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ISSUE No. 93

WEEK ENDING MARCH 16, 2018

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Massive investments Pages xxx

-- several Canadian mining firms to invest billions in Guyana ►

Page 17

Bus drivers protest clampdown ► on colour designs

Some of the parked multi-coloured buses at the Square of the Revolution during the protest

Page 03

Mother guilty Foreign investors of ‘rat poison’ flock Linden killing ► ► Historic Election Victory -in mayor says business in the town on the upswing Grenada Page 02

Hofosawa Awena Rutherford

See Page 22

Page 15

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

Guyanese wanted for NY murder nabbed …US official files application for extradition

AFTER being on the run from United States (US) authorities, Troy Anthony Thomas, who was wanted in connection with a 2011 murder, was on Wednesday morning caught in Liliendaal on the East Coast of Demerara. He is expected to be extradited soon.

Thomas, 31, of South Ozone Park, Queens, New York was nabbed by police during an operation on

Wednesday morning which had commenced since January 31, 2018. He was later brought before Senior Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus before whom an application was made by a US official for Thomas to be extradited to the US to be formally charged with murder.

The 31-year-old, who was unrepresented, told the court that he did not know about “any murder”. Nev-

ertheless, he was remanded to prison until March 26 for report on the extradition.

According to reports, on December 11, 2011, 20-yearold Keith Frank was shot once in the torso in a flash of violence outside a South Richmond Hill party. Frank, who moved to Queens from Guyana when he was 12, died exactly two months before his 21st birthday.

The NY Police Depart-

ment began looking for Thomas in connection with the shooting. However, within hours he allegedly fled the jurisdiction and crossed over to Canada from New York State.

In Canada, he used travel documents belonging to a relative and boarded a Caribbean Airlines flight, arriving in Guyana in the early hours of the morning before the bulletin could reach Interpol

Lolita Callendar called “Lola”

(International police) Also in police custody is Thomas’ fiancée, Lolita Callendar called “Lola”, a local make-up artist and

Troy Anthony Thomas

social media personality of East Ruimveldt. She was arrested in connection with harbouring the fugitive and for threatening behavior.

Repentant mother swoons --as jury finds her guilty of manslaughter

Murder accused, Hofosawa Awena Rutherford being led away from the High Court on Thursday after she was found guilty of manslaughter (Photo by Delano Williams)

IT WAS sheer drama on Thursday afternoon as a 12-member jury brought 25-year-old Hofosawa Awena Rutherford in guilty on two counts of manslaughter for the murder of her two young children back in 2014.

On hearing the first verdict, Rutherford promptly fainted in the prisoner’s box, and was only saved from injuring herself by the timely intervention of female police ranks.

As was only to be expected, the diversion brought the court’s proceedings to a standstill, as everyone present in the courtroom seemed taken aback by the woman’s reaction.

At this point, Rutherford’s attorney, Adrian Thompson asked the judge’s permission to allow one of her many relatives seated in the courtroom to help revive her, seeing that they’d already had the presence of mind to walk with a bottle of Limacol.

Justice Singh, in his compassion, granted the request, and a female relative tried reviving the prisoner, with the aid of several female ranks

attached to the Georgetown High Court.

On coming to briefly, Rutherford screamed and again swooned, but luckily, the prisoners’ bench had by then been removed in anticipation of just such an eventuality, and she was gently guided to the ground.

As she lay there, her lawyer again intervened, asking the judge’s permission this time around to summon the prison Medex. The judge, by now wary of all the goings on, politely asked counsel whether he thought his client was indeed in need of medical attention.

The registrar meanwhile, seeing an opportunity to conclude the trial, asked the foreman of the jury how he found the accused on the second count of manslaughter, and the latter’s response was guilty as well.

Thompson, knowing that his client was in no frame of mind to withstand another shock, requested that sentencing be deferred.

In acceding to the request, Justice Singh adjourned sentencing to 13:00h today.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

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Bus drivers protest clampdown on colour designs

Elderly woman homeless after fire completely guts home An elderly woman is now counting her losses after a fire believed to be electrical in origin completely destroyed her home at Lot 633, First Street Number One Road, Corentyne, Berbice.

Seventy-three-yearold Noorbee Khan called “Aunty Data” said she was alerted by neighbours who witnessed smoke coming from the back room in the upper flat of the two storied building. “I eat and meh lay down in the hammock next thing I hear is the side neighbour shouting fuh fire.

I didn’t catch meh self was me house, then meh neighbour run them over so I just jump up confuse and run in the kitchen ,collect bag with some paper and run out.”

The woman explained that all the electrical appliances were off since they had suffered a power outage for some time but minutes before the fire reportedly started the area experienced high voltage.

Khan who lives alone said the entire house was fully furnished and she has been living there since the early 1960’s. In tears, the woman related “God will provide again…all these things make up life.. I don’t like sit down. I like hussle”.

To help sustain her livelihood, Khan was engaged in selling ice, drinks and icicles from her home.

She noted also, she was in the process of doing construction work in the lower

flat as earlier in the morning her daughter dropped off a truckload of sand.

Additionally she had paid for cement at the said time.

One neighbour related: “Me de deh inside when me brother in law come call out for open the gate. Then me see the whole on top a blaze way …whole morning we had blackout and current just come on deh little after the fire start.”

Another neighbour said he noticed black smoke emerging from the western side of the upper flat so he immediately raised an alarm and also notified the fire service and the Police.

“Plenty people start come we formed a bucket [brigade] and try our best but when it start get bigger we had to focus on we house .We soak it until the fire tender come”.

Meanwhile, the fire tender from Albion Estate arrived promptly and rendered assistance. The Guyana Fire Service Unit subsequently responded but was also unable to save Khan’s home. An investigation has been launched.

On Tuesday, a pregnant mother, her husband and five children lost the home they had been renting for the last six months to fire. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined as the family continues to plead for help to get back on their feet.

fitness still get take away,” Ozaye , a South Ruimveldt driver exclaimed.

He further stated that the situation was a drain on his finances. “ How are we surviving, they are not telling us nothing tangible, many of the drivers out here came from

LATE GE NSU NE RA CO

by police officers.

The drivers plying the South Ruimveldt, Mahaica, Sophia and Kitty route have complained that they had been unable to work for days and this was taking a toll on their pockets. They contend that no consultation was done and they were unaware as how or when the police would engage them in an effort to find a solution.

“Since Monday my fitness was taken away and I can’t work, nobody ain’t coming to say anything, my bus is sprayed and the colours are on my registration and my

L

the streets. I personally went to jail already and now I am working for an honest dollar and getting harass. This will push people now to go back to the streets,” the driver said.

The scores of drivers were told that three drivers who are willing to explain

E COOPERATIV TH ER F O

OF GUYAN A LIC UB EP

Georgetown minibus drivers on Thursday at the Square of the Revolution held a peaceful protest over the clampdown exercise by traffic police on their use of multi-coloured wraps on their vehicles.

Police stated that only drivers with coloured wraps that are not represented on their registration and fitness will be penalised. The drivers during their protest action posited that even buses sprayed in multi-coloured designs and with the colour represented on their registration had their fitness seized

NE

W YO R K, US

A

the situation should visit the Brickdam station to engage the Commander but they were of the opinion that the Commander should have visited the protest scene to engage all the drivers and listen to their concerns. The drivers are of

the belief that having fancy buses were posing no harm to transporting passengers safely to their destinations or breaking any law. They plan to continue protesting until the situation is resolved.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

“I was pulled from pursuing ‘Fineman’ gang”

By Svetlana Marshall OUTGOING Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud, said in June 2008 he was instructed by then Commissioner of Police Henry Greene to pursue the notorious ‘Fine Man’ gang at Christmas Falls, but it was not long after that he was instructed to withdraw his team to give way to the Joint Services.

The decision was reportedly made after Persaud’s team had engaged in a fierce gun battle with the criminal elements at Christmas Falls – a shootout that left one gang member dead. The remaining gunmen allegedly managed to escape and according to Persuad, were heading in the direction of Lindo Creek.

Persaud, who is currently on his pre-retirement leave, appeared before Chairman of the Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (CoI), Justice (Ret’d) Donald Trotman on Tuesday at Department of the Public Service, where relatives and friends of the eight murdered miners turned out in their numbers.

At the time of the Lindo Creek Massacre, Persaud was the crime chief, heading the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Guyana Police Force as a senior superintendent.

Responding to a series of questions put to him by the Commission’s Legal Counsel Patrice Henry, Persaud recalled that prior to June 5, 2008, he was informed by the then Commissioner of Police that Rondell ‘Fineman’ Rawlins and his gang were hiding out at Christmas Falls in the Upper Berbice River. The five criminals were wanted for a number of murders and robberies, and Greene had instructed Persaud to conduct an operation to have them arrested. He reportedly provided the crime chief with a map of the hideout location. “…I was given some information

by Commissioner Henry

…Seelall Persaud tells Lindo Creek CoI

The Lindo Creek Commission Legal Counsel Patrice Henry posing a question to the outgoing Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud

Greene, also a map showing a portion of the Upper Berbice River. Some other features on that map were a location name Christmas Falls, a particular location just immediately above Christmas Falls on the left bank of the Berbice Riv-

said he returned to his office, and further researched the area before mobilising his team of policemen to pursue the criminal gang. At the time, a reward of $20M was being offered for information that would lead to capturing of the men, who, based on

Headquarters in the city by road to Christmas Falls on June 5, 2008. A group of civilians who were familiar with the area had also accompanied the police.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hickens; Deputy Superintendent Withrite; Inspector Layne, Inspector Narine, Assistant Superintendent Lowenfield, and Deputy Superintendent Nurse were those who comprised the team led

by Persaud.

At around 17:00hrs on June 5, Persaud said they arrived on the right bank of the Upper Berbice River in the vicinity of Christmas Falls where they camped out until the next morning.

On the morning of June 6, 2008, Assistant Commissioner Hickens led a team to the left bank.

“Hickens and team crossed the river (about 200ft wide) and shortly after that I heard a series of gunshot

by Colin A. Moore

Outgoing Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud marking off key locations in the Upper Berbice River, relevant to the investigation, including Christmas Falls and the UNAMCO trail.

in the affirmative, adding that they (the criminals) were proceeding to the right of Christmas Falls in the direction of Lindo Creek. “There was a creek just south of the camp, there was a bridge across

Defence Force. The Joint Services had taken over the manhunt for the gunmen.

Further pressed for answers by the legal counsel, Persaud told the Commission that as the crime chief of the day, he was informed of the Lindo Creek Massacre; however, he was not the person mandated to lead the investigation into the mass murder.

“I was informed by Commissioner Greene that a team led by Head of the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) comprising members from CID Headquarters and the police ‘E’ and ‘F’ Divisions will investigate the matter.

Officer in Charge of the Major Crime Investigation Unit, Assistant Superintendent Trevor Reid, was instructed to provide assistance to the OPR as well as retired Senior Superintendent Thomas, who was Head of the Crime Laboratory which would have Relatives, friends and other persons who gathered in the Commission’s Secretariat Chamber at the Department of included the crime scene Public Service to listen to the public hearings. (Photos by Delano Williams) investigators,” Persaud recollected. er was identified. I also intelligence, were equipped sounds including rocket fire, that creek and he indicated Head of the Office of and it lasted for a while.

I saw on that map a location with rifles. to me that they crossed the Professional Responsibility named Kwakwani and a A r m e d w i t h r i f l e s , thereafter crossed the river bridge…north of the camp… was Heeralall Mackhanlall in the same boat and obroad named the UNAMCO handguns, and a boat going north…,” he posited, at the time. It was noted that road,” Persaud recalled. equipped with an outboard served there was a body of while pointing to the location after the owner of the mina person I later learnt was Upon receiving the clas- engine and accessories, Peron a map provided by the ing camp at Lindo Creek, sified information, the out- saud said he led a team of Otis ‘Mudduh’ Fiffee, with a Commission.

Leonard Arokium, had told gunshot injury to his face, or going police commissioner police officers from CID According to Persaud, he reporters that it was the Joint what appears to be a gunshot injury,” the outgoing police led his team out of the area Services who had killed the the same day and returned to miners, he accompanied a commissioner recalled.

He said the ranks had the city. During the process, team led by the then Prime also seized nine firearms contact was made with the Minister Samuel Hinds, who such as rifles, shotguns and then police Commissioner, was acting president at the handguns and a quantity who was informed of the time, to Arokium’s home, of ammunition. Persaud shooting. “He [Commission- firstly at South Ruimveldt told the Commission that er Greene] called me back and then at Tuschen on the after the shooting incident, shortly after and instructed East Bank of Essequibo, Assistant Commissioner that I withdraw and indicated where statements were taken Hickens informed him that to me that the Joint Services on the incident.

During Persaud’s testhe team of police officers would be deployed to the was approaching the camp area to pursue the gunmen,” timony, it was pointed out on the left side of the riv- Persuad told the Commis- that along the UNAMCO trail there were visible loger, when they came under sion.

