Guyana chronicle ny e paper 05 04 2018

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ISSUE No. 100

WEEK ENDING MAY 4, 2018

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Dreams becoming reality

– allottees cannot wait to occupy their Perseverance homes ► ‘Minor issues’ can’t Page 17

break up coalition

CAL to christen new-look CJIA departure lounge

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 28, 2018

CAL to christen new-look CJIA departure lounge

►

Page 14&15

Airside Friday at the CJIA

‘Ready to be top cop’ ► GONE WALKABOUT: On the runway yesterday are, from right: Minister Annette Ferguson; Minister Jaipaul Sharma; Minister Carl Greenidge; Minister Valerie Garrido-Lowe; Minister Dawn Hastings; Minister David Patterson; CJIA’s Mr Ramesh Ghir; Minister Keith Scott; Dr Barton Scotland; and an official of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure

No more tedious climbing of stairs now that escalators are in place

Minister Patterson being handed a boarding pass by a Caribbean Airlines staff

One of the elevated housing units at Perseverance Housing Scheme that are under construction

Page 20

Inside the new arrivals terminal at the CJIA

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May 4, 2018

Effective communication key to tourism development – new GTA director NEW Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Director Brian Mullis said Guyana has to move away from an ad hoc approach to a more progressive and holistic approach to tourism destination development.

Mullis made this observation at a recent welcoming reception hosted for him by the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana at Cara Lodge.

He said emphasis must be placed on enhancing effective lines of communication within the GTA and other supporting tourism bodies, to elevate Guyana’s place in the global marketplace.

Mullis, who began his tenure as director on April 16 of this year, was shortlisted from a group of over 30 regional and international applicants.

His appointment was an-

nounced by Minister of State Joseph Harmon during a post-Cabinet press briefing in January.

With plans to boost the development of a sustainable tourism destination, the appointment of the new GTA director was essential.

Mullis replaces former Director Indranauth Haralsingh, whose tenure ended late last year.

A US citizen, Mullis brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the post. He is the founder and chief executive officer of the Non-profit organisation Sustainable Travel International, through which he has led several high-impact projects worldwide.

Mullis has also worked with the Dalai Lama on a project in Dharamshala, India, to reduce the negative impact of tourism. He

New GTA Director Brian Mullis

also served two terms on the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board under the Obama administration.

Members of the tourism sector engaging with the new GTA Director

Forest export earnings at US$7.4M so far this year THE natural resources sector has earned US$7.4M from exported forest products in the

first quarter of 2018 while 145,133 ounces of gold has been declared during that same period.

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, on Saturday shared the performance of the sector with residents of Matthew’s Ridge during a public meeting.

Minster Trotman noted that production in the forestry sector is on the increase, an improvement from 2017.

As for gold, an ambitious 800,000 ounces target has been set for 2018. Minister

Trotman is confident that declarations will meet and surpass the target. During the period January to March 2018, 13,000 metric carats of diamonds were also declared.

The Minister pointed out that there are efforts by the Ministry to update the mining regulations and policy. “We are focusing on how we can make mining better.”

Bauxite first quarter productions were 229,441 tonnes despite Rusal Guyana’s work being stalled following sanctions on its

parent company by the US. Meanwhile, sand’s first quarter production was 224,948 tonnes, while stone was 52,016 tonnes. Minister Trotman noted that government intervention last year allowed for local producers to supply the airport expansion project.

The government remains committed to promoting the extraction of the country’s natural resources in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner, Minister Trotman noted.

Albouystown health centre opens daily now – to also render number of new services A NUMBER of new services have been added to the Albouystown Health Centre, with doctors and nurses on site each day, as opposed to previously when the facility was opened only on selected days during the week.

Public Relations Officer Debra Lewis told the Guyana Chronicle on Friday that the intention is to equip the facility with all the services, so that residents need not go to the Georgetown hospital.

As opposed to opening only three days a week in the past, Lewis said the centre is now open daily, between 08:00hrs and 16:30hrs.

The Maternal and

Child Welfare Services Department of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is responsible for managing three health centres, these being the Dorothy Bailey, Albouystown-Charlestown, and Festival City facilities.

The additional services at Albouystown include a chronic diseases clinic, minor suturing, voluntary counselling and testing, visual inspection of the cervix (VIA), dental health, daily dressing of wounds, and the provision of pharmaceutical services.

Over a threemonth period, the council will be monitoring the quality of services being provided, and how residents are

utilising the facilities.

Based on the results of the assessment and the needs of the other health centres, a decision will be made to replicate the model at other health centres managed by the council.

“The staff complement would be enhanced to cater for the additional services to be provided,” Lewis said.

“Hence, daily, two medical doctors, three nurses, one VCT Officer and other auxilliary staff would be on site.”

Traditionally, she said, the Albouystown Health Centre has the largest clinic population of the three centres managed by the council.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May 4, 2018

2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4,

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‘Minor issues’ can’t break up coalition

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…Harmon says parties will meet soon to discuss Cummingsburg Accord, LGE

By Svetlana Marshall The top brass of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC) will meet to iron out existing issues in the Cummingsburg Accord including those surrounding the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE).

The decisions coming out of that and future meetings on the Cummingsburg Accord and Local Government Elections are not likely to negatively affect the “congeniality” that currently exists between the coalition partners, according APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon who described the issues as “minor.”

When AFC held its National Executive Committee Meeting for 2018 at the Georgetown Club on Labour Day, the Leader Raphael Trotman reported that on April 30 he received a response to the AFC letter dated February 26, 2018 which was sent to the APNU Leader and President of Guyana, David Granger regarding the upcoming Local Government Elections.

The AFC letter outlined a number of matters, including the issue of the approach to Local Government Elections, and the response from the APNU Leader proposed a certain course of action. On the sideline of the opening ceremony of a Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) workshop which was organised in collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Government of Guyana, Harmon disclosed that President Granger in his letter to the AFC Leader extended an invitation to meet and discuss issues surrounding the Cummingsburg Accord, which brought together APNU and AFC as a coalition to contest the May 2015 Elections, and the Local Government Elections. “The letter invited the AFC to discuss the matters in relation to the Cummingsburg Accord. As you are aware this is a matter that was raised sometime before and the letter basically invites them to discuss the issues in relation to the Cummingsburg Accord,” the APNU General Secretary said.

AFC outlines position on LGE In a statement of its own Thursday evening, the AFC said its Leader Raphael Trotman earlier in the day wrote to Leader of A Partnership for National Unity President David Granger in response to His Excellency’s letter of

April 30, 2018. His Excellency’s letter was in response to Mr. Trotman’s letter of February 26, in which the AFC Leader detailed issues of concern to the party and sought for the two parties to engage in discussions on these and other matters.

“Mr. Trotman’s May 3 letter was mandated by the party’s National Executive Committee which met on May 1. Mr. Trotman outlined to His Excellency that the AFC proposes a meeting of the two parties on Monday, May 7 with a view to commence discussions on the path to Local Government Elections. The AFC has named its team for these discussions. The team comprises David Patterson, Michael Carrington, Marlon Williams and Dr. Vincent Adams,” the ASFC statement added.

According to the AFC its C NEC has stipulated that the party will allow additional time for the two parties to have a definitive written agreement in the form of a Local Government Elections Accord. The NEC also took a decision for all party groups to fully activate its campaign preparations protocols and this will commence in earnest. In addition to these matters, Mr. Trotman’s letter to His Excellency also details some AFC positions for negotiation of the LGE Accord.

On the third anniversary of the Cummingsburg Accord on February 14, 2018, President Granger had said that the AFC had several options – proceed with the accord as it is, allow it to expire at 2020 or make request for a meeting. He noted that a review was not compulsory.

However, Trotman, on the same day, had underscored the importance of having the accord reviewed in its third year of existence. Trotman said while he would like to see the Accord continue, it should also be strengthened following a review process among the parties involved.

“As we begin to go into the second historic Local Government Elections in this country in a few months, historic because this government was able to restore Local Government Elections after two decades of the absence of them, one of the glaring absences in the accord is the fact that the specifics for Local Government Elections are not taken care of,” the AFC Leader had explained.

It was noted that at the time of signing the accord, the focus was on General and Regional Elections and not Local Government Elections.

On Thursday, Harmon also disclosed that the up-

APNU General Secretary and Minister of State Joseph Harmon

coming Local Government Elections will form part of

the discussions when the leaders meet. While both

parties have long signaled their willingness to contest the upcoming Local Government Elections as a coalition, AFC, following the holding of the historic March 18, 2018 expressed concerned about the number of seats it received at the level of the Town Councils and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs).

“The issues that are there are minor issues of timing, and perceptions, and things like that. I don’t believe that there are so serious as to affect the congeniality which exists between our two parties,” he posited. “We have issues in relation to the num-

ber of seats that people get in relation to the Local Government Elections because there was no formula which had been established under the cummingsburg accord for the determining that, and these are some of the issues I believe we have to discuss,” he further added.

It is unclear how soon the leaders will meet but according to Harmon, the APNU is all set. In a statement on Thursday, AFC said that it has mandated its Leader to respond to President Granger in a prescribed manner. Trotman was expected to respond to the President on Thursday.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

THE CRIMINAL COMPLAINT FILED BY THE PPP AGAINST FIVE MEMBERS OF THE COALITION CABINET

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he frivolous and vexatious criminal action filed by the PPP against five members of the coalition cabinet has violated every principle of criminal law and procedure, and has exposed the PPP to public ridicule, contempt and embarrassment.

In the French/creole lexicon of Trinidad and Tobago, a Pappyshow is a comedic act that seeks to divert attention from a serious political event. The criminal filing by the PPP against five members of the coalition cabinet in Guyana was a Pappyshow intended to divert attention from the more serious charges filed by the coalition government against the former Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh and the CEO of NICIL, Mr. Winston Brassington. The charges against Ashni Singh and Winston Brassington alleged that they committed several financial acts of misconduct that amounted to criminal offenses. There was an investigation initiated by the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU). There was a forensic audit implemented by the Auditor/General of Guyana. There was a criminal investigation by the Guyana Police Force, and there was a referral to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) pursuant to Article 187(1)(c) of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

In contrast to the serious attempt by the coalition government to investigate and prosecute the financial abuses perpetrated by the PPP during its tenure in office, is this Pappyshow orchestrated by Anil Nandalall, Juan Edghill and Bharat Jagdeo initiated as a criminal action against five members of the coalition cabinet – Hon. Winston Jordan, Minister of Finance; Hon. David Paterson, Minister of Public Infrastructure; Dr. Rupert Roopnarine, Minister of Public Service; Dr. Norton, former Minister of Public Health; and Volda Lawrence, Minister of Public Health and Social Cohesion. The charges against the five members of the coalition cabinet were not predicated on violations of the Criminal Law of Guyana, but in some antiquated concept of the

English Common Law. The problem with these so-called The criminal complaint alleges that charges, is that they alleged acts of misthese ministers perpetrated three sepaconduct that did not rise to the level of rate and distinct acts of financial misconcriminal offenses. There was no allegaduct. It alleged that Winston Jordan, tion that the contract negotiated between Minister of Finance, made unauthorized HDI and the Minister of Public Infradisbursements of public funds to David structure violated any procurement proPatterson, Minister of Public Infrastruccedures. There was no allegation that the ture. David Patterson, in turn, made work performed by the prime contractor unauthorized disbursement of public was below standard. There was no allefunds to the Homestretch Development, gation that the contract price was unconInc. (HDI), the prime contractors responscionable, there was no allegation that BHARRAT JAGDEO sible for the construction of the Durban the work was not completed on time or Leader of the Jubilee Park. the quality of the work was defective.

It also alleged that, as the ex-officio Opposition in Guyana The fact that the contract price was Director of the Homestretch Development Inc., Dr. $605,962,200 does not make it illegal as a matter of Roopnarine was vicariously liable for any unspecified law. In fact, the members of the Procurement Commisimproprieties committed by Hon.Winston Jordan, sion ratified the actions of the Minister of Public InMinister of Finance and Hon. David Patterson, Minis- frastructure. ter of Public Infrastructure. The criminal complaint alWith regard to the activities of Dr. Norton, there leged that these three ministers “willfully was no allegation that he violated any procurement misconducted themselves in a way that amounted to procedures by entering into a rental agreement with the an abuse of public trust, without reasonable excuse Linden Holding, Inc. There was no allegation that the or justification contrary to the Common Law.” rental payment of $12,500,000 was illegal.

The criminal complaint further alleged that Dr. Similarly, with respect to the action of Hon. Volda Norton, former Minister of Public Health, made rental Lawrence, there was no allegation that the award of payments in the amount of $12,500,000 for a property the contract to ANSA McAL violated any procurement located at 29 Sussex Street, Albouystown, owned by policies. In fact, the award of the single-source contract Linden Holdings Inc. It claimed that Dr. Norton, by to ANSA McAL was specifically ratified by the Promaking these payments, “willfully misconducted him- curement Commission. self in a way that amounted to an abuse of public The criminal complaint filed by Anal Nandalall, trust, without reasonable excuse or justification, con- was deficient in the following respects: trary to the Common Law.” • None of the allegations of misconduct against Finally, the criminal complaint alleged that Hon. the Minister of Finance, Minister of Public InfrastrucVolda Lawrence, as the Minister of Public Health and ture and Minister of Public Service amounted to any Social Cohesion, willfully misconducted herself in a violations of the Criminal Laws of Guyana. way that amounted to an abuse of public trust, by ne• None of these allegations document any violagotiating a single-source contract for medical supplies tions of the Procurement Laws of Guyana with the ANSA McAL Company in the amount of • No forensic audit was conducted by the Auditor $605,962,200.

General in regard to the actions of the Minister of Finance, Minister of Public Infrastructure, Minister of Public Service, former Minister of Public Health and the Minister of Public Health and Social Cohesion.

• No referral was made to the Guyana Police Department to conduct a criminal investigation of these activities.

• No referral was made to the office of th Director of Public Prosecution for approval, pursuant to Article 187(1)(c) of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

by Colin A. Moore

CONCLUSION Not only was the criminal complaint filed by the PPP patiently frivolous and vexatious, but it sought to defame the characters and reputations of five unimpeachable public servants. It is not enough that the DPP should dismiss this fraudulent action, the Attorney General should recommend that the victims of this defamatory action should be entitled to file a civil action for compensatory and punitive damages for this vicious attempt to impeach their unimpeachable characters and reputations. The Attorney General should also institute a civil action to deter opportunistic politicians from subverting the judicial system in Guyana in order to achieve blatantly political objectives.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

The Carlyle

Harry Column

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ONE GUYANA PLATFORM . . . looking at Mr. Jagdeo's words

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n the popular T.V. Show, ‘FAMILY-MATTERS', every time Steve Orkel got a (rare) good word or response from Laura (whom he had friendship interests in), he would rail, wail and exclaim "she is coming around! " Well I entered a similar mental frame, when I read some sentences that were attributed to former President, Bharrat Jagdeo while he recently addressed a Media Conference at his Party's (PPP/C) Headquarters on Robb street.

Even if those disclosures or declarations were mere words, political gamesmanship, or what columnistFreddie Kissoon called "propagandistic-rhetoric", they have to be acknowledged for their (potential) contributions to a ONE GUYANA PLATFORM. ACCOMMODATION Speaking about his party's plans and preparations for the 2020 General and Regional elections in Guyana, MrJagdeo who served as President from 1999-2011, while his party held on to power until 2015, emphasized that he would be seeking to include racial, religious, cultural and interest/pressure groups in the fold . . . and that he "would be seeking to build and empower an alliance and collective".

I rather liked the use of the term or concept of collective, because the agesold sores of political and racial divisions in Guyana, can only be solved by collective actions.

Mr. Jagdeo went on to pledge that he would allocate enough space in his future plans and preparations in order to accommodate everyone.

Maybe Mr. Jagdeo might be heeding the advice of Simon Sinek who stated " Leadership is not about the next general election, it's about the next generation."

The former President did admit that he and his party had made mistakes in the past, when they omitted to pay enough attention to that nature of membership or support recruitment; or respond in adequate ways to their complaints or grievances.

He stated "I am sorry for my past mistakes, I apologize for them."

One such complaint/grievance had to do with some Black organizations' objections to the monument dealing with slavery being placed at the sea wall, instead of the (requested) Parade Ground.

The President of France — Em-

North and South Korean leaders, Kim Jong-un (left) and Moon Jaein embrace each other — President Kim is the first Korean Leader since the Korean War began in 1950 to cross the border into the South.

manuel Macron in an address to a joint session of the U.S. Congress on Tuesday morning 4.24.18, stated "Going forward, we have nothing to gain from building walls, let us instead build bridges and linkages."

