Guyana chronicle new york edition e paper 2 06 2017

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ISSUE ISSUE NO. 52 No. 52

2017 ENDING WEEKWEEK ENDINGJUNE JUNE 2,2, 2017

Tracked and busted

…cocaine-in-timber suspects were on CANU radar for three months Tazim Gafoor

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Guyana’s UN Representative and NY’s Consul General hosted a Pages Cocktail Reception at 2, 16 & 17 the UN for Guyana’s 51st Independence Anniversary

Under serious threat Page 3

…Gov’t says 20 camps observed at Kaieteur National Park

‘We will not take sides’

– Guyana says Venezuela crisis should be discussed at OAS Page 6

Stephen Vieira

Tazim Gafoor

Sherwayne DeAbreu

Nazim Gafoor

Nazim Gafoor

Trial date set for Nandlall

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

Tracked and busted Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

By Clestine Juan

AFTER three months of surveillance and investigation by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), four persons were charged on Wednesday in connection with the $550 million worth of cocaine found in lumber at a sawmill in Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo a few weeks ago.

Biker, Stephen Vieira; motor racer, Nezim Gafoor and his father, Tazim Gafoor, along with Sherwayne DeAbreu appeared before Magistrate Rushell Liverpool at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court, charged with trafficking narcotics.

Vieira, 33, of Middle & Cummings Street, Georgetown; Nezim Gafoor, 20, and businessman Tazim Gafoor, 49, both of Menzies Street, Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, and Drug Enforcement Officer attached to Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Sherwayne DeAbreu of Section ‘A’ Liliendaal,

…cocaine-in-timber suspects were on CANU radar for three months – 15 witnesses to testify

East Coast Demerara, all pleaded not guilty to the charge.

It is alleged that between March 1, 2017 and May 12, 2017 at Narine Lall Enterprise Sawmill at Zeelugt, they aided Hakim Mohammed to traffic 84.986 kilograms of cocaine.

A fifth suspect, Narine Lall has been charged separately in absentia with trafficking in narcotics.

Attorney Latchmi Rahamat represented Vieira, Attorney Stanly Moore represented Nezim Gafoor, and Attorney Everton Singh-Lammy represented Tazim Gafoor, while Attor-

ney Mark Conway represented DeAbreu.

Attorney Rahamat told the court that drugs were not found in her client’s possession since he was in Jamaica preparing for a race meet during the time of the alleged drug bust. She said Vieira willingly returned to Guyana after CANU issued an arrest warrant for him. Rahamat further stressed that Vieira had no knowledge, control or possession of the drug, which are key elements in the charges.

The three other lawyers argued on the same grounds as Rahamat during their bail application. Attorney Moore

pointed out that Nezim Gafoor suffers from epilepsy and was hospitalized during the time of the investigation.

THREE MONTHS OF SURVEILLANCE But CANU Prosecutor, Konyo Sandiford objected to bail, based on the seriousness and penalty attached to the charges. Sandiford further revealed to the court that investigators have three months’ worth of surveillance footage on the four accused along with evidence by Hakim Mohammed, who cooperated with CANU. The court also heard that there are some 15 witnesses who will testify on

Under serious threat In an effort to clampdown on mining in Protected Areas, the Government of Guyana says it has launched a joint services operation in the Kaieteur National Park (KNP), where the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) had discovered, through aerial reconnaissance, 20 illegal mining camps.

On Sunday, an operation by members of the joint services as well as personnel from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) was launched, following an initial discovery of four active mines, one mine where activity was uncertain, and eight active camps inside the KNP by the PAC on February 16, 2017. Of the five mines, three had already been issued cease orders by the GGMC in 2014, with reinforcement actions as recent as 2016. Despite this and two site visits by the GGMC, following the issuance of the cease orders, at least two of the three mines still remained active, the Ministry of the Presidency said in a release.

A further reconnaissance by the GDF on May 5, 2017, less than three weeks ago, revealed that there were, at that

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time, 20 camps. At one site, there was evidence of water pollution and freshly exposed sand tailings, according to a report from the PAC. Commissioner of the PAC, Ms. Denise Fraser, in an invited comment, said illegal mining in the area has been taking place for a number of years despite repeated warnings.

Predating the above mentioned cease orders there had been efforts in 2013 to end mining activity in the Park.

“What we have found is that in some areas where miners have been previously moved, they have gone back.

So there is a need for strong actions so that a message can be sent. In 2013, five cease orders were issued by the GGMC to mining operators of mines within the Waratuk area, north-eastern boundary of the Park boundary. There were two site visits conducted by PAC and GGMC on August 10, 2014, when three mines and four camps were observed within the extreme north and north-eastern boundary of the park. This led to the issuance of three cease orders by the GGMC. In March, 2016, two flyovers were conducted by PAC and GGMC, which indicated that the mining had continued to persist within the Park

boundaries. This led to the GGMC enforcement, which resulted in the seizure of 11 engines, eight dredges and an excavator,” Ms. Fraser said.

As a result of the raid on Sunday by the members of the joint services, five camps were searched and the persons present detained.

It is reported that the dredge owners were not present during the time of the raid.

Twenty-one persons have been detained by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for illegal mining in the KNP. However, Ms. Fraser said that the PAC has been in contact with the Ministry of Natural Resources as well as the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs to ensure that the detainees have access to food and are taken care of while in custody. She noted that once released, the PAC will work with the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs to provide accommodation where necessary.

Minister of Natural Resources, Mr. Raphael Trotman, in an invited comment, said that the KNP is a national protected area and it is incumbent on the Government to send a strong message to those who are bent on breaking the law. The Minister noted that only last year six

behalf of CANU. The Magistrate ruled in the prosecution’s favour and remanded the men until June 12, 2017. Vieira had appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court earlier this month following his arrest at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) but he was released after an arrest warrant for him was discharged.

The charges come just a few days after CANU indicated that the agency is seeking international assistance to retrieve video footage that had been wiped from a Digital Video Recording (DVR) that was seized from the suspects.

CANU agents had sus-

pected that there was evidence on the device that would further link the illegal substance to the five suspects.

CANU had focused attention on the suspects following the discovery of some 84.986 kilograms (187 pounds) of cocaine worth $550M in lumber at the Lot 227 Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo premises of Mohamed.

The bust was made just as the lumber was being packed into a truck. CANU ranks had searched a truck laden with several pallets of 1×6 dressed lumber boards prepared for export. Several pieces of boards were drilled randomly by the ranks and revealed a whitish substance.

The lumber was packed at a sawmill located at Lookout, East Bank Essequibo belonging to Narine Lall, to be transported to a wharf in Georgetown and then shipped to the United States of America.

Vieira was listed on the shipping documents as a representative of the shipper, Narine Lall.

…Gov’t says 20 camps observed at Kaieteur National Park

operators were removed from the area. “Last year, we sent a team in and it was during that exercise that we even lost a member of the Guyana Police Force after the boat he was travelling capsized, and yet we have persons returning to the Park and mining. The Government must, therefore, send a strong message to the individuals because it is a national protected area and part of our national patrimony,” Minister Trotman said.

Director of the Department of Environment, Ms. Ndibi Schwiers, also weighing in on the matter said that the KNP is Guyana’s oldest protected area, famed for the world-renowned Kaieteur Falls and its rich biodiversity.

As Guyana continues to push ahead with the development of a ‘green’ economy and protection of its flora and fauna, Ms. Schwiers said that illegal mining can have debilitating effects on the economic and social well-being of the country as it is way more destructive on the environment than permitted mining as these unregulated miners are more ruthless in their operations.

“There is indiscriminate cutting of trees, which results in the loss of habitat and habitat fragmentation for the

wildlife that inhabit the area.

Specifically, birds and other wildlife that depend on the trees for their food, shelter and other forms of survival, perish. Illegal mining in the Kaieteur National Park also presents a plethora of problems for downstream communities that depend on the water for drinking and other purposes, through pollution of the water and unregulated use of chemicals to extract minerals,” she said.

Section Four of the Kaieteur National Park Act states, “It shall not be lawful for any person to enter into, travel or encamp within the park or to build any structure therein, or to hunt, chase, catch, shoot at, kill or otherwise disturb any animal or cut, pluck or gather any of the flora or interfere with or disturb the soil by mining or other operations within the park or to remove anything whatsoever from the park except in accordance with regulations made under this act. (2) Any person acting in contravention of any of the provisions of subsection (1) shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of ninety-seven thousand five hundred dollars, and anything taken by such person from the park shall be forfeited.”