Persaud made it clear that ging concessions. Additionheavy gunfire, and as a result, they returned fire, at no time did he or members ally, based on information killing Fiffee in the process. of his team visit Lindo Creek, from the Guyana Forestry Q u e s t i o n e d w h e t h e r although admitting that the Commission, former treaHickens had reported seeing Joint Services had comprised son accused Phillip Bynoe ‘Fineman’ and his other gang both members of the Guyana had a logging concession in and the Guyana the 19) Christmas Falls area. (continued on page members, Persaud responded Police Force

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

The Carlyle

Harry Column

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ONE GUYANA PLATFORM The Government has to be commended

eaders, each week, I am obliged to seek and find themes and topics upon which to continue to ERECT 'the one Guyana Platform'...REMEMBER --"one/one dutty does build dam"...."we are taking baby steps" on this complicated and turbulent journey.

Last week, I punctuated parts of President David Granger's 48th Republican anniversary address, in order to stress his emphases on "National Security" in response to incursion-threats from a Geographic neighbor.

I punctuated those remarks in order to point out that (for example) in any Venezuelan incursion or war, each and every inhabitant of Guyana, regardless of race or political/cultural/persuasion/attachment bias or prejudice would be affected.

As it relates to President Granger's comments, let me add a reminder, that several years ago, the Prime Minister of India, Indira Ghandi, while facing .similar border threats and confrontations with China and Pakistan, did declare "War abroad, should breed peace and unity at home".

In other words, as Guyana faces these border threats from neighboring Venezuela, its peoples should stand, sit, lie and embrace together.

On Sunday, March 4, several (Oscars) recipients in describing horizontal and vertical strides in their careers in the film industry, described themselves as 'DREAMERS'.

By some coincidence a number of analysts and commentators on the ONE GUYANA PLATFORM pieces, have been labeling me a 'dreamer', as they continue to contend that racial and political unity could never be achieved in Guyana.

Columnists like Freddie Kissoon and Ravi Dev are contending that the operations of race-based Black and Indian organizations in Guyana are further serving to institutionalize racial and political divisions and competition in the Republic.

If that is true, the leaders of

those race-based outfits need to be encouraged to amend their postures, and urged to play more positive and enlightened roles in fostering racial cooperation and collaboration in the Birthland.

Though PNC Leader, Forbes Burnham channeled Guyana through Independence in May, 1966, and Republican status during February, 1970 . . .

Dr. .Jagan has to be viewed as one of the political Fathers of the Birthland, because of the agitations that he and his colleagues led for many years on behalf of Guyana's working class.

En passant, Dr. .Jagan regained power in 1992, and served as President until his death.

DR. JAGAN The present APNU+AFC Government has to be commended for crossing the political barrier, and being inclusionary in accommodating a Commemorative-stamp that is going to mark the 100th birth anniversary of Guyana's first Chief Minister and Premier —Dr. Cheddi ********** Jagan.

In this March month, March also marks the 21st We honor a son of Port anniversary of Dr. .Jagan death.

Mourant.

This Governmental initiaWe as a Nation, tive will go a long way towards Recognize the contributions bridging the inter-racial gap, and Dr. CHEDDI JAGAN of a founder Politician perhaps healing PPP/PNC relaOn March 22, 2018 he would have been 100 years and Dental Surgeon tions.

— Dr.Cheddi Jagan.

Dr. Jagan passed away at gressive Party in 1948 . . . During In celebrating this the Walter Reed Hospital in Wash- 1950, the PPP entered into a merger anniversary ington D.C. (USA) on March 6, with the Forbes Burnham-led B. G. We are chronicling history 1997 (later that same day, Prime Labor party. about the Founders of the Minister, Michael Manley of JaIn 1953, the P.P.P. swept the PPP maica succumbed to cancer), polls; but 133 days later, the British Cheddi, Forbes, Ashton and Born March 22, 1918, Dr. Government suspended the Constitheir other buddies.

Jagan put together the People's Pro- tution and sent in British troops.

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The diaspora and new national prosperity SINCE independence, Guyana has been drained of its population. Into the causes of this exodus we will not go, but from that time to now more Guyanese have left Guyana than those of us who are resident here. Though the Guyana diaspora could be found in the West Indian islands, Suriname and other Third World countries, the bulk of Guyanese immigrants found their way to the United States and Canada.

Everywhere they have gone, the Guyanese have proven themselves, as a group, model citizens. They are hard-working and a comparatively large proportion of them have secured higher education. Their children have equally been creative and successful citizens and have integrated into their host societies.

Guyana is now on the threshold of becoming among the wealthiest countries in the Caribbean with its evolution into an oil producer and exporter.

Foreign companies are now beginning to come into the country and West Indians are beginning to settle here. The economy of the country would be expanding at a fairly rapid rate and there are opportunities for many new companies, both in the production and service fields.

The diaspora could be a rich source of talent for the oil business, in manufacturing and in a plethora of services. The in-gathering of our compatriots and their families could be as historic an event as the State of Israel's vision of the in-gathering of the Jewish people. If we are able to attract a fair percentage of the diaspora to settle in Guyana, it would be a historic duty and achievement of the present generation of Guyanese. It would have various spinoffs such as the repairing of the torn fabric of Guyanese culture, which was badly damaged by the massive emigration. It would be strengthening the Guyana element and ethos of the population, so as to be able to absorb the inevitable inflow of immigrants from various countries.

Guyana Chronicle NewEdition York Edition week ending March 16, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Week-ending January 19, 2018

IWD event was grand, reflected planning and thought Dear Sir, I attended the function hosted by the Ministry of Social Protection to celebrate International Women’s Day. It was a grand event which reflected planning and thought. Both were well executed. Honourable Minister Amna Ally and her team of workers deserve the highest commendation. The First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger’s address was on target and so were the other presentations. I am wedded to the concept of ancestral piety because no matter how a tree flourishes we must always pay attention to its roots.

And so it is that I remember those women who earlier kicked down the doors of prejudice around the world to demand their rights as normal human beings. The likes of Susan B. Anthony, who inveighed against a system where women in North America were not allowed to vote. And at a time when Africans here and elsewhere were still slaves, she posed the question ‘Are women persons? (1873) - and in our Mother Country at the turn of the century (1913) in the continuing campaign in Britain for women to have their suffrage, Emily Pankhurst with many light-minded females made her famous words ‘I am here as a soldier.’

More recently, on November 23, 1974, Prime Minister Indira Ghandi of India contended that it was important the women of India be given equal opportunity. We remember Rosa Parks and Maya Angelou resisting the discriminatory laws which existed particularly in the southern states of the USA. I admired Margaret Thatcher as Prime Minister of Great Britain, better known as the ‘Iron Lady’ because she France and the United States in the 19th century were able to achieve this ideal -- maintaining the ethos and culture of the country, while at the same time receiving large numbers of immigrants.

Attracting the diaspora back to Guyana should not be left to chance. Certain positive steps have to be taken. In the first place, the Citizenship Laws need to be revised as so many countries with large diasporas have done. For instance, Guyana should review its laws to allow children and grandchildren of Guyanese-born citizens to register as Guyanese nationals enjoying all the privileges of Guyanese nationals. Such would include taking advantage of the lending institutions such as Go-Invest. Go-Invest and the business institutions and even the banks should be selling Guyana's new opportunities to the diaspora.

Many Guyanese abroad may have

‘manfully’ dealt with issues in Europe and beyond. These ‘gallant girls’ used their vesticules to slap the faces of the male chauvinist of the day. My favourite female was Yaa Asantewaa, that courageous heroin and Queen Mother of Ejisu, of the Ashanti Empire, Gold Coast, West Africa. Her bravery must be seen against the background of several anglo- ashanti wars, and the arrogance of certain British Governors, one who demanded the Ashanti, the pride of the Africans, the golden stool by asking the Ashanti to hand over the Golden Stool, and other acts of unbelievable boldness, disrespect and disregard for the Africans.

In 1900, Yaa led the Ashanti rebellion known as the War of the Golden Stool or the Yaa Asantewaa War and organised forces to attack the British Fort in Kumasi. She is my woman of women. At home, for the first time, women made it to our legislative assembly in 1953 and as a young activist I remembered the joy it brought when the 3 J’s (Jane Phillips-Gay, Janet Jagan and Jessie Burnham) immaculately attired in white suits led the PPP Parliamentarians through the grounds up to the Chambers of Parliament. Mrs. Janet Jagan later became our first female Executive President.

In all of our struggles, we had women who sacrifice everything for the independence struggle. I remember when the police fired tear gas outside of the Electricity Company, Kingston, Upper Water Street. We were demonstrating the harshness of the late 50s and early 60s.

I recall the Police Party lobbing a tear sunk such deep roots in the countries where they have settled and even more so their children and grandchildren, that even though they may wish to return and take advantage of Guyana's new economic prosperity, they would find it difficult to do so, since Guyana would in effect be a foreign country.

It is therefore necessary that the state authorities set up institutions both in the diaspora and in Guyana, where the process of adjusting to Guyanese life would be taught. In time, there could be schools where Guyanese children who would be returning to Guyana would be able to study for the local Caribbean examinations, much as the American school prepares children for the American examinations. Initially, however, compatriots who are returning may wish to have the best of both worlds by keeping one leg in their country of

Disclaimer: Disclaimer:

gas grenade. Elsie Skeete better known as ‘Reds’ of Agricola, ripped off her skirt and caught the grenade before it hit the ground. A remarkable feat even as we men were retreating. I witnessed this unbelievable bravery via a woman, I say we must not forget them.

Others, to name a few, Beatrice Rowland aka Black Bee, Gertrude Alsopp, Carmen Clarke, Carmen Vieira, Mrs. Vieira of Agricola, West Coast Berbice posse and dozen of others who supported the struggle for justice and independence. Nearer in time, Ms. Viola Burnham, Shirley Field- Ridley, Winifred Gaskin, Hyacinth Goddette, Beryl Simon, Rajcoomarie Singh, the ladies of the Rayman family worked assiduously to break the bonds which traditionally made women inferior.

I remember the hot water, a certain gentleman found himself in when at a wedding ceremony in the 70s, a Minister of Religion in Georgetown insisted that women and men must sit in separate sections of his church. The wife protested by walking out but the husband remained. When he returned home all hell broke loose. Female Ministers, Members of Parliament, Female Managers and others who now hold high office in the several professions must know that they owed the status to the work and courage of those females who blazed the trail that they now travel on. Perhaps, Minister Ally may wish to consider assembling a team to prepare a dossier in time for next year Women’s International Day. Regards Hamilton Green settlement and one in Guyana. There are two other urgent issues which must be addressed to further attract Guyanese settled abroad to return. The first is that crime has to be minimised and with stringent effort this could be achieved. In this effort, the religious bodies -- Hindu, Muslim and Christian, the Ministry of Education through the school system, the courts and the media in addition to the police will each have their roles to play.

The second issue is, there must be available health care of the highest quality. The general health services must be fully modernised. For example, the ambulances should be properly equipped with properly trained medexes and have oxygen and other first aid facilities and be able to answer calls with greater promptitude.

Theviews viewsand and opinions expressed in articles in this newspaper The opinions expressed in articles in this newspaper are are thoseofofthe theauthors authors and necessarily reflect policies those and dodo notnot necessarily reflect the the policies and and viewsofofthe themanagement management New York Edition of the Guyana views of of thethe New York Edition of the Guyana Chronicle.

Chronicle.

Guyana Chronicle Edition Week-ending March 2018 Guyana Chronicle NewNew YorkYork Edition Week-ending March 16,16, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

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GrenadaGovernment GovernmentAnnounces AnnouncesGas Gasand andOilOil Find Grenada

GEORGE’S, Grenada found significant in the St. St. GEORGE’S, Grenada — — found significant gas gas andand oil oil in the Prime Minister Dr. Keith waters of Grenada in one well so Prime Minister Dr. Keith waters of Grenada in one well so far.”far.”

Mitchell has announced that Prime Minister also said Mitchell has announced that TheThe Prime Minister also said “significant gas and oil” have there were other oil wells which of“significant gas and oil” have there were other oil wells which ofbeen found in the territorial wa- fered more exciting prospects. been found in the territorial wa- fered more exciting prospects. ters of Grenada.

“We have several more wells ters of Grenada.

“We have several more wells He made the announcement which are even more exciting than He made the announcement which are even more exciting than ahead of yesterday’s general elec- the one they just found. In other ahead of yesterday’s general elec- the one they just found. In other tion, revealing the discovery was words, Grenada can be a massive words, Grenada canand be gas,” a massive tion, made revealing the discovery was Peby Russian outfit Global supplier of oil he said. madetroleum

by Russian outfit Global Pesupplier of oil and gas,” he said. for Group (GPG) which has “You know what that means troleum (GPG) which has “You know what that ameans for fubeenGroup engaged in an exploratory your future; it means lot for the been drilling engaged in an exploratory yourture future; it means a lot for the fucampaign. of this country.” drilling campaign. ture of this country.”

“After all the headaches, one The main opposition National “After all the headaches, one The main opposition well was drilled; there were results Democratic Congress National (NDC) had there were results well that was we drilled; Democratic Congress (NDC) had wanted to confirm before we dismissed Mitchell’s announcement that we wanted to confirm before Mitchell’s announcement make a noise,” Mitchell said.we dismissed as an election gimmick.