In conclusion, I wish to submit that if we accept an iota of truth that it was the political leaders who exploited the racial cracks and flakes within the Guyanese society, and sought to expand upon and nurture them; then it should be the politicians who ought to MEND them and put them together again.

There is no need for 'divine intervention' when the politicians have the wherewithal to address the Birthland's political and racial rifts.

Since "the proof of the pudding, is in the eating", I (we) ought to look to see how Mr. Jagdeo is going to follow-up on his words, since political and racial unity is essential to Guyana's future growth and development.

arrived at some amount of rapprochement, they took part in the Winter Olympics in South Korea as one Unit, I proposed that the current Leaderships of Guyana's racial and political divides could/should follow suit and work cooperatively in order to improve the lots of the poorer masses.

Well maybe, it might just be co-incidence, but while I was analyzing and parsing Mr. Jagdeo's words about "inclusion", for this Piece — North Korean Leader-Kim Jong-un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in were embracing each other in South Korea and deliberating on ways and means of ending years of hostilities, stand-offs, and lack of communications.

President Kim became the first North Korean Leader since the Korean War began in 1950 to cross the border into the South.

READERS — YOU SEE WHAT I MEAN. ********** Those involved in politics, Owe it to the Guyanese public to address things — Ethnic with unbridled Logic, They must attack the topic without verbal traffic, without unnecessary rhetoric with give and take to make a lasting tonic.

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Tel: 917-379-6590 Editorial

Editorial PAC not for political showboating and convenience

GUYANA, now in the post-People’s Progressive Party/Civic(PPP/C) administration period of governance, has since been privy to a brand of hypocrisy that is conveniently egregious for its purveyors’ new-found understanding that the nation’s various procedures and laws must be punctiliously followed; that failure to observe the latter conveys evidence of wrongdoing.

These pronouncements are made by former high-ranking officials of state, who had been very much present and been part and parcel of the day-today administration of a country that had descended to levels of state criminality in which every public service department became part of very grave financial improprieties, as used to be illustrated by the many annual Auditor General’s Reports.

The coalition-ordered audits confirmed the criminal scandal and its scope of what took place in Guyana. The interesting features of these auditor general exercises and results, were their clear and unambiguous identification of the desecration of the standard financial procedures, from which flowed questionable financial payments that were not supported by proper proof of documentation. Numerous overpayments were common, with very few efforts to reclaim same; questionable methodology of awarding of contracts, and other financial venalities that became the masthead of a new understanding of governance.

It is instructive to note that these serious breaches were not investigated and continued year after year.

Such a breakdown certainly led to the institutionalised culture of unaccountability that became a perfect cover for deliberate acts of financial impropriety. This is what is being discovered by the Public Accounts Committee(PAC) during its current sittings, at which officers from the administrative regions especially, have been appearing to answer, not only for their stewardship of public finances, but also issues pertaining to their respective regions that have arisen from the Auditor General’s Reports.

In its many official enquiries, departures from procedures and questionable payments have been found, for which there have been conflicting answers as to their occurrence. This anarchical state of affairs should

Guyana Chronicle NewNew YorkYork Edition Week-ending May May 4, 2018 Guyana Chronicle Edition week ending 4, 2018

I need some clarifications on the Cyber Bill Dear Editor: “A PERSON commits an offence of sedition if the person, whether in or out of Guyana, intentionally publishes, transmits or circulates by use of a computer system, a statement or words, either spoken or written, a text, video, image, sign, visible representation that brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the government.”

The above is the section of the proposed Cyberspace Bill on sedition, which has been attracting much attention in the media and elsewhere over the past few days. I write to seek explanations and clarifications about this section of the proposed bill before I offer any opinion on it.

Now, unless I am ill informed, Guyana remains committed to free speech and freedom of the press, as guaranteed if not under the constitution, in several international conventions which the country has signed and ratified. So this means that the press remains free to criticise the government, Guyanese maintain the right to protest against government policies and persons like me continue to enjoy the right to express my views via letters to the editor. Nowhere have I seen or not be surprising, given the culture that had been allowed to permeate, grow and develop for over two decades. It would seem that there is an attempt to convey the impression that these serious observations and transgressions have only begun as from the coming to government of the coalition, A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC). We find this as attempting to gain cheap political mileage from a situation that needs clear directions and remedies for whatever discrepancies that are flagged by the Auditor General’s Reports, which engage the committee’s attention.

Now there has been an announcement from the PAC’s chairperson that persons appearing before the committee will have to do so by oath. Naturally, we ask, why this rule had not been instituted during the PPP/C administration.

Of course, we support such a measure,

heard of any attempt by the government to reject these commitments.

However, this proposed new legislation seems to suggest, in my view, that the right to criticise is rejected only if this is done by "use of computer system".

It also leads one to conclude that one can produce anti-government materials such as videos, signs (pickets), texts etc. without being guilty of sedition, but the circulation of such materials via computer constitutes a crime.

So here are the explanations and clarifications I am seeking: (A) As a frequent letter-writer who transmits my letters via computer, am I committing sedition by sending a letter via e-mail criticising the government to the media for publication (circulation)?

(B) If I post my hand-written letter (snail mail) would I be guilty of sedition?

(C) Does this new proposed legislation mean that newspapers can publish anti-government material in the printed editions, but not on the electronic versions of the publication?

(D) If I post to social media e.g. my Face Book Page, an article critical of the government which appears in the printed media, but not on its electronic version (I scan it and post it) , am I guilty of sedition?

(E) Are newspapers in Guyana in-

since it is proper and meant to remind public officers as to the seriousness of their responsibilities; their personal honesty and integrity; and propriety.

But we discern the measure as one of political convenience.

What has been confronting the PAC is the continuation of questionable practices that have had their genesis in a gradual degradation of systems in the last PPP/C administration. Many of the perpetrators who have developed expertise in irregularities, over the years, are still within the system and have continued their ways that are criminal in every way and not in the best interests of Guyana.

In supporting this view, we refer to a Kaieteur News, April 08 article, captioned, “PAC recommends sacking [of] compromised accounting and engineering officers.” This is in relation to Auditor General’s Reports for 2012, 2013, 2014. The article stated in part,

Disclaimer:

Disclaimer:

directly being prohibited from having electronic versions of their publications since these publications, including the state-owned Guyana Chronicle, from time to time publish letters, news articles and columns that can be constituted to bring or attempt to bring "into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the government.”?

(F) Is this legislation, if it becomes law, consistent with laws in other countries, since it includes persons who may commit sedition (in Guyana) even while outside of Guyana? If I am charged and refuse to return to face the courts, could I be extradited or can Interpol list me as WANTED? (G) Is this proposed legislation in violation of any United Nations Conventions or even its Charter?

These are some of the clarifications I need before commenting beyond the fact that " in this age of Trump " and the APNU+AFC and PPP with this proposed legislation, "any call for civility is a call for servility". I got the last quote from a piece in the Economist, lest I be convicted of plagiarism.

Regards Wesley Kirton “all point to one thing – the financial system is awash with dishonest accounting and engineering officers. They need to be removed”.

It must be reminded that the PAC is a parliamentary bi-partisan body, the business of which is the seminal function of overseeing public money and how it has been expended. Where there are indeed serious breaches, then it has the right to pronounce on same, offering solutions/remedies, and other appropriate measures. But political showboating and convenience are not part of its functions, as well as attempts to turn its meetings into one of political partisanship, by attempting to introduce matters of a political nature that are rightly the subject of the National Assembly. The Honourable Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, sounded this reminder at one of the committee’s sittings.

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

Chronicle.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

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EMPHASIS ON CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS

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Barbados Attorney General Says the Region Needs its Own Bank BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Barbados’ Attorney General and Minister of Home Affairs, Adriel Brathwaite, is proposing that Caribbean countries unite to either buy or establish an international commercial bank to protect the region from the current threat of pull-outs by foreign-owned financial institutions.

Delivering a lunchtime lecture yesterday, he pointed to the recent decision by the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) to sell its majority shares in FirstCaribbean International — which was later rescinded — as an example of the need for such an institution.

“We are going to have to take the bull by the horn, as it were, and address the whole issue of how do we ensure that there will be banking in this region for our people. And it is my recommendation that heads of this region consider either investing in one of the existing international banks; taking a

majority shareholding and/or buying one; and/or forming one and taking it as international as possible,” Brathwaite said, adding that this would protect the region from having to depend on foreign shareholders or directors whose sole interest was profitability in their backyards.

He admitted that there were issues with operating in the region, but was insistent that the threat of pull-out by foreign commercial banks must be addressed.

“From a regional perspective . . . we should form, and/or acquire an international bank, so that when these issues arise, some shareholder or some director outside of Barbados [doesn’t] make a decision to move the bank, sell the assets and disappear and then we are scrambling because our people don’t have any banking resources,” Brathwaite stressed.

His comments come on the heels of the announcement by FirstCaribbean, earlier this month, that it

had withdrawn its recent public offering made in the United States and was no longer pursuing a listing of its shares on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

Back in December 2017, the Barbados-based regional financial institution announced that it had filed a registration statement with the US Securities and Exchange Commission relating to the proposed initial public offering (IPO) in the US of FCIB’s common shares in addition to seeking a listing on the NYSE. However, it subsequently said that “in view of market conditions” it would no longer pursue the US public offering and NYSE listing at this juncture.

The development came on the heels of a recent announcement by its parent company, CIBC, that it was pulling out of Barbados and the rest of the region.

In view of those developments, Brathwaite was adamant that the region could not take any chances, although he warned of naysayers who would point

Barbados AG and Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Ariel Brathwaite

to the collapsed CLICO International Life Insurance Company.

At the same time, he pointed out that regional central banks which were responsible for regulating the sector were not known to have breached any international best practices.

“So I am not afraid of a regional bank being regulated by our central banks and being managed by us here in the region,” Brathwaite said.

(Barbados Today) (Caribbean360)

Electoral Officials Ready; Parties Amp Up Campaigning Ahead of May 24 Poll in Barbados BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Now that Prime Minister Freundel Stuart has set May 24th as the day for Barbadians to elect a new government, the Electoral and Boundaries Commission is reporting that it’s ready for the polls.

Without any fanfare, Stuart announced the date the country had been waiting for, via a brief release from the Barbados Government Information Service. In just two sentences, it gave the date for voting, as well as Nomination Day which is set for May 7, and indicated that Governor General Dame Sandra Mason had been informed of such.

Yesterday, Chief Electoral Officer Angela Taylor told the Barbados Today online newspaper that voter registration is continuing, and the training of personnel who will help conduct the elections has been completed.

Opposition Leader Mia Mottley had expressed concern after the announcement of the election date, that there was a clash with regional examinations scheduled for the same day.

Noting that schools were usually used as polling stations, she said that having voting on the same say students were doing Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) tests would be a logistical nightmare.

However, in a statement issued yesterday, the Ministry of Education said the

on that date.”

Meantime, the incumbent Democratic Labour Party (DLP) and the opposition Barbados Labour Party (BLP) are intensifying campaigning.

At a press conference yesterday, the BLP’s general secretary and campaign manager Dr Jerome The Barbados Labour Party led by Mia Motley (left) is the main opponent of the Freundel Stuart-led Demo- Walcott reiterated the cratic Labiur Party in the upcoming election rce that party’s plan to immediwill also see the participation of five other new polit- ately scrap the controversial National Social ical parties.

Responsibility Levy external examinations would not be affected. It said the exams would go ahead (NSRL), which was increased last July 1 as scheduled and would be administered from two to ten per cent of the custom in strict compliance with the regulations duty of both locally produced and imand procedures of the respective exam- ported goods; and to restore free education for Barbadians attending the ining bodies.

University of the West Indies (UWI), “There will be special arrangements to be implemented at each centre to fa- within the first six months of being cilitate the entrance, controlled move- elected to office.

Dr Walcott promised that details on ment and exit of candidates and other the source of funding for those initiatives examination officials during the day’s exwould be included in the party’s maniamination period,” it said.

“The Ministry wishes to assure the festo which is due to be officially public and candidates that all steps have launched by the middle of next month.

However, Finance Minister Chris been taken to ensure safe and secure conditions for the administration of all ex- Snickler has dismissed the promises, sayaminations so that no candidate will be ing fulfilling them and other undertakdisadvantaged as a result of any events ings given by the BLP would cost more

than BDS$1 billion (US$500 million).

“So if the Barbados Labour Party has BDS$1 billion lying around somewhere that they can do this with, I believe that it is irresponsible of them to have not shared that money with the public of Barbados, because we could have done with it a long time ago. But if you are talking about eliminating NSRL, paying a wages increase to public servants, restoring tuition fees and paying off all of Barbados’ arrears, then we’re talking maybe one or two billion Barbados dollars,” he said.

“People want to hear the truth. People want to hear realistic proposals, things that are doable, not pie in the sky things that make everybody feel good.

This is not about feel-good things; we’ve passed that stage and that type of politics [doesn’t] work.”

The DLP and BLP are among seven political parties and at least one independent candidate expected to contest the general elections.

The other parties are: the United Progressive Party, Solutions Barbados, Barbados Integrity Movement, the People’s Democratic Movement, and the Bajan Free Party (a coalition involving the Kingdom Government Party and the People’s Democratic Congress); while former prostitute, Natalie Harewood, is also throwing her hat into the ring as an independent candidate.

(Caribbean360)

EMPHASIS ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM

8

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May 4, 2018

Guyanese-born NYPD officer to be inducted

By Tangerine Clarke

CARIBBEAN LIFE Rhonda O’Reilly-Bovell, who after migrating to the U.S. just 28 years ago at age 16, is the commanding officer of the 7th Precinct on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and president of the Guyanese American Law Enforcement Association (GALEA) O’Reilly will once again make history, when she is inducted into the Hunter College Alumni Hall of Fame during a ceremony on May 4.

These stirring achievements can no doubt be credited to the sound up-bringing and solid educational foundation that she received in her homeland. These accomplishments also prepared her for the arduous career she chose in law enforcement, after joining the New York Police Department six years after arriving in America.

The petite young woman, who served as a P.O. in the 100 Precinct, before quickly being promoted to sergeant in 2002, and then lieutenant in 2010, where she served in the 63rd Precinct, is a hard working immigrant who climbed the ladder four years ago, to become captain in the 30th Precinct.

O’Reilly’s work ethic propelled her to the rank of deputy inspector last year, a few months after becoming one of the top-ranking offi-

cers in the NYPD. She said she wants youths to know about the programmes the NYPD offers to obtain an education. She is a fitting example of these grants she received when she joined the Cadet Corps while attending Hunter College.

from Hunter College, and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Marist College. She attended East Ruimveldt Secondary School before graduating from the prestigious St. Rose’s High School in Guyana.

She noted that after trans-

NYPD Commanding Officer, Rhonda O’Reilly-Bovell (third from left) stands next to Consul General of Guyana to New York, Barbara Atherly, and other members of GALEA, at a recent Police Headquarters event.

“I chose a career in law enforcement because I wanted to help others. My inspiration comes from my entire family who supports me 100 percent. My nephew is also a member of the NYPD,” said O’Reilly-Bovell.

Married to a police officer, the mother of two daughters who worked her way to the top, while staying committed to her parents (father deceased) and siblings who she brought to the U.S. — holds an Undergraduate Degree in Sociology

ferring from York College to Hunter College in 1994, she found the instruction and curriculum at Hunter to be just as challenging as York College.

“However, I believe that the atmosphere at Hunter College, challenged me to give 100 per cent at my endeavours. My fellow classmates were very competitive and their work ethic pushed me to work harder than I ever did.”

“While at Hunter College, I developed friendships

with individuals who have been a part of my network.

Throughout the years, they served as a support system for me as I navigated the challenges I encountered in my professional life,” said O’Reilly, who is using these qualities to lead (GALEA).

The Guyanese American Law Enforcement Association (GALEA), which she heads, was formed after young Police Detective Randolph Holder Jr., the first Guyanese-born uniformed member of the service who died in the line of duty.

In 2015, officers of Guyanese descent with the support of the Guyana Police Force — organised and travelled home to bury Det. Holder.

Upon their return, two members met with former Police Commissioner Bratton, who inspired the immigrants to form the Guyanese fraternity.

The mission of the organ-

isation is to enhance community relations between law enforcement and the many communities, home to people of Guyanese descent. Additionally, they provide assistance to law enforcement agencies in addressing the needs of people residing in various Guyanese communities.