Further, according to the regulations made under the Mining Act 2005, Part XXVII Section 251 (1) (a), “No person shall conduct mining and quarrying activities in the following areas- (b) In specified nature reserves and parks where resource extraction is prohibited; (c) In buffer areas without express approval of the Commission and the notification of parties likely to be affected by the activity.”

Additionally, Section 122 of the Protected Areas Act 2011 states that “Any person, except persons under the Amerindian Act, who mines, quarries, drills or removes any minerals, stone, gravel, earth, sand, or other substances or prospects for such substance in a national protected area commits an offence under paragraph (a) of the Fourth Schedule.”

The Fourth Schedule (a) states “A fine of not less than ten thousand dollars nor more than fifty thousand dollars and (f) a fine of not less than five hundred thousand dollars nor more than two million dollars and one hundred thousand dollars per day for continuance of activity with imprisonment for five years for repeating activity after the second instance.”

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

‘We will not take sides’ – Guyana says Venezuela crisis should be discussed at OAS

Courting the Diaspora

SINCE Guyana became an independent nation, elected leaders have always invited Guyanese resident abroad to return home and invest. Some have answered the call by physical remigration. Others have opted for dual residency, maintaining homes in Guyana and their adopted country. Yet others have found other ways to ‘re-migrate’ without being physically there.

Those who cannot or chose not to return, have made known various reasons for same. Some of these are jobs, financial obligations, family commitments in the adopted country, and situations such as crime, standard of living, health care, and education, which they see as comparatively worse in Guyana. There is no intent to debate or debunk the merit or demerit of any claim, but merely to acknowledge some of the push-and-pull factors for migration and emigration through the lens of Guyanese resident abroad.

That having been said, none would deny love for country and those living at home, even though in moments of crisis or concerns about the management of the country, or who has responsibility to manage it at any given time, the inclination may be to ‘done with Guyana.’ This is understood, because as a people we expect and want better for our country. Continued efforts by Guyanese in the diaspora to invest in Guyana confirm this view and it is to this view that attention is paid.

Personal remittances (PR) continue to play a major role Guyana’s economy, with figures recording in the tens of billions G$. According to World Bank data for the period 2011-2015, PR contributed 10.6 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The sending of barrels, establishment of overseas-based chapters/organisations, and various ways of collaborating with Guyanese at home, are acts of investing.

The symbiotic relationship brings with it benefits such as cross-fertilisation of cultures and skills transfer, which bode well in a diverse and competitive world economy, and the strengthening of connections between groups.

This relationship is putting new meaning to the cliché, wanting the best of both worlds, because in today’s globalised environment, it can actually happen. Being physically away from Guyana or choosing not to return (at least for the time) presents no hindrance to investing in

THE GOVERNMENT of Guyana on Monday said while it stands ready to assist the people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela during their ongoing crises, it will not be partisan and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge said no formal requests have been made by Caracas.

The two countries despite their differences usually communicate via diplomatic channels specific to Ambassadorial exchanges or the use of Notes Verbale to send messages and requests. And while assistance where needed will be provided to the Venezuelan government, Greenidge was quick to note that Guyana’s assistance should not indicate an automatic agreement with the Venezuelan government’s policies. Rather, he believes that Guyana could provide more effective assistance if it dealt fairly with all sides. “The Government of Guyana has no desire to compound the problems of Venezuela by joining one or other of the protagonists,” the Minister said.

Last week, Venezuela’s ambassador to Guyana, Reina Diaz called on the government and people of Guyana to support her country’s

Venezuela’s Ambassador to Guyana, Reina Diaz

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge

President Nicholas Maduro in his call for dialogue with the opposition, so as to end the ongoing unrests there.

The call by Guyana’s Spanish-speaking neighbour comes at a time when the United Nations has restarted the Good Offices Process between the two countries to bring to finality the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy. Venezuela has claimed ownership of two-thirds of Guyana.

The Ambassador in her plea said her country’s President is doing all he can to have a democratic resolution to the months of riots and violence occurring in the Spanish-speaking country and she believes that support from the government of Guyana, other regional governments and international bodies will aid in the reduction of what she described as acts of terrorism from radical opposition supporters. “We are grateful for the support of the governments of this region and governments of the world to respect that no ill will is shown by the State. We are grateful for a show of support for dialogue which

Guyana. Consequently, it is encouraging to see the diaspora taking on new and additional features such as investment conferences and leading business delegations to Guyana, seeking out investment opportunities and presenting investment portfolios.

What this is communicating to Guyanese at home is a pro-active nature to do something for country and self, where evidently the heart remains, and this is good. The pro-active pursuit will increase awareness and possibilities of what can be achieved when the mind conceives and acts. Where there may be questions and uncertainty as to how to proceed, the sharing of best practices and attitudes/application in dealing with issues could provide needed assurance and guidance.

With the technical help and support, issues such as time management, setting and meeting goals, customer service, civility, and the value of accountability, are practices that can be cultivated and improved at home.

Conversely, the somewhat relaxed pace of doing things in Guyana and neighbourliness lend for de-stressing and

the government has asked as a means of solving internal problems,” said Ambassador Diaz, who spoke through a translator.

Meanwhile, on Monday, Greenidge said Guyana is prepared to assist CARICOM member states and immediate neighbours where appropriate and when asked. Last year, Guyana had convened a meeting of non-governmental organizations and the private sector in the country to consider the deteriorating conditions in Venezuela. However, at the time, the Venezuelan Government was not open to receiving any material assistance that was being offered.

However, on May 25, Ambassador Diaz was invited to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where she indicated that Venezuela could benefit from Guyana’s support at international fora. Based on her request, Minister Greenidge has committed to communicating same to his government while assuring that the matter would be given the requisite attention.

Greenidge noted too that Guyana’s Ambassador to the Organization of American States (OAS), Dr. Riyad Insanally, is the current Chair of the CARICOM group to the OAS and believes that it would be appropriate to discuss the crisis at the level of the OAS. He is also of the opinion that there needs to be more dialogue on the ongoing events in Venezuela among stakeholders, including the government and opposition. Additionally, the Minister said Guyana, as a member of the Community of Caribbean and Latin American States (CELAC) met with members to resolve Venezuela’s deteriorating situation as well as the one between its Government and Opposition. This was also done at the level of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR).

meaningful interaction. While the former can at times be off-putting on matters of work, when one wants to unwind, slow down and enjoy the breeze of nature, this can be welcoming, coupled with friendliness with neighbours and on the streets, which are rarities in metropolitan societies.

Not forgetting the sea/ocean and land breeze, fresh fruits, vegetables and wild-caught seafood to name some, though rear and pricey abroad, are relatively accessible and reasonably priced at home. The taste of a ripe Buxton or spice mango devoid of chemical sprayed to preserve it, and haggling with the market vendor to reduce the price or add a special cut of meat, are things that uniquely identify Guyana. Yes, investing in Guyana allows Guyanese abroad to have the best of both worlds.

And while it is understood some may not physically want to, or cannot re-migrate, every legitimate effort made, in whatever form, helps to improve the quality of life for Guyanese, reinforces the pride of building Guyana, and makes Guyana a better place.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in articles in this newspaper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policies and views of the management of the New York Edition of the Guyana Chronicle.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

Trial date set for Nandlall MAGISTRATE Fabayo Azore has set June 8, 2017 for the commencement of the trial of former Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall, in relation to the larceny of over $2 million worth of law books from the Ministry of Legal Affairs.

This announcement was made on Monday by Magistrate Azore when Nandlall singled his intention to have the matter be tried at the Magistrate’s Court instead of at the High Court.

With that being said,

Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) Prosecutor, Patrice Henry, told the court that four statements in the matter are still outstanding.

On April 27, Nandlall was charged with Larceny

by Bailee in connection with a number of law books which he took from the Ministry of Legal Affairs, which he said was given to him by former President, Donald Ramotar, during his tenure in office.

The former AG was not required to plead to the charge, which alleged that

Former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall

he fraudulently converted 14 Commonwealth Law Reports valued at GY$2.3 million to his own use, as Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs. He was released on self-bail by Magistrate Azore.