Russian Outfit Global Petroleum Group (GPG) has been engaged in an make a noise,” Mitchell said. as an election gimmick.

Russian Outfit drilling Global Petroleum Group (GPG) territorial has been waters. engaged in an “The report said that we have exploratory campaign in Grenada’s (Caribbean360) “The report said that we have exploratory drilling campaign in Grenada’s territorial waters.

(Caribbean360)

U.S. citizen ‘scalping’ murder trial

Wife, friend found guilty… to be sentenced on March 29 AFTER deliberating for just under two hours, the 12-member Berbice Assizes jury returned a unanimous verdict of guilty in favour of the prosecution, led by Special Prosecutor Ganesh Hira.

However, the sentences of Hemwattie Abdulla and Seerojnie Permaul have been deferred to Thursday, March 29, when a probation report on the convicts’ backgrounds will be presented to the court.

On Tuesday, February 13, Justice Sandil Kissoon commenced hearing the ‘scalping’ murder trial, in which Abdulla called Annie and Anese, along with Permaul known as Seerojnie or Usher, were accused of unlawfully killing Abdool Shakeel Majid, a citizen of the USA, on April 26, 2012 at Number 63 Beach, Corentyne, Berbice. They had pleaded not guilty to the murder indictment. Permaul was charged with being an accessory to the crime.

Majid, along with his wife of four months, Hemwattie Abdulla, had arrived in Guyana on April 22, 2012, with the intention of spending a two-week vacation.

But five days later the battered, lifeless body of Abdool Majid, whose scalp was missing, was found on the popular beach.

In the meantime, Abdulla had returned to the United States of America, where she is a resident, and had informed the deceased’s relatives that her husband was enjoying himself in Suriname, and that, he had urged her to return home ,as her daughter had sustained a fractured arm.

The deceased’s brother Abdul Hasseeb Majid of Jamaica, Queens, USA, in his testimony recounted the last moment he saw his brother alive, and thereafter, the utterances of Hemwattie Abdulla, the number one accused, which caused

him to make a missing-person report at the New York City Police Department , before travelling to Guyana. At his local address at Diamond Housing Scheme ,East Bank

Berbice, he discovered his sibling’s suitcase, tion, which led to the subsequent arrest and clothing ,United States of America passport, charges against the accused women. along with other personal documents.

Fourteen witnesses testified for the It was he who triggered an investiga- State.

EMPHASIS ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM 8

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

Region One villages map out strategies to improve livelihoods ELEVEN villages and satellites in the Santa Rosa, Moruca Sub-District, Barima/Waini, Region One, are benefitting from a four-day Village Improvement Plan (V.I.P.) workshop.

The initiative, being executed under the Sustainable Development Framework (SDF), is aimed at building sustainable village economies.

The V.I.P was launched

the great ideas were there, the will and skill needed to implement have been lacking for some time now.”

Emphasising the need for villages to formulate V.I.Ps, the minister said “many villages do not have plans for the future, so we are going to help you strengthen your economies. We need to make plans that would last us for years to come -- sustainable plans. Not plans that will

Cassava Flour Project in Kwebanna. Another potential economic driver is the establishment of a bakery.

Noting the many benefits to be derived from the soonto-be-blossoming oil sector, Minister Garrido-Lowe advised, “now is the time to prepare ourselves and our community to benefit.”

She pointed out that among the key areas that should be considered for

Some of the residents who participated in the opening of the Village Improvement Plan (V.I.P.) workshop

on Tuesday, March 13, in Santa Rosa, Moruca. In the feature address to village leaders, councillors, and residents, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, said "Indeed, if you are honest with yourselves you will admit that there has been a drought of sustainable plans for some years now in Santa Rosa. And even if

change with the election of new Toshaos. We need the people to get on board with these long-term plans -- not just a Toshao and a few Councillors. This is the only way we will continue to move forward.”

Attention was paid to two major projects that will soon be executed in the region -- the Coffee Project in Santa Rosa and the

inclusion in the respective V.I.Ps are education, culture, health, governance, livelihoods, nature and environment and economic diversification. Special mention was made of the support received from Conservation International Guyana, which has been and continues to be a key partner in rolling out the V.I.Ps. The plan has, to date, made significant strides

in Region Nine (Rupununi).

Forty percent of the villages and satellites in that region have completed their V.I.Ps with another 40 per cent to be completed by the end of next month. Similar results are expected when the programme is rolled out countrywide.

Meanwhile, also partnering with the ministry was the Canadian High Commission through Geophysicist and former Chief of the Bear Clan (Canada’s First Peoples) Glenn Nolan, who shared pertinent information with residents.

Chief Nolan, who is on his maiden visit to Guyana, is also a key figure in Canada as it relates to mining and the indigenous peoples there. Nolan said his community ventured into mining in the 40s as an opportunity and today there are many success stories to be told.

“We didn’t have all the

Geophysicist and former Chief of the Bear Clan, Glenn Nolan

conveniences that we have today, so we started off working in mining as labourers; some of our people had little or no education. They worked with the company to get their education, so

that they can become tradespeople, whether welders, mechanics or electricians and they became the role models for the next generation, which is my generation.”

He added that based on what he has seen during his visit, the area has tremendous potential and he is looking forward to returning to see the strides the villages will make. The Cabinet-approved SDF has been rebranded and is now known as the Sustainable Indigenous Villages and Communities Policy. The Village Improvement Plan was designed to support the Indigenous peoples by improving their well-being as Guyana pursues a green, diversified and resilient economic development path. The V.I.P is among several innovative projects on stream, in pursuit of the Green Agenda. (DPI)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

EMPHASIS ON CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS

9

1

A Vincentian Judge Will be the New President of the Caribbean Court of Justice PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — Justice Adrian Dudley Saunders, a citizen of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has been appointed as the incoming President of the Caribbean Court of Justice with effect from July 4, 2018.

The Heads of Government of CARICOM made the appointment at its last meeting, held in Haiti from February 26-27, 2018, acting on the nomination of the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission

JUSTICE ADRIAN DUDLEY SAUNDERS

(RJLSC). The RJLSC had selected Justice Saunders after a competitive merit-based process.

President of the CCJ, Sir Dennis Byron, said his successor’s appointment has been greeted with pleasure by the entire Bench of the Court.

“He has served with distinction and has exhibited qualities of excellence, sharp intellect, strong moral values, leadership skills and encyclopaedic knowledge for the law tempered by things Caribbean,” Sir Dennis said.

Justice Saunders was appointed a judge of the CCJ in 2005, when the Trinidad-based court was inaugurated.

Before that, he was in private practice as a barrister and solicitor from 1977 until 1996 when he was appointed a judge of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC).

In 2003, he was confirmed as a Justice of Appeal of the ECSC and one year later he was appointed to act as Chief Justice of that court.

(Caribbean360)

Alert Raised as Activity Increases at Underwater Volcano off Grenada ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada — Seismic

officials have increased the alert level for underwater volcano, “Kick ‘em Jenny”, to orange after recording increased activity. And even after activity declined on Tuesday, the alert remained.

The alert for the submarine volcano, located 8 km north of Grenada, was raised from yellow on Monday by the University of the West Indies’ Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) in Trinidad.

The orange alert means there is highly elevated level of seismic and/or fumarolic activity or other unusual activity, and eruption may begin with less than 24 hours’ notice.

“Overnight, during the March 11-12 period, a substantial increase in earthquake activity associated with the volcano was recorded,” the Centre said, with the National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA) in Grenada adding that with the heightened alert, ships and other marine operators should observe an exclusion zone of 5 km (3.1 miles).

Since then, the UWI-SRC has reported that earthquake activity has slowed.

NaDMA said that it would monitor the activities in collaboration with the UWISRC. “Kick ‘em Jenny” is one of the most active volcanoes in the Eastern Caribbean.

It is 1,300 m high and its summit is currently estimated to be about 200m below the surface of the sea.

(Caribbean360)

Underwater volcano “ Kick ‘em Jenny ”

10

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

EMPHASIS ON CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS

2

Barbados Government Minister Accuses Canadian Diplomat of Political Interference BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — In a scathing response to comments by Canada’s High Commissioner to Barbados Marie Legault, a Government Minister said that foreign diplomats who show bias in their positions on Barbadian politics should be asked to leave the country immediately.

Speaking at the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) branch meeting at Lester Vaughan Secondary School, over the weekend, Minister of Education, Ronald Jones did not refer to Legault by name, but made it clear that while he liked Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, “I ain’t

RONALD JONES — Minister of Education

going up there and tell anybody to vote for he.”

It was an apparent reference to Legault’s direct challenge to political commentator Maureen Holder over the readiness of Barbados for a female Prime Minister. While delivering the Astor B Watts Democratic Labour Party (DLP) lunchtime lecture earlier this year, Holder, who critics describe as an unabashed DLP campaigner, called for a national debate on whether the country was “seriously ready for a female Prime Minister”.

The main opposition Barbados Labour Party (BLP) is led by a woman, Mia Mottley.

Addressing the W Portfolio organized International Women’s Day event at the Hilton Barbados Resort last Thursday, the Canadian diplomat said the Caribbean had already produced four female heads of government and five heads of state, including the current Governor General, Dame Sandra Mason, and there was room for more females in top positions.

“Given the history, I have to say that I was taken aback when in January I saw political analyst Maureen Holder asking if Barbados was ready for a female Prime Minister and advocating for a national debate on it. I think every country is ready for a male or female Prime Minister. gender does not have an impact,” Legault said.

She also referred to progress made here and in the rest of the region on women in politics, but said their participation continued to be limited.

MARIE LEGAULT Canadian High Commissioner to Barbados

“In terms of women’s participation in politics, Grenada has led the way with 33 percent women in Parliament and Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago at 31 percent. On the opposite side of the spectrum, currently Belize only counts with 9.4 percent women in parliament, and St. Kitts, Antigua and Barbuda and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, between 11 and 13 percent.

“In terms of Cabinet, Grenada, Dominica and St. Lucia account for 27 to 36 percent, while Antigua, Barbados and St. Kitts have seven to 11 percent and St. Vincent has no women at all in their Cabinet,” she said.

However, on Sunday, Jones contended that diplomats residing in this country should respect the sovereignty of Barbados and refrain from demonstrating any particular leanings that could influence the political process.

“To think that you can come into my country and because you want to cuddle and canoodle . . . you say to the people of Barbados to vote for that person. How dare you? You should be asked to leave or your government should tell you to come home because you have interfered in the domestic political affairs of Barbados,” a fired up Jones said. “Pack your georgie bundle and go!”

In light of Legault’s statements, Jones went further to suggest that “there is a wicked and deliberate attempt by one or two forces in Barbados who have the honour of representing their country on sovereign soil in Barbados” to interfere in the country’s political process.

However, he made it clear that “Barbados belongs to Barbadians and those we welcome to our shores”.

(Barbados Today) (Caribbean360)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

11

Ease The Tension — Enjoy A Laugh THE SMART LAWYER

A

MEAT LOAF Ingredients: 1 1⁄2 lbs. steak (minced) 1 ⁄4 cup stock or water (if necessary) 1 cup biscuit or bread crumbs salt and pepper 2 eggs, beaten lightly 1 onion (chopped finely) 1 tbsp. chopped eschalot and celery 1 tbsp. piquane sauce 1 clove GARLIC (finely chopped)

N.B.: Hard-boiled eggs may be positioned in center of loaf before backing.

Method: 1. Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.

2. Press into a well-greased loaf tin.

Bake in a moderately hot oven, until cooked.

3. Turn out onto serving dish and garnish with lettuce leaves.

lawyer runs a stop sign in Kingston, Jamaica and gets pulled over by the police. He thinks that he is smarter than the police because he is a lawyer from Kingston and is certain that he has a better education than any Jamaican police officer. He decides to prove this to himself and have some fun at the officer’s expense.

The Police says,”Yuh License an yuh registration, please.”

“What for?” says the lawyer.

The Police says, “Yuh didn’t come to a complete stop at de stop sign.”

Then the lawyer says, “I slowed down, and no one was coming.”

“Yuh neva did come to a complete stop,” says the officer. “License an registration, please.”

The lawyer says, “What’s the difference?”

“De difference is dat yuh hav fe come to ah complete stop — dat’s de law. License an registration, please!” the officer repeats.

The Lawyer replied, “If you can show me the legal difference between slow down and stop, I’ll give you my license and registration and you give me the ticket. If not, you let me

IT’S A FACT

by JAMES SYDNEY

THE ELECTRIC EEL Swimming Power Station

T

he electric eel, Electrophorus electricus, strikes fear into the hearts of people who live in areas where they might come into contact with them. Such people want to stay clear of the nasty electric shock the eel is capable of delivering.

However, not everyone is likely to make contact with the electric eel.

In Guyana and other South American countries, electric eels tend to live in rivers and creeks or even in swamps, quietly concerning themselves with the fish, amphibians and even birds and small mammals they feed on.

Normally, they move sluggishly in the water constantly emitting just about 10 volts of electricity, using it like radar to find their way around in their natural habitat. If they need to, however, they may

give out a jolt of electricity of over 600 volts —- over four times the voltage that comes from a wall socket.

