 public-sector union members.

• His municipal ID card program is hugely successful and popular among a majority of New Yorkers - not only the undocumented and immigrant communities.

The program has issued 850,000 ID cards and given thousands of immigrants their first real form of NYC identification.

• Paid sick leave - knocked out of the political ballpark. Especially popular among working women - a key constituency.

• Free universal pre-K for more than 100,000 kids - many living in at-risk and low-income neighborhoods ACROSS ALL FIVE BOROUGHS. • His Administration in a relatively short time has reduced the NYCHA repairs backlog by investing in long-needed infrastructure.

• He's answered the media's whining about access by making town hall meetings now routine.

• Finally, DeBlasio has made it his

25

DeBlasio

business to travel to long neglected middle-class neighborhoods like Bay Ridge, Brooklyn; Staten Island, and Throgs Neck in the Bronx, listening and dealing with important quality-of-life issues.

The point is that while his detractors and political enemies were eating up their time trying to nit-pick and undermine the mayor, he has been focused on getting things done, and making his presence felt in all corners of the city. Mayor DeBlasio also goes into next year with unprecedented low crime rates (he's also put 1,000 additional cops on the streets), rising test scores in education, a stuttering, but consistent job creation program, and unquestioned fiscal stability.

For me, barring any major unforeseen issue or legal witch-hunt, it's exceedingly hard to see anyone beating Bill DeBlasio.

With these accomplishments and the last quarter of 2016 not done yet, the soft-spoken mayor has the advantage. I'm sure that those who first thought that a Reuben Diaz or Hakeem Jeffries were great alternatives to the gentleman mayor are now having second thoughts because he's succeeding despite the many obstacles in his path.

I think that Congressman Hakeem Jeffries - a rising star in the Democratic Party and in the US Congress - just played it coy to keep his name "out there." After all its just cheap publicity that can't hurt.

DeBlasio does face some political irrita-

Conundrum tion from a newly formed organization called "NYC Deserves Better." Launched

by Bradley Tusk, a former advisor to Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the group's stated aim is to make DeBlasio a "oneterm mayor." But that's easier said than done and it has to do with demographics.

While Mayor DeBlasio has lost support among white voters, he's holding steady in other demographics particularly Blacks and Hispanics. Fact is DeBlasio does not need a majority of the white vote to win re-election because the numbers speak for themselves. Presently, there are approximately 3.6 million white people living in New York City compared to about 2.0 million Blacks and 2.3 million Hispanics/Latinos, and "other races" make up just about 1 million. So no matter how you cut it, slice it, or dice it, the math favors Bill DeBlasio. If white voters are so pissed off with DeBlasio they will vote for his opponent then his path to victory will be so much easier.

As for running a Republican? Not gonna fly this time. Right now with people like Donald Trump and Rudy Giuliani yapping and screaming very few New Yorkers will bolt to the Republican Party.

Again, the math is simple we now have a 7-1 Democratic advantage in New York City.

Me? I'm putting my money on "The Tall Man" from Park Slope.

interference 'treaffirms commitment to independent judiciary

declaration adopted on the 24th September. 2012 by the United Nations General Assembly at the High Level Meeting on the Rule of Law. which reaffirmed that: "Human rights, the Rule of Law and democracy are interlinked and mutually reinforcing, and that they belong to the universal and indivisible core values and principles of the United Nations."

Nagamootoo said Government is conscious of the dishnchon that must be made between "rule by law", whereby Government erroneously places itself above the law. and the "rule of law", which implies that everyone in society, including the Government, is bound by the law.

"It is on the latter that we have rested the stracture of Government, recognising that constitutional limits on the exercise of governmental authority - which is a key feature of any democracy - require adherence to the rule of law. Indeed, the quality of governance is defined by observance of the rule of law. Good governance depends

on it" Nagamootoo said in his remarks.

Currently performing the duties of President while President David Granger attends the United Nations General Assembly. Nagamootoo told the conference that in recent times, constitutional reformers and law-makers have adopted liberal concepts in the approach to governance.

"First we recognised that there should be clear limits to the power of the Execuhve. or Government. We recognised that Government exercises its authority through publicly disclosed laws that are adopted and enforced by (an) independent judiciary with established and accepted procedmes. We are committed to the principle of 'equality before the law', and that the law must apply equally to the Government and the governed," he explained.

INDEPENDENCE On the issue of judicial independence. Nagamootoo said: "Our government is unshaken in the behef that, in our state

structure, the judiciary should be independent (to the llillest extent of the meaning that can be given to the phrase). Our recognihon is that an independent judiciary is the strongest guarantee for the protechon of the rights of our citizens. We beheve that an independent judiciary is the bedrock of the stability of our nation. We believe that only an independent judiciary could be the guarantor

created the stracture to give effect to true and meaningful judicial independence."