Nandlall told reporters recently that, “The criminal justice system is being used as a political instrument,” and that he was supplied with those law books that predated a decade before his appointment.

Over the last two years, Nandlall has repeatedly confirmed that while he was AG, the law books were purchased for him by the state with approval by former president Ramotar.

Nandlall had explained that the law books are in his possession and he has no intention of returning them to the State.

He subsequently secured an order in the High Court, which bars the police from seizing the books.

Student, mason charged with death of city businessman TWO persons were placed on $450,000 bail each after they were charged for their involvement in a fatal accident at Camp and Middle Streets, Georgetown, which claimed the life of popular city businessman, Derek Mangal.

Rajkumarie Ragobeer, 23, of Eccles, East Bank Demerara and 24-year-old Steven Cox of Gordon Street, Kitty Georgetown, appeared before Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan and were charged separately with the offence of causing death by dangerous driving.

They were both represented and pleaded not guilty to the charge, which alleged that on May 29, 2017, Ragobeer drove motor car, PVV 3757 and Cox drove motor car, PVV 9843, in a dangerous manner to the public, causing the death of Mangal on Camp and Middle Streets.

Police Prosecutor Adrian Moore did not object to bail, but asked that the two be placed on substantial amount and that conditions be placed.

Bail was granted and the Chief Magistrate ordered that Ragobeer, who is a student of School of the Nations and Cox, who is a carpenter/ mason, both report every fortnight to Assistant Superintendent Fraser. They were also ordered not to make contact with or have anyone make contact with relatives

Rajkumarie Ragobeer

of the deceased. The matter was adjourned until June 21.

Mangal, the owner of Ema’s Collection at the Multiplex Mall on Regent Street was killed during a vehicular accident at the corner of Camp and Middle Streets, downtown. Reports indicated that Mangal, 45, of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, was on his motorcycle, awaiting the traffic light on the western carriageway at Camp and Middle Streets to change signal in his favour when the accident occurred.

Reports stated that Ragobeer’s car jumped the traffic light and crashed into the Toyota Raum, which was being driven by Cox. The impact reportedly caused the Toyota Raum to knock Mangal off his motorcycle and pinned him to a nearby utility post. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday May 26, 20179

Five female prisoners pardoned PRESIDENT David Granger has pardoned five women whom he considered fit and proper to receive such pardons effective from May 26 in observance of Guyana’s 51st Independence anniversary.

The President pardoned the women in accordance with the powers granted to him under article 188(2) of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

The women pardoned are Jenny Henry, 22; Neeta Shamlall, 56; Margo Gordon, 35; Cleva France, 32; and Nesha Rambaran, 44, all of the New Amsterdam Prison.

These prisoners have

Neeta Shamlall

Cleva France

Margo Gordon

Jenny Henry

Nesha Rambaran

served a portion of their respective sentences for offences ranging from larceny,

fraud and assault causing bodily harm; a release from the Ministry of Public Secu-

rity said.

“It is expected that this expression of compassion

and humanity by His Excellency will result in families being re-united, and the

pardoned offenders leading good and useful lives hereon,” the release concluded.

Suspected pirates charged with murder TWO men, suspected of being pirates, appeared before Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday, charged with the murder of Corentyne boat captain, Mahadeo Ramdeholl, also known as ‘Chico.’

Another man, Devanand Singh, was also charged with accessory to murder.

Kemraj Narahsay, 38, and Dodnauth Singh, 57, both fishermen from Rose Hall, Corentyne, were not required to plead to the capital offence.

It is alleged that the duo on May 16, 2017 in the river between Tain Village and Rose Hall on the Corentyne foreshore, murdered the 57-year-old boat captain during an armed robbery.

They were represented

by Attorney-at-law, Chandra Sohan and were remanded to prison until June 5, 2017.The matter was transferred to the Whim Magistrate’s Court.

Meanwhile, Devanand Singh, who is the brother of Dodnauth, was charged with being an accessory after the fact in the murder of Ramdeholl. The 57-year-old fisherman of Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleged that on May 16, 2017,in the river between the villages of Tain and

Rose Hall, Corentyne, he relieved, comforted and assisted Kemraj Narahsay and Dodnauth Singh, knowing fully well that the men had participated in a murder.

His lawyer, Chandra Sohan told the court that his client saved the two men from a boat accident in the river. However, Police Prosecutor Arwin Moore opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the offence.

The Chief Magistrate ruled in the prosecution’s favour and remanded the accused until June 5, 2017.

The matter was transferred to the Whim Magistrate’s Court.

According to reports, on May 16 about 18:30hrs in the Atlantic Ocean in the vicinity of Tain Village on the Corentyne, the alleged pirates, while being armed with a cutlass, went out into the Corentyne River where they attacked the boat captain and his two crewmen, Arjun Permaul, 45, and Parmanand Nandan, 21.

After allegedly relieving the victims of some fish and their outboard engine, and striking Ramdeholl on the head with a cutlass, the attackers forced the victims to jump overboard.

Ramdeholl’s body was found the following day near the Rose Hall foreshore. A post-mortem revealed that he had drowned.

Dead: Mahadeo Ramdeholl called ‘Chico’

Kemraj Narahsay

Devanand Singh

Dodnauth Singh

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

CDB approves feasibility study for sea defence ‘rehab’ THE BOARD of Directors of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a grant of £ 603,000 to fund a feasibility study and designs for the rehabilitation of coastal and river infrastructure here.

According to the CDB, the project will cover the reconstruction of the facilities at the major river-passenger and goods-transport hubs at Stabroek Market and at Vreed-en-

Hoop on the Demerara River.

The Demerara River is the principal route for commuters and goods between the two points, providing an alternative to crowded roads. The docks at both ports are inadequate, and cannot serve the currents levels of traffic which they receive.

“Rehabilitation of the sea defences is expected to have significant transformational effects on the city,” CDB Head

of Infrastructure Partnerships, Andrew Dupigny, said in a release Monday.

“Improving this critical infrastructure,” he said, “will help increase access to facilitate business, trade and social needs, and contribute to the growth in prosperity, poverty reduction and improved resilience to the effects of climate change in Guyana.”

According to the CDB, the rivers and coastline of Guyana

are primary hubs for social and economic activity, and, in addition to housing the majority of the population, most of the country’s commercial, industrial and other economic activity is undertaken within the coastal zone.

In Georgetown, the seawall is a focal point for community activities and gatherings. The project will include a feasibility study and the preparation of detailed designs

and cost estimates for the rehabilitation of sea defences and ancillary waterfront development between Georgetown and Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara.

The project is being funded through the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF), which is administered by CDB. UKCIF provides grant financing to eight Caribbean countries eligible for Over-

seas Development Assistance, and UK Overseas Territory, Montserrat.

In Guyana, 90 per cent of the population live along the coast, which is below sea level at high tide.

The communities are protected by a network of seawalls and stone revetments, but these have deteriorated significantly over the years, due in part to the impacts of climate change.

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31 women to receive national awards

THIRTY-ONE women from various fields are among those who will be conferred with national awards by President David Granger for their outstanding service and sterling contributions to national development.

The announcement was made hours before Guyana celebrated its 51st Independence anniversary.

According to a Ministry of the Presidency release, leading the list of 69 awardees is acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Madame Yonette Decina Cummings-Edwards, who has been recognised with the Order of Roraima.

Madame Justice Edwards, who boasts an illustrious legal career that commenced in 1988, was sworn in to her current post on March 28, 2017.

She served as a judge on the Court of Appeal of Guyana for several years and is now the second woman to be appointed to the position of acting Chancellor of the Judiciary.

Acting Chief Justice, Madame Alison Roxane Mc Lean George, who was admitted to the Bar in October 1990, for service as a Senior State Counsel, Assistant Director of Public Prosecution, Deputy Director of Public Prosecution and Director of Public Prosecution, has been named among the recipients for the Cacique’s Crown of Honour, along with Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Ambassador Irwin La Rocque.

Acting Chief Justice, Roxane Mc Lean George

Acting Chancellor, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards

Environmental activist and pilot, Annette Arjoon-Martin, who has been a driving force in marine conservation and mangrove replanting projects, has been named as a recipient of the Golden Arrow of Achievement alongside Secretary General of the Guyana Red Cross Society, Dorothy Fraser; Chief Librarian of the University of Guyana, Gwyneth George; veteran journalist Julia Ann Johnson; General Secretary of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) Coretta McDonald; veterinarian, Dr. Karen Pilgrim and veteran educator Gem Ann Rohlehr, among others.