Because of their reputation for this kind of shocking behavior, electric eels get noticed when they turn up in the catch of fishermen. If an electric eel turns up jumping in a fisherman’s net, the fisherman usually gets rid of it with some urgency.

The same is true when an eel swal-

The Electric Eel

lows a fisherman’s hook and is landed.

It is even more so when people who catch fish by feeling for them with their bare hands make contact.

Some people come into contact with electric eels as they bathe in creeks and rivers. The eels often cause a great commotion because they are likely to discharge their electricity in such situations, or to be mistaken for snakes in the water.

The shock from an electric eel could kill an adult human, but this rarely happens. However, a series of shocks can cause respiratory or heart failure, and people have been known to drown in shallow water in such circumstances.

go and don’t give me no ticket.”

“That sounds fair but get yuh rass outa de vehicle, sar,” said the officer.

At this point, the officer gets dred; pulls out his baton and beats the ever-loving hell out of the lawyer then said, “Yuh waan me fe stop, ar just slow down? What is de difference? Tell meh quick!!”

Marriage — Before and After BEFORE MARRIAGE:

She: OK I’ll do it.

He: Yes. At last! It thought you’d never make up your mind.

She: Do you want me to leave?

He: NO! Don’t even think about it.

She: Do you love me?

He: Of course! Over and over!

She: Have you ever cheated on me?

He: NO! Why are you even asking?

She: Will you kiss me?

He: Every chance I get!

She: Will you hit me?

He: Are you crazy! I’m not that kind of person!

She: Can I trust you?

He: Yes. She: Darling!

AFTER MARRIAGE: Read the above again . . . from bottom to top.

Freshwater predators themselves, electric eels use their high electric charge against not only those who would prey on them but also on intended prey. Their bodies contain electric organs with about 6,000 specialized cells called electrocytes that store power like tiny batteries.

When the eels are threatened or are attacking prey, these cells discharge simultaneously. The eels are capable of varying the levels of the electrical discharge, depending on whether they are hunting or stunning prey.

These creatures are called electric eels but they are not actually eels. They are fish, and are more closely related to carp and catfish than eels. As airbreathers, they come to the surface every 10 minutes or so, gulp air then return to the bottom.

Electric eels have long, snakelike cylindrical bodies and flattened heads and are generally dark green or grayish on top with yellowish coloring underneath. Over their 15-year lifespan, they often grow to a length of more than 8 feet and acquire more than 44 pounds in weight.

More often, however, one would encounter eels about three feet long and six inches in diameter, as these are very common in the rivers.

NEIL CHAN FOUNDATION PRESENTS TROPHY AND $100,000 TO FIRST PRIZE FOR CREATIVITY AND PAGEANTRY 2018 MASHRAMANI NEILWINNER CHAN FOUNDATION PRESENTS TROPHY ANDAT$100,000 TO FIRST PRIZE WINNER FOR CREATIVITY AND PAGEANTRY AT 2018 MASHRAMANI M

12 12

Guyana March 16, 16, 2018 2018 GuyanaChronicle ChronicleNew NewYork YorkEdition EditionWeek-ending week ending March

rs. Sheila Chan, widow of the late Neil Chan, A.A., former costume designer and Mashramani — Mash Day and Mash Nite convenor — presented the Neil Chan Foundato the tion trophy, with G$100,000, honour of his memory, rs.along Sheila Chan, widow ofinthe late Neil Chan, A.A., former winner of costume the King designer of the Bands of and Inand competition, Mashramanithe — Ministry Mash Day digenous People Affairs, This trophy will be donated yearly as part Mash Nite convenor — presented the Neil Chan Foundaof the King the Bands competition. tion trophy,of along with G$100,000, in honour of his memory, to the Neilof Chan, on January 2018, won King the Band of at the winner the who Kingdied of the Bands 5,competition, theofMinistry InMashramani Mash Affairs, Nite Competitions in the 90s, on manyasoccadigenous People This trophy will80s be and donated yearly part sions, portrayals of different themes over the years. Chan’s costumes of thewith King of the Bands competition.

Mashramani scene with5,presentations that of canthe beBand described dominated the 2018, won King at the Neil Chan, who died on January as a masterful blend of costume design and well choreographed pageantry.

Mashramani Mash Nite Competitions in the 80s and 90s, on many occaafter the Mrs.over Sheila Chan said “I was very sions,Speaking with portrayals ofpresentation, different themes the years.

Chan’s costumes proud that the presentation captured the criteria of creativity, workmandominated the Mashramani scene with presentations that can be described ship and pageantry we had hoped I feel Mash is back as a masterful blendthat of costume design for andand wellindeed choreographed pageantry. to stay.

Congratsafter to the and the whole band on an excellent “I was pervery Speaking thedesigner presentation, Mrs. Sheila Chan said formance.” proud that the presentation captured the criteria of creativity, workmanMrs. were some members the NeilisChan ship Accompanying and pageantry that weChan had hoped for and indeed Iof feel Mash back Foundation: Harold Hopkinson, Roxanne Hopkinson, Sattie Sasenarine to stay. Congrats to the designer and the whole band on an excellent perand Aloma Fredericks. formance.”

Accompanying Mrs. Chan were some members of the Neil Chan Foundation: Harold Hopkinson, Roxanne Hopkinson, Sattie Sasenarine and Aloma Fredericks.

M

In picture from left: Harold Hopkinson, Roxanne Hopkinson, representative of the Ministry of Indigenous People Affairs, Mrs. Sheila Chan, Sattie Sasenarine and Aloma Fredericks.

In picture from left: Harold Hopkinson, Roxanne Hopkinson, representative of the Ministry of Indigenous People Affairs, Mrs. Sheila Chan, Sattie Sasenarine and Aloma Fredericks.

City Markets Committee still crafting street vending policy -- after starting the process two years ago

By Telesha Ramnarine AFTER two years, the administrative arm of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is still waiting on the Markets and Public Health Committee to create a policy for street vending in the city.

Town Clerk Royston King had in the past lamented the fact that while the committee fails to come forward with the policy and with suggestions for relocating vendors to facilitate

certain projects, the administration is severely criticised each time it takes a decision.

“It is not easy at all to do a policy document,” Deputy Mayor and Chairman of the said committee, Mr. Lionel Jaikarran, told the statutory meeting last Monday.

While the committee benefitted from a policy outlined by Mayor Patricia Chase-Green, Jaikarran suggested that it’s a lack of cooperation from the town clerk which is holding up the process of relocating

vendors so that the Stabroek Market wharf can be repaired.

But King pointed out that the street vending policy is not to be confused with the repairs of the Stabroek Wharf.

Jaikarran said the town clerk should cooperate some more with the committee to identify available spots for the relocation.

“We shouldn’t shift our responsibilities. It is the duty and responsibility of the committee to walk through

the streets and identify such spots. It is not fair to throw it on the administration,” responded the Mayor.

She noted that if councillors continue to depend on the administration, then they will not be acting independently.

King said there are several activities which hinge on the creation of the street vending policy. He observed that while there has been no vending at the Stabroek Market Square, there has been a ‘slow but steady’ in-

crease of vendors on the parameters of the 1763 Monument, popularly known as the Cuffy monument.

Councillor Welton Clarke suggested that the committee should be more effective and equipped with people who have ability, capacity and a willingness to work.

Councillor Andrea Marks made it known that she has already suggested seven possible spots where the vendors can be relocated.

Meanwhile, the Public Infrastructure Ministry has indicated that it will be

starting works on the Stabroek Market wharf before the end of this year’s first quarter, and the mayor has for the longest while been lamenting the “lackadaisical” attitude with which the Markets Committee has been approaching the relocation of the vendors.

“I am not hearing from the [committee] and I hope that we can start consultations with those persons, so that they will be able to give us ideas of where they can be relocated while the wharf is being constructed,” she said last year June.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

13

Prof Narine briefs Region Two RDC, businesses on ‘Morning Glory’ cereal plant

…says facility no political football

at the moment, marketing of the product is slow, but the product is currently available at all leading supermarkets.

Cereals are also being supplied to the National Feeding Programme and the Guyana Defence Force.

‘Expansion’ Due to the profitability since the plant’s commissioning, there are plans to build a lunch room for staff, reinforcing the drains and installing security cameras at the facility. The plant

also hopes to employ more people as business increases.

Further, there are plans to manufacture nutrition bars at the facility.

Chairman for the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce, Daleep Singh, commended the IAST for executing such a state-of -the- art project in Region Two, one that provides employment opportunities for persons, as well as highlights the region. Singh however raised concerns over marketing of the project and

called for more promotional advertising to be done within the region.

Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt at the end of the presentation thanked Professor Narine for giving a brief overview of the operations at the plant, which he said was timely.

Ramdatt said he is always happy to have engagements with the IAST on development of the Anna Regina cereal plant and anticipates future engagements.

PPP councillors posing with a box of cereal - from left are Vilma Da Silva, Doreen Jacobus and Juliet Coonjah

By Indrawattie Natram DIRECTOR of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), Professor Suresh Narine, said that there is no need for the ‘Morning Glory’ cereal plant located at Anna Regina to be a political football, noting that both administrations played a pivotal role in getting the plant to the stage it is.

“I think both sides need to be given credit for allowing the project to happen and both sides need to realise that they have tremendous kudos to be had. Thankfully, this is happening and I have no interference by the present government,” Professor Narine said.

Professor Narine during the statutory meeting for the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Region Two, was allowed by councillors to give a brief overview of the ‘Morning Glory’ cereal plant which was officially commissioned on October 8, 2017.

During his PowerPoint presentation, he explained to councillors as well as to members of the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce, the operation that is currently ongoing at the plant. Professor Narine made in-depth presentations on the ‘Morning Glory’ rice cereal to the council. He also showed a video demonstrating the process of production.

He reminded councillors that the ‘Morning Glory’ cereal is a product that had never existed in the past

Professor Suresh Narine giving an overview of the project, ‘Morning Glory Rice Cereal’ to RDC councillors.

The processing facility at Anna Regina

and as such, it needed time to become accepted on the local market. He called on persons not to set unreasonable expectations on the performance of the new product, which is doing very well.

‘Patience in business is as important as green. Green is very good and it drives the economy. Too many government projects focus on employment and social impact only; my approach on this project is a balance on social and employment impact, together with fiscal responsibility,’ Narine said.

Narine told the councillors that compared to other leading cereal brands ‘Morning Glory’ rice cereal is being offered at a cheaper price at local supermarkets, which allows the IAST a more comfortable market. Professor Narine said that the IAST is currently working with an exclusive distributor, Ansa McAl, which is assisting the institute in acquiring shelves space in the local supermarkets.

“Morning Glory cereal has been able to command

shelf space right next to its competitor, so when a consumer goes to a store they are seeing a cereal costing twice as much and one costing half as much, but with a superior nutrition value, and so we believe that is very important,” said Professor Narine.

Some of the commodities used during the manufacturing process are broken rice, rice bran, sugar and molasses, which are sourced from Guyana except baking soda, vitamins and salt, which are imported.

He said the ‘Morning Glory’ Rice Cereal plant is the only plant in Guyana that is adding value to rice, which caters for the increase of acreage towards which farmers are aiming. He said that the manufacturing process is very ascetic and is done according to good manufacturing practices designed to accommodate ISO accreditation.

The council was told that the capital for the project is $101 million.

‘Markets’ Professor Narine said that

Power back at Moraikobai after two years THE people of Moraikobai, located in the upper reaches of the Mahaicony River last week expressed gratitude to the Region Five administration for a $6M grant that reactivated a 350KW electrical generator, which had been down for the past two years.

“The generator had been down because the Village Council had run out of funds due to the high costs of transporting fuel 96 miles into the upper reaches of the river, where our community is,” Toshao Colin Adrian explained last week.

He related that regional officials had visited Moraikobai in mid-February and had pledged to assist with the greatest possible dispatch.

“The Regional Executive Officer Mr Ovid Morrison and a team visited; Mr Morrison promised assistance and this assistance was made tangible in less than a week after the visit,” Toshao Adrian said, adding: “Thanks to this prompt support, power is now back at Moraikobai.

The people of Moraikobai

are very happy with this development. Thumbs up for the regional administration and the government. We applaud this prompt response.”

Adrian added that a Management Committee comprising various stakeholders in the community, including the Village Council, has been formed to manage the electrical plant and they will do so with funds provided by the region.

“Following this, the intention is that the committee will have moved to a stage of self-sufficiency where the regional subsidy will no longer be necessary,” he said.

The generator is currently being operated by a resident of the village and provides electricity from 18:00hrs to 22:00hrs.

Residents who are consumers are required to pay a monthly fee of $5000 for the service.

A portion of the money collected by the committee will be used for future operational use, while another sum will be allocated for community projects identified by stakeholders.

About 50 homes are currently benefiting from the reactivated power supply system, Toshao Adrian said.

More residents of the population have been indicating their intention to get on board the resuscitated grid.

The toshao also said the regional administration is currently making arrangements for four residents of Moraikobai to be trained by the Guyana Power and Light as plant operators/linesmen.

They will play an important role in the expansion of the system as more residents opt in.

He was optimistic that as the Management Committee comes to grips with their task and becomes more efficient, the hours of service may gradually increase, since the 350W (0.35MW) being generated is only marginally utilised.