Civilian Guyanese also proudly serve the non-forprofit throughout the U.S. alongside police officers, court officers, correction officers, and immigration officers.

To date, their charitable work has touched the lives of youth in Guyana, where they have volunteered at orphanages, and developed a network of Guyanese American law enforcement personnel and utilise their expertise to respond to the needs of the community when necessary.

GALEA, which will hold its first big fundraising

boat cruise on June 29, is increasing the number of law enforcement officers of Guyanese descent within the NYPD and other agencies, by conducting recruitment drives in order to promote law enforcement that is more representative of the communities that it serves.

With its slogan “Honor, Integrity, Pride,” the group also provides aid to disadvantaged youths in the USA and Guyana.

Other executive members are: INS. Clinton McPherson (Intel. bureau.) 1st vice president; P.O. Khyume Khan (94 Pct.); Secretary, Det. Mark Holder (84 Det. Sqd.); treasurer, Sgt. Khamraj Singh (PBBS), Sergeant of Arms; P.O Mark Ellis (PADT), corresponding secretary; and Sgt.Wendel Seymour, (PBQN) financial secretary.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

9

EMPHASIS ON CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS

2

Free UK Citizenship and Compensation for “Windrush Generation” LONDON, United Kingdom — Immigrants from the Caribbean who are included in the so-called Windrush generation – the generation who arrived in the United Kingdom before 1973 – will be eligible for free citizenship, the Home Secretary Amber Rudd has announced.

The offer, which will be available to people from all Commonwealth countries, will extend to individuals who have no current documentation, those who already have leave to remain and want to advance their status, and children of the Windrush generation.

The announcement came as immigrants, many from the Caribbean, were threatened with deportation, with some detained and denied access to health care and benefits. Many of them have been in the country so long that they assumed they would never need to present documentation to prove they were in the UK, but many of the original landing documents – which in many cases was needed to prove an individual’s citizenship status – had been destroyed by the Home Office in 2009.

In addition to offering citizenship, Rudd

confirmed that a compensation scheme will be set up for individuals who have suffered loss or damage because of their inability to evidence their right to be in the UK and to access services.

The Home Office said it will be engaging with stakeholders on the scope of the compensation on offer and appointing an independent adviser to oversee the scheme.

A new customer contact centre will also be set up to make sure that anyone struggling to navigate the many different immigration routes can speak to a person and get appropriate advice. The centre will be staffed by experienced caseworkers who will offer expert advice and identify a systemic problem much more quickly in the future.

The Windrush generation was named after the ship that brought the first 492 passengers from Jamaica, Trinidad and other islands to Britain in 1948. A total of 500,000 workers and their families were eventually invited to the UK from former colonies and granted citizenship as subjects of the empire, to help rebuild the country after World War II.

“The contribution of the Windrush generation and their right to be in the UK is in no doubt

and I deeply regret the situation that has arisen,” Rudd said.

“It is only right that the significant contribution the Windrush generation have made to the UK is recognized. That is why I want to ensure they can acquire the status they deserve – British citizenship – quickly, at no cost and with proactive assistance through the process. It is also why I want to make sure we set up a compensation scheme that works in the best interests of those affected.”

The Home Secretary said she hoped the measures would begin to reassure people as to their position and their valued status in this country.

As well as not having to pay the fees associated with a citizenship application, people in these circumstances will not be required to pass the normal Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK test.

People who arrived in the country between 1973 and 1988 will also be supported to access the most suitable route to regularise their status.

In order to establish which route is most suitable, people in this group will be able to take advan-

tage of the new dedicated team which has been set up to help people confirm their status and will be given a decision on their application within two weeks of the necessary evidence being collected.

In addition, extra measures will be introduced to help those who arrived before 1973, spent their life in the UK and are now having difficulty returning either for a visit or to reside.

The Home Office said it will help to facilitate their return on the most suitable route and waive any associated fees.

(Caribbean360)

HOME SECRETARY AMBER RUDD

Jamaica’s Health Minister Encourages Neighbouring Countries to Replicate Island’s Campaign Against NCDs KINGSTON, Jamaica, Saturday April 28, 2018 – Minister of Health Dr Christopher Tufton is encouraging other Caribbean countries to join forces and replicate the Jamaica Moves campaign into Caribbean Moves, with the objective of reducing the region’s growing rate of persons living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Jamaica Moves is part of the National Strategy and Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs, which covers seven main categories of diseases – cardiovascular conditions, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, sickle cell, mental health disorders and chronic renal failure.

The campaign also focuses on community-level interventions to facilitate increased physical activity among the population.

Speaking at the recent Healthy Caribbean Coalition’s (HCC) Caribbean NCD Forum, Dr Tufton said the Ministry of Health has seen positive results and increased participation among Jamaicans in healthy lifestyle activities since the launch of Jamaica Moves one year ago.

He told the gathering, including delegates from other Caribbean islands, that the region has been successful in combating vaccine-preventable diseases, reducing maternal and infant mortality and premature death due to HIV/AIDS, through collaborations over the years.

The Minister said the same can be done in the fight against NCDs with a campaign aimed at overcoming the epidemic.

“Our efforts here in Jamaica, including the Jamaica Moves efforts, serve as a platform for a ‘Caribbean Moves’ that shows regional commitment focused on tackling the NCD epidemic from a preventative perspective in the first instance,” he said.

He noted that Caribbean leadership was central to the movement that galvanised the world towards the 2011 United Nations Political Declaration on Non-communicable Diseases, and that the Caribbean had the first ever political commitment in the world to fight the NCD epidemic in 2007.

Dr Tufton encouraged the delegates representing islands in the Caribbean to accelerate implementation of NCD responses that were previously agreed, to meet regional and global targets.

“Political leadership and commitment are critical elements for success in tackling the NCD epidemic, along with the investment in a package of cost-effective interventions with a focus on prevention,” he said.

The HCC’s Caribbean NCD Forum, a multi-stakeholder civil society-led meeting, brought together diverse groups of approximately 100 stakeholders, including representatives from civil society, the Government and the private sector of the different Caribbean islands, with the aim of mobilizing regional civil society organizations and other key stakeholders to ensure the Caribbean is fully engaged in the third United Nations High Level Meeting on NCDs. (Caribbean360)

Minister of Health, Dr. Christopher Tufton (right), speaks with (from eft) President, Healthy Caribbean Coalition, Sir Trevor Hassell; Director, Noncommunicable diseases and injury prevention, Ministry of Health, Dr. Tamu Davidson; and Acting Chief Mecdical Officer, Dr. Jaqueline McKenzietion’s.

(Photo by JIS)

10

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

EMPHASIS ON CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS

3

EXTRADITION ORDERED FOR JAMAICAN MUSLIM CLERIC ACCUSED IN US OF RECRUITING FOR ISIS KINGSTON, Jamaica — A judge has signed an extradition warrant, ordering radical Jamaican Muslim cleric Sheikh Abdullah el-Faisal be handed over to authorities in the United States to face terrorism-related charges.

But el-Faisal has 15 days to challenge the extradition order made by Parish Court Judge Broderick Smith.

US prosecutors have accused the 53year-old Muslim cleric, who was christened Trevor William Forrest, of seeking to recruit people to join Islamic State (ISIS), which is designated by American authori-

ties as a terrorist organization.

He was arrested last August on an extradition warrant from the US on charges of conspiracy as a crime of terrorism, two counts of soliciting or providing support for an act of terrorism, and two counts of attempted soliciting or providing support for an act of terrorism.

The Muslim cleric was taken into custody after a month-long operation carried out by an undercover New York Police Department (NYPD) officer who communicated with him by e-mail, text and video chat.

Prosecutors said that beginning in De-

cember 2016, el-Faisal began urging the officer to view ISIS propaganda materials online, and offering to help him travel to the Middle East to fight for the organization.

NYPD members ultimately did travel to the Middle East, and once they arrived, elFaisal put them in touch with a contact in Raqqa, Syria, according to prosecutors.

El-Faisal was convicted in the United Kingdom in 2003 of soliciting the murder of Jews, Americans, Hindus, and Christians. He was deported to Jamaica in 2007 after serving four years of a nine-year prison term.

(Caribbean360)

SHEIKH ABDULLAH EL-FAISAL

OECS Urges UK Parliament To Reject Discriminatory Amendment To Anti-Money Laundering Bil CASTRIES, St Lucia, — The United Kingdom Parliament on Tuesday approved new measures to confront money-laundering via the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Bill.

But the measures will affect the financial services of the Overseas Countries and Territories, including CARICOM Associate Members – Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands (BVI), Cayman Islands and Turks and Caicos Islands – and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has called on the UK Parliament to reject the changes to the legislation.

Under the amendment, the UK Government would be required to take steps for British Overseas Territories to establish publicly accessible registers of the beneficial ownership of companies.

The OECS issued a statement in which it said it strongly opposed certain provisions of the Bill, and spoke up on behalf of the BVI, one of the members of the sub-regional grouping.

“While we recognize and respect the sovereign right

of the UK to determine its national legislation, our concern centres on those provisions which are discriminatory to the BVI and which contravene the constitutional arrangement between the BVI and the UK by which financial services are formally entrusted to the democratically elected BVI Government when the new Constitution was agreed in 2007,” it said.

“The passage of these provisions effectively disenfranchises the BVI people and will undermine the constitutional relationship between the BVI and the UK.” The OECS noted that the requirement for the registers of the beneficial ownership of companies would not be applied to THE OECS HAS CALLED ON THE UK PARLIAMENT TO REJECT THE Britain’s crown dependencies, Jersey, CHANGES TO THE LEGISLATION. Guernsey and the Isle of Man, “thus appeardevastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria”. ing to specifically target the Caribbean at a time when sev“The issue of public registers is a matter for internaeral of our member states are still reeling from the tional financial regulation, in this case led by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). It does not require a public register but that beneficial ownership information is accessible by law enforcement and/or other competent authorities and is verified. The BVI not only meets these requirements but has enhanced its system through the introduction of an innovative digital platform by which such information is immediately and directly accessible to BVI competent authorities.

“Further, BVI has firmly stated that if such a requirement is adopted as an international standard then it will comply. In contrast the UK Register while public, is actually not verifiable, and thereby arguably does not technically meet FATF requirements,” the OECS statement added.

OECS Chairman, St Lucia’s Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, lamented the ongoing frustration of member states in having to continually battle the unilateral shifting of goal posts on the financial services front.

“We have all indicated our commitment to meeting (and in some cases exceeding) international standards of financial accountability and in return expect that these standards are non-discriminatory and take account of the special vulnerable circumstances of small island developing states,” he said.

(Caribbean360)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

11

Ease The Tension — Enjoy A Laugh MODERN DAY TEACHING GUYANA RICE TREAT Ingredients: 1 lb. prawns 2 tbsps. oil 1 bundle bora beans cut in 1⁄4 inch lengths 2 tomatoes 1 ⁄4 lb. cabbage shredded 2 onions chopped piece of pumpkin diced 1 green pepper, chopped 6 slices pineapples, diced 1 pint cooked rice salt and pepper to taste eschalot, chopped pineapple shell for serving parsley

minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Add vegetables and continue cooking for five minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add rice, pepper, salt, and diced pineapple. Mix well together. Allow to become quite hot.

4. Spoon lightly into pineapple shell.

Garnish with parsley. Serve hot.

Method: 1. Saute prawns in fat for about three

A

fter being interviewed by the school administration, the teaching prospect said, "Let me see if I've got this right: You want me to go into that room with all those kids, correct their disruptive behavior, observe them for signs of abuse, monitor their dress habits, censor their T-shirt messages and instill in them a love for learning.

“You want me to check their backpacks for weapons, wage war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases and raise their sense of self-esteem and personal pride.

“You want me to teach them patriotism and good citizenship, sportsmanship and fair play and how to register to vote, balance a checkbook and apply for a job. You want me to recognize signs of anti-social behavior and make sure that they all pass the state exams.

“You also want me to provide them with an equal education regardless of their handicaps and communicate regularly with their parents in English and Spanish by letter, telephone, newsletter and report cards. You

IT’S A FACT

by JAMES SYDNEY

THE IMPORTANT SALTWATER FORESTS The Value of the Mangrove

I

n many parts of the world, Guyana included, the seashore is dense forest reaching all the way to the water. The trees that make up this kind of coastline are called mangroves.

Mangrove forests are not as pleasing to look at as coral reefs and white sandy beaches. In fact they may be unsightly and are not likely to be tourist attractions.

However, the value of these important trees is inestimable.

In normal, quiet times, they prevent shoreline erosion. Because they act as buffers, catching materials washed downstream from rivers, they help maintain the elevation of the land. During hurricanes and storms, mangroves also provide a protective buffer zone and help shield coastlines from storm damage and wave action, minimizing damage to property and loss of life.

Mangroves also support many kinds of tropical fish which spend their early lives in nursery conditions, feeding and sheltering among the trees’ roots.

Mangroves also benefit coral reefs that might be nearby by filtering sediment.

In addition, mangrove forests have

long provided materials people have found useful, such as firewood, medicines, dyes, food, fibers, charcoal and construction materials.

There is something unusual about the behavior of the fruit of the species of mangrove tree most commonly found in Guyana. The fruit is a cone-shaped red-

dish-brown berry with a single seed. The seed germinates inside the fruit while it is still on the tree, forming a large, pointed root. When the fruit is dropped, the root, already in place, quickly anchors the seedling in the mud.

Roots from the seeds form a tangled

Bali Barat mangroves

network that props up the trees and form a base that holds deposits of silt and other material carried by the tides.

Land is thus built up and is soon covered by other vegetation and many kinds of animal life.

Mangrove trees are found growing in muddy coastal areas almost everywhere in the Caribbean and in Guyana. In Guyana especially they grow on muddy tidal flats and riverbanks near to the Atlantic. Because they tolerate salt very well, they thrive in sea water.

Were it not for the presence of mangrove trees on the banks of rivers in Guyana, most river banks would have been washed away and the surrounding areas flooded more than they are now.

Mangroves also provide habitats for many forms of insect, plant, marine and animal life. In Belize, mangroves support manatees, crab-eating monkeys, over 500 species of birds, numerous kinds of fish, fishing cats, monitor lizards, jaguars, snails, hermit crabs, mangrove fiddler crabs, periwinkles, tarantulas, and sea turtles.

There are many species of mangrove. The species of mangrove that grows in an area is largely determined by

want me to do all this with a piece of chalk, a blackboard, a bulletin board, a few books, a big smile and a starting salary that qualifies me for food stamps. You want me to do all this and then you tell me, "I can't pray?"

"You've got that right."

DAD AT THE MALL

I

took my dad to the mall the other day to buy some new shoes. We decided to grab a bite at the food court.

I noticed he was watching a teenager sitting next to him. The teenager had spiked hair in all different colors: green, red, orange, and blue.

My dad kept staring at him. The teenager would look and find him staring every time.

When the teenager had enough, he sarcastically asked, 'What's the matter old man, never done anything wild in your life?'

Knowing my Dad, I quickly swallowed my food so that I would not choke on his response; knowing he would have a good one.

And in classic style he did not bat an eye in his response, 'Got drunk once and had sex with a peacock. I was just wondering if you were my son.

how "salty" the water is. Also, some types of mangroves shut out salt from their systems while others discharge or eject salt from their systems. Water from the trunks of mangroves that exclude salt is so fresh that people can drink it, even though the mangrove may be standing in very salty soil or water.

These trees thrive in many parts of the world. The countries with the largest concentrations are Indonesia, Brazil, Australia, Nigeria and Mexico.

Mangrove forests have helped save many lives over the ages. They did so once more during the devastating tsunamis triggered by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake, one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.

The tsunamis killed more than 225,000 people in eleven countries and flooded coastal communities with waves up to 100 feet high. Comparisons between villages that were hit by the giant waves in Sri Lanka, for example, demonstrated that damage was relatively small where mangrove vegetation played a role. Where mangroves were cleared for wood and to make way for shrimp farms and tourist development, there was major flooding and the loss of lives.

Thankfully, the current plan of The European Union to improve Guyana's sea defenses recognizes mangroves as the first line of sea defense, and includes re-planting and maintenance of mangroves. The plan also includes a public education program intended to sensitize Guyanese about the importance of mangroves and to encourage their support in ensuring that the trees are not destroyed.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May 4, 2018

37 trained in oil-spill response

Minister of State Joseph Harmon with the participants who completed the Incident Command System (ICS) workshop for Oil-related Disaster Preparedness, which concluded on Saturday

MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon on Saturday assured Guyanese that there are strong measures in place to protect the shoreline in the unlikely event of an oil spill.