Meanwhile, veteran journalists Enrico Woolford and Adam Harris, artist and sculptor Winslow Marcellous Craig, Human Resources Management and Organisational Development Specialist Sandra Jones are all among the recipients for the Arrow of Achievement.

Among the Medal of Service recipients are businessman Patrick Nigel de Groot,

Camille Patricia Carrington and George Barclay, a Guyana Chronicle journalist with more than 50 years of service in the media.

President David Granger has said that the conferring of national awards is recognised as a mechanism, provided under the Constitution of Guyana to give due national recognition to outstanding citizens. The regular conferral of national awards is a commitment made by President Granger.

Under the current administration, 51 Guyanese women have already been conferred with national awards.

In 2015, 19 women from a total of 53 received national awards.

The Order of Roraima was received by one person; three received the Cacique’s Crown of Honour (CCH); seven received the Golden Arrow of Achievement (AA); five received the Medal of Service (MS) and three received the Disciplined Service Medal (DSM).

In October 2016, a to-

CARICOM Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin La Rocque

tal of 32 women received awards; four received the CCH, 14 the AA, 12 the MS and two received the DSM. A total of 86 individuals were conferred with awards.

Additionally, 12 groups were conferred with the MS insignia on the occasion of Guyana’s 46th Republic Anniversary in February, earlier in 2016.

The President and members of the Advisory Council for the Orders of Guyana offer sincere congratulations to all the persons who have been honoured.

ORDER OF RORAIMA 1 Yonettte Decina Cummings-Edwards CACIQUE’S CROWN OF HONOUR 1 Alison Roxane Mc Lean George 2 Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith 3 Moeenul Hack 4 Irwin La Rocque 5 Murtland Raphael Massiah

Veteran Journalist, George Barclay

GOLDEN ARROW OF ACHIEVEMENT 1 Ramsay Ali 2 Annette Arjoon 3 Lloyd Fitzgerald Austin 4 Everette Lancelot Carberry 5 Rhoda Amelia Stephne Clarke 6 Winslow Marcellous Craig 7 Jose Louis Da Silva 8 Jennifer Dewar 9 Dorothy Fraser 10 Gloria Regina Fraser 11 Ameena Gafoor 12 Samuel Jaidatt Goolsarran 13 Gwyneth George 14 Adam Elias Harris 15 Hilton Gregory Hemerding 16 Sandra Hooper 17 Julia Ann Johnson 18 Sandra Valerie Jones 19 Raymond Mark Kirton 20 Hemraj Kissoon 21 Doris Ann Lewis 22 Tota Charran Mangar 23 Hyacinth Gloria Massay-Thomas 24 Julie Andrea Matthews 25 Coretta McDonald 26 George Gladstone McDonald 27 Ann Elizabeth McLennan 28 Marie June Mendes

29 Abena Nkenge Moore 30 Cecil Norman Murray 31 Vibert Virnen Parvatan 32 Jawahar Persaud 33 Karen Pilgrim 34 Andrew Godfrey Proctor 35 Khakan Ally Ramjohn 36 Gem Ann Rohlehr 37 Sonya Indira Roopnauth 38 Pradeep Parmanand Samtani 39 Godfrey Steve Statia 40 Barbara Patricia Thomas-Holder 41 Desmond Trotman 42 Patrick Everton Williams 43 Enrico Mortimer Woolford 44 John Carlson Yates MEDAL OF SERVICE 1 Sandra Michelle Adams 2 John Andries 3 George Rupert Barclay 4 Erma Hyacinth Bovell 5 Camille Patricia Carrington 6 Patrick Nigel de Groot 7 Denise Dias 8 Merlene Ellis 9 Joan Anges Fredericks 10 Heeralall Makhanlall 11 Jenevieve Jenny Murray 12 Julio Perreira 13 Ryan Perreira 14 Emelda Sandy MILITARY SERVICE MEDAL 1 Lt Col Lawrence Anthony Fraser 2 Lt Col Ramkarran Doodnauth

DISCIPLINED SERVICES MEDAL 1 Assistant Commissioner of Police Nigel Anthony Hoppie 2 Acting Director of Prisons Gladwin Andrea Samuels 3 Deputy Chief Fire Officer Winston Michael McGregor

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Rush for duplexes 14

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

– as persons reconsider their applications

By Navendra Seoraj DUPLEXES seem to be “catching the eyes” of Guyanese who are turning out in their hundreds to participate in the “Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond” exposition, being held at Perseverance on the East Bank of Demerara.

The talk among persons at the exposition is focused on the duplex houses that

are fairly new to the local market.

A duplex house is defined as a dwelling having apartments with separate entrances for two households.

This includes two-storey houses having a complete apartment on each floor and also side-by-side apartments on a single lot that share a common wall.

The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&-

PA) has six duplexes and two single units of about 600 to 800 sq. ft. on display.

Persons have already started asking for more of the houses. When the Guyana Chronicle visited the Expo the duplexes were swarming with people who were enquiring about the dimensions of the houses and how they could acquire one.

An official of the CH&PA told this publication,

One of the wooden duplex houses that were on display

A one-storey duplex house

a number of persons have shown an interest in the duplex houses.

“Some of the persons are interested in the single-lot houses, but not as much as the duplexes, which seem to be catching the eyes,” said the official who was in the CH&PA’s booth.

At the booth, persons lined up to enquire how they could change their applications for single lots to duplex houses instead, which range from $5 million to $7 million.

According to the official, persons who have an interest in the house and already have an application in place are required to go to the CH&PA or indicate their preference to a representative at the CH&PA booth so that it can be registered.

The line at the CH&PA’s booth at the “Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond” exposition Perseverance, East Bank Demerara (Delano Williams photo)

Persons will then be contacted after a proper vetting is done.

So far, the houses have drawn the attention of mostly elderly and middle aged persons, therefore, the CH&PA is calling on more youths to come out and make their decisions at an early age.

Meanwhile, although persons were overwhelmed by the houses which had modern designs, they indicated that the prices should have been on display. The housing expo will continue until tomorrow.

Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Adams-Patterson, had said at the opening of the expo on Friday that she would aim to hold a housing expo in every new housing scheme.

Patterson who birthed the housing expo initiative, in a surprise announcement said that the housing ministry had lowered the land cost for the properties displayed at the Perseverance model village. The low-income earner would now pay $300,000 instead of the initial $500,000, while moderate and middle income earners pay $500,000 and $700,000 respectively.

The minister noted that potential home-owners can contact their contractor of choice to build the home they want from the model village. Single- unit homes were built by private contractors. They are allowed to price the properties.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

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Housing expo contractors warned against overpricing THE Central Housing and Planning Authority has cautioned private contractors participating in the Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Exhibition that prices of housing units should fall within the category they agreed to construct.

According to a release, the agency signed contracts with 14 private contractors to build housing units with-

in three categories: low, moderate and middle-income.

“The Central Housing and Planning Authority is advising contractors that the prices of houses on display must be consistent with the categories they were contracted to build,” the release stated.

Below is a table outlining the category and square footage of the units.

Some of the houses at the exhibition which opened on Saturday

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

Mother of 7 dies five months after accident

By Jeune Bailey Van Keric

NEW Amsterdam vendor, 51-year-old Maria Sampson, died at her Lot 54 Angoy’s Avenue home on Tuesday afternoon, five months after she was involved in a horrific accident along the #19 Public Road, Corentyne Berbice.

Since the accident, Sampson remained in an unconscious state. At the time of her death, she was surrounded by her seven children. On January 9, 2017, she was on her way to the Port Mourant Market to purchase vegetables; Sampson was sitting in the front passenger seat of the car, which slammed into a parked truck.

Her eldest daughter, Romella Amsterdam, also known as Camella, told the Guyana Chronicle that her mother suffered immensely as she sustained injuries to the brain, spinal cord, a punctured lung, fractured left ribs, and trauma to the chest, which resulted in her having to access her liquid diet by a gastrointestinal tube.

The 28-year-old woman recalled her mother was a patient at the Intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital for about two months after which doctors informed the family that there was nothing else medically they could do to save the woman. The family was advised to take her home.