“There is at the moment a lot of unused capacity in that generator,” he said, noting his optimism that the power would facilitate economic activities in his village.

14

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

Repair works again halted at Kitty Market - Councillor Oscar Clarke

By Telesha Ramnarine CHAIRMAN of the Mayor and City Council’s (M&CC) Finance Committee, Councillor Oscar Clarke on Monday questioned whether a deliberate attempt is being made to stymie works at the Kitty Market.

He told councillors that the contractor undertaking the project has been directed by an engineer from the Ministry of Communities to halt all works.

According to Clarke, the contractor has since related that nothing is keeping him from proceeding with the repairs, except the instructions from the engineer.

The councillor noted that City Engineer, Colvern Venture and the other engineers ought to be supervising any works that are being under-

taken in the city by a contractor.

Town Clerk Royston King undertook to contact the Permanent Secretary within the said ministry to find out just what is keeping back the works.

Last March 10 was the estimated date given for the return of vendors who are selling fruits and vegetables along Alexander Street and Assistant City Engineer, Rasheed Kellman who had taken media operatives on a tour of the market last month, said that this phase of the project is costing $25M.

This phase sees work being done on the eastern side of the market, completing some 15 stalls that will accommodate the fruit vendors.

The Ministry of Communities has partnered with the City Council to provide the funds needed for the comple-

Repair works have again been halted at the Kitty Market

tion of the market and hence Kellman had assured that phase two of the project will get underway immediately after phase one is completed.

The second phase should cost somewhere in the vicinity of $60M. Meanwhile, the market has drawn increased attention

due to the repair works, resulting in the M&CC receiving in excess of 300 applications. The market though can only accommodate 90 vendors.

The upper flat of the market will house a health center, a rates and taxes office, and office space that will be up

The stalls which will house vendors who now sell along Alexander Street. The vendors were expected to return to the market some days ago

for rental.

According to Kellman, the intention is to create a supermarket-like arrangement with new designs and modern facilities, and to make it ‘drive-through’ friendly.

The stallholders rent, though, will have to be increased and a final figure will have to be worked out between them and the City Council. The plan is for some services at the market to be offered on a 24-hour basis.

By the time the market is completed, Kellman said about 80 percent of its originality will still be intact.

While the ground floor was previously made of wood, the contractor has now made it into concrete.

The upper flat of the market, located on Alexander and Barr Streets and Shell Road, also now boasts an auditorium for community events.

The Kitty Market has missed countless deadlines for its re-opening with City

Hall often citing a lack of funds as the reason for such.

A decentralisation of Council’s work is expected when the market comes back on board, as it will take into account the needs of communities between Cummings Lodge and Kitty.

“People from Cummings Lodge to Kitty don’t have to come all the way to City Hall to pay their rates and taxes.

We are aiming to re-introduce the system that was in place many years ago,” Mayor Patricia Chase-Green had told the Chronicle.

The Kitty Market was established in 1882, two years after the Bourda Market had come into being. Like the Bourda Market, Kitty Market is timber-framed.

The 19th century structure had suffered massive deterioration over the years prior to its renovation, causing vendors operating in its environs to lodge numerous complaints with the City Council.

New rice variety piques farmers’ interest RICE farmers in Berbice and across the country are excited about the prospects of a new variety of rice that can see them reaping almost double what they are currently getting per acre.

The Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) through their research and development arm, is presently testing what is referred to as a candidate variety across the country in two-six-acre plots to get feedback from farmers about the feasibility, as well as its ability to withstand pests and climatic conditions under which rice is grown in Guyana.

So far, farmers have been giving nothing but good re-

views and their main concern at a field day on Tuesday last, when GRDB introduced the variety to a few more farmers in Mibicuri, Black Bush Polder, was how soon they could get some to cultivate in their fields.

According to the farmers, they usually consider 25 bags of paddy per acre as good, with 30 being considered excellent. The candidate variety according to the GRDB can give as much as 55 bags per acre. Explaining this, Dr Mahindra Persaud stated that the most common variety in use, such as the GRDB 10, produces about 150 grains per panicle, but the results from the candidate variety

A section of the rice farmers at the open day held at Mibicuri, Black Bush Polder

have been giving an average of 250- 300 grains per panicle, which translates to over 40 bags per acre.

Persaud continued that

unlike varieties of the past that produce good yields, but the plants fall due to its inability to withstand its weight (lodging/falling) this variety

has less than 5% lodging as compared to 30-40% of the more popular varieties. “It has a very strong plant life.

It is tested in all parts of Guyana and we have not had any issue with it. The likelihood of this going forward obviously depends on the farmers’ reaction, so for that purpose we are here to hear their views so we can compile and find a way forward if we are going to recommend for further use.”

The farmers who tried the variety explained to this publication that the plant is indeed strong and so far, they have no major issues and would love to have the GRDB make it official, so

it can be available in larger quantities.

A sample of the new candidate variety of rice that is currently being tested by the Guyana Rice Development Board across rice-growing regions

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

15

Foreign investors flock Linden -- mayor says business in the town on the upswing

By Vanessa Braithwaite OVER the past months, Linden has seen an influx in foreign businesses and investments, most noticeable among them being several Chinese businesses.

This is indeed positive and according to Mayor of Linden Carwyn Holland, it reflects growth in the economy and indicates that Linden is in an upward swing.

“People are seeing business in Linden as positive for them to invest and for them to be a part of and that is a good thing,” he said.

Moving from a time when Linden was considered a place lacking jobs and investment, Lindeners can now be proud to say that their once-labelled gloomy town is now attracting investors and entrepreneurs which will create a ripple effect on the economy.

This includes the provision of jobs, the availability of more services and the circulation of more money in the town.

In addition to four supermarkets, Linden has also seen the establishment of a new gas station, an insurance company and an international restaurant, among others. These businesses can now cushion the town’s main employer, the bauxite company and aid in the provision of jobs for youths there.

Veteran businessman Hilton Lyle, who has just opened a restaurant and bar in Linden, said he has studied Linden’s economy and decided to invest in areas where there is a great demand.

He is urging other entrepreneurs to do likewise. In addition to the restaurant, Lyle also owns an auto spares store and a motor cycle store.

“I am a businessman, I always look at the area and see the needs of the people and to cater for their needs and you would not fail,” he said.

up shop in Linden.

These include Linden’s strategic location, since it gives access to six other regions and is the gateway to the interior. There is also a skilled, qualified and a capable work force that is eagerly awaiting employment.

There is available land located in all parts of the town waiting to be developed and Linden is the only town with subsidised electricity, which will cut costs for energy.

Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland

MUCH ADVANTAGE While speaking to some entrepreneurs in Linden on Wednesday,

several factors were discussed in which foreign investors can evaluate which will encourage them to set

UP THE GAME Outgoing Mayor Holland said that while there is an influx in foreign businesses, he is encouraging locals to up their game and become more competitive, since it was noted that Linden businesses are closing shop to rent out their business spaces to outsiders.

“What we can do is look at the market and one of the things that I am looking to do is to start a Linden economic group, which will look at these very issues to see how we can

provide balance for the community,” he added.

This, he said, is necessary with construction of the Linden to Lethem road, which will bring much economic attention to Linden.

“We cannot allow outsiders to reap the benefits of Linden, so this is why our locals need to step up their game at this time.”

While President of the Linden Chamber of Commerce Victor Fernandes was not available for a comment on Wednesday, he had mentioned similar concerns to the Guyana Chronicle and explained that the chambers noted several local businesses that have shut shop and are therefore urging local entrepreneurs to take advantage of the services offered by the chambers to aid local entrepreneurs in the process of establishing and sustaining their businesses.

Toddlers reading programme launched in Linden to read on the lapse of the parents,” Greene commented.

She also encouraged the clinic to initiate a ‘Baby father day’ as fathers too should get involved in teaching their children to read.

Both Mayor of Linden Carwyn Holland and Regional Chairman Renis Morian emphasised the need for fathers to play a role since all of the parents present were mothers. Holland said some parents may think that teaching a child to read at such a tender age is useless, but the

toddlers do understand.

“Don’t think they don’t understand what you are saying, they do understand, but they are just unable to express themselves,” Morian said.

Registration and License Officer Daunne McFarane explained that the programme targets children from birth to three years old. The One Mile Health Centre is the facility for the pilot project in Linden.

“It is our intention to have similar set-up in other Mather

Child Health Clinics across Region 10. These clinics will be monitored and support given where necessary,” McFarane said.

The programme was launched at the East Ruimveldt Health Centre and should be rolled out at 361 health centres across the country. The public is being asked to donate books to the bookshelves that have been made available.

A mother reading to her toddler at the launch

By Vanessa Braithwaite The Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA) on Tuesday launched a special early childhood development toddlers’ reading programme at the One Mile Health Centre.

The launch saw in attendance scores of parents with their infants and toddlers who were encouraged to take advantage of the programme as reading is essential to a child’s development.

The initiative themed “Back to Basics”

was made possible by the CCPA in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health/ Maternal and Child Health Unit and the National Library.

Director of Child Services Ann Greene posited in her remarks that reading is part of a child’s normal developmental process and parents must be integrally involved.

She said the book shelf that was unveiled at the health centre must be used when parents visit the post-natal clinic.

“We got to get back to basics, we got to get back to the time when children learn

The bookself for parents at the One Mile Health Centre

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

The Handel Andrews Column

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

Myths, Legends, Folktales and Fables of Guyana

D

imitri Allicock, in an article on Guyana folktales, writes: “The practices of myths, legends, folktales and fables is said to provide continuity and stability to a culture.

They foster a shared set of perspectives, values, history and literature, in the stories themselves. Through these communal tales, we are connected to one another, to our ancestors, to the natural world surrounding us, and to society; and, in the myths which have universal themes; we are connected to other cultures.

Through their authoritativeness and the respected characters within them, myths establish a culture's customs, rituals, religious tenets, laws, social structures, power hierarchies, territorial claims, arts and crafts, holidays and other recurring events. We transcend our common life into a world in which deities interact with humans, and we can believe that our daily actions are part of the deities' grand schemes.”

As a boy, I believed these stories, saw them as real as I saw Father Christmas. They remain with me as metaphors with very deep meanings.

Here are a few.

OLD HIGUE (HAG) Old Higue is the Guyanese form of a vampire. The Old Higue can be male or female; but one mostly hears of the female. It can discard its skin and assumes the form of an old woman living in the community. At night, she transforms herself into a ball of fire, flies from her own house into the sky and lands on the roof of another house where there is a baby in a cradle underneath a sheet. She will suck the baby’s blood dry and return home. The suspicions of the community are soon aroused, the school children cry "ole higue" at her; make chalk marks, on the bridge to her house, the door, the jalousie window.

But the legend goes that she crosses these marks bravely. The community then sets a trap. When the ole higue flies abroad another night she finds that the baby in the cradle is clothed in a blue night gown. There is a heap of rice grains near the cot and the smell of asfoetida. These cast a spell on the ole higue who must count the grains of rice, and if she loses her way, she has to start counting again. Morning comes and the ole higue still has not finished counting the grains of

rice. People burst into the room, pick up cabbage broom and beat the ole higue to death, shouting "You gwine pay for your sins before you die."

BACOO It is not known where bacoo comes from; but every Guyanese over 60 has heard of it and some believe it

of the spectators would often be possessed by spirits and stagger, like the mentally insane, and butt their heads on the ground.

It is said that the Cumfa ceremony grew out of a dance of praise to King O'Cumfa on the Congo River.

Slaves’ African ancestors used to worship him for days and nights by the river.

TOCOUYAHA This Monster is found in the deeps of the Waratilla Creek opposite Timehri. In an answer to a signal from a macaw, the monster rises from below to attack the occupants of any boat travelling past. This is a native belief and it is said bubbling water can be seen over the spot where the monster is located.

BACOO

is real. The Bacoo is a tiny man that fits in a bottle covered by a cork. A Bacoo is expensive to keep. It requires gallons of milk and bananas. Bacoo prefers to dwell at night and will stone your roof top if annoyed. It usually lives in the rafter, ceiling and roof tops of houses and are brought there by the owners either in a corked glass bottle or cow skin leather bag.

Once a bacoo is brought to a house, it doesn’t leave until the owner dies or it is starved (which could mean dire consequences for the hosts). If a bacoo is satisfied, it will execute any of his owner’s wishes.

CUMFA Cumfa could be described as a spiritual dance, known for spirit possession, in which the spirit is summoned by special drum beating.

In the 30s and 40s in Georgetown (mainly in Albouystown and Charlestown), (1) (the dancers danced barefoot on broken bottles scattered on the ground (2) they lighted a piece of wood and pushed the lighted fire into their mouths (3) plunging into the trench water under a high tension of elation. The bewildered dancer is unharmed and has no memory of the event afterwards. (4) some

CHURAIL Churail (or Churile) is supposed to be the evil spirit of a woman who had died in childbirth. She haunts pregnant women and attacks women and newborn children. It is also a vampire-like creature of East Indian origin.

MASACOURAMAN Powerful spirit of rivers in the Mazaruni and Potaro. He pulls into the water boats carrying pork knockers into the bush (interior). When I was a boy, it was said that he used to stand about 10 feet tall. “Massacura man actually originated out of slavery. Apparently, there were expert trackers of runaway slaves that were called the Curaban who came out of Africa also.