He was at the time speaking at the closing ceremony of the Oil-Spill Response Training Course, which was held at the Splashmins Resort. This training course marks the culmination of the Incident Command System (ICS) Workshop for Oil-related Disaster Preparedness, which commenced on Monday.

“I believe that it is important for all of Guyana to understand and recognise that as we are moving for first oil, we are preparing ourselves for the eventuality

of an oil spill. A lot has been said about our preparation and capacity and I am very happy that ExxonMobil has been part of this exercise; making available to us the human resource to do this training… We have to put in place measures which are more proactive rather than reactive and the companies that are operating offshore Guyana will have to satisfy us of those measures,” the minister said.

Minister Harmon explained that while an oil spill is unlikely to occur, this exercise is a necessary part of ensuring that the country is prepared for all eventualities as the oil and gas sector is developed. It brought together important stakeholders such as the Guyana Energy

Agency (GEA), Ministries of Natural Resources, Legal Affairs, Public Infrastructure, Agriculture, Public Health and Foreign Affairs, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Guyana Marine Conservation Society, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, along with ExxonMobil.

“I trust that we will never have to get to this point [the point of an oil spill], but the fact that we are preparing for it, we are prepositioning equipment, we are training people and we are putting them in various parts of the country, speaks to our ability to plan for these events,” the

minister said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge, who was also present at the event, explained that his ministry holds special responsibilities with regard to assuring the international investment community and the rest of the world of Guyana’s commitment to developing its petroleum industry in a sustainable way and in accordance with best practices.

“Petroleum and gas exploration is one of the most important things to have come Guyana’s way in centuries and, therefore, it become especially important for us to be able to show that we recognise that in an important industry like this, there are responsibilities and

requirements that go with having that industry resident here, such as safety issues, issues of awareness on the part of the population, capacity building and the like… This is part of the foundation of the industry, whenever and however emergencies may arise,” he said.

The workshop was organised by the Ministry of Natural Resources in collaboration with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and ExxonMobil, which provided the instructors.

A total of 37 persons participated in the workshop and they were awarded with certificates after they gave a practical demonstration of the skills and training they received over the past few days.

Devon Reece, who rep-

resented the Fisheries Department of the Ministry of Agriculture, described the workshop as extremely useful, as he now has first-hand knowledge of the types of equipment that will have to be used in the event of an oil spill.

He added that the networking aspect that the training provided has allowed for participants to know and understand their individual and collective responsibilities.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Romeo Defreitas, who said that the training was very beneficial but he hopes the need for the oil-spill response team never arises. He represented the Guyana Marine Conservation Society. (Ministry of the Presidency)

Guyana CHRONICLE Chronicle New YorkMay Edition week GUYANA Thursday, 3, 2018

ending May 4, 2018

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9

Dr. Jagan commemorative stamps unveiled

Members of Dr Cheddi Jagan’s family stand alongside the unveiled commemorative stamps Wednesday at the Ministry of the Presidency (Adrian Narine photo)

THE Government of Guyana, in collaboration with the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) and the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (CJRC) on Wednesday unveiled commemorative stamps in honour of the 100th birth anniversary of former President Dr. Cheddi Jagan.

The unveiling ceremony took place in the Mazaruni Room of the Ministry of the Presidency (MoTP) in the presence of Dr Jagan’s relatives, members of the GPOC and staff of the MoTP. Director of the CJRC, Hydar Ally, said the stamps represent a fitting tribute to Dr Jagan, who served as the country’s third executive president.

“This year, 2018, is a very special year, the 100th birth anniversary of Dr Jagan,” said Ally, who described Dr Jagan as a man who dedicated his entire life to a peaceful, progressive and democratic Guyana. “It was his steadfast dedication to free his people from the yoke of colonialism and poverty that really distinguished him from others of his type…Dr Jagan has left us a rich and enduring legacy of struggle for a better Guyana and I may add, a better world,” he said.

Ally, who outlined Dr Jagan’s life, expressed elation that the commemorative stamps and First Day Covers have been launched.

“We feel good about the launch, I think it is a very rewarding experience to have reached this point ---to have the handing-over ceremony,” he said, while reminding that it was the CJRC’s expectation that the handing-over ceremony would have been held in March, the month of Dr Jagan’s birth.

President David Granger had said earlier this year that his Cabinet took a decision that commemorative stamps, which are national symbols, must adhere to national criteria. He said such symbols must not be used for private, partisan or political messages, but ought to be used for national purposes.

The printing of the commemo-

Chief Protocol Officer at MoTP, Colonel Francis Abraham

rative stamps to honour Dr Jagan was scheduled to mark his 100th birth anniversary in March, but was placed on hold. Government had said that it had no objection to honouring the life and legacy of Dr. Jagan, but noted that there should be equity in the printing of such commemorative stamps, which are national symbols.

“We were disappointed… but I feel that the important thing for us is that we have gotten the First Day Covers,” while noting that the research centre had invested some $400,000 into the project. “It is kind of a business transaction between the centre and the post office,” Ally noted.

The stamp was produced and designed by the Inter-Governmental Philatelic Corporation (IGPC), located in New Jersey in the United States of America (USA). Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, along with members of the opposition, including Mr. Zulfikar Mustapha, Ally, Indra Chandarpal, Komal Chand and Neil Kumar were invited to the ceremony by the CJRC, but were no-shows. As part of an agreement between the MoTP and the CJRC, a list was submitted by the CJRC on April 30 to ensure their smooth access to the venue. But Ally did not view the absence of the PPP, the party which Dr Jagan formed, as the “breaking of ranks”. “There is a very close relationship between the centre and the party (PPP), so there is no question of breaking ranks. I am not seeing any kind

A section of the gathering at Wednesday’s unveiling of the commemorative stamps in honour of Dr Cheddi Jagan (Adrian Narine photo)

Director of the CJRC, Hydar Ally

of breaking of ranks as far as the occasion is concerned,” he told reporters just after the unveiling ceremony. “So we feel pleased that we have reached this point, so there is nothing we should feel bad about. What was felt bad about is what I already indicated and that is we didn’t get the launch at the time when the daughter of the former president was here,” he explained.

DEFINING OCCASION Meanwhile, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the GPOC, Dr. Raphael Massiah, said the unveiling of the stamps represents a defining occasion befitting the former Guyanese leader. He said he was proud of observe the unveiling of the stamps in honour of Dr Jagan, whom he described as an honourable man. “He not only fixed the geo-political boundary, but he was born at a time when there was great struggle and he was in the forefront at that time even until his demise,” Massiah stated, while acknowledging the “little glitch” in relation to the initial launch of the commemorative stamps.

“The reset button was pressed and now rather than just a presentation and a launch that would have honoured him in a way that would only have reflected his work in a partial manner, we are now witnessing a launch that is truly reflective of his life and work being honoured by this nation,” said Massiah.

He characterised the launch as

Chairman of Board of Directors of the GPOC Dr. Raphael Massiah

a “sign of hope for this nation,” while urging Guyanese to work together for the advancement of Guyana. Representing government, Chief Protocol Officer at MoTP Colonel Francis Abraham applauded the CJRC for initiating the process to have a commemorative stamp printed in honour of Dr Jagan. He said while the stamp was not launched to coincide with Dr Jagan’s 100th birth anniversary as was the intention of the executive of the CJRC, the ceremony still holds great significance.

“However, this does not make this day any less fitting; it was always the government’s position that Cheddi Jagan should be so honoured in recognition of a life of national service and personal sacrifice. It was decided that the launch of the stamp would not merely be a poster event, but rather one which would have the approval of the National Awards Committee as these stamps are indeed national symbols,” said Abraham, who served as the Aidede-Camp for the duration of Dr Jagan’s presidency.

The symbolic stamps were also presented to the CJRC and the GPOC. The limited-edition stamps will be made available across the country at the GPOC’s locations for sale today.

Dr Jagan was born on March 22, 1918, at Plantation Port Mourant, British Guiana, and passed away on March 6, 1997.

He was first elected Chief Minister in 1953 and later Premier of British Guiana from 1961 to 1964. He later served as president 1992-1997.

Wanted bulletin out for Gov’t unveils policy on alleged killer of partnership Uitvlugt man public-private

AFINANCE WANTED Minister bulletin has been isWinston sued for 47-year-old Sheldon Jordan on Thursday tabledColin in Abrams in connection with the the National Assembly governmurder Colin Clark between ment’s of Public-Private Policy November 25 and December 3, Framework.

2015The at Uitvlugt, West Deframework is Coast an instimerara (WCD). tutional and legal outline which Clark, who at the time of his encourages the private sector to death was said to be operating participate in the procurement and his car at the Vreed-en-Hoop car financing of public projects. There park, disappeared on November are more than sixteen Public-Pri27. His body was later found on vate Partnerships (PPPs) which December 3, in a trench at Uitthe Government committed to vlugt.

Some threeisweeks after he utilising to help build the country’s had disappeared and a week after economy.

According to was the framehis decomposing body found work, the Government’s intention in a trench, Clark’s missing Toyota is to encourage innovation in as Allion motorcar was found under many ways as possible.

It a house at Perth, Mahaicony, said East PPP’sDemerara have been applied to the Coast (ECD). infrastructure sector, in particular Anyone with information that areas of electricity, telecommunimay lead to the arrest of Abrams cations, andof solid who is of water, Africantransport descent and Lot 6waste.

Supply, Mahaica, ECD, is asked

In the early stages of the development of the PPP’s, the government will focus on a number of key areas of development.

These include the Demerara Harbour Bridge, the Linden Lethem road link, the Deep-Water Harbor and container port, the Mini and Maxi Hydro plants and energy farms, plantation agriculture, modernisation and dredging of port Georgetown, milk plant for Guyana, information technology farm and the agro-industrial and small Wanted man, Sheldon Colin Abrams Manufacturing arks.

The government believes that the beneto contact the police on telephone fits and advantages of the PPP’s numbers 226-2870, 229-2655, 229can be227-1149, significant226-7065, when they911 areor 2289, designed well and implemented the nearest police station. in aAll balanced regulatory information will beframetreated work.

(DPI) with the strictest confidence.

14 20

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April4, 28,2018 2018

CAL to christen n CJIA departure l --to operate departures from modernised facility next week

By Alva Solomon REGIONAL carrier, Caribbean Airlines (CAL) is about to claim dibs come next week as the first airline to operate from the new-look departure lounge at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

And while no other word has been forthcoming from either CAL or CJIA management on this development, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson is willing to wager that the US$150M the government is spending to bring the airport in line with international standards is money well spent.

He said as much Friday when asked whether the government will be getting the most bang for the kind of buck it is willing to spend on upgrading the facility.

“Value for money? Yes! The answer is yes!” Minister Patterson reassured his audience, especially those who had their reservations.

The occasion was the conclusion of a guided tour arranged that day for parliamentarians, members of the private sector and other stakeholders at the conclusion of a site visit of the modernised airport at Timehri on Friday.

In an effort to justify his claim, Minister Patterson said when he assumed the leadership of the MPI back in 2015, it was discovered that at the time more money was being paid out as opposed to the value of work being done.

VALUE FOR MONEY

“So what we had to do is ensure that the project can be engineered to ensure that we have value for money, and have it completed,” he said, adding that Cabinet was adamant that the project can be completed without going over budget.

“But I do think is it value for money; I do think it is a project that the Guyanese public would be proud of when they actually come to see it,” Minister Patterson told his audience, which besides members of the media, comprised Minster of Foreign Affairs, Mr Carl Greenidge; Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Ms Annette Ferguson; Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Mr Jaipaul Sharma; Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings; and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, Ms Valerie Garrido Lowe.

Also part of the visiting team was Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Barton Scotland.

Notably absent were members of the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP), who reportedly abstained from participating in the tour.

But as Minister Patterson was at pains to explain, the purpose of the tour was to ensure everyone who would have visited was able to assess the project for themselves, and more than that, ask questions of everyone, including staff.

At the airport’s new departure lounge

DECEMBER DEADLINE

And while the multi-million-dollar expansion project is slated for completion by December 2018, sections of it that are almost done are expected to be handed over by the contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), to the CJIA management in phases, from as early as June.

Those sections include the modernised departure lounge, where escalators and baggage carousels are already up and running, and work is currently being done on installing the elevators.

By June, visitors to the facility were told, the new arrival terminal, along with the fire and pump stations are expected to be handed over the to the CJIA management.

“And that is what you will be seeing happening between June and the end of the year,” Minister Patterson said. “We will be using sections as we move out.”

Still to be done, he said, are the roof of the airport, and the fencing.

As regards questions on the auditing of the project, Patterson said that that is the responsibility of the Auditor-General, as it is he who audits all projects where government expenditure is concerned. As a matter of fact, he said that the project was being audited from the inception.

Dr Barton Scotland having a word with Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Mr Cui Jianchun during the tour of the airport (Photos by Adrian Narine)

RECORD ARRIVALS

In terms of visitor arrivals, Minister Patterson said that Guyana has been seeing record increases of late. “For the first time in the history of this country,” he said, “we are having more passengers arriving than departing.”

In terms of passenger comfort, he said that at the moment, the installation of two air bridges have been completed, while provision is also being made to have two more installed. “Our intention is that on opening, we will have four air bridges,” the minister said.

Minister Patterson described the expansion as a “living dynamic project”, adding that while plans are in train for commercial space outside the facility, the funds to do it will have to be sourced, as this was not budgetted for under the CHEC contract.

He said, too, that tenders will have to be published for the installation of a roundabout, which is also outside the ambit of the CHEC contract.

‘AN EXCELLENT FACILITY’

Minister Greendige said he hopes that the management of the airport can take advantage of what is “an excellent facility”, as it has the potential of becoming a significant hub within the Caribbean region.

According to Director-General of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Mr Donald Sinclair, a modernised airport is “of huge importance” to tourism agencies, and agency representatives are already “hugely impressed” by the developments they are seeing taking place at Timehri.

He said the tourism agency would be compiling its own bits of recommendations to the MPI to target the tourism sector, adding that the new modern facilities are a “vast improvement” to what obtained in the past.

One of the expanded ends of the primary runway. Work at the opposite end is slated for completion by yearend as consolidation works are ongoing there

Guyana CHRONICLE Chronicle New YorkApril Edition week GUYANA Saturday, 28, 2018

ending May 4, 2018

new-look lounge

15

Airside Friday at the CJIA

GONE WALKABOUT: On the runway yesterday are, from right: Minister Annette Ferguson; Minister Jaipaul Sharma; Minister Carl Greenidge; Minister Valerie Garrido-Lowe; Minister Dawn Hastings; Minister David Patterson; CJIA’s Mr Ramesh Ghir; Minister Keith Scott; Dr Barton Scotland; and an official of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure

No more tedious climbing of stairs now that escalators are in place Minister Patterson being handed a boarding pass by a Caribbean Airlines staff

Inside the new arrivals terminal at the CJIA

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16

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

The Handel Andrews Column

T TH HE E H HI IS ST TO ORY RY PA PAG GE E

Guyana’s Journey to Independence

T

his week I begin a 4-part series on Guyana’s journey to independence, which was achieved on May 26, 1966.

EARLIEST DAYS TO 1928 The country was first settled by Warrau aborigines, who are descendants of a group of people, who crossed into North America from Asia 35,000 years ago. There is not general agreement as to when they came to Guyana. Some historians date it to 900 ACE. Others state that they arrived around 9,000 BCE. In 1499, the first non-aborigines to reach Guyana were Alonzo de Ojeda and Amerigo Vespucci, sailing together. However, it was Sir Walter Raleigh (1552-1618) who made the country famous. He travelled to Guyana in 1595 and published his book, “The Discoverie of the Large, Rich and Beautiful Empyre of Guiana” the following year. This book stirred the imagination of European adventurers with the promise that they would find vast quantities of gold.

They travelled to the country in large numbers.

Guyana was, at various times, ruled by the Dutch, Spanish, French and British.

ESSEQUIBO The Dutch established a settlement in Pomeroon in 1581, but the Spanish evicted them in 1596. In 1616, they built a settlement at the intersection of the Essequibo, Cuyuni and Mazaruni rivers. and called it Nova Zeelandia. Fort Kyk-Over-Al (Lookover-all). Merchants of Zeeland (a province in the Netherlands) formed the Dutch West India Company, which received a charter in 1621 to administer the area, which was initially called Nova Zeelandia. Within a few years, it was called Essequibo.