But according to Amsterdam, she pleaded with the doctors to refer her mother to the New Amsterdam hospital since she was unable to breathe unaided and persons had to suction her saliva every two hours.

After the request was granted, the vendor was transferred to New Amsterdam where she remained hospitalized for two additional months until she was no longer dependent on the oxygen.

TAKING SHIFTS The woman was subsequently discharged and taken home where her two daughters, Romella and Teola, aged 23, took shifts in caring for

their single parent mother.

Romella was tasked with going to the market to sell vegetables and fruits and that money would go towards the mother’s diet. Teola, who is medically untrained, stayed at home and took care of the mother.

After leaving the market at about 19:00 hrs every day, Romella would then take care of her mother, who needed to be fed every two hours.

Three days before her death, Sampson’s body started to reject all fluids and on Tuesday morning they observed that froth was emanating from her mouth. Hours later she died.

ACCIDENT SURVIVOR Meanwhile, Wavney August, a vendor who had travelled with Sampson in the same car when the accident occurred, recalled that she initially did not want to go to the market but received a telephone call from Sampson for them to go.

“Initially, I did not want to go, but I relented. The car

Dead: Maria Sampson

came to pick me up at Edinburg Village. It was the first time I had travelled with that driver,” August said.

According to the vendor, the driver appeared to be experiencing domestic issues at the time and kept “quarrelling” as he sped down the road.

“As soon as we got on the #19 road, in the vicinity of the primary school, the driver continued speeding and I warned him, saying that the area was too dark and that he

Survivor of the accident, Wavney August

should reduce his speed. Maria and the other passengers were sleeping, but I could not. Seconds later he kept swaying. He avoided hitting a cow, but slammed into the side of a parked truck,” August recalled.

She continued, “Maria was in the front seat. I tried waking her but she did not respond.

I asked the driver to go into her bosom and remove her money. It was $42,000 which

Teola exchanged shifts with her eldest sister in caring for their mother

I later gave to her daughters.

Thereafter, I called out to the neighbours for help, before taking her to the New Amsterdam Hospital.”

Sampson leaves to mourn her seven children, grandchildren, six siblings and other relatives and friends. Her body is currently at the Arokium funeral home, where it awaits a post mortem examination.

Georgetown man committed Health Ministry employee charged with sexual activity of minor to High Court for murder A SOUTH Ruimveldt, Georgetown resident was committed to stand trial in the High Court for the robbery/murder of Gregory Garraway, who was gunned down in front of Dynasty Sports Club in 2016.

Joshua Meredith, 23, is accused of killing Garraway on October 11, 2016 at Georgetown, outside the Dynasty Sports Club, which is located at Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt.

The Preliminary Inquiry (PI) was presided over by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, who concluded on Monday that there is enough evidence for Meredith to face a judge and jury.

The accused was represented by Attorney-at-Law,

A LIAISON Officer attached to the Ministry of Public Health appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday, charged with sexual activity of a minor.

Esan Abrams, 37, of North Ruimveldt, Georgetown did not have legal representation and was not required to plead to the indictable offence, which alleged that between June 12,

2015 and June 22, 2015 at the National Park, Georgetown, he engaged in sexual penetration with a 14-yearold boy.

Police Prosecutor, Arwin Moore objected to bail on the grounds that the man is a flight risk, since he once lived in Trinidad and only recently returned to Guyana. As such, bail was denied and Abrams was remanded until June 12, 2017.

Esan Abrams

‘Trini’ allegedly caught with ‘ganja’ in Georgetown Stanley Moore, and the matter was prosecuted by Police Inspector, Gordon Mansfield. According to reports, the incident occurred around 02:00hrs on the day in question. Garraway was at the time crossing the Aubrey Barker Road to make a purchase at a shop when a man confronted him and proceeded to relieve him of his gold chain. A scuffle en-

sued and Garraway was shot in the chest. He then fell to the ground and the gunman made good his escape with the chain.

Garraway was hospitalised after the shooting, but succumbed to his injuries on October 11, 2016 at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Meredith remains on remand at the Camp Street prison.

A T R I N I D A D I A N a ppeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday, charged with the possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Cornelius Thomas, 27, pleaded not guilty to the charge and was remanded to prison until June 14, 2017. According to the police, ranks acted on information and went to a house

at Mandela Avenue, Georgetown at about 19:00hrs on Sunday night, where they conducted a search in his presence.

The ranks reportedly found a total of 834 grams of cannabis in 382 small-sized zip-lock packets. The Police Prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that no special reason was given by the defendant. Thom-

Cornelius Thomas

as however admitted to the court that he was once convicted for fraud in the Dominican Republic.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

New York Chronicle Horoscope

21

CROSSWORD CROSSWORD

ISSUE 51 CROSSWORD ANSWER

ARIES (Mar. 21 - April 20) You can make money if you work on personal investments. Exercise your talents and present your ideas to groups you think you can contribute to. Don’t prejudge. You may get drawn into a personal situation that will not be to your liking. If you are in the midst of a financial deal, this is your lucky day. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Saturday.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You may find that someone at work hasn’t been trustworthy. Get some sound advice and help setting up a workable budget. You can meet new friends who will let you know just how valuable you are. Look to a close friend for advice. Your luckiest even next week will occur on Tuesday.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Uncertainty regarding your mate may emerge; reevaluate what you see in each other. A change of attitude has probably disrupted your home environment. You mustn’t give too much to your children. You may want to take a serious look at your goals and objectives. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Don’t be shy; if you want to spend more time with a special person, make a commitment. Family responsibilities are mounting. Don’t reveal anything about your personal life to those who may use such information against you. It would be in your best interest to stay away from any intimate involvement with a client or coworker. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Saturday.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22) You must strive to get the most important projects completed properly, rather than doling everything in a half baked way. Your questions will help you ferret out secret information. Don’t fall into the trap. Be aware that a female you work with may be trying to hold you back. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Tuesday.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Do not ruffle feathers if possible. Your personal life will be disrupted if you have been too busy with business. You are exceptional at presenting your ideas. Take the time to do something nice for your friends and relatives. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) Disappointments regarding partners will be subject to the way you react to their personal comments. You could have trouble persuading others to accept your ideas and opinions. You’re on to something tangible and need to act fast You may become rundown if you take on too much. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Tuesday.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Try to do your job and then leave. Compromise may be necessary. Secret affairs may be tempting. Get involved in groups that are creative in nature.

Your luckiest event next week will occur on Friday.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) Be sure to look into travel opportunities that will provide you with mental stimulation. Your trendy style and unique way of doing things will entice new acquaintances. You can make a difference if you’re willing to stand up and be counted. You won’t have to look for the action. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Sunday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan. 20) Your social skills with people may be more than just helpful. Expect some flak. You can make extra cash if you act on a hunch. You’ll only hurt your lover if you don’t. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) Avoid joint ventures and steer clear of groups that want you to contribute financial assistance. Your best efforts will come through hard work. Your colorful conversation may attract new mates. Don’t let someone you work with put words in your mouth. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Sunday.

PISCES (Feb. 20 Mar. 20) The advice you get this month may be based on false information. You will be accident prone if you aren’t careful this month. Tempers could boil if someone you work with has not been pulling their weight. You need to get out if you want to meet potential partners. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Friday

ACROSS 1. Pie __ mode (2 wds.)

4. Tormé or Brooks 7. Lively Irish dance 10. That woman’s 12. Between 14. Earlier, in poems 15. Father 16. Grandstand part 17. Rather or Cupid 18. Urge on 20. Singer Redding 22. Not as nutty 24. Mauna ___ 25.One billion years 26. Vanish 31. Olden pronoun 33. Goal 34. Slight 35. Asked for advice 38. Fourth-yr. students 39. Pennsylvania has

W O R D F I N D

D I D Y O U

BEWRAY CHARES CHURL CORSE DOTH ENOW GYVE HAST HARKEN HIE KITH LOUR MICKLE MOUGHT MURTHER NEEZE NOWISE

7. “Star Wars” character 8. Tax-deferred plans (abbr.)

9. Four-star officer (abbr.

11. Actor Connery 13. Flop 19. River bottom 21. Raps gently three 22. London district 40. Fusses over 23. Shortly 42. Spy Mata ___ 24. Non-reelected legislators 44. Considerable amount (2 wds.)