He affirmed that Government has repeatedly and publicly so declared; and asserted that judges, in their adjudicatory role, are not in any way subjected to any form of improper, inappropriate or unwarranted governmental influence.

"That is a matter of which

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo addressing the conference of the rule of law. So. within this focus and within this framework, our government has legislatively

we in this present administration are exceptionally proud, and I make this claim without fear of

contradiction. While we respect the separation of powers, we promote comity among the Execuhve. the Legislature and the Judiciary." the Prime Minister declared.

Nagamootoo said that not only does the local judiciary enjoy independence when it decides issues between citizen and citizen, or between citizen and the state; it also has independence over its administrative machinery, its registries and their personnel. "More importantly, however, our government by legislative intervention, recognised the judiciary as a constitutional agency and made provision for its financial independence by ensuring that the state provides adequate resources for the judiciary to perform its fimctions."

The Prime Minister said, in sum. that the judiciary of Guyana enjoying adjudicatory. institutional and financial independence may be a first for the Commonwealth Caribbean. "...a recent achievement since our assumption of office," he declared.

26

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

MUMS CHAIRS HEARING ON SURVEYING CITY'S VACANT PROPERTIES NEW YORK, NY: Yesterday, the New York City Council's Committee on Housing and Buildings, chaired by Council Member Jumaane D. Williams, Deputy Leader, held a hearing to discuss four bills that would survey and quantify the City's vacant buildings and lots.

The Committee discussed the follow- Member Williams, would require the Deing four bills. Three of the bills (Int. 1034, partment of Housing Preservation and De1036, and 1039) make up the Housing, velopment ("HPD") to conduct annual Not Warehousing Act surveys of all city-owned properties to • Int. 0307, sponsored by Public identify vacant buildings or lots that may Advocate Letitia James would require the be suitable for affordable housing. HPD installation of internal metal security pan- would also be required to seek cooperaels on buildings that have remained vacant tion with the federal and state government and insufficiently secured for more than to identify similar state or federal government-owned vacant properties in the city six months.

• Int. 1034, sponsored by Public that could be suitable for affordable housAdvocate Letitia James would require ing. HPD would also need to submit an owner of any real property in the City to annual report to the Mayor and Speaker register the property as vacant upon it identifying such properties and making being vacant one year. Registrations recommendations on rezoning and/or dewould need to be renewed annually and velopment.

"New York is in a severe housing crifailure to comply would result in a fine besis," said Council Member Williams. tween $100 - $500 per week.

• Int. 1036, sponsored by Council "Countless New Yorkers are unable to find Member Ydanis A. Rodriguez would re- quality housing. This package of bills, quire the Mayor or an agency to conduct which includes possible measures to use an annual census of vacant properties in the City's vacant properties for affordable coordination with the Department of housing, is a strong step toward fixing the Housing Preservation of Development, City's housing shortage." the Department of Environmental ProtecDuring the hearing, testimony was tion, the Department of Buildings, the De- given by Picture the Homeless (PTH), partment of Sanitation, the Fire Housing Preservation & Development, the Department and any other relevant agen- Department of Finance, the Department of cies . The Mayor or the designated agency Buildings, Department of Citywide Adminwill also be required to compile a list of istrative Services, and the Fire Department. vacant properties as a result of the census.

"Tonight, over 60,000 New Yorkers • Int. 1039, sponsored by Council will sleep in our homeless shelters while

Acquire

countless housing units sit vacant throughout the city," said Public Advocate James. "By counting vacant properties and working with their owners, the Housing Not Warehousing Act will provide us with a tremendous opportunity to develop more desperately-needed affordable housing for low-income New Yorkers."

Vacant properties are pervasive throughout New York City, yet there is no authoritative citywide count of vacant buildings and lots. A2011 census conducted by Hunter College and Picture the Homeless found enough vacant buildings and land in just 20 community districts to create housing for 199,981 people. The Housing, Not Warehousing Act would empower the city to comprehensively quantify vacancies citywide, and are a crucial step to mitigate and solve the housing crisis and unparalleled level of homelessness in New York City.

"The thousands of vacant lots in our city provide so much potential for affordable housing, it's past time we take action," said Council Member Rodriguez. "Homelessness is reaching record levels while landlords warehouse land and apartments.

We need to start holding these owners accountable to the needs of our city residents.

I'm proud to lead in these efforts alongside

Networking

your friendships with those whom you wish to have as part of your netmentality that focuses on the process working circle. As you become more of cultivating referrals over a period Spend more time strengthening and more visible in your business of time will create the results you decommunity, you'll develop credibility.