When Slaves ran away from the plantations they used the vast water ways of Guyana to escape deeper into the interior. The plantation owner would let loose his slave trackers to hunt and

capture them. Hence MASSA, the plantation owner and CURABAN, the tracker, legend was born. Somewhere along the line in the phonically Guyanese creoles mis-pronunciation of words, BAN from Curaban was switched for MAN.”

BUSH DAI DAI The Bush Dai Dai is a legend that comes from the interior of Guyana. It will take the form of a beautiful woman and appear to travelers or in porknockers camps and might seduce a weak man to she might take a fancy. After having her way with the unfortunate, she will change into a wild animal and eat her victim as he/she sleeps Her animal form can vary but most stories say she will become a jaguar or a huge bat.

FAIRMAID Female water spirit fed with unsalted food. When I was a boy, people said they would see her in water by the sea wall in Georgetown. People who fed her would enjoy good fortune — left on foreshore, edge of trenches.

Sources Caribbean Folklore: Africa speaks http://www.bestcaribbeanholidays.com/index.pl/article?id=526314 Myths, Legends, Folktales and Fables of Guyana https://www. scribd.com/document/265269219/My ths-legends-folktales...

Myths and Legends Explained — amazon.com Myths or legends? — Guyana Chronicle — guyanachronicle.com/ Pepperpot/Lead Stories Guyana Superstitions and Folklore Best Country Reports — www. bestcountryreports.com/Soci_Guyana _Superstitions_Folklore.php Folklore - Guyana Outpost: Wayne's Guyana Page — www. guyanaoutpost.com/folklore.shtml

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

17

Massive investments

-- several Canadian mining firms to invest billions in Guyana Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

SEVERAL Canadian mining companies operating in Guyana have pledged to invest tens of millions of US dollars in expansion projects here.

This announcement was made at the just-concluded Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada Convention (PDAC) held in Toronto from 4-7 March, 2018.

According to a release, the annual PDAC Convention is regarded as the premier international event for Canada’s mineral exploration and development industry.

Scott Caldwell, Chief Executive Officer of Guyana Goldfields Inc., the largest foreign gold mining company in Guyana, announced that the company plans to boost annual gold production to 300,000 ounces by 2022 with the introduction of underground mining.

He highlighted his company’s corporate social responsibility record which includes on-going training and development of the Guyanese workforce.

Caldwell pointed out that the Government of Guyana receives eight per cent royalty on all the gold mined and added that the company’s on-going expansion augurs well for Guyana, its shareholders and stakeholders.

Guyana Goldfields Inc. has spent approximately US$50M in the local economy over the years in the areas of goods and services such as hauling of freight, engineering, and contract mining.

Rich Munson, Chief Executive Officer of Sandsprings/ETK, which has acquired the Toroparu Gold Project, said that this undertaking is the number two ranked undeveloped project in South America. The Toroparu Gold Project is described as a world class asset with a 10 million-ounce potential gold reserve.

He explained that Sandsprings/ETK will in the future face a demand for about 35 megawatts of electricity when the operation is up and running and is therefore developing a hydro-electric station known as the Kurupung River Hydroelectric Project (KRHP).

This station will use run-of-river technology which requires no damming. He added that his company is mindful of Guyana’s interest in hydro-electricity, and has designed the KRHP to be expanded incrementally from 50 megawatts to 100 megawatts with the aim of supplying external clients.

Yannis Tsitos, President and Director of Goldsource/Kilroy Mining, indicated that his company has spent more than US$22M in exploration and development in Guyana which he described as, “an extremely good jurisdiction”. The company intends to eventually produce around one million ounces of gold, averaging between 55,000 and 75,000 ounces a year.

The Goldsource/Kilroy Mining executive who has a background in bauxite mining also spoke to investors and other mining operatives about Guyana’s high-quality bauxite which he explained yields about 62 per cent alumina when processed.

“I would hope that one day Guyana can come out of the loop of being an exporter of raw bauxite by self-producing, and eventually building an alumina or even an aluminum plant,” he urged.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan was the featured speaker at the prestigious event.

During his address, he outlined Guyana’s vision and projections for the extractive sector. He also called attention to “the United

Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which were adopted by the UN General Assembly, that acknowledged inter alia,

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

the need for environmentally sustainable economic development and stressed that the mining industry has a pivotal role to play in the attainment of these goals, by ensuring that its operations leave a positive footprint on the environment, even as it generates profits, creates employment and promotes economic growth.”

Minister Jordan assured the more than 25,000 investors, analysts, mining executives, prospectors, geologists, indigenous peoples, government officials, and students from over 125 countries participating in the Convention that “Guyana’s economy has achieved relatively stable economic growth consistent with the global trends” and its “fiscal position has remained strong, with growing current account surpluses,” and an “overall deficit (that) has been kept within sustainable levels”.

ROBUST He said that the “financial system is robust, with banks and other non-bank financial institutions being sound and adequately capitalised, public debt levels are prudently managed while annual inflation hovers around two per cent.”

He further said that with foreign reserves that are over 3.5 months of import cover, and no exchange controls, Guyana’s environment makes for hassle-free repatriation of profits and dividends.

Minister Jordan lauded Guyana’s mining sector as a significant pillar of the country’s economy and the main contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the past three years as well as a major source of Foreign Direct Investment.

He noted though, that while mining in Guyana is successful, it is “unable to unleash its full potential” because it is challenged by the “unavailability of requisite capital to local investors”. To address this challenge, he said, Government is encouraging local miners to establish linkages with foreign investors and members of the Diaspora to access the necessary financing and technology while at the same time providing fiscal incentives in the form of concessions on machinery, equipment and fuel, and waiver and

remission of taxes on motor vehicles, based on the value of gold declaration.

He added that mining operators are permitted to hold foreign exchange retention accounts while larger operators are subjected to an Investment Development Agreement that allows for duty and tax concessions for specified periods in the life of the investment.

GO-INVEST READY Minister Jordan also underscored that the ‘Guyana Office for Investment is ready and ably equipped to facilitate investors and to help them navigate any bureaucracy and assured that investors are guaranteed the safety of their investment and the ease of doing business.

He pointed out that Government is cognisant that a strong legal and regulatory framework is a prerequisite for the orderly and safe development of the sector and that it has undertaken revisions to the Mining Act and Regulations which are expected to be completed and laid in the National Assembly by the end of 2018.

The finance minister in his address announced too, that with the recent discovery of in excess of 3.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil in the country’s offshore basin, production of first oil is expected in the first quarter of 2020, with 120,000 barrels per day being targeted which could eventually reach 500,000 barrels per day by 2025, and up to 1,000,000 barrels per day by the late 2020s. He highlighted that the revenues that Guyana will earn from this discovery will have a transformative effect on the country. He further added that the Government is keen to avoid the ‘oil curse’ and thus is “presently fashioning a constructive and enlightened Sovereign Wealth Fund, to provide for inter-generational equity.

The Fund’s legislation is expected to reach Parliament in the last quarter of 2018”.

Member of Parliament in the Canadian House of Commons who is also the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Trade, Pamela Goldsmith-Jones, pointed to Canada’s renowned capabilities in off-shore oil and gas, and acknowledged that Guyana is a key market for Canada.

“In 2016, Guyana became Canada’s largest merchandised trading market within CARICOM because of a significant increase in gold imports to Canada…our government is committed to further strengthening our relationship with our friends and partners in Guyana,” Goldsmith Jones said.

17

Noting Guyana and Canada’s longstanding trade relationship, the Member of Parliament emphasised, “there’s no question that Guyana holds a promise for Canadian companies in the extractive sector, especially in mining and oil and gas, which we recognize as important to Guyana’s economy.”

Guyana’s High Commissioner to Canada, Clarissa Riehl and Canadian High Commis-

Member of Parliament in the Canadian House of Commons and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Trade, Pamela Goldsmith-Jones

sioner to Guyana, Lilian Chatterjee also made brief remarks.

Minister Jordan and the GO-Invest team met with the Premier and Deputy Minister of Natural Resources for Newfoundland and Labrador to discuss opportunities in mining, oil and gas and the natural resources sector in General.

Chief Executive Officer of Go-Invest Owen Verwey, following the event, said he was heartened by the tremendous interest shown in Guyana Mining Day 2018 in Toronto, noting that “Guyana is indeed being recognized as a world-class investment option for mining and natural resources.”

The event was chaired by newly appointed Guyana Consul General to Toronto, Ann Choo. Also presenting at the forum were Metallica Commodities Corporation, Goldstrike/Romanex, Guyana Women’s Mining Organisation and Guyana Geology and Mines Commission.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

18

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

M

Be Familiar With Closing Cost Terminology

ost people depend wholly and solely on attorneys at closing for guidance and direction. Because of the volume of paperwork involved, some people sign documents blindly and are not cognizant of basic real estate language.

You should all be familiar with terms and the content of documents to be knowledgeable and not be gullible. Agreed, you are indeed paying an attorney to represent you to ensure you are protected legally, but by the same token pertinent understanding of real estate terminology, is a necessary tool that augers well for your future real estate transactions.

CLOSING COSTS Closing costs are one-time expenses that must be paid on or before the closing date. For example, such costs include Recording Fees, Title Insurance and Title Search. Prepaid interest will be adjusted from the date of funding to the first day of the following month. On refinances, lending institutions will fund your loan after the right to cancel expires. They will also disclose a full month interest because closing dates are often adjusted after application, but your actual charge may be less than 30 days. For example: If your loan is funded with 10 days left in a month and the daily interest on your loan is $30.00, the prepaid interest collected at closing would be $300.00.

GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE Federal law requires that lending institutions provide a ‘Good Faith Estimate’ of Settlement Charges that discloses a reasonably close estimate of the costs you are likely to incur at the actual closing of your real estate transaction. The estimate is based on typical charges in your area but the actual amounts may be more or sometimes less. Certain charges such as prepaid interest and escrow amounts will be affected at the actual closing date. Because the lender is the one who prepares the estimate, many buyers associate all the closing costs with the lender. This is not correct.

The lender is only preparing an estimate of the costs you may incur when buying or refinancing and is not required to list all potential costs. Nor does the lender know what all the costs are going to be. The esti-

mate is an educated guess based on past experience. Always anticipate that actual closing costs are going to be more than the estimate.

ESCROW If you maintain an escrow account for taxes and insurance, banks and lending institutions will collect deposits for these items based on your actual closing date and the actual amounts and due dates established by the taxing authorities, and the renewal dates of your insurance policies. The taxes will be determined by the Title Commitment and the Property Insurance premium will be determined from your insurance policy. At Closing, all required escrow items will be collected, and you will receive a credit of the escrow balance from your current loan. There could also be additional monies due if your taxes or insurance have increased.

LOAN ORIGINATION FEE This fee is usually known as a loan origination fee but sometimes is called a “point” or “points.” It covers the lender’s administrative costs in processing the loan.

Often expressed as a percentage of the loan, the fee will vary among lenders. Generally, the buyer pays the fee, unless otherwise negotiated.

LOAN DISCOUNT FEE Also often called “points” or “discount points” a loan discount is a one-time charge imposed by the lender or the broker to lower the rate at which the lender or broker would otherwise offer the loan to you.

Each “point” is equal to one percent of the mortgage amount. For example if a lender charges two (2) points on a $500,000 loan

this amounts to a charge of $10,000.

APPRAISAL FEE This charge pays for an appraisal report prepared by a professional appraiser.

CREDIT REPORT FEE This fee covers the cost of a credit report, which shows your credit history. The lender uses the information in a credit report to help decide whether or not to approve your loan and how much money to

other programs or lenders.

Following are the most frequently asked questions:— Q. What is the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and why is it different from the initial interest rate on my loan?

A. The APR is the cost of your credit expressed as an annual rate, and can be compared to the APR on other loan programs. The APR is often higher than the actual interest rate because you may be paying points and closing costs, which increases the APR. The APR is intended to provide you with a method of comparing the cost of credit between lenders.

Q. What is the Finance Charge?

lend you and at what interest rate.

MORTGAGE INSURANCE APPLICATION FEE This fee covers the processing of an application for mortgage insurance.

MORTGAGE ASSUMPTION FEE This is a fee which is charged when a buyer “assumes” or takes over the duty to pay the seller’s existing mortgage loan.

MORTGAGE INSURANCE PREMIUM The lender may require you to pay your first year’s mortgage insurance premium or a lump sum premium that covers the life of the loan, in advance, at settlement.

HAZARD INSURANCE PREMIUM Hazard insurance protects you and the lender against loss due to fire, windstorm, and natural hazards. Lenders often require the borrower to bring to the closing a paidup first year’s policy or to pay for the first year’s premium at settlement.

TITLE CHARGES Title charges may cover a variety of services performed by title companies, such as settlement or closing fee, abstract title search, title examination, document preparation, notary fee and title insurance.

SURVEY The lender may require that a surveyor conduct a property survey. This is a protection to the buyer. Usually the buyer pays the surveyor’s fee, but sometimes it is paid by the seller.