BERBICE Abraham van Pere, a Dutch merchant, built a settlement near the Berbice River in 1627. The Dutch West India Company received consent from the Netherlands to administer this colony, which was named Berbice. In 1648, the Treaty of Munster officially recognized Dutch Sovereignty over it.

DEMERARA The area surrounding the Demerara River was settled in 1741 under the administration of the Dutch West India Co. In 1746, the Dutch authorities, eager to attract more settlers, opened the area to British immigrants.

Many British plantation owners in the Lesser Antilles, plagued by poor soil and erosion, relocated to the Dutch colony, because of its richer soil and the promise of owning land. By 1786 Demetria’s internal affairs were virtually under British control.

From 1781 through 1784, Britain and the Netherlands were at war. A few months into it, Britain seized the colonies of Berbice, Essequibo and Demerara.

The following year, France, allied with the Netherlands, seized control of the colonies and governed them for two years.

They constructed a town, Longchamps, at the mouth of the Demerara River.

The Dutch regained power in 1784 and moved their colonial capital there, renaming it Stabroek.

When the British regained control of Demerara in 1812, Stabroek was renamed Georgetown, in honor of George III, the then British monarch. The British Lieutenant Colonel Kingston established Fort St. George in Georgetown.

At the London Convention of 1814 the Netherlands officially ceded the colonies to Britain. They were unified as the colony of British Guiana and Sir Benjamin D’urban was appointed Governor of the new country. Although the Dutch still claimed the region, they did not contest the treaty, because they were preoccupied with their own colonies' struggles for independence.

CROWN COLONY SYSTEM In 1838, Britain set up a Crown Colony system, comprising a Court of Policy, a College of Financial Representatives and a Combined Court. The Court of Policy met with The College of Financial Repre-

Victoria to lower the property and financial qualifications for candidates to the Court of Policy. However, these proposals were opposed by the planters, led by Henry K. Davison, owner of one of the largest plantations in the colony. In London, the planters had allies in the West India Committee and in the West India Association of Glasgow, both of which were presided over by proprietors with major interests in British Guiana.

In 1849, the British Government expanded the electoral roll and allowed a small proportion of Africans to become voters. A person now qualified to be a voter if he earned $60 per month or paid taxes amounting to $24. The new roll included only 621 persons. By 1850, it increased to 916. A large percentage of the qualified Africans was female and could not vote, because women had not been granted that right then.

In 1891, the College of Kiezers was abolished in favor of direct election to the Courts. With these changes, the Court of

FLASHBACK: Water Street a long time ago.

sentatives in a Combined Court to set policies regarding taxation. It comprised an equal number of elected and non-elected officials, some of which the Governor appointed and the College of Kiezers (Electors) appointed the remainder.

Members of the College of Keizers were elected by the plantation owners and held their positions for life, unless they resigned or left the colony.

Qualification to the Court of Policy was ownership of, at least, 80 acres of land, of which 50% should be cultivated, or ownership of a house valued more than $5,000 above any existing mortgage or, for those who owned no house or land, an annual rental of such property of not less than $1,200.

Plantation owners met the qualifications easily. However, many merchants did not. As a result, many of them along with Congregational ministers and other interested individuals formed the Reform Association to address this matter. One of the chief organizers was John Emery, editor of the Guiana Times Newspaper.

The association pressed for constitutional reform, including the expansion of the franchise. It continued to press for these throughout the 1840s, gathering support from the new group of property-owning Africans, who moved to the towns after slavery was abolished.

In October 1845, it petitioned Queen

Policy now comprised persons who were half elected and half appointed. Financial Representatives were elected. Subsequently three elected and three non-elected members were added to that body.

The executive functions of the Court of Policy were transferred to a new Executive Council chaired by the Governor. Property qualifications were significantly reduced for voters. Candidates for election had to possess land or immovable property valued at not less than $1,500, while a person who earned at least $40 a month (down from $ 60.00) qualified to vote.

Elections were held to fill the three newly-created seats in the Court of Policy.

One of the candidates was Patrick Dargan, an African lawyer, who based his campaign on free and liberal education for all. He was among those who had consistently argued since 1886, that entrants to the civil service should be selected based on a competitive examination. He felt that the refusal to allow such an examination denied young African men civil service employment. He was defeated along with two other African lawyers, J. A. Murdock and W. E. Lewis who contested the two other seats.

Before the 1891 election, there were 18 representatives in the Court of Policy — 13 Europeans, 4 mulattos, and 1 African — William Smith, a Georgetown merchant, who was the first African to become a member of the British Guiana Legislature.

In the 1891 elections, two mulattos were elected to that body. No Africans were.

In 1897, two Africans, Patrick Dargan and Andrew Benjamin Brown, were elected.

A. A. Thorne, a Barbadian who had migrated to British Guiana and had campaigned for Black candidates in 1897, entered national politics in 1906. Considered by many to have been the most eloquent politician of his generation, he, was elected as a Financial Representative; but lost his seat in a subsequent election. He was re-elected in 1916, as a member of the Court of Policy.

In that election, P. N. Brown, an African lawyer, and two Portuguese — Francis Dias, a solicitor and J. P. Santos, a merchant, were also elected.

After the abolition of slavery in British Guiana on 1 August 1834, exslaves abandoned the plantations. Consequently, plantations were shut down at alarming rates and agriculture production fell drastically. The planters panicked. At first, they sought laborers from the Caribbean and Africa to augment the small supply of ex-slaves who continued working on the plantations. However, the number was insufficient and between 1835 and 1839 small numbers of workers were brought from England, Scotland, Ireland, Germany, Portugal and China.

Portuguese emigration was very significant. Between 1835 and 1850, 17,098 Portuguese emigrated from Madeira and between 1851 and 1881, 13,535 came from the Azores.

In 1838, Indian contracted laborers were also brought to British Guiana to work on the sugar estates. The first batch of 156 landed on May 5, 1838 from Calcutta aboard the Hesperus. They called themselves Jahan (People of the Ship), referring to the ship that brought them.

The system of contract labor (Indentureship) was abolished in 1917. By then, 238,909 Indians had settled in Guyana. Approximately 74,645 were repatriated to India. Some of those who remained continued to work on the sugar plantations.

Others cultivated rice on a large scale, reared cattle, sold milk and got involved in cash crop farming.

FURTHER CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS Further amendments were made to the constitution over the next five years, including a reduction on the property qualifications for membership to the Court of Policy from $7,500 to $5,000. The franchise was also reduced from earnings of $40 to $25 a month.

OTHER FACTS The cultivation of sugar cane began along the Pomeroon River in Essequibo in 1658, under the supervision of the Nova Zeeland Company. In 1640, slaves were brought from Africa to work on the sugar plantations.

Cuffy (real name Kofi) led a rebellion which began around 23 February, 1763 at Plantation Magalenenburg in the Colony

(continued on page 19)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May 4, 2018

17

Dreams becoming reality

17

by Francis Quamina Farrier

– allottees cannot wait to occupy their Perseverance homes

By Svetlana Marshall EXCITEMENT filled the air as the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) gave more that 10 allottees a tour of their soonto-be homes at the Perseverance Housing Scheme, East Bank of Demerara (EBD).

Over 100 houses and duplexes are under construction at the Perseverance Housing Scheme as the CH&PA’s Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Programme makes waves in the housing sector; and on Thursday, more than 10 allottees were given an opportunity to inspect their soon-to-be homes.

Akeem Glasgow, a Guyana Police Force (GPF) officer, was among the lot.

“It is actually a nice feel-

opportunity from the government we were pleased and now very, very excited…. I know everybody is very excited that this has materialised after a very long time,” Mars said.

Lawrence McRae, who toured the housing units on behalf of his son, said he is a proud father, knowing that soon, and at a very early age in his life, his son would be a home-owner.

“When children can inherit this kind of land and house, parents must be proud and happy for them, because not many of us have children that can acquire homes, some of us living in rented house,” McRae opined.

For his son, McRae said it is a blessing and expressed gratitude to the CH&PA for

Housing Scheme, explained that from a total of 33 duplexes, more than 20 have been completed thus far. Currently, the CH&PA is working with the contractors to have those houses handed over to the authority before the keys are given to the allottees.

According to the project engineer, the remaining 13 duplexes are slated to be completed by the end of April.

“Simultaneously, we have started another seven duplexes. Most of the foundation for those seven are currently ongoing, and within another two months, those seven duplexes will be completed. So we will have over 40 duplexes for the year 2018,” Narine explained.

Also, 60 elevated units are under construction, and according to the project engi-

One of the elevated housing units at Perseverance Housing Scheme that are under construction

of 11 more housing units. If CH&PA’s board gives the green light, by August the units can be completed.

“So for Perseverance, we will have 40 duplexes, 60 elevated units, and we will have 31 three-bedroom units at Perseverance. In addition to that, we will have the 18 bungalow designs; those buildings are 85 per cent completed,” the project engineer further explained.

Allottees viewing the houses that are under construction

ing because living in a rent house is tough,” Glasgow said during an interview on the tour. As a young police officer, Glasgow expressed optimism about being one step closer to achieving his goal of becoming a home owner.

Kester Mars and his wife, from all indications were bubbling with excitement. In the past, the couple was offered a plot of land by the CH&PA at a cost of $2M; however, it was out of their budget.

Mars said when the housing authority launched its Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Programme, he and his wife saw it as an excellent opportunity to achieve their goal of owning their home.

“We were awarded a $2M house lot, so when we got this

providing this opportunity for young professionals like his son, who in his early 20s.

BUBBLING INSIDE Another allottee, who requested anonymity, said she was “bubbling inside”.

“I am so happy. I applied eight years for a house lot, going and coming, just hoping that one day that it will happen, and I am thankful that today it is happening,” she said.

Another applicant said: “If we could move in tomorrow, we would do it.” She and her husband had applied since 2014 for a house lot.

CH&PA Project Engineer Omar Narine, in giving an overview of the ongoing works at the Perseverance

neer, 50 of them are scheduled to be completed by the end of May. “In addition to that, we have 20 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom [units] currently ongoing and about 10 of the three-bedroom units will be completed for April monthend, while the remaining 30 will be completed for May month-end,” he reported.

The only hindrance now is the weather, Narine said.

However, he made it clear that the CH&PA will not push ahead with works during the rainy season and jeopardise the quality of the houses.

Based on the successes of the ongoing works, the project engineer said CH&PA is in the process of awarding contracts for the construction

SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS In the other areas, the housing authority is also making significant progress.

According to Narine, at Onderneeming in Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara,

10 elevated housing units are being constructed, and based on a recent report from the evaluation team, five of them are ready to be handed over to CH&PA by the contractor.

The remainders will be completed in another two weeks.

Based on demand, the housing authority is also expected to commence construction for nine three-bedroom houses at Onderneeming.

Meanwhile, at Experiment Housing Scheme in Berbice, contractors there are doing “impressive work” as they construct 10 elevated, five two-bedroom, and five three-bedroom units, Narine said. CH&PA’s Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Programme, particularly the

construction aspect, is being overseen by six engineers, who conduct frequent visits to construction sites.

Using US$20M, the housing authority intends to develop infrastructure in several housing schemes, while investing another US$10M for the construction of 250 core houses.

The 250 core houses will be constructed in housing schemes that span Ogle on the East Coast of Demerara to Golden Grove on the East Bank of Demerara in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), and La Partfaite Harmonie in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

18

Emphasis on Real Estate, Taxes and Business The Edgar Henry Column

Those Three Important Words

S

ome people think "I love you" are the three most important words in the English language that relates to life, love and living. Believe it or not, there are also three very crucial words that could hamper your lifestyle — “Your Credit Score.” And depending on where your score falls, it can have an enormous impact on not only your life, but your family's opportunities, successes and failures as well. It's critical to understand that your credit score can affect everything from your employment prospects to your child's education.

PERSONAL GUARANTEE If you're planning to start your own business, or already own a business, you realize that your chances for success and staying afloat often come at the mercy of lenders. If you own a business, you most likely have loans, revolving lines of credit with a bank, and credit lines with various suppliers. Remember it's not simply a matter of having the liberty to allow your financial options to rest on the shoulders of your business. Most of the time lenders require a personal guarantee from you — not the business — before they extend any type of credit. To find out if your personal guarantee is worth anything, they will check your credit report; a discovery of poor credit may turn into pricey loan terms for you or, worse, no loans at all.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING A GOOD CREDIT SCORE

Whatever type of housing you choose, whether it's purchasing a home or renting, your credit score can dictate where you will be hanging your hat. In today's market, the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) on a 30-year home mortgage for someone with a poor credit score is almost double the APR for someone with a high credit score.

Even if you're planning to purchase property together as a couple and one of you maintained impeccable credit while the other has poor credit, you'll suffer in terms of the interest rate. If the spouse with a great credit could qualify for the mortgage on his or her income alone, then that would be the way to go.

Even if you're not purchasing a home, renters are not immune to the effects of poor credit by any means. Most applications to rent give the landlord the right to look at your credit report. Good credit equals good tenants. Whether you’re renting from a private landlord or searching for housing in an apartment complex, poor credit reflects on your potential to be perceived as a dependable and

accountable renter.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES Employers do care about your credit score. Like your rental application, a signed job application may give your prospective employer the right to examine the state of your credit. Your potential employer may use

your credit score to help them determine your ability to be a responsible and trustworthy employee. If you have a major problem in managing your own finances, it can be hard to earn the confidence of an employer.

A SWAN SONG FOR INSURANCE BENEFITS Whenever you're applying for health, life, or auto insurance, you're told to read the fine print -- but do you? You guessed it -somewhere in that insurance application's fine print may be the right for them to pull your credit report. Credit is poorly impacted when bill payments aren't made on time and you keep large balances on your credit cards.

Several studies have linked poor credit with higher and more numerous insurance claims.

Insurance companies don't want to lose money -- if you're not a safe bet for them, they'll find someone who is.

YOUR KIDS' EDUCATION You may not initially think that your financial choices could impact your child's opportunities for higher education -- or even your own -- but private student loan lenders are like anyone else. They depend on that

credit score to see if you are a reasonable risk.

THE BOTTOM LINE The bottom line is this -- your credit score affects much more than your ability to get approved for a mortgage. Being smart about spending, responsible about bill-paying, are valuable ways to secure your financial present and future. Working to maintain your good credit from the moment you apply for your first credit card is of great importance. But if your score does become stained, the onus is on you to repair the damage. Good credit is built over a number of years.

THERE IS NO MAGIC WAND TO WAVE Contrary to what you might see in some advertisements, there is no hard and fast way to raise your credit score.

That doesn't mean you can't improve your score with good old-fashioned attention and effort. All you need to do is see to it that errors are removed, deal with any disputes with your creditors that are resulting in a reduction in your score, improve your payment history and lower your debt.

Easier said than done, right? I will outline some steps to achieve a higher credit score. Your score won't jump overnight, but you should see steady improvement over time if you follow my advice.

COMBAT CREDIT REPORT AGENCY ERRORS When you request your credit report, first, check your personal information (name, addresses, job history), to make sure your file hasn't been merged with someone else’s.

Then check the accounts listed. You may find one listed more than once or one that is not yours included in the report.

If you discover any mistakes, send a written letter to the credit bureau, listing what is wrong with the information on the credit report and why you think it should be corrected or removed. By law, the agency has 30 days to respond to your letter and indicate how it will handle your challenges to the report. If the error was simple, that may be all you need to do to take care of it.

• Disputing Creditors’ Claims Your report may include errors that aren't so easy to fix. For example, some consumers walk away when they are in billing disputes with creditors when they are confident they are in the right. But creditors may report a lack of payment to an agency. Such negatives can result in a "no" decision on an application for future credit, even if the negative mark is not a true reflection of your credit history.

To correct those kinds of inaccuracies, you may need to contact the creditor directly. From the time you receive a response from the credit reporting agency you have 60 days to try to get the creditor to correct the information. During that period if you are not satisfied with the response of the creditor, you can then contact the credit reporting agency again and ask for an additional investigation.

• When it’s Smart to Just Pay the Bill If you've been battling it out with a creditor and don't want to pay the bill, you could end up severely damaging your

credit score. While credit scoring companies must investigate any credit information you challenge, they tend to agree with the vendor in ongoing disputes and will only take the negative mark off your credit report temporarily while investigating a complaint.

If the amount in question is small enough that you can pay it off without financial distress, you may be better off paying the bill and taking the vendor to small claims court for a refund. Why hurt your credit score over a $30 or $50 dispute?

If the amount in question is much larger and you want to continue fighting, be sure you tell a potential creditor to expect the negative report and explain why you won't pay the bill. In some instances it may help, but don't be surprised if you can't get the best interest rates.