45. Candidate, for short 25. And so forth (abbr.)

46. Soft mineral 27. Obedience school command 48. Per person 28. Different 52. Drunkard 29. Melodies 53. “___ Stockings” 30. Hotel’s offering (abbr.)

54. Montreal player, 32. Computer operator once 36. Army divisions 55. Ring decision (abbr.) 37. Trumpeter Severinsen 56. ___ Moines 41. Quaker’s pronoun 57. “___, Pray, Love” 42. ___ and eye 43. Type of saxophone DOWN 44. Marseilles miss (abbr.)

1. Contented sounds 45. “Hey there!”

2. Hawaiian necklace 47. Legal ___ Society 3. Train schedule abbr. 49. Bunyan’s chopper 4. Fabrics 50. IRS employee 5. Emanate 51. Spicy 6. Commit perjury

E V E R S A Y . . .

NOWT POTCH POTHER PRITHEE RAVIN REPUGN SOTE SPAKE THEWS THITHER TROTH VARLET VIZARD WAST YARE YERK

ISSUE #51 WORDFIND ANSWER

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) and its affiliates said they are concerned about government’s plans to close some estates as part of its overall reform programme to make the struggling sugar industry here more viable.

In a statement issued on Monday, the PSC and its affiliates: Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), the Upper Corentyne Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Linden Chamber of Industry, Commerce and Development, the Region Three Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce and the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association, all urged government to “hold its

year-end. In the case of Enmore, that factory will be closed at the end of the year when all cane would have been harvested and the East Coast Estates would be earmarked for diversification.

“The process will result in improving the relationship with some cane cutters, estate staff and about 1,710 private cane farmers. These adjustments mean that GuySuCo would be scaled-down into a more efficient entity that focuses on producing sugar to satisfy the domestic and foreign markets that provide preferential access to our sugar. This entails taking advantage of the opportunity to merge better performing lands to operate factories more efficiently,” Holder said.

But even as there will be

Private sector wants gov’t hold back on sugar reform …concerned about closure of sugar estates hand” on the approach.

Government only recently unveiled its State Paper on sugar, noting that the industry here lies in a smaller sector, with reduced losses and cash deficits, but coupled with a separate and profitable diversified enterprise, which would ensure a viable future. Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder, said the ‘State Paper on the Future of the Sugar Industry’, will focus on the poorly-performing estates and have them shift from sugar to diversification.

“The proposed courses of action are to amalgamate [merge] Wales Estate with Uitvlugt Estate and reassign its cane to the Uitvlugt factory, since the estate is operating at 50 percent capacity.

Sixty percent of its drainage

and irrigation infrastructure is in a dilapidated condition.

The corporation furthermore seeks to divest itself of the Skeldon Estate. The estates of Albion and Rose Hall are to be amalgamated and the factory at Rose Hall is to be closed.”

Holder said GuySuCo would then consist of three estates and three sugar factories. The estates would be Blairmont on the West Bank Berbice, Albion-Rose Hall in East Berbice and the Uitvlugt-Wales estate in West Demerara. The three estates will be complete with factories and will have cane supplied from all five locations. By virtue of the amalgamation, the Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD) and Rose Hall, Berbice factories will be closed by

a major restructuring of the industry, GuySuCo is required to retain many of its workers for all operations on the merged estates or factories and those employees are to receive leased lands from the sugar company to engage in crops to be decided by both GuySuCo and the Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, the Minister said GuySuCo plans, apart from restructuring the estates and factories, to transfer to the state charges for the drainage and irrigation and health services that it provides to the communities, and around the estates.

Foreign exchange private sector bodies said Guysuco came into being as a state-owned entity in 1976, when it was nationalised.

They said the industry has

continued to play a significant role in the overall economy of Guyana. “The industry remains the largest employer other than Government and the main foreign currency earner. Guysuco’s role has expanded to include providing Drainage and Irrigation for many communities and other sectors, as well as providing community health services,” the statement issued by the PSC said.

The private sector acknowledged that in recent years the corporation has delivered financial losses and has become dependent on Government/taxpayers subvention to enable continued operation, saying that many factors have been attributed to the declining Turn to page 23 ►

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

Private sector wants... performance of the industry, not the least of which was the loss of the preferential pricing of the lucrative EU market. There is the view that these could be addressed to turn around the industry, the private sector said.

However, in recognition of the critical importance of the sugar industry, the private sector observed that the government-initiated Commission of Enquiry (COI) did not recommend closure of any estate but, on the contrary, recommended divestment into private hands (See Volume 1 of COI page 36, section 7, sub-section 1, 11,111,1V).

Additionally, it said Guysuco’s audited financial statements for the year 2015 revealed that more than G$10.0B would be removed from private employment income should Government proceed with the closure of

estates. This, in turn, would have a direct negative effect on consumer spending in the communities which, directly or indirectly, depend upon income from sugar.

Such a decline in consumer spending would also have a diminishing impact upon all commerce with concomitant negative spin-off effects on the economy as a whole.

According to the private sector, Guysuco is a major earner of foreign exchange.

“Closure of any estate would, therefore, severely impact upon the availability of foreign exchange and increase the price at which it is sold.”

The PSC contends that the restoration of Guyana’s economy is inevitably, and intimately, linked to the future of sugar. “It would be sad to lose the sugar industry and realise five years later that this would have been a suc-

From page 22

cess story. We must learn from the history of the scrapping of the railway, which would have opened up our country to development. Our members are located across the length and breadth of Guyana and the survival of their businesses depends upon a public that spends on goods and services. Most income generation is derived from employment and when this is reduced significantly it affects the entire chain, from manufacturing and importation to household consumption.

The private sector calls on Government to hold its hand on the current approach towards closure of estates. The private sector stands ready to place its considerable experience at the disposal of and to work with Government to explore all possible options to avert closure.”

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending June 2, 2017

Growing interest in ‘going green’ – farmers call for greater promotion of agriculture

By Navendra Seoraj PRESIDENT David Granger’s notion of a “Green Economy” is gradually being adopted and is evident in the growing interest of persons who are seeking to grow their own food.

Farmers observed this increasing interest at the first-ever Farmers Market which was held at D’Urban Park on Saturday, as part of a number of activities to mark Guyana’s 51st anniversary of independence.

Farmers told the Guyana Chronicle that the turnout out at the exposition was good and they had a chance to market and sell their produce, which is not readily available to the local market.

However, it was noticeable that most persons who purchased plants and vegetables had a deep interest in growing their own food.

Permanent Secretary (ag) of the Ministry of Agricul-

ture, Joylyn Nestor Burrowes in an invited comment, said the aim of the Farmers Market was to encourage persons to grow their own food and it was evident that they achieved that.

“Throughout the years we have been encouraging persons to grow their own food, because homegrown is the best. Throughout the event we had a chance to share out seeds to persons who were more than enthused to begin growing their own food,” she said.

Added to that, owner of McGarrell’s farm and plant nursery, Forbes McGarrell, of Vergenoegen, East Bank of Essequibo, told the Guyana Chronicle that people have an interest in growing their own food and this was proven by persons from Central Georgetown, who bought seedlings and other plants with the intention of starting kitchen gardens.

Burrowes, however, pointed out that although

persons were moving towards a green approach, there had been a perception that farmers were not generating enough income. So aside from the “grow more” promotion, the ministry along with the Ministries of Business and Communities used the expo to encourage farmers to continue what they did and to promote their produce.

Although they did not get the turnout from farmers that was expected, those who were there pointed out that they were able to generate enough income within the short space of time.

Farmers who were there travelled from Regions Three (West Demerara-Essequibo Islands), Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice).

Farmers were however not the only proprietors who participated; there were

Paul Warner of Jet’s Enterprise enlightening an individual about one of their products

numerous entrepreneurs, innovators and even representatives from all the Departments of the Ministry of Agriculture.

And, with the attention that the Farmers’ Market received, Burrowes said that the ministry would be looking to promote more of those expos, so that businesspersons would have a chance to market their fresh produce.

PROMOTION OF AGRICULTURE McGarrell welcomed the talk of continued expositions, but said there was much more to be done in terms of promoting agriculture, because it was the “backbone” of the Children used the opportunity to pet rabbits that were on display Saturday

One of the booths at the Farmers’ Market

country.