TRUTH IN LENDING DISCLOSURE Federal law also requires that institutions provide a “Truth In Lending Disclosure” (TIL) statement. The TIL is designed to give you information of the actual costs of the transaction so that you may compare these costs with those of

A. The Finance Charge is the cost of credit expressed in dollars. It is the total amount of interest calculated at the interest rate over the life of the loan, plus prepaid finance Charges and the total amount of any required mortgage insurance charged for the life of the loan.

Q. What is the Amount Financed?

A. The Amount Financed is less than your actual loan amount because prepaid finance charges such as loan origination fees, commitment or discount fees, points, adjusted interest and initial mortgage insurance premiums are deducted from the actual loan amount to determine the Amount Financed. For example, if the actual loan amounts $500,000 and the Prepaid Finance Charges are $5,000. The Amount Financed would be $495,000.

Q. What is Total of Payments?

A. This is the total amount you will pay if you make the minimum required payments for the entire life of the loan.

This includes principal, interest and mortgage insurance premiums, but does not include payments for real estate taxes or property insurance premiums.

Q. If I payoff the loan early, will I be entitled to a refund of part of the Finance Charges?

A. Interest already paid and prepaid finance charges are not refundable. However if you pay off the loan early, you will not have to pay all the finance charges shown in the statement.

The next time you have a Closing you can speak authoritatively as you are now familiar with the most common real estate settlement terminology.

“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 March 16, 2018

19

‘We’re on track’ GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 15, 2018

THE establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) is a designated priority of the government, one which demonstrates the administration’s commitment to good governance, transparency and accountability.

This was noted by the Ministry of Finance, which says it welcomes direct engagement with its partners.

The ministry was at the time responding to an Op-ed penned by US Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway, earlier this week.

On Tuesday, Ambassador Holloway stressed the need for a strong and transparent SWF even as he noted that Guyana is poised to be a very rich country in the region with considerable revenue streams in the future generated from the petroleum sector.

The Ministry of Finance while appreciating the ‘spirit of the Op-ed’ listed the SWF as a priority of government and it emphasised that the administration and people of Guyana will decide on its tenets. “The suggestions contained in the Op-ed may give the impression that the GCRG and, by extension,

3

… Finance Ministry says steps being taken to establish SWF … welcomes direct engagement with partners

Minister of Finance Winston Jordan

the Ministry of Finance, under whose remit the drafting of the legislation for the SWF falls, has not made significant progress on this important piece of legislation. That impression is misinformed,” the ministry stated.

The ministry noted that the foundation for the establishment of the SWF began since 2016. It said this was announced more than a

year ago at the opening of Guyana’s National Seminar on Preparing for First Oil, which was facilitated by Chatham House of London.

At that forum, it was noted that Minister of Finance Winston Jordan made clear the Government’s intention to develop a fund to govern the use of petroleum resources as a key legislative priority. The ministry stated that Minister Jordan highlighted

Power Man gets six back years for at Moraikobai child sex assault after two years JUSTICE Sandil Kissoon sentenced Vijay Singh to six years in jail for sexTHE of Moraikobai, Moraikobai.

The people uallypeople assaulting a six-year-oldat girl back located in the upper reaches of Moraikobai are very hapin 2015 in Berbice. of the Mahaicony River last to the py indictwith this development.

Singh, 21 pleaded guilty week expressed gratitude to Thumbs up for the regional ment of sexual activity with an underaged the Region Five administra- administration and the governchildforwhich committed October tion a $6Mwas grant that re- onment.

We applaud this prompt 8, 2015. activated a 350KW electrical response.”

Prosecutors on the day in added that a Mangenerator, whichsaid hadthat been Adrian question, Singh, who was a agement part-timeCommittee comprisdown for the past two years. employee of the victim’s father,inghad lift- stakeholders in the “The generator had been various ed the minor on his lap, and was seen by including the Vildown because the Village community, an olderhad sibling committing act.

An has been formed Council run out of funds the lage Council, due to the costsand of transalarm washigh raised the parents were the electrical plant to manage porting mileswere intolater the summoned. and they will do so with funds alerted.fuel The96 police upper reaches the river, Legal Aid of attorney, Sashaprovided Roberts,by the region. where our community is,” “Following this, the inin a plea of mitigation, observed that her Toshao tention is that the committee client Colin cameAdrian from explained a poor family backlast week. who sought employment will at have ground, an moved to a stage He related that regional of self-sufficiency where the early age in an attempt to supplement his officials had visited Moraiko- regional subsidy will no longer family’s income. bai in mid-February and had be necessary,” he said.

Singh, whowith wasthe17greatyears old The at the pledged to assist generator is currently time of the incident, has expressed est possible dispatch. being operated by a resident deep regret, andExecutive pleaded for “The Regional of lenienthe village and provides cy, his lawyer said.

However, Justice from 18:00hrs to Officer Mr Ovid Morrison and electricity noting the seriousness aKissoon, team visited; Mr Morrison 22:00hrs.of the offence, commenced the term of promised assistance and this Residents who are conimprisonment fromtangible 20 years,sumers but, deassistance was made are required to pay a in less than a week the monthly fee of $5000 for the ducted 10 years forafter the convict’s guilty visit,” Toshao Adrianfour said,years service. plea , and a further for the adding: “Thanks this prompt portion of the money mitigation.

As atoresult, Singh willAserve support, power isofnow back collected by the committee will a six-year-term imprisonment.

be used for future operational use, while another sum will be allocated for community projects identified by stakeholders.

About 50 homes are currently benefiting from the reactivated power supply system, Toshao Adrian said.

More residents of the population have been indicating their intention to get on board the resuscitated grid.

The toshao also said the regional administration is currently making arrangements for four residents of Moraikobai to be trained by the Guyana Power and Light as plant operators/ linesmen.

They will play an important role in the expansion of the system as more residents opt in.

He was optimistic that as the Management Committee comes to grips with their task and becomes more efficient, the hours of service may gradually increase, since the 350W (0.35MW) being generated is only marginally utilised.

“There is at the moment a lot of unused capacity in that generator,” he said, noting his optimism that the power would facilitate economic activities in his village.

the objectives of the fund and those are: to advance critical development and investment needs within the country through the national budget as well as to address issues of stabilisation of the economy.

Another objective is to ensure savings were made to guarantee inter-generational benefits from the extraction of this finite natural resource.

“Those objectives reflect a comprehensive framework that will guide the prudent management of future oil revenues for the benefit of current and future generations, in keeping with the government’s agenda,” the Finance Ministry said.

GREEN STATE The Finance Ministry stated that the government’s investment expenditure will be driven by the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) – the country’s national development plan - and, by the development priorities articulated and

implemented through the National Budget, which has an established consultation cycle of its own. It was noted that the development of legislation to govern the SWF is being supported by the Commonwealth Secretariat.

The Finance Ministry while highlighting that the legislation will be laid before Parliament by the end of 2018, noted that a green paper on the subject will be published this year and consultations will occur subsequently.

Noting that Guyana is ahead of many countries in the establishment of the fund, including oil-producer Norway which established its fund years after first oil, the ministry stated that the move to create the fund “demonstrates the government’s commitment to good governance, transparency and accountability, by ensuring that a legislative framework is in place to safeguard our national patrimony, prior to the commencement of oil production.”

US Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway

The Ministry of Finance said it welcomed direct engagement with its partners and values the comments from bilateral and multilateral partners on the draft content of the SWF and welcomes further engagement and support. It called, however, for caution to be exercised in pronouncement of national priorities, given the existing challenges of managing expectations and avoiding the Dutch disease.

GLDA favours Number 28 Village – to locate state-of-the-art abattoir THE state-of-the-art abattoir to be constructed in Region Five 5 (Mahaica-Berbice) will be located aback Number 28 Village, West Coast Berbice.

The facility will be set up about a kilometer from the public highway and next to the main road of the Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary Development Authority (MMA-ADA) at Onverwagt.

This was confirmed by a senior official from the Agriculture Support Development Unit (ASDU) over the weekend.

An international standard abattoir will be a major change for the local community of West Coast Berbice, the official said, adding that a contract will be shortly signed.

Officials have already said that Region Five is deemed the most suitable

location for an abattoir of such international standards, since it is one of the two largest cattle producing regions, the other one being Region Six (EastBerbice-Corentyne).

“This is where the animals are, and hence the location in the backlands next to the MMA-ADA road, about one kilometer away from the public road, is very strategic,” the official said.

The establishment of the abattoir is in keeping with the Ministry of Agriculture’s drive, through the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), to ensure a higher quality of meat for consumers.

GLDA Head, Nigel Cumberbatch had recently stated that despite Guyana being self-sufficient in meat production, there is still some amount of importation occurring, because of

the quality required by the fast-food industry and other internationally aligned sectors.

“With the quality of the meat and the cuts of the meat that are imported at this present time, we here in Guyana cannot meet that requirement,” Cumberbatch said. “There are opportunities, we feel, for the local farming communities to look at what is imported, and try to provide part of that importation. That is what we are hoping that we can do during 2018 and beyond.”

“We can also say to the persons who are bringing in meat, that we are slaughtering under proper hygienic conditions, and if the quality is good, we see no reason why you cannot purchase animals, feeling satisfied with the wholesomeness of the meat that will be coming out of the abattoir.”

20

EMPHASIS ON THE COMMUNITY

In The Mail

SUSTAINING THE CHRONICLE

because I have friends who live in ium, I want to make an appeal to the Dear Editor, Living in the Diaspora, New other parts of the United States of Government of Guyana to maintain York to be exact, gives me a need to America, Canada and other coun- necessary financial subsidies to the continue to find out what is happen- tries, and they also depend on read- Guyana Chronicle (New York Ediing the Chronicle for up to date tion) in order to keep Guyanese who ing in my Homeland — Guyana. are living outside of the country inFortunately, the weekly (free) information on Guyana.

I am aware about how difficult formed. availability of the New York Edition During the recent visit to New of the Guyana Chronicle helps to it is to maintain a printed newspaper in these modern times, but since the York by Minister of State, Joe Harmeet that need.

I am not alone in this regard, Chronicle is a State-owned med- mon, questioners and commentators

frequently urged Mr. Harmon about maintaining a Public Relations' presence outside of Guyana.

I close with a firm request to the present Government of Guyana to continue its subvention to the overseas version of the Guyana Chronicle.

Marcia Thorne Reader of the NY Chronicle

MAKING U.G. MORE AFFORDABLE

Dear Editor, I am writing this letter, because I was one of the persons from a poor economic background who was able to attend the University of Guyana —FREE OF COST, because of the intervention of then President, Forbes Burnham.

Since the departure of Mr. Burnham, fees have returned to the University of Guyana.

Those spiraling fees are continuing to exclude poorer persons from attending classes at the Institution, and I thus welcome a recent announcement from Vice Chancellor Griffith that a

CONSULATE REMINDER 2018 Guyana Consular Services begins March 17

T

he Guyana Consulate of New York will kick-off its 2018 Consulate Saturdays schedule, on March 17, at the Guyana Consulate office, 308 West 38th Street, NY, NY, 10018, from 10 am – 2 pm.

Phone 212-947-5113)

Except for visas, all services will be offered on the 3rd Saturday in every quarter. The following dates are as follows - June 16, September 15, and December 15.

Consul General Hon. Mrs. Barbara Atherly, who joined the consulate over a year ago, told Caribbean Life, that the diplomatic office wants to provide proficient and full service to the diaspora through these regularly service dates, while engaging the community, and providing citizens with much needed information.

The consulate will process birth certificates, emergency travel documents, death certificates, Marriage & Death Certificates, Finger-

printing, Pension Certificates, Remigration applications, and Notarization service.

Mrs. Atherly who recently hosted a colorful 48th Republic Day celebration in New York City, said that since taking up office, the Consulate staff has been working diligently to enhance services in an easier, friendlier way.

To this end the Consulate has introduced an automated telephone system and launched an interactive, user friendly website (www.guyanaconuslatenewyork.or g), and just recently, an electronic count-down number system for faster, efficient service, as well a flat screen Television monitor to keep citizens informed of what is happening back home.

Additionally, the consulate has hosted Town Hall meetings, and travelled to Brooklyn, New Jersey, Schenectady, and Connecticut to provide outreach services.

To learn more, go to www.guyanaconsulatenewyork.or g or call:

212-947-5113

study will be carried out into what it costs to run the University of Guyana, so that students' fees could be more realistically framed.

Thank you in advance for publishing this letter.

Sase Mohamed

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

New York Chronicle Horoscope

21

CROSSWORD CROSSWORD

ISSUE 92 CROSSWORD ANSWER

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20 You may be the recipient of false information. Take a long look at your present direction and consider your professional options. Your emotional stability may influence the changes taking place in your personal life. Any attractions toward clients will be one sided and must be put right out of your head. Your lucky day next week will be Saturday.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Upgrading at this point is not a bad plan. Be careful while traveling. Your dedication and fortitude when dealing with humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation. Try to keep your opinions to yourself. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) You can win if you’re open and up front with your boss. Someone around you may not be trustworthy. Try to channel your energy into professional endeavors. You will be attracted to unusual forms of entertainment and foreign cultures. Your lucky day next week will be Sunday.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Romantic opportunities will be plentiful if you go out with friends. Get involved in sports events that will benefit your physical appearance. Hard work will pay off if you refrain from expressing your opinions to superiors. You must not lead someone on or show interest in them for the wrong reasons. Your lucky day next week will be Tuesday.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22) Travel will enhance romance and adventure. You can make money through real estate or by using your head when it comes to personal investments.