• Only Use Some of Your Available Credit The ideal way to use credit is to use only 10% to 20% of your available credit and pay all your bills on time. This scenario seems to get people the best credit scores. You may think you have to pay down all your credit cards to zero to get a good credit score. That's not true. To show you know how to use credit wisely, it doesn't hurt to occasionally pay a card over time. In fact, if you don't buy on credit and pay everything with cash, you'll likely have a lower credit score because you have no credit history for the credit scoring agencies to use or report.

Another mistake people make when they want to improve their credit score is to cancel credit cards. That can actually hurt your score since it reduces your available credit. Then your debt utilization ratio (the amount of debt you have as a percentage of your available credit) is higher -- which may lower your credit score.

There really aren't many ways to give your credit score a quick boost if you already have low debt and a stellar payment history.

But I can suggest a great technique you can try if you want to give your score a lift ahead of applying for a major loan, such as a mortgage.

If you pay your credit cards in full each month, those payments are made after the report has been sent to the credit reporting agency (right after the end of the billing cycle), so your outstanding debt looks higher than it is. If you're trying to improve your credit score, all you have to do is to pay your total bill at the end of the month -- before actually being billed. Check your balance due online or call your credit card company. If you do this for a few months, you should see a vast improvement in your credit score.

Remember those three important words, “YOUR CREDIT SCORE.” “It is always better to have information and not need it than to need it and not have it.”

To have all your real estate questions answered — FREE CONSULTATION — call: Edgar Henry @ (718) 930-9526

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

19

U.K. faces scandal over treatment of migrants — Rudd resigns LONDON, U.K. — On Monday, after British Home Secretary Amber Rudd resigned over the immigration scandal, opposition lawmakers pressurized Prime Minister Theresa May to answer for her role in an official policy to create what she called a “hostile environment” for illegal immigrants.

Lawmakers demanded answers from May over the policy that ensnared a generation of legal arrivals from the Caribbean, who were welcomed to Britain to help it rebuild after World War II. Rudd handed in her resignation from the post of Britain’s Home Secretary on Sunday after facing accusations that she lied to Parliament last week about deportation targets for illegal immigrants.

The immigration scandal has gripped the government at a time when it has less than a year to go before Britain exits the EU - which voters decided partly to stem immigration.

The scandal blew up over the government’s treatment of both legal and illegal migrants after Rudd first told the Parliament there were no national quotas.

She then amended her remarks and said maybe there were some.

However, a report in the Guardian produced a private letter Rudd sent to May outlining her commitment to increasing deportations by 10 percent, which included numbers and targets.

Soon after the report appeared, Rudd

sent in her resignation letter and acknowledged that she had “inadvertently misled” lawmakers and had “become aware of information provided to my office which makes mention of targets. I should have been aware of this, and I take full responsibility that I was not.”

The successful investor, experienced government minister, Sajid Javid was named as her replacement on Monday.

Javid, who is the son of a Pakistani immigrant bus driver and one of the most outspoken members of May’s cabinet to confront President Trump over his tweets about Muslims, became the first ethnic minority to hold the position of Home Secretary.

In November last year, when Trump retweeted misleading anti-Muslim videos by an extremist fringe group called Britain First, Javid tweeted, “So POTUS has endorsed the views of a vile, hate-filled racist organisation that hates me and people like me. He is wrong and I refuse to let it go and say nothing.”

Meanwhile, Javid’s appointment also meant that Rudd became the fourth member of May’s top leadership team to resign in the past six months.

However, despite replacing Rudd immediately, the scandal still remains.

May’s critics have argued that it was the Prime Minister, not Rudd, who as Home Secretary in 2012 was responsible for the changes in immigration rules that led to

doctors, landlords and employers checking people’s immigration status.

According to reports, since they weren’t able to put together the extensive paperwork required to prove they are allowed to live here, some of them have been threatened with deportation, denied health benefits or have lost jobs.

These people have been tagged as being from the Windrush generation, named after the ship that brought the first wave of Caribbean immigrants to Britain after World War II. The Windrush stories drew widespread condemnation after being reported first in the Guardian.

May’s own Tories too have said that the shabby treatment was an affront to British decency.

Rob Ford, a professor of politics at the University of Manchester was quoted as saying that Windrush “highlights that, even with all of the toxic politics we’ve had around immigration in the country for well over a decade, there is a basic kind of gutlevel sense of fair treatment and fair play.”

He added, “This is very much a government that built their approach to immigration on the idea that there is no such thing as a policy that is too anti-immigration. And, actually, it turns out there is.”

Over the last few days, May has issued repeated apologies over her government’s treatment of people from the Caribbean and other Commonwealth citizens living in

AMBER RUDD

Britain.

The opposition Labour Party meanwhile has continued to train its fire on May. Labour’s point person on home affairs, Diane Abbot said in a statement, “The architect of this crisis, Theresa May, must now step forward to give a full and honest account of how this inexcusable situation happened on her watch.”

And deputy leader of the Labour Party, Tom Watson said on Twitter, “I see Amber Rudd is carrying the can for the person originally responsible for this scandal — Theresa May.” In his first statement on Monday, Javid said that his “most urgent” task was to help those unfairly caught up in the Windrush fiasco.

(Caribbean 360)

Guyana’s Journey to Independence of Berbice. It lasted until the spring of 1764. Akara, one of the leaders (Atta, Quack, Bauble and Goussari were the others) challenged him for the leadership in May 1763. Akara won and Cuffy committed suicide.

During the early years of their freedom, the former African slaves purchased parcels of land and established villages in the coastal region. Queenstown was purchased in 1838. Victoria was purchased in 1839 and Plantation Orange Nassau was purchased in1840 and renamed Buxton, in honor of John Buxton, the great fighter for emancipation.

The first St. George’s Church was built in Georgetown in 1811 on the site of the present St. George’s school. In 1842, a new and larger St. George’s Church, which later became St. George’s Cathedral, was built. In 1892, the present St. George’s Cathedral was erected.

(from page 16)

ST. GEORGE’S CATHEDRAL For more than 100 years, it was the tallest wooden building in the world and is the second tallest wooden house of worship after the Todaiji Temple in Japan.

A mosque was erected in Queenstown, Georgetown in 1897. The building of this place of worship was spearheaded

by Goolmohammed Khan, a then leader of the Muslim community.

On March 1, 1837, a governing authority, made up of a Mayor and Town Council, was established. There were 11 elected councilors and every year they elected one of their members to be Mayor.

John Croal was the first Mayor of Georgetown. In 1889 the City Hall was opened.

GEORGETOWN CITY HALL The fires of April 3 and July 5, 1848 destroyed the wooden buildings on Water Street, in Georgetown.

In 1848 the railroad on the East Coast of Demerara, extending from Georgetown to Plaisance, was opened. It was built by the Demerara Railway Company and was the first railroad on the continent of South America. It was later extended to Rosignol

in 1890.

In 1912, the West Coast Railway, which was started in the 1890s, was extended to Parika. The Government scrapped the railways in 1972.

(Part 2 next week)

20

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May 4, 2018

I’m ready to be top cop

…Paul Williams says prepared for challenge of commissioner …gets ringing endorsement from NGO

By Rabindra Rooplall ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police (ACP), Crime Chief Paul Williams says he is ready to serve as Commissioner of Police as he is fully qualified and has over 31 years of service which he earned starting from the position of constable.

Williams who was at the time speaking at a press conference on Monday at the Officers’ Training Centre, Camp Road and Young Street, EveLeary, Georgetown also said of the eight Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) everyone would like to be promoted to the top seat of the Police Force.

Noting that the post of the Commissioner of Police lies at the President’s discre-

20

tion, Williams said “whatever it is, wherever I am being placed and whatever challenge comes before me in this Guyana Police Force to serve this nation, I am prepared for it and if it is the seat of the Commissioner of Police, let it be.”

Throughout his life, Williams has travelled across the world to participate in various forums, conferences and training courses, on matters of explosives and conflict resolution to interviewing and investigation skills.

For 24 years, Williams has been married and is the father of four. He considers himself to be an optimistic individual who wants to leave behind a favourable legacy.

At the press conference, Dianne Madray, a member of

In The Mail

the Caribbean American Domestic Violence Awareness (CADVA) endorsed the crime chief for the position of Top Cop, noting that based on her experience and working along with Mr. Williams in solving the murder of Shawnette Savory, she is confident that he will bring a breath of fresh air to the position of police chief.

“The person holding the position of police commissioner, has to be a person for the people, and prior individuals may not have set that precedence and I believe, based on my experience and what I have seen at CID, the air was so much lighter and there is a great team,” she explained. “In my opinion Mr. Williams would be an excellent candidate for the post of commissioner of police.”

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Crime Chief Paul Williams (Samuel Maughn photo)

She said that if Mr. Williams holds the position of top cop there will be far less corruption in the Guyana

Police Force (GPF). “The nation needs to trust the police, the justice system and once we begin to do that you

will begin to see a transition of a country that is going to be so different, and it will make people like me and in the diaspora want to return to Guyana,” Madray said.

Madray pledged her support and incentives to the GPF noting that, “I will knock on whatever door and whoever I need to talk to ensure that the right things happen.”

Two weeks ago, Williams was among eight ACPs who were interviewed and wrote an assessment test, as President David Granger commenced the search for a substantive commissioner of police, as well as four deputy commissioners. Assistant Commissioners David Ramnarine, Clifton Hicken, Leslie James, Lyndon Alves, Marlon Chapman, Paul Williams, Nigel Hoppie and the lone female, Maxine Graham were those who were interviewed.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

EMPHASIS ON COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

CAN'T GET MY PAPER!

collect my copy of the Guyana Dear Editor, I reside and work in Queens, Chronicle (New York Edition).

By the time that I get there, the New York. However because of my responsibilities at work, I am not papers have already disappeared.

I now have to rely on a friend able to get to a neighborhood outlet until midday on Fridays in order to of mine, who is a Bakery-owner in

Brooklyn, to put aside a copy of the Chronicle for me . . . She has informed me that the papers are picked up quite quickly at her place.

Sir, since it was recently announced that the Chronicle, overall

is now showing a profit, I think that your owners should expand its production within New York locations, since the paper is so popular.

Yours faithfully Bisram Ramroop

other person, especially their spouses, partners and children.

Domestic abuse includes verbal, psychological, and sexual abuse. Domestic abuse can also lead to suicide.

Guyana has the world’s highest female suicide rates. Women are also domestic abusers.

All cases of Domestic violence must be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality.

The Minister of Social Justice-

was lambasted, disrespected, called to resign, and blamed for the deaths of women. This is not her responsibiity.

The Ministry of Public Health should be tasked with combating this epidemic. Domestic violence is a public health issue and should not be the responsibility of Social Protection.

Professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists, mental health practitioners, marriage counselors,

relationship counselorsand social workers are the ones to be involved with Domestic Violence. In some cases even Budget Planners might reduce the stress in a relationship.

Could someone in authority (government) address this situation and stop this virus from spreading further in Guyana.

I thank you in advance for publishing this letter.

Respectfully yours, Reuben Freeman

Domestic Violence in Guyana must be stopped

Dear Editor, There is a huge outcry of the social ills of domestic violence in Guyana.

This disease is found at all levels of society — rich, poor, young, old, politicians, soldiers, East Indians, Africans, entertainers, sport figures and a whole lot more.

Law Enforcement must be used when notified, to immediately arrest anyone, regardless of status in society, who physically abuses an-

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

New York Chronicle Horoscope

21

CROSSWORD CROSSWORD

ISSUE 99 CROSSWORD ANSWER

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You can take advantage of opportunities if you are quick to make a move.

Be sure to spend time helping children with projects that are too difficult for them to accomplish alone. Be prepared to make changes to your personal documents. Your desire for excitement and adventure may be expensive. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Tuesday.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Your temper may get the better of you if a colleague has tried to ruin your reputation. You should consider submitting some of your written work for publication. Keep the promises you've made or you can expect to be in the doghouse. Try to keep any mood swings under control; they may result in alienation. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Tuesday.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) You need to spend some time pampering yourself. Sit tight. Things aren't as bad as they appear. Be sure to pay attention to your financial status.

Don't overspend to impress someone who interests you. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Follow through on some of the good ideas that come up, and you could have a real winner of a deal. You need to spend time with friends and family. Don't offer to pay for others. Be prepared to lose friends or alienate other people if you insist on being stubborn. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22) You can pick up valuable information if you listen to those with more experience. Pleasure trips will be a form of healing for your emotional state of mind. Try to keep any mood swings under control; they may result in alienation. This will not be the best time to initiate change. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Wednesday.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Losses are likely if you get involved with uncertain individuals. You should be raising your self esteem and confidence in order to promote your work.

Don't trust others with private information that could be used against you. You may attract attention if you get out socially. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Friday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) New romantic relationships will develop through group activity related to sports events. You may find that your mate is well aware of the circumstances. Don't push your mate away. You may get some opposition. Personal changes will be to your benefit. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Friday.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Travel for pleasure will be enticing. You'll be able to break bad habits if you put your mind to it. You may become rundown if you take on too much. Put all your energy into money-making ventures. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) It's a great day to attend social functions. If they're really interested, they'll wait. Your partner may be somewhat irritable next week. Be prepared to have relatives or close friends introduce you to new and exciting individuals. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Saturday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You can have quite the romantic adventure if you take time to get to know your mate all over again. You can make money but not through harebrained schemes or gambling. Your attitude could be up and down like a yo-yo. You may have a problem keeping secrets. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Monday.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) Let them know what your intentions are. Attend to things that you should have done yesterday. You are best to move quickly and to get in good with the boss. You can spend a passionate evening with someone you cherish if you make your plans early. Your luckiest event next week will occur on a Monday.

PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) Someone you live with will be quite unreasonable this month. Do some research if you want to find information that you can apply against the opposition you face. You may need a physical outlet that will help you relieve your tension. Your fun loving approach will be admired and appreciated by others. Your luckiest event next week will occur on Wednesday.

12. Daft 13. Chessman 17. lntrusive rocks 18. Arcana 25. Foreign dignitary 26. Projection 28. Personality test 29. Decline 46. History 30. Animal that beats its chest 49. Bow (to) 31. Scrap 52. Canadian province 55. Asian expanse 32. And so on 56. "Being ___ Mr. Kite" 33. Raw (Beatles song) 34. Wedded 58. Devoured 35. Besmirch 59. Divvy up 36. Newspaper, with today 60. Makes level 37. Unit of frequency. for short 61. Clear (of) 38. ___ populi 62. Parenting challenges 42. Sane 63. Solidifies 43. Six-line poem DOWN 44. Theaters 1. Soup type 45. Flips (through) 2. Have in mind 47. Buddhist who has attained Nirvana 3. Winter accessory 48. Commemorative marker 4. Reddish brown 50. Barista workplaces 5. Daily delivery 51. Novelist Barker 6. Priest wear 52. Come from ___ 7. Aplenty 53. Lesotho coin 8. Female organs 54. Engendered 9. Christmas ___ 10. ___ Verde National Park 55. Farm workers?

57 Ages and ages 11. Foreboding

ACROSS 1. Desire 5. Wizard 10. Day of the week 13. Puerto Rico city 14. Winged 15. Down Under bird 16. Goodwill, e.g.

19. With no end 20. New ___ 21. Chat 22. Microprocessor type 23. Cut off 24. Bundle up 27 Santa ___, Calif.

3l. Durable fabric 33. Work boot feature 35. Make lemon into lemonade 39. Jellies 40. Al and Tipper 41. Highway exit 42. Canonical hour 43. Light source

W O R D F I N D

S Y M P T O M S

[ABDOMINAL PAIN] ACHES CHEST PAIN CHILL CONFUSION COUGH DIZZINESS EARACHE FATIGUE HEADACHE HEARTBURN IMBALANCE IRRITABILITY ITCHING

0 F I L L N E S S

[LOSS OF APPETITE] [MUSCLE SPASMS] NAUSEA [PHOTOPHOBIA] RASH RED EYES [RUNNY NOSE] SNEEZING [SORE THROAT] [WATERY EYES]

ISSUE 99 WORDFIND ANSWER

22 22

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May 4, 2018

Supenaam Waterfront Project pegged at $123M THE Supenaam Waterfront Project, Region Two, is being executed at a cost of $123M, Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan disclosed.

He applauded the vision of the Regional Executive Officer (REO) Rupert Hopkinson and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), for initiating the project that is expected to improve the quality of life and economic well-being of residents.