People will recognize that you're here for the Place Your Advertisement in this paper long haul, and you'll begin to receive quality referrals. Seek opportuAND SEE YOUR BUSINESS GROW nities to be even more visible, then think out We offer affordable rates of the box and be more creative.

WE ALSO INVITE PROMOTERS TO ADVERTISE YOUR APPROACH COUNTS

THEIR EVENTS WITH US.

Call

Dennis

(917)

Nelson

@

379-6590

or email him @ dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.com To Secure Your Place In This Paper

"Uii "Hi «"i "'"i II

■: wrf

my colleagues Council Member Williams and Public Advocate James."

"Right now, vacant properties are invisible," said PTH member Arvemetta Henry. "No one notices. The city doesn't know what's going on, how widespread the problem is, so how can they develop real solutions? But with the Housing Not Warehousing Act, we would know."

Business

sire. Too many times professionals try to hasten the time frame expecting to grow their networks overnight.

(from page 17)

'in

Keep in mind that you're not marketing to your referral sources. In effect, you're actually training a sales force.

Your networking team is there to keep an eye out for potential clients.

When you communicate exactly what type of client you're looking for, better and more qualified referrals will result. This skill set is

Skills

especially productive when you're meeting regularly with a strong contact networking communique. The difference between trying to say it all and focusing on one aspect of your business occasionally is a task by itself.

Create a unique selling proposition to make sure your ads and other marketing materials stand out from the competitions. What you have to impress on prospective customers is the added value they can expect when they establish a relationship with you and your team. But by all means rely on that fundamental principle of the unique selling proposition when it comes to doing the groundwork necessary to develop your communications plan for business networking.

Whether you're a startup or reinventing yourself, by identifying the essential core elements, can help build your company's name and reputation. This will get you moving thru this crisis and building the three F's . . . Foundation, Fame and Fortune. "/f is always better to have information and not need it than to need it and not have it."

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending September 23, 2016

We

got

to

27

stamp

it

out

- Minister Lawrence alarmed at rate of child abuse in Linden

By Vanessa Braithwaite WITH 52 cases of child sexual abuse and 267 cases of child abuse in Linden in the first seven months of the year, Social Protection Minister Volda Lawrence said serious attention is being paid to 'stamp out' the situation.

She gave the assurance at a rally in observance of Child Protection . themed 'Break the silence' on Wednesday in the mining town of Linden.

Lawrence told the well-attended rally that her ministry and the Child Protection Department have serious business to 'take care of in Region 10 and no one should be silent.

"We are silent because we want to wear a ring; some of us. we are silent because we want people to know we have a partner; some of us. we are silent because we owe Courts; we owe Singers; we want things; some of us. we are silent because we gotta pay the rent; we gotta eat; we gotta live and some of us. we are silent because we too were abused and some parents are very bold to tell their children so what if it happen to you. it happen to me too." she pointed out.

Lawrence said investigations suggest that the figures are way higher than what is reported and because of this, her ministry is in action mode.

"I've started to do myself and my staff and we are here in Linden today but even as we set out to do. we need you to hold our hands, we need you to reach out and touch, we need you to give hope to those persons who are afraid to come forward."

She also urged persons to address other social issues. and called on teachers and health workers to play a role in breaking the silence.

LENGTHY PROCESS Minister Lawrence also bemoaned the bureaucrat-

|b.ir

n

a â&#x20AC;˘* -TV

:

KS

fj

*

<4

je.At left: Pandit Surij Sunm Childcare Protection Agency Director Ann Greene; Minister Lawrence and UNICEF Deputy Representative Paolo Marchi at the Linden rally ic process of bringing the abusers to justice. She said too many battles are lost in court because of insufficient evidence as a result of limited investigations.

"It takes too long; at the end of the day you are dealing with a child and the child is tired... the case started when the child is three, the child is 33 and the case still going on."

The Social Protection Ministry is engaging the Chancellor of the Judiciary, the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Attorney General to put more efficient systems in place to address the situation.

"That is why the Ministry of Social Protection welcomes the night courts, because we believe that it will work in our interest and the public's interest."

SHORTCOMINGS The minister also pointed out that there are far too few officers to deal with the many cases from Region 10. but the ministry is in the process of strengthening the regional office and will forge closer collaboration with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and other stakeholders.

Child Care Protection Agency Director Ann Green said reported cases of child abuse are just a tip of the iceberg, noting that child

sexual abuse is a hidden crime.

She pointed out that most of the children are silent because they are too young to speak or to even understand what is going on.

Greene stressed that abuse mostly occurs in the home and by trusted persons, and parents should be cautious in whose care their child is left.

Deputy Representative of UNICEF Paolo Marchi underscored that breaking the silence is everyone's responsibility.

"We need to work together. we need to break the silence, breaking the silence is every body's business... if we fail to act today, if we fail to act tomorrow, we are failing our children." he affirmed.