Suggestions were made that a more holistic approach must be taken because aside from getting the land, farmers needed markets and transportation.

A farmer who has been in business for over 25 years, said that there was need for more air transport which would allow local farmers to access foreign markets in a timely manner.

Entrepreneurs support McGarrell’s idea. Paul Warner, a representative of Jet’s Enterprise, told this publication that their business which is located in De Kenderen, West Coast Demerara, has been in existence since 2000

and over the years they have been exporting their produce to countries around the Caribbean.

Jet’s Enterprise distributes juices that are made from locally produced cherries, passion fruit, mauby and other mouth-watering fruits.

Another innovative businessperson, Louisa Mancey, who is the founder of the local brand “Naked Soap,” also had a booth at the Expo.

Many other small, medium and large-scale businesses also participated in the event but, persons told the Chronicle that the initiative was mostly encouraging for businesses not yet popular on the local market.

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I wanted to be a Guyanese Rock Musician

By Telesha Ramnarine

– Gavin Mendonca GAVIN Aaron Mendonca did not have a specific career goal in mind while he was growing up, but an experience an experience during a family trip to Berbice clearly revealed to him just what it was that he wanted to do with his life.

The family was looking through through a store in New Amsterdam called “Evil Eyes” when Gavin saw what would change his life – a guitar- hanging on the wall.

“It was dirt cheap, and I think I had just about that amount in my bank account. I had my ‘Visa Card’, which I had never used, and I decided I wanted this guitar.

My mom said, ‘Buy it if you want it.’ So I spent all my money and bought it and since then, I’ve just been playing,” Gavin expressed recently.

In an interview with Chronicle, the 25-year-old, who was born and raised in the City, recalled that it wasn’t more than two weeks after getting the guitar that he realised that music was what he wanted to pursue.

At that time, he was studying at the University of Guyana (UG), but computer science was just something he did to kill time, as he puts it. “I taught myself how to

play the guitar and started writing songs. What started off as a hobby….just about two weeks into this new hobby, I knew this was what I wanted to do.”

Although Gavin thought a lot about the universe and how things work while he was growing up, his uncle, Jude Mendonca, and his siblings listened to rock music in his presence. “So it was always there in the atmosphere. I especially like punk rock because of the themes involved, like rebellion, anarchy, dreams, believe in yourself, say no to ‘the man,’ live the life that you see fit. So punk rock resonated with me.”

CREOLE ROCK Gavin has written many songs so far based on his life’s experiences and with themes that reoccur to him. He started with a song called “City by the Tides” that prominently featured Creolese, and followed up with “The Great Rebellion” based on the 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion.

“I realised that I didn’t just want to be another rock musician.

I wanted to be a Guyanese rock musician. I wanted my music to represent who I am, where I’m from and my culture. So Creole Rock is a fusion of Guyanese folk music with creole culture and dialect and punk rock,” he explained.

Gavin wants to be able to Gavin wants to contribute to the preservation of Guyanese culture through his music

young people to find music. Music has taught me so much about life, discipline, respect, proper management of time, project management, setting goals and accomplishing them. And it also allows you to be empathetic because you can be able to understand how someone else feels,” says Gavin.

Sharing the stage with rhythm guitarist Herbie Marshall

contribute to the preservation of Guyanese culture through his music. “Our folk songs are being lost to time. Young Guyanese people today don’t really care much about culture; they care more about foreign cultures, about foreign trends.

I see it fit to represent my culture so I aim to be a cultural ambassador of Guyana.”

The young musician, who is also into radio broadcasting, is encouraging DJs to play more local music on the radio. “It’s important to broadcast everything that is Guyanese. We have to promote ourselves and support each other. Most people rather invest in foreign things.”

Gavin added, while also calling

for the return of copyright laws.

Gavin’s future goals include performing the “unique Guyanese sound” around the world. Already, he has performed in neighbouring Suriname and Trinidad. “I performed for two nights recently in Trinidad at the third annual Skyy Rock Festival, which is the biggest rock festival in the Caribbean. It hosted 20 bands including one from Guyana.”

Gavin is also the bassist of a heavy metal band called “Feed the Flames” of which he’s been a part of for the past five years.

The band’s aim is to participate in the prestigious Wacken Open Air festival in Germany next year. It is the largest heavy metal festival in the world.

“Music has changed my life significantly in the most positive way. It contributes to my happiness, so I’d like to encourage

APPEARANCE Apart from his belief that long hair adds to a good rock performance, Gavin said he keeps his hair long to teach people to have respect for others regardless of their appearance.

“People judge you based on how you look. Part of my belief is detachment from physical vanity.

This is a concept that is practiced in Rastafarian of which I have adopted some of the ideologies. I believe our hair tells a story. Every trip I go on, I come back with experience, new knowledge. My hair is like a keepsake.

“There is a stigma attached to rock music. People judge others because they wear black, grow their hair out, have piercings and tattoos. And they believe that just because you’re into rock, you’re uneducated, delinquent; cause trouble, worship the devil, drink rat blood. Some of this might be true, but I believe it depends on the individual and his/her circumstances.”

Gavin, a former student of South Road Nursery, Sacred Heart Primary, and Bishops’ High, is an independent broadcaster on 98.1 hot fm.

He produces “Today’s Playlist” on Saturday nights and “Rock and Roll” on Friday nights between the hours of 6pm and 8pm. Both shows, which promote rock music, are on 98.1 Hot FM.

Performing with “Feed the Flames” band at the Skyy Rock Festival in Trinidad last month

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Ram rails against ‘unscrupulous’ lawyers ...says many don’t pay taxes, rob their clients YOUNG attorney Kamal Ramkaran was on Wednesday elected President of the Guyana Bar Association at a time when one of the body’s former presidents knocked it for being silent on several national issues, including ‘unscrupulous’ lawyers who cheat their clients and evade taxes.

In addition to Ramkarran, Senior Counsel, Robin Stoby was elected 1st Vice-President; Teni Housty, 2nd Vice-President and Devindra Kissoon Treasurer. Other elected officials include: Pauline Chase, Secretary and Faye Barker, Assistant Secretary. The committee members are: Rajendra Poonai, Jamela Ali, Sanjeev Datadin, Mark Waldron, Rexford Jackson and Brenden Glasford. The association election was held in the High Court.

Meanwhile, writing in a letter that appeared in the Stabroek News, Christopher Ram said that it was a particularly bad year for the association, noting that it was hobbled by issues concerning its President, Gem Standford who is in a court battle regarding allegations of misappropriation of funds. “…the Bar Association was silent, unable or unwilling even to make a statement, let alone take legal action.

Had the butcher in Shakespeare’s Henry VI been living in contemporary Guyana, he would not have found it necessary to advocate “… let’s kill all the lawyers”.

“He would soon realise that the lawyers have put the profession into cold storage.

The men and women who will vie for election to lead the profession over the next year or two will be undertaking a formidable responsibility. I wish them well. But only if their objective is to serve the society that grants them an elevated status, and not as an embellishment of their CV’s,” Ram wrote.

On a more positive note, he observed that for the first time, two women hold the most senior positions in the

Newly-elected President of the GBA, Kamal Ramkarran

judiciary, albeit in acting capacities, not provided for in the Constitution, but he spoke of what he described as the “unending exchanges between the incumbent and the former Attorney General, locked in newspaper battles to prove who is better, more honourable, and more competent, the nobility of the office and the profession being the immediate casualty. And we witnessed the disdainful

silence of the senior members of the legal profession, who in days gone by would have considered themselves keepers of the dignity of the profession. They are no less blameworthy for the mess in which the profession has found itself.”

He said the law provides for a Legal Practitioners Committee, comprising of lawyers only, which has responsibility for overseeing the conduct of the members of the profession, but lamented that despite the “unheralded work of a few members, the Committee has been largely ineffective, hobbled by lack of resources, commitment and courage to deal with the egregious infractions by some members of the profession.”

Ram said that recently he learnt of a matter in which a lawyer committed what amounts to a fraud on the courts, a matter known to his colleagues on the other side in the case but who are reluctant to raise the issue.

“Lawyers are bound by a Code of Conduct under the Legal Practitioners Act, but many it seems, pay little attention to its prescriptions, confident that they will get away with whatever. Even when lawyers are found ‘guilty’, the strongest punishment they face is being told to refund the fees or money paid to them by their hapless clients.”