The project is being funded by Central Government through the Public Infrastructure Ministry and the RDC. It was noted that approximately $123.070M is expected to be invested in the project, of which approximately $89M will be provided by the Public Infrastructure Ministry and the remaining $34.070M will be sourced from the Region Two RDC. “The first phase of the project which includes the construction of approximately 75 metres of new steel sheet revetment at the wa-

terfront and the upgrading of approximately 80 metres of road to asphaltic concrete, has been awarded to Samaroo Investments Incorporated.

Works are expected to commence by the end of May 2018 and to be completed by November, 2018,” Minister Bulkan said in a press statement on Saturday.

Minister Bulkan further pointed out that on April 10, 2018, consultations were held by the Public Infrastructure Ministry and the Ministry of Communities and involved the RDC Council, the Good Hope-Pomona Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), residents, taxi operators and speed boat operators, among others.

“These consultations will inform the second aspect of the project which is expected to include a paved waterfront with walkway and rail, lighting, covered public seating, new passenger waiting facilities, a boat landing structure to accommodate mooring of multiple boats, organised

vending facilities, upgraded

ly by the RDC and Good

The Golden Beach Boulevard, Bartica (Omar Bispat photo)

sanitary facilities, parking for vehicles and landscaping,” he further explained.

A second round of consultations is planned for May 2018 after which designs will be finalised and procurement for the remaining works will be done.

On completion, the project will be managed joint-

Hope-Pomona NDC. Facilities operations at the site will provide revenue for the NDC, which would be used to provide improved services to residents in the NDC. The ‘Supenaam Waterfront Project’, which will boast the features of a “green space”, is supported and endorsed by the Ministry of

Communities, Minister Bulkan stated, while reiterating government’s commitment to local government development, strengthening and promoting financial sustainability of councils.

“The Ministry of Communities is committed to building cohesive, empowered, sustainable communities and to support the strengthening of local organs and the capital towns agenda through initiatives such as this project,” the Minister emphasised.

In 2017 , projects were executed amounting to approximately $185.3M under the Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP), on construction and other developmental works at No. 76 Village Park in Corriverton; Lethem Declaration Park; Hosororo Green Space in Mabaruma; Esplanade Park in New Amsterdam; Sparta Recreation Park in Anna Regina; Golden Beach Boulevard in Bartica; Linden Centennial Park ( Phase

1), Rose Hall Green Park at Williamsburg and the Rehabilitation of Kitty Market (Phase 1).

An additional $193M has been earmarked under the CIIP, in 2018, for continued developmental works in townships and other local authorities. Projects to be done include the construction of the Lethem Town Hall, Development of Linden Centennial Park (Phase 2), construction of a smart stop in each municipality, construction of a sanitary block at Mon Repos Market, development of the Annandale Market Tarmac and green space, development of Aranaputa Sports Complex and the upgrading of community centre grounds at Skeldon, Rose Hall, Albion, Blairmont, Enmore, Wales and Uitvlugt.

Beneficiary councils have expressed appreciation for central government's gesture and goodwill and residents in the respective areas are excited with the developments.

Farmer reaps 450 pounds of onions

A CORENTYNE farmer has harvested some 450 pounds of organic onions from his Phillipe Farm, East Berbice, Corentyne, last Thursday.

It is the largest harvest for a single farmer since implementation of the trial project by Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce and Enterprises and Linkages (PROPEL), in partnership with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

Rawle Medford, 41, said he started planting in early

December and had 12 beds, but due to the rains during that period, he suffered a 30 per cent loss.

That did not deter the enterprising farmer as he continued the second time with 100 per cent success.

“I feel proud of this production and did not think I would have gotten so much due the challenges, which included the cleaning of the beds on time. There were six beds, 60 feet in length, three feet in width,” he said.

Medford said when he was first approached to be part of the trial group, he was

ecstatic to embark on the new variety of the high-value crop.

The farmer still has three more beds to reap, which should take the amount of onions reaped to a whopping 800 pounds.

Medford posited that he will continue planting onions on a larger scale after the May/June rainy season.

He is hoping to continue supplying local demand and hopefully to stop the importation of onions to Guyana.

“We have the necessary means to plant, we have

WANTED — ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES

The New York Edition (Guyana Chronicle, Inc.) is looking for motivated sales representatives to join our team, selling print and online advertising to an established account list.

The New York Edition of the Guyana Chronicle is a weekly newspaper, carrying news, views and comments from the Diaspora, Guyana and the Caribbean. It is circulated every Friday in Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx, as well as on our webpage(www.guyanachronicle.com).

Do you have experience meeting and exceeding sales goals, anticipating challenges and continually seeking new customers. If you are goal-driven, we want to talk to you.

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good lands and the trial has been a success, so after May, I am planning to employ two more persons and we are ready to make this bigger.

This is organic onion. I am hoping people can see it and come on board to purchase,” the farmer said.

And on that note, he called on the business community and Guyanese to support local.

“This makes me happy; this makes me optimistic. I am calling on Guyanese to support local organic products that can now be grown right here.”

There has been a conscious effort to reduce the importation of products that can be produced locally; and with the successful trials by PROPEL in collaboration with NAREI, supermarkets can soon expect an influx of non-traditional crops that are locally produced.

In addition to being produced locally, the crops are being planted and harvested through organic methods,thereby reducing the need for harmful chemicals.

Kewal Mangar, the NAREI extension officer attached to the project, said in

Rawle Medford with NAREI officials at his Phillipe farm

addition to Medford, there are at least three other farmers who were part of the PROPEL project, who have gone on to becoming independent onion farmers.

He said the Mercedes variety of onions has been more successful thus far

and that NAREI is working closely with farmers of the non-traditional both in and out of the field and providing technical advice in addition to identifying potential markets for their produce.

Medford also plants bell peppers and boulanger.

Guyana Chronicle NewNew YorkYork Edition week ending May May 4, 2018 4, 2018 Week-ending Edition Chronicle Guyana

IMPROVE POLICE RELATIONS IN MINORITY COMMUNITIES!

F

or a very long time, Guyanese, West Indians, Latinos, Sikhs and other minorities in Richmond Hill, Queens, Brooklyn and elsewhere, have accused New York police of racism and abuse of their powers, including at a groundbreaking Town Hall meeting at the Nareesa Palace on Rockaway Boulevard in Richmond Hill. Indeed, Richmond Hill and Flatbush are mere microcosms of this greater institutional problem in minority communities all across America, where many continue to be murdered and discriminated against senselessly.

Years ago, the Stabroek News of February 1, 2007, reported in an article by Dr. Vishnu Bisram, “Guyanese in Richmond Hill charge police with profiling, abuse.”

He reported that, “Person after person came forward to relate experiences of racism and police abuse in an exchange with the Police Chief of Queens and the Captain of the 106th Police Precinct (Pct) which is responsible for most of the Richmond Hill Ozone area. Allegations were also levelled against the 102nd Pct but the bulk of the complaints were against officers of the 106th Pct.” At that meeting, organized by Rotarians and concerned businessmen: Joe Iaboni, Jack Rassbeharry, TV host Roy Ramsarran, Trevor Rupnarain, Colin Moore and myself, “the Guyanese victims complained about racial profiling accusing the police of capricious and arbitrary targeting of their community to meet ticketing quotas and to make unjustified arrests in order to obtain overtime pay, charging that the police tend to make arrests towards the end of their shift in order to earn overtime pay, and that there has been a de facto increase in arrests in the precinct of some 22% since 1995.”

Many speakers applauded the work of the police in bringing down crime, noting that the district had seen crime decrease by 73% in the 106th Pct and 77% in the 102 Pct, contending that the community is not against the police enforcing the law but the community should not be targeted.

They complained that “other ethnic communities are not targeted for aggressive enforcement of the law, and that police officers do not enforce double parking in White neighborhoods such as Howard Beach but they have zero tolerance in Richmond Hill, and complained that they would appreciate answers, explanations and solutions to our complaints and an end to profiling.”

The report further said, “One Guyanese taxi driver related how he triple parks every day on Cross Bay, an Italian neighborhood, and he never received a ticket. But on Liberty Avenue he gets tickets and is harassed for double parking even when sitting in his car.” Mike Persaud, a teacher, who was subjected to an unjustified summons that was thrown out by a judge said, ‘What the police are doing to this community is tantamount to harassment.

We must put an end to it.’"

There were also several complaints about motorists getting tickets for dropping off relatives at bus stops (when there is no

where else to stop) or for double parking letting off passengers. In one case, the police issued a ticket to a motorist who was dropping off an 81-year-old at the bus stop.

Another motorist was issued a summons for dropping off a pregnant woman at the bus stop. It was alleged that the police don't issue summons for putting off passengers at bus stops in White neighborhoods. And in White neighborhoods, the police gently ask drivers who are double parked to move on rather than issue summons. But in Indian neighborhoods, they are issued a summons for $105.

The report continues, “Lawyer Albert Baldeo suggested that the police show more sensitivity when issuing summons. Drivers should not be issued summons for dropping

madan and was parking his vehicle when the police came up to him and asked if he was drinking. "I told him I am fasting and he asked 'What is fasting?'"

The Muslim period of Ramadan was all over the mainstream news. But that police officer did not know anything about Ramadan and fasting. Faroukh claimed: "He took me for a ride for three and a half hours and then took me to the precinct for booking. He said he was charging me for drug use. I am going to teach you Indians a lesson." Faroukh said that the same officer did a similar thing to another Guyanese motorist in the evening, charging him for drug use. Both motorists had their charges thrown out by the court. But no action was taken against the abusive police officer, who is free to continue harassing other Guyanese.

Guyanese also complained that the police would question them about their luxury cars such as: BMW, Rolls Royce, and Mercedes Benz. "If you drive a luxury car, they will stop and question you. The oft repeated complaint was the police would ask "Is this your car or how did you afford this car?"

One real estate owner charged, "They can't believe we could afford such expen-

FLASHBCK: HAVE POLICE RELATIONS IMPROVED IN MINORITY COMMUNITIES? “WE MUST ALWAYS FIGHT AND NEVER GIVE UP!” District Leader Albert Baldeo led the protest exposing the conduct of some police officers in our community, highlighting cases where residents were grabbed from places of worship, interrogated and imprisoned overnight without any reasonable cause, to then South Queens Chief, Thomas Dale, who took action. Also in photo are Jack Rassbeharry and Joe Iovino. off.” The police chief agreed with Baldeo sive cars. We work very hard and want to and promised to re-examine the issue with enjoy our earnings." Chuck Mohan, a labor his officers. Chief Tom Dale said officers union leader, charged that "the police treat should use commonsense and discretion us as foreigners who don't belong here. when issuing tickets. Dale also requested They think Guyanese are animals. The pospeakers from the community to come for- lice should be held accountable." ward and address officers about the diverChief Dale urged the community to sity of the community. Baldeo also called file complaints against abusive police with on Chief Dale for better community polic- the Community Civilian Review Board. ing. "There is a problem with the method But Guyanese say the CCRB pays lip servthe police use in going after residents in the ice and almost never takes action against community. They are arrogant. There is a abusive police. Captain John Dorothy of the cultural divide between the police and the 106th Pct invited Guyanese to attend the community. Almost all of the officers are precinct's monthly meeting to voice their from outside the area, living in Long Island concerns and grievances and to make sugand have no knowledge about the cultural gestions on improving police-community background of the community.” relations.

One victim, Faroukh, described how Both Chief Dale and Capt. Dorothy he was ridiculed and taunted by a police of- agreed there is need for interaction between ficer who arrested him without justifiable the police and community. Dale also promreason. Faroukh claimed he had just come ised there will be more meetings for the from the Masjid after 10:00 PM during Ra-

23 23

The ALBERT BALDEO Column

community to voice their concerns and grievances. "We want to know what is going on in your neighborhood. Let us work together to improve relations and to make police work better."

Other community leaders like Colin Moore, Latchman Budhai, Kris Gounden, Haji Zakir, Mike Persaud and many other residents vociferously highlighted the constant harassment experienced caused by police officers on Liberty and Flatbush Avenues, like getting tickets when parked safe distances from bus stops, being stopped and threatened for no reason, ordered out of one's car because of "driving while brown," profiled for driving a modern car, and for various other unlawful, biased related reasons. “There is a notorious Latino, mustached cop from the 106th Precinct, who ducks and waits like a cobra in an unmarked car, patrols Liberty Avenue and Rockaway Boulevard whole day, and just tickets people like a monster machine,” complained several residents. His name sounds like “Avocado.”

Guyanese immigrant Damon Mootoo, whose lost and found episode in New York made headlines then, was afraid to ask police for directions to his home, and nearly died of frost bite as a result. Moreover, immigrants are justifiably afraid that the police will turn them over to immigration authorities for deportation, despite the City’s sanctuary policies denouncing this type of action.

Have relations improved or deteriorated since then? Has law enforcement methods improved, or gotten worse? Now, it is time to take another look at this situation. Please email your suggestions, concerns and experiences to AlBaldeo@ aol.com, for an updated article and renewed advocacy concerning this important issue in the community.

If you wish to file a complaint regarding excessive force, abuse of authority, discourtesy or offensive language (FADO) against a member of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), you can do so online through the Civilian Complaints Review Board’s (CCRB) web site. The CCRB often conducts in-person interviews at its office, located at 100 Church St., in Manhattan. If need be, interviews are also conducted at locations in all the boroughs.

The investigator will travel to you particularly in cases of hardship. Criminal complaints against non-NYPD personnel must be filed with the police department. Complaints against members of police departments other than the NYPD must be filed with the Internal Affairs department of the local police department.

Note: Albert Baldeo is a civil rights activist and community advocate. As President of the Baldeo Foundation and Liberty Justice Center, he has continued the fight for justice, equal rights, dignity and inclusion in the decision making process. He can be contacted at the Baldeo Foundation: (718) 529-2300.

24

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May 4, 2018

Tapakuma Cassava Processing Facility empowering women to achieve Independence

By Indrawattie Natram LIVING in the Amerindian community of Tapakuma/ St Denny’s, Pomeroon/Supenaam (Region Two) can be quite challenging for underqualified women to access jobs and to assist in contributing to their families financially, due to the lack of resources as well as the limited availability of electricity and other infrastructure. In these communities, women are forced to either migrate or to seek jobs on the coastland. But women living in this area and determined to earn their independence, have tapped into value-added production using ground provision.

The Cassava Processing Facility located in the area, approximately an hour's

drive from Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, has given the women the opportunity to change their lives.

With the use of solar energy, a group of women have formed themselves into a group, Rising Sun Products Enterprise, enabling other women to join thus providing them with a better life.

The facility, which has been dormant for several years due to lack of funds, was resuscitated in 2017 and now is supplying cassava bread, flavoured cassava biscuits, as well as sweet cassava cakes, called "Quinches".

With the use of renewable energy, the women have managed to produced tasty products from cassava- a ground provision that is readily available in their community at a cheap cost.

President of Rising Sun

Product, Gwendolyn Chappelle, said Tapakuma cassava products are reaching many local supermarket shelves, with the latest supplier being N&S Mattai and Company.

Chappelle, said the efforts of the women are being recognised because she is receiving positive feedback from customers.

"We take pride in making our cassava products, when we get orders we get more motivation, we are glad that Tapakuma products are reaching far in the city," Chappelle said.

The mother of five said that women would gather from around the community as early as seven in the morning, twice monthly, to make cassava bread and cassava biscuits. The process she said has become shorter since the facility has modern equip-

ment. Previously they were forced to manufacture the products manually, however, with the help from the Rural Enterprise and Agriculture (READ) and the Inter-American Institute Co-operation on Agriculture (IICA), the factory was able to acquire the necessary finances as well as training opportunities to reach the demanding markets.

PROVIDING EMPLOYMENT The local provision is purchased in large quantities from farmers within the community and often times due to demand more women are hired to

President of the Agro-Processing facility, Gwendolyn Chappelle, displaying her peeled cassavas ready for grating

Members (from left ) Venessa Young and Gwendolyn Chappelle of the Agro Processing Facility at the recent Essequibo Agro Processing Expo

help in the process. The process of making the cassava bread takes approximately one hour to produce 300 cassava bread and commences with the washing, peeling, re-wash, grating, extracting the juice, heating, re-entering the graters and shifting them into the baking pan.

The art of cassava bread baking was inherited by the women's ancestors who taught them to make the stable Amerindian diet of cassava bread. On a daily basis, 1,000 bitter cassavas are purchased from farmers.

The women said that the products are Tapakuma's pride and the production has enabled them to earn the value of independence and determination for a better life.