Representatives of faithbased organisations and other stakeholders in Region 10. including the Regional Democratic Council, the Mayor and Town Council, the Guyana Police Force and the Linden Hospital Complex also spoke at the rally.

The rally . though starting over an hour late, was well attended by schoolchildren. members of NGOs. residents and regional and Government officials.

According to statistics, in Linden from January to July, some 52 cases of child sexual abuse and 267 cases

of child abuse were recorded. During that period. 441 cases of sexual abuse and 2238 cases of child abuse were recorded countrywide.

protection Minister Vo|da Lawrence addresses the gathering in observance of Child Protection Week in Linden on Wednesday

Socia|

Child Protection Week is observed annually to increase awareness and understanding of the im-

portance of primary prevention in a bid to reduce child abuse and neglect in society.

PROFESSIONAL INCOME TAX SERVICE

Maxlmiie Your Tax Refund It's your legal right Professional Income Tax Service offers a broad range of financial and tax planning services. Please schedule an appointment to learn what we can do for your unique needs.

For AH Your Accounting 81 1Income Tax Needs We offer competitive5 prices for:

/04O

Eustace Dodson â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Tax Consultant Telephone: (718) 245-1056 email: bluetax@aol.com

CHRONICLE

hHV.-H-1 ^ ■guy^rkach rctnicHc. com

New York Edition Rugby America North (RAN) Finals

Guyana

welcomes

Argentinian

Rugby

Great Human potential - Giannantonio

By Stephan Sookram GUYANA'S Green Machine have added another trump card to their arsenal with the introduction of an Argentinian scrum coach on Tuesday.

Deiego Giannantonio was presented to the media and other ragby stakeholders during a simple ceremony at the Argentine Embassy in Georgetown yesterday, where it was announced that his stint with the unit would be just about two weeks.

In that time, he will work exclusively with the national 15s team as they prepare to play the final against their hosts Mexico on October 1.

Speaking through a translator Nicholas Frazer. the coach who arrived on Monday and begun work on Tuesday contended: "I'd like to give to you in this short time I have, some tools for this very important game against Mex-

ico.

"In the short time that I have seen them. I believe that there is great human potential in the players as well as the staff, but I believe that they must work a lot more as a team. Technically. I think that they can still get better but I see them now as very good."

m\m

Meanwhile. Argentinian ambassador said. "This is a good example for future cooperation." noting that the process on his end took three days and some assistance from the Argentine Rugby Association and Foreign Affairs Ministry.

"He (Deiego) has been working for many years

with the world of ragby. he himself was a senior member of the Pumas, the 15s national team in the 90s."

The second of the three parties involved, the Guyana Olympic Association through executive member Charles Corbin. contended that the body jumped at the Idea of support for the sport.

He noted that the GOA covered the airfare and ac-

coach

commodation for Mr Giannantonio and feels that more mixtures of cultures and tactics from coaches outside of Guyana are the way fonvard.

National coach Lawrence Adonis feels. "He (Deiego) is really and truly helping us out in our weaker parts of the game, especially in the scrams, the malls, the wraps, lineouts and so on and even some of the strac-

m

•NsHf '

_ Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnarine (left) converses with National coach Lawrence Adonis, in the presence of GRFU Patron Kit Nascimento and Ambassador Luis Alberto Martino. Robbie Roberts, Peter Green and Avery Corbin are also part of the conversation. (Samuel Maughn photo)

tures we currently have."

"It is working well for us. and we would like to see if we can keep him a bit more or have him back sometime." continued Adonis.

The third party in the agreement, the Government of Guyana, represented by Senior Minister of Education.

Dr Rupert Roopnarine. stated that sport makes for more rounded individuals.

Others in attendance at the ceremony were Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) Patron Kit Nascimento. president Peter Green, manager Robin Roberts, senior player Avery Corbin and Director of Sport Christopher Jones Meanwhile, the government also chipped in by providing $2M towards the team's preparation for the RAN finals, with the funding expected to go towards getting the team further acclimatised to the Mexican altitude.

Giannantonio will be a part of the team's touring contingent to Mexico and from there, he will return to Argentina.

A CHRONICLE SPECIAL SOUVENIR ED TION AVAILABLE NOW AT 50 YEARS IF

THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS: SPORTS

SHELL SERVICE STATION VLISSENGEN

a %

RUBIS SERVICE STATION

B

VLISSENGEN ROAD AND EPING AVENUE GUYANA CHRONICLE

a rnn ■M

HEAD OFFICE,

<,

\\\M LAMA AVENUE

i

r

BEL AIR PARK AND -

P

lb rr

VENDORS IN G/TOWN

CELEBRATING A JUBILEE ANNIVERSARY OF SPORTS IN GUYANA