According to Ram, in a civilised environment, such action would require publication, but here in Guyana, there is no more than whisper

would be for the Legal Practitioners Committee to be headed by a retired judge enabled with a capable fulltime staff, and for all its findings to be publicised. The public needs protection from unscrupulous practitioners.”

Former GBA President, Christopher Ram

among lawyers, while the offending lawyer is free to continue the offending practice.

“My recommendation

TAX EVASION Ram, who is also a chartered accountant, spoke against lawyers not remitting taxes, noting that for 14 years, attorneys have blocked statutory provisions (the Fiscal Enactments (Amendment) (No. 2) Act, 2003) aimed at bringing them more securely into the tax net.

“Professionals in Guyana, including accountants and doctors, seem to have an allergy to paying taxes, but what makes the legal

profession stand out is that the members ply their trade in court buildings provided, maintained and staffed from funds borne by taxpayers.

Yet, the stories of tax evasion by some lawyers would be comical if the matter did not involve criminal conduct.”

He observed that in the past, it did appear that there was a class bias in tax administration that treated the small business person and the employee less favourably than professionals.

“There should be no discrimination in tax administration and it would be a great day when the annual reports of the Revenue Authority start disclosing statistical information on the tax contribution of various categories of taxpayers.”

Boat operator remanded on gun, ammo charges A BOAT operator appeared before City Magistrate Judy Latchman charged with the illegal possession of a firearm and matching ammunition.

Leroy Benjamin, 51, of Grant Pomeroon, Essequibo River pleaded not guilty to the charges, which alleged that on May 29, 2017 at Barakat Landing, Puruni River, he had a .32 pistol in his possession when he is not the holder of a firearm licence.

It is further alleged that on the same date and location, he had one live round of .32 ammunition. His lawyer,

The .32 semi-automatic pistol that was found

Trenton Lake told the court that the firearm was not found in his client’s possession. But Police Prosecutor, Inspector Shellon Daniels said that the weapon was found in the crotch of the accused during a search by the police.

According to a police

report,at about 11:30hrs, the ranks were on a “river patrol” when they observed the boat operator acting in a suspicious manner after he saw them.

The ranks then decided to conduct a search, when they found an unlicensed .32 pistol with a matching round.

The Prosecutor objected to Benjamin being allowed his pre-trial liberty; citing the serious nature and prevalence of the offence.

Magistrate Latchman remanded the accused and transferred the matter to Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan for June 1.

Elderly woman is houselot winner

– courtesy of Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Expo

WHEN Georgina French Edwards’s name was called as the winner of the Central Housing and Planning Authority’s (CH&PA) housing lottery, at the Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Exposition on Sunday, Edwards said she felt like she was living a dream.

Edwards said it was an unbelievable moment as she didn’t believe she had been given the opportunity to own a houselot after being denied for many years.

“The first thing when she (the minister at the drawing) said that the person was from East Ruimveldt, my heart stopped, and then it start back beating fast, fast, fast, and I was on the edge of my seat;so when she said Georgia French Edwards, I could only jump up and say

owners are waiting for her to move out to break down the house. She is happy that she will soon be out of that situation.

“Words cannot express my gratitude to this government, the Minister of Communities (Ronald Bulkan and also the Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie (Adams-) Patterson for bringing up this initiative,” Edwards said.

She spoke particularly of support and words of encouragement that she got from Minister Adams-Patterson and Personal Assistant, Remington Nelson. “I would like to thank Mr. Nelson, because I would keep coming here (to CH&PA) all the time, every month and the last time I was here and I did not get through, I started to cry and

Georgina French Edwards, the 67-year-old winner of a houselot from the Central Housing and Planning Authority’s housing lottery last Sunday

thank you Jesus,” Edwards recalled.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday at the CH&PA on Brickdam, the elated woman said, “…till now I can’t express my feelings, but I am happy to have that houselot, because I need a

home of my own.”

Edwards said that she had a premonition of the tidings to come. “I told my son let us go up (to the expo) on Saturday night, but he said that he could not make it; but on Sunday he came for me, and we went up there, and I was walking around and seeing the houses, and I telling him what and what I like, all the while feeling to myself something would happen,” she said.

She explained that whilst going through the expo, she heard the talks about the houselot raffle and went up to the CH&PA booth to complete the form.

“I always walk with my documents, but when I took out my bag, my identification (ID) card was not there, so I asked to call home to get the

number,” Edwards said. She recalled that “when I call home they could not find the ID card…they give me the passport number and I write it on the form and handed it and I told my son that we are not leaving, ‘Let us wait for the drawing’ and so we just waited because something within me was telling me something was going to happen and it is going to happen tonight,” she said.

The 67-year-old vendor had almost given up hope after waiting for over 17 years for a response from the CH&PA. She first applied for a houselot in 2000, when she was employed at the courts. She described her current housing situation “as not up to standards.”

Edwards said that whilst she does not pay rent, the

his words were to me, ‘keep praying, don’t give up,’ and every time the doubts came within my mind, those words kept ringing in my ears and I keep praying so I give God thanks,” she said.

The next step will be to construct the home and for this Edwards said that she has already gotten pledges from two of her closest grandchildren. “I alone cannot do it, but I have grandchildren who are with me and they are going to assist me to build the house as fast as possible,” she said.

Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Exposition captured in one place the government’s focus for its housing programme. The houselot lottery was part of the four-day programme.

(GINA)

150 schools to compete at Digicel Schools Football championship

… Tournament to kick off on June 12

Representatives from Digicel, the Government of Guyana and the GFF at yesterday’s launch, held at the West Demerara Secondary School. (Adrian Narine photo)

By Rawle Toney ONE hundred and fifty schools, drawn from the ten administrative regions of Guyana, will once again vie for the country’s ‘Holy Grail’ of schools football when the Digicel Football Championship kicks off on June 12 countrywide. The tournament will conclude with the final on July 30 at the Leonora Track and Field Facility.

At a simple but significant launch, held at the West Demerara Secondary School yesterday, Digicel Head of Marketing Jacqueline James said that the continuity of the tournament, which is now in its seventh year, is testimony

to the telecommunication provider’s commitment not only to the development of football in Guyana, but also to the country’s future stars ensuring that they are given a platform to showcase their God-given talent.

One million dollars will go the winning school for a project of their choice, while second through fourth will pocket $700 000, $400 000 and $350 000 respectively.

However, as explained

by Digicel’s Head of Customer Care, Sherwin Osborne, the tournament, which will see Georgetown being divided into north and south, will see the winners of each zone, win $100 000 towards a school project.

“We want the public to also be engaged and more involved. We want them to win prizes. We want them to come out and support our youths. We want to feature the public so we’ll have a ‘Digicel Favourite Fan’ in the community,” James said.

She expressed her company’s plans to ensure that this year the fans will be shown appreciation for their support to the tournament over the past seven years.

James also thanked other stakeholders; the Ministry of Education, National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) for their continued and unwavering support which contributed to the suc-

cess of the country’s largest schools football tournament.

Meanwhile, Dr Wazir Mohamed, Special Technical Adviser to the Minister of Education Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, stated that the Ministry is pleased to be associated with Digicel as they help Guyana’s schools and Guyana’s youths realise their full potential.

“Participation in football and other school athletic and sporting activities is very important to the allround development of our young people. Athletics, the broad umbrella under which football falls, provides an important means, avenue and resource that helps students become more rounded; and

hence helps them to more meaningfully engaged with their education,” Dr Mohamed said.

Director of Sport Christopher Jones also expressed his delight at seeing the continuity of the championships, calling it one of the most, if not ‘the’ most, anticipated event on the schools calendar.

He added that the NSC is willing and ready to lend Digicel any assistance where necessary, in an effort for a positive outcome of the 2017 championship.

Thandi McAllister, vice-president of the GFF, pointed out the Digicel Schools Football tournament has become a remarkable

feature on the country’s football calendar, and as such, the game’s local governing body is more than pleased to be associated with Digicel to pull off the championship.

Chase’s Academic Foundation are the defending champions for the tournament, while the Christianburg Wismar Secondary School, popularly known as Multi are the most decorated team.

The Linden-based team have played in every final since the inception of the tournament, winning four consecutive titles, only losing in the inaugural year to the Georgetown Technical Institute and in last year’s final.