MARKETING Another woman who works with the group, Veneassa Wong, said that the products are available at the Guyana Marketing Co-Operation, Safeway Supermarket Essequibo and Mattai in Georgetown. Wong said, however, their aim is to tap into the international markets where they would be able to produce in large quantities.

She also explained that much assistance is given to the facility by ICCA and a women's group called the

well as maximise on the overseas markets. The challenge, however, remains with the unavailability of electricity in the rural community and the lack of satellites.

The Tapakuma Agro-Processing Facility is a oneof-a-kind facility in Region Two that enables Amerindian women to add value to the cassava product. Operation of the factory ceased in 2002 but in 2012, it returned to operation with the help of the Ministry of Agriculture.

However, in 2016 it became

Some of the products that are made for sale by the women at the Rising Sun Processing facility

Agro Processor Development Network (APDN). She said the group would help in the marketing as well as sponsor exhibitions where they can get the opportunity to showcase their products to the rest of Guyana.

Wong said that at the moment, she uses her cell phone to take orders via calls and on the internet. She, however, wishes that the community of Tapakuma can acquire electricity so that they can get WIFI in order to access a better quality of internet, in an effort to market their product more. The women also desire to have their own Facebook page so that they can share their products as

dormant before once again going back into operation in 2017.

The building was refurbished with the assistance of IICA and READ early in 2012. IICA had extended a partnership to the community in 1998 but in 2014 under the Rural Enterprise and Agriculture (READ) the project was allocated G$3.378M for the refurbishment of the Rising Sun Processing facility. The funds were disbursed through the partnership of IPED and the Village Council, with IICA providing technical oversight to assist in meeting factory compliance.

‘Time to get up and get’ GUYANA 28, 2018 GuyanaCHRONICLE Chronicle Saturday, New YorkApril Edition week

ending May 4, 2018

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3

–– President tells Lindeners at Trade Fair opening

By Vanessa Braithwaite LINDENERS have been urged to stop folding their arms and take advantage of the wealth of entrepreneurial opportunities practically on their doorsteps.

The call came from President David Granger on Friday evening at the opening of the Linden Exposition and Trade Fair.

“This is the time, Linden, for uncrossing your arms; unfolding your arms, or else you will get no help,” President Granger said.

The opening ceremony saw the start of three days of exhibition at the Linden Technical Institute, and President David Granger in his

region that straddles all three of the country’s main rivers, namely Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice; and also has bountiful natural resources and tourism potential.

As such, he sees the exhibition as being a springboard to the economic revival of not only the town of Linden, but of Region Ten as a whole, and urged the Linden Chamber of Industry, Commerce and Development (LCICD) to include the outlying areas in future expositions, as development should be a regional portfolio.

“Linden has a special responsibility as a capital town, not only to develop itself and its residents, but to develop the entire region,” President

ment of a resilient economy.

This being the case, he said, the annual exhibition will help to measure the manufacturing and agro-processing progress in the region.

With that in mind, he urged the entrepreneurs to step up their game. “We must stop being a nation of samplers and start looking for markets on a grand and industrial scale,” he challenged.

“Linden and this exhibition must become a vehicle for commerce and also manufacturing industrialisation.”

LCICD President, Mr Victor Fernandes hastened to assure His Excellency that the Chamber is working overtime to ensure the transformation of Linden,

President Granger delivering the feature address at the opening of the Linden Exhibition and Trade Fair (Photo courtesy Ministry of the Presidency) is on a mission to transform Linden and Region 10 to a business destination with real business opportunities and new sustainable jobs,” Fernandes posited.

BUSINESS-ORIENTED LCICD Vice-President Lyndon Younge said that the institution is there as a business solution centre to guide entrepreneurs through the process, thus empowering them with the necessary tools to establish a successful business.

Noting that the Cham-

ber is cognisant that Linden is bursting with potential investment energy, Younge said: “We want movement Linden; let us turn our potential energy into kinetic energy and set the stage for economic development.”

This year’s exhibition, which is being held under the theme, “Exploring Opportunities, Empowering Businesses in a ‘Green’ 2018”, is the biggest since its establishment, in that over 70 booths will be showcasing their products and services over the next two days.

Exhibitors include international agencies such as ExxonMobil and local businesses such as Pleasurable Flavours. The aim of the exposition is to enable entrepreneurs and investors to network with each other, but most importantly for Linden agro-processors, manufacturers and entrepreneurs to showcase their products.

The Fair is being hosted by the LCICD, in collaboration with the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LMTC) and the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN).

President David Granger examines a locally made cup, as LCICD’s Victor Fernandes and Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira (third and second right respectively) look on appreciatively feature address said that the exhibition is important to him, as it is a start of stimulating economic development in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

He not only highlighted the many advantages that will make entrepreneurial development easier for Lindeners, but also made the point that the township is strategically located; is the epicentre of a

Granger said, adding: “Bring people in from the outlying areas so that they, too, can get involved and show off their goods.”

NEW DOORS With the downsizing of the bauxite industry, President Granger said, another door can be opened through entrepreneurship, which will enable the establish-

and has therefore embarked on a number of initiatives to see Linden reach its true potential in entrepreneurial development.

The Chamber, he said, is engaging the private sector and other major stakeholders to see the initiatives at reference take off, and in so doing empower the region’s youths.

“The Linden Chamber

President David Granger having a word with a Guyana Forestry Commission staff. Looking on from left are: LCICD President, Mr Victor Fernandes; Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ms Simona Broomes; and PNCR Region 10 Chairman, Mr Deron John

12 26

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April4, 29,2018 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending May

Another US airline likely to operate here

The new-look terminal building at the CJIA

AS expansion works at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) head towards its year-end completion, the interest shown by another American-based airline to operate here is expected to materialise.

This is according to Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge, who noted at the conclusion of a parliamentary tour of the CJIA on Friday that the executives of a “particular airline” had approached government officials in Miami, US, and

indicated an interest in operating in Guyana.

While he did not name the airline, media reports in September of 2015 indicated that Greenidge met with executives of US carrier, JetBlue, on the sidelines of a conference in Florida that month.

On Friday, Greenidge said the interested airline’s team indicated that they will be looking at the traffic and facilities and will make the decision after acquiring additional aircraft. The company, he said, has indicated

that while it had enough aircraft, it was examining other factors such as safety and fuel issues.

With the CJIA expansion nearing completion, that interest is expected to materialise.

Greenidge spoke of the concept of supply and demand at Friday’s event, noting that supply creates its own demand.

“That is if you have good enough facilities and prices are reasonable, you will attract demands,” he said, as he brought rele-

Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge ascends the escalator at a section of the airport on Friday during the tour

vance to the issue of airlines’ interest in operating here.

He said if an airport has decent and attractive facilities, it will attract airlines.

He noted too that such plans at the moment by any interested party will hinge on the prospect of more passengers travelling to these shores.

“It is going to be an attraction for airlines,” he said, noting that interest is also brought about as a result of activities in the extractives sector such as the petroleum industry and

mining industry.

Greenidge cautioned that there are issues pertaining to security which affect the profitability or airline and he noted that airlines are fined and have to pay “heavy burdens”.

Over the years, start-up airlines as well as established airlines felt the brunt of the narco-trade in which they have been fined heavily in cases where illicit substances were found on passengers who used their service to travel to the US. Major US carrier, Amer-

ican Airlines, is currently setting up ground work for operations here by year-end.

The CJIA expansion project also has a December 2018 deadline. However, in the months prior to the benchmark, various aspects of the project are expected to be completed.

Operations are expected to commence from the new modernised facilities such as the new departure terminal from where regional carrier, Caribbean Airlines, is expected to launch its operations soon.

Manganese mining to boost development in Region One MINISTER of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, has assured residents of Matthew’s Ridge that they will see a boost in infrastructural and other developments with the return of mining in the community.

“The road is going to be improved, we’re going to have to refurbish the hospital, we’re going to have to do work on other facilities.

This entire sub-region is going to be lifted up,” Minister

Trotman said during a public meeting in the community today.

The return of manganese mining is expected to see some 600 persons in the community and wider region benefiting from employment when production begins in the second quarter of 2019.

Regional authorities and the General Manager of Guyana Manganese Inc (GMI) were also present at the meeting.

Kenneth Jones, resident of Matthew’s Ridge, said the return of mining to the community provides much-needed employment opportunity.

“There are a lot of young people here who need employment and it would be a good opportunity for them to grasp it,” he said.

Clarice Mendonza, also a resident, said she would like to see the company assist in the development of the community’s health,

education and agriculture sectors.

Manganese mining began in the regional sub-district some 50 years ago under Reunion Manganese Inc. The community of Matthew’s Ridge thrived and was earmarked, by former President Forbes Burnham, to be another capital city.

However, under the previous administration, Matthew’s Ridge was neglected. “…it is time, I believe,

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman addressing residents of Matthew’s Ridge

Residents of Matthew’s Ridge turned out in their numbers during a public meeting hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources

that we revive it. We’re not just talking about how much money we could get from this Region. We would want to see this region become the first or second capital of Guyana,” Minister Trotman said.

General Manager of GMI, Xiaohua Xhang, through a translator, noted the construction phase is slated for the middle of 2018. Some 1500 jobs

are expected to be created during this phase that will see the necessary infrastructure being built for the production of manganese.

GMI is investing US$100M to build the manganese project. Some half a million tonne of manganese concentrate is expected to be produced over the next 13 years of the mine’s life, Zhang said.

(DPI)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending May 4, 2018

27

India unlikely to play day-night Test in Adelaide I

ndia will most likely not play a day-night Test during their 2018-19 tour of Australia.

Cricket Australia still hopes the first Test in Adelaide, which is scheduled to start on December 6, will be a pink-ball, day-night game, but ESPNcricinfo understands the BCCI is not in favour of the idea and has made its position clear to the Australian board.

CA announced the schedule of Australia's home summer on Monday without confirming a start time for the Adelaide Test. Since November 2015, Adelaide has hosted one day-night Test every year.

"It is our preference that we play India in a day-night Test match in Adelaide, but we are still working through this detail and hope to have an answer on this in the coming weeks," chief executive James Sutherland said.

Women's international cricket will bookend the summer, with Aus-

built Perth Stadium will make its debut as a Test venue when it hosts the second Test.

The Tests against India will be followed by three ODIs from January 12 to 18.

Brisbane will host the first Test A pink ball match in against Sri Lanka, a confirmed dayprogress at Adelaide. night game, from January 24 to 28, and the Manuka Oval in Canberra — also a first-time Test venue — the second Test from February 1 to 5.

CA has yet to confirm the dates of the domestic season, but it is likely to include an expanded Big Bash League season of 43 games.

The 16-day gap between the fourth Test against India and the first Test against Sri Lanka — filled by only three ODIs — could give Australia's India will begin their Australia international players a window to nents in February-March. In between, the Australia men's team will tour with a three-match T20 series take part in as many BBL games as host a South African Limited-overs from November 21 to 25, and then possible, while the tournament's Tour in October-November, and full play four Tests in Adelaide (Decem- closing stages could be held after international tours by India and Sri ber 6-10), Perth (December 14-18), the end of the Test season.

(ESPN) Lanka, that stretch from mid-No- Melbourne (December 26-30) and (Caribbeannews.net) Sydney (January 3-7). The newly vember to early February.

tralia playing three T20Is against New Zealand in September-October — which leads into the women's World T20 in the West Indies in November — and then a three-match ODI series against the same oppo-

South Africa will play three ODIs from November 4 to 11, and a one-off T20 on November 17, which is the first ever international game at the Metricon Stadium in Gold Coast.

PSL beats out other T20 leagues in fielding excellence

T

he Pakistan Super League 2018 edition saw the best fielding standards across all major T20 franchise cricket leagues around the world, beating out the Indian Premier League, Big Bash League as well as the Caribbean

Premier League.

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, which sourced data from Cricket21, the PSL third edition, held in February-March this year, had 82% of catches taken, with the champions Islamabad United converting 90.4% of their

chances.

The PSL fielding stats are well ahead of the BBL, where last season's conversion rate was only 75.6%. The champions, Adelaide Strikers, were third-best with an 80% conversion rate.

The IPL, as of April 29, 2018,

PSL 2018 champions Islamabad United converted a brilliant 90.4% of their catching chances.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Photo: ESPNcricinfo has seen 81% catch-conversion rate. The CPL 2017 edition had an overall conversion rate of only 72%.

The catch-conversion percentage is calculated on the basis of the number of real catching opportunities and how many of them are held or dropped.

The catching standards in the PSL were widely praised by commentators and analysts, who placed the league ahead of its competitors in fielding aerobics and catch suc(ESPN) cess.

(Caribbeannews.net)

RCB said they'd call me back, but they didn't - Gayle W

ith 252 runs in four matches this season for Kings XI Punjab, Chris Gayle has rediscovered the form that made him such a force for Royal Challengers Bangalore over the years, before he was released by the franchise ahead of the 2018 IPL. Gayle, however, revealed he'd been told RCB would retain him, only to not hear from the franchise again. "I was their biggest draw. It was disappointing from that end, because they had called me. They wanted me in the team and I was told that I will be retained," Gayle told The Times of India. "But they never called back after that. So that gave me the impression that they didn't want me, and it's fine.�

RCB let Gayle go after he scored only 200 runs at a strike rate of 122.69 in nine innings in the 2017 IPL, but between then and now the batsman had found T20 form again.

In the 2017 CPL, Gayle was the highest scorer for St. Kitts and

Nevis Patriots. He bettered that in the BPL, where he topped the tournament run charts by a distance and scored 146 not out with 18 sixes in the final.

"I think I had a wonderful CPL and BPL —where I scored two centuries for my side Rangpur Riders.

The stats don't lie: 21 centuries, most number of sixes. If that doesn't put a stamp on brand Chris Gayle, I don't know what will."

Gayle nearly didn't make it to this IPL entirely. Having gone unsold when his name came up for bidding the first time during the player auction in January, he was eventually bought at base price by Kings XI towards the end of the auction's second day.

"I'll be honest in admitting that it was very surprising for me to not get picked by any team," Gayle said.

"I don't know what went on behind the closed doors, but I also understand that these things happen," he said. "It's just the way it is. But it's fine, I've moved on from it. Like I

said, it's a great opportunity to be playing for King XI Punjab, and so far I've had a great time.

Perhaps it was supposed to happen, you know. King Gayle: destined to be playing for Kings XI Punjab."

After finally being picked at the auction, Gayle did not have a smooth start to the season either: he was benched for Kings XI's first two games. However, after overseas batsmen Aaron Finch and David Miller had poor starts themselves, Gayle was given a go at the top of the order. He scored a 33-ball 63 against Chennai Super Kings and then followed up with a hundred and another half-century, forming a prolific opening partnership with KL Rahul, another player RCB let go.

"Even though I was selected in

CHRIS GAYLE

the very last round of the auction, I wasn't really worried about it," Gayle said. "At some stage, you are going to walk away from the IPL and other forms of cricket. This is how I've always been: living in the present. But, given the sense that I was picked up and playing for a new franchise, it was very pleasing. And the way I have played in the first three games, I think it has been fantastic. I'm very happy with where I'm at."

(ESPN) (Caribbeannews.net)

India widen gap at the top of Test rankings

I

ndia are now the No. 1 Test team by a larger margin than they were last month. This is a result of the ICC's annual update to the rankings, which happens on May 1 every year; India have gained four points after the update, while South Africa have dropped five points, meaning the gap between the two has increased from four to 13.

Bangladesh, meanwhile, have broken into the top eight of the Test rankings for the first time ever, going past West Indies - the team from the Caribbean has dropped to a record low at No. 9.

The ICC's rankings system works as follows: matches played

over the previous four years are taken into consideration, with the oldest matches in the cycle being left out in May of every year. For the current cycle, matches played from May 2015 to April 2017 carry 50%

weightage, while matches played since then carry 100% weightage.

As the No. 1 ranked team, India will receive a cash prize of USD 1 million from the ICC. Mushfiqur Rahim, who was

Bangladesh's Test captain till late last year, said the update was a fair representation of the team's form over the past few years. "I think our graph is going upwards, which is a good feeling. We have progressed quite well in ODIs. We haven't gone to that level in T20s but we did well in the last T20 tournament. But in Tests, the progress has been over the last four-five years. It is showing in our ranking.

"As it isn't possible to improve by playing one good series, our focus should be on working harder.

We need to work that much more to climb up in the rankings. We have those players with the ability to take us further."

(ESPN) (Caribbeannews.net)