Changes involving your domestic scene may be unpleasant. Your lucky day next week will be Friday.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Do not let your mate annoy you; patience will be the key. Older relatives may be a burden. Limitations on the home front can be expected if you have been restricting your mate’s freedom. Your lucky day next week will be Sunday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) You need a break from your daily routine. You can benefit financially if you put money or maintenance into your living quarters. You need to get out if you want to meet potential partners. Work quietly behind the scenes. Your lucky day next week will be Tuesday.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Pleasure trips will promote new romantic encounters. Concentrate on your job. Opportunities will come through behind the scenes activities. Things may not be as they sound. Your lucky day next week will be Saturday.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) Overstatement will be your downfall. Your ability to charm others will put you in the limelight at social functions. Although upsetting, changes in your domestic situation will be favorable. You may find that you are a little lucky this week. Your lucky day next week will be Monday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You can do well on stage or behind the scenes, the choice is yours. Don’t agree to make any of those cosmetic alterations you’ve been considering.

You may find yourself in a heated dispute with a friend if you try to change your mind. This week will be rather hectic on the domestic scene. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) You’ll be able to discuss your ambitions with your mate. Question your mate if you must. Travel will turn out to be far more exciting than you imagined. You can expect to experience delays or additional red tape if you deal with institutions. Your lucky day this week will be Thursday.

PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) You can make excellent career moves if you are open to the opportunities that exist. Don’t let others bully you into agreeing with them. Delays are evident. If you try to manipulate emotional situations you will find yourself alienated. Your lucky day next week will be Saturday.

ACROSS 1. Radiate 5. Shots, for short 9. Young pigeon 14. Anatomical sacs 15. Froth 16. Rid 17. Mae a powerful kick 18. Mysterious letter 19. High wave 20. Possess without debt 23. “Indeed” 24. Suffix with ideal 25. Pop-ups, e.g.

28. Woodworking tool 32. Insect killer 35. Scrape 37. Melt 40. Absence of guilt 42. Dominated 43. Neck ache 44. Abbr. before a number 45. Pressure, in a way 47. Family heads 48. Wood-shaping tool

W O R D F I N D

11. Egg on 12. Must-see city for a tourist in India 13. Miller, for one 21. Soak up again 22. Theoretical physicist 25. English race place 26. Dig 50. Peke squeak 27. Get ready for something 52. Criminal's declaradifficult or unpleasant tion 29. Be crazy about 61. Gold, in Roma 30. Feather, zoologically 62. Not say directly 63. Elbow-wrist connec- 31. City on the Ruhr 32. Casual attire tion 33. Bangladesh’s capital, old name 64. Humdrum 65. Allocate, with “out” 34. Journeys 66. Grandmothers, in the 36. Pit contents 38. Easy task, slangily U.K. 39. The "p” in r.p.m.

67. Mount with spirit 41. Type of oil 68. Fragrance 46. Bivalve mollusk 69. Hill crest 48. Grave 49. Vaulted DOWN 51. Squarely i. Come back 52. Makes lace 2. ___ Mix 53. Offended 3. Representation 54. Great Lakes city 4. Chewy candy 55. Jerk 5. All over again 56. Even 6. Grimace 57. Chant 7. Latino rock group 58. Oomph 8. Doomsayer’s sign 59. Wife in "Finnegans Wake” 9. Glasses 10. Misgiving 60. File

W H O A R N ’ D D S

‘

BACKHAND

EVENHANDED FOREHAND

HAND BRAKE HAND LUGGAGE HAND PICK HAND-MEDOWN HANDBAG

HANDICAP

HANDLEBARS HANDSHAKE HANDSTAND

HANDYMAN

LEFT-HANDED MANHANDLE

MERCHANDISE MISHANDLE OFFHAND

OVERHAND

PANHANDLE SHANDY SINGLEHANDED

STAGEHAND

UNDERHAND

ISSUE 92 WORDFIND ANSWER

22

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

EMPHASIS ON CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS

3

Historic Election Victory in Grenada St. GEORGE’S, Grenada – For the second straight time, and the third time overall, the New National Party (NNP) has won every one of the 15 seats up for grabs in General Elections in Grenada.

The clean sweep in yesterday’s elections follows similar outcomes in 1999 and 2013.

The NNP’s 71-year-old leader and Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell was ecstatic with the win, and was in a dancing mood after the victory for his party was declared.

At the same time, he said it was a “humbling experience”.

“It feels good. The people of my country have shown the level of confidence in the way I have governed,” Mitchell said.

He also urged the leadership of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to join in helping chart the way forward for Grenada.

Conceding defeat last night, NDC political leader Nazim Burke said the people of the Eastern Caribbean nation had spoken and the party would listen.

“We accept the verdict of the people and congratulate the Prime Minister,” he said.

To party supporters, Burke assured

New National Party (NNP) supporters gathered at the Victory Rally Wednesday evening. (photo by Shelton Scott/Facebook)

that it was “not the end of the world”.

“Adversity always creates its own opportunities, and this could be our opportu-

nity to do something bigger and better for Grenada,” he said.

(Caribbean360)

Election Observer Mission Recommends Campaign Finance Regulations for Grenada St. GEORGE’S, Grenada — An Organization of American States (OAS) Electoral Experts Mission has recommended the introduction of political party and campaign finance regulations to promote transparency and accountability in Grenada’s electoral processes.

The recommendation was one of several made by the six-member group of experts who observed Tuesday’s General Elections in which the incumbent New National Party (NNP) won all 15 seats up for grabs.

A preliminary report issued by the mission that was led by OAS Assistant Secretary General Nestor Mendez, noted that Grenada had no specific legislation or regulations that directly address the issue of campaign financing.

“There is no public funding for political parties or candidates, so that electoral campaigns must be privately funded. The origin of private funds is not regulated and there are

no prohibitions on foreign and anonymous sources. Grenada has established no limits on campaign spending and political parties are not required to disclose their finances,” it stated, adding that most persons with whom the mission spoke were uncertain about the origins of resources for the election and whether this might have influenced the outcome of the elections in any way.

“Recognizing that unregulated financing from unidentifiable sources has the potential to impact the equity of the democratic process, and in order to promote transparency and accountability in electoral processes in Grenada, the mission reiterates the recommendations of previous OAS Observation Missions, that the Government of Grenada, along with other appropriate stakeholders, consider political party and campaign finance regulations that establish clear limits on campaign spending, require political parties to disclose their sources of funding, prohibit anonymous and foreign donations, and limit private and in-kind donations to political and electoral campaigns.”

The mission said it was pleased to note that, due to the number of female candidates nominated by the winning party, preliminary results suggest that women will now comprise almost half of the House of Representatives. The NNP had put forward six female candidates.

However, the mission said that in order to achieve true parity in women’s political participation in Grenada, authorities should consider introducing temporary legal measures, such as a gender quota. It also recom-

mended that political parties and other stakeholders collaborate to develop programmes that promote women’s participation and leadership in politics In its report, the mission also commended the people of Grenada on their continued commitment to democracy, as demonstrated in their peaceful and enthusiastic participation in the elections. It further congratulated the NNP government on winning another term in office.

(Caribbean360)

OAS Electoral Experts observed the elections in Granada.

(photo creit: OAS)

Trinidadian is New UN Assistant Secretary General for Economic Development NEW YORK, United States — United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres Tuesday announced the appointment of Elliott Harris of Trinidad and Tobago as Assistant SecretaryGeneral for Economic Development and Chief Economist in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

He will succeed Lenni Montiel of Venezuela to whom the Secretary-General

and the Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs are grateful for his commitment and dedicated service to the Organization.

Harris brings over 25 years of international experience in the fields of international economics and development policy analysis, coupled with knowledge of the United Nations system, multilateral and inter–agency coordination processes.

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.

EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO: DENNIS NELSON @ dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.com or call: (917) 379-6590 to schedule an interview.

ELLIOTT HARRIS

The UN said he has extensive experience in the design of macroeconomic policies and its application as a central instrument for the reduction of poverty and for resilient and sustained economic development. His work in the field of economics also focuses on the macroeconomic linkages with global social and environmental policies.

Since 2015, Harris has served as As-

sistant Secretary-General and Head of the New York Office of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). He joined UNEP’s Senior Management Team in 2013 as Director of the New York Office and Secretary to the Environment Management Group.

Prior to joining UNEP, Harris began his career in the International Monetary Fund in 1988, where he worked in the African Department and the Fiscal Affairs Department. In 2002, he became an Adviser in the Policy Development and Review Department, and was appointed in 2008 as Special Representative to the United Nations, in addition to serving as Assistant Director of the Strategy and Policy Review Department.

Harris holds a Bachelor of Science in German and Political Science and an advanced degree in economics. He was awarded an Advanced Studies Certificate in international economics and policy research from the Institute of World Economics in Kiel, Germany.

(Caribbean360)

Not so soon

GuyanaCHRONICLE Chronicle New York Edition week GUYANA Wednesday, March 14, 2018 ending

March 16, 2018

23

3

… Lindo Creek commissioner shocked at police decision to close case

By Svetlana Marshall CHAIRMAN of the Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (CoI) Justice (Ret’d) Donald Trotman has expressed surprise that the Guyana Police Force closed the case into the mass murder at Lindo Creek back in 2008.

Justice Trotman made the comments during the testimony of outgoing Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud on Tuesday. Persuad, who was the crime chief at the time of the Lindo Creek Massacre in June 2008, was instructed by then Commissioner of Police Henry Green to complete the murder investigation several months after the charred remains of the eight miners were discovered at a mining camp at Lindo Creek in the Upper Berbice River, Region 10.

Initially, the matter was investigated by the Office of Professional Responsibility.

Under cross-examination by the Commission’s Chairman and Legal Counsel Patrice Henry, Persaud explained that upon completion of the case, a report was sent to the DPP for legal advice. Commissioner Trotman questioned Persaud on whether advice given by the DPP has to be followed. The DPP had reportedly advised

Chairman of the Lindo Creek CoI Justice (Ret’d) Donald Trotman (Photos by Delano Williams) that the case be closed.

“Matters involving criminal jurisdiction, we do. In matters involving disciplinary action against members of the force, not in all cases…most times the advice I see involving civil jurisdiction matters would be forwarded to the attorney general for further advice,” he explained.

Pressing for more answers, Justice Trotman asked if there are times when the DPP’s recommendations are not in keeping with those of the police, and if such would be followed; Persaud responded in the positive.

“There are several times where the DPP’s advice

is not in keeping with the recommendations of the investigator, or even the crime chief’s recommendations, but we take action in accordance with the advice of the DPP..,” he explained.

However, Persaud said in this case, he as the crime chief was comfortable with the advice of the DPP to close the case. “As crime chief, given the fact that the perpetrators that the investigation had identified had all been killed, except for one, who had been cooperating with prosecutors and others, and given that…I was comfortable with that,” Persaud told the Commission.

Persaud further indicated

that he was not surprised at the recommendation of the DPP, and was comfortable with the decision to close the case. But Justice Trotman said he was “very surprised.”

Earlier in the hearing, the outgoing commissioner of police disclosed that from the DNA samples taken from relatives of all of the deceased miners, only three came back with positive results, based on a report submitted by the authorities in Jamaica. The DNA tests confirmed that Nigel Torres, Bonny Harry and another miner, whose name he could not recall, were among those murdered at Lindo Creek.

The Trinidadian investi-

gators had also submitted a report to the then police commissioer, that it did not include results from DNA samples taken.

He confirmed that the remains were kept at the Lyken Funeral Parlour, but could not confirm whether autopsies had been conducted. According to the Coroner’s Order, Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh was identified to conduct the post-mortems but his name was crossed out, and replaced by another name. According to Persaud, upon the closure of the investigation, he instructed that the parlour bury the remains, but not before relatives of the identified men were informed, along with the camp owner Leonard Arokium.

“I am informed that one family indicated an interest, but also indicated that they cannot bear the expense and as a result, I instructed that the said parlour as per procedure bury the remains,” he recalled. Co-owner of Lyken’s Funeral Home, Dr Dawn Stewart, who had appeared before the Commissioner earlier this month, had said that the remains were buried at Le Repentir Cemetery on September 11, 2012, some four years after they were discovered.

All the family members

Outgoing Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud who took the stand thus far have alleged that they were never informed of the murder of their loved ones by the Guyana Police Force, and had been left in the dark when the decision was made for the remains to be buried some four years after.

The CoI is investigating the circumstances surrounding the killing of Cecil Arokium, Dax Arokium, Horace Drakes, Bonny Harry, Lancelot Lee, Compton Speirs, Nigel Torres and Clifton Berry Wong, on or about June 21, 2008 at Lindo Creek in the Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice Region.

New GuySuCo board approved FOLLOWING some delays, the new Guyana Sugar Corporation board has been approved and the company has published a full-page newspaper advertisement introducing the new directors.

Last Friday, government said it was continuing its consideration of the Board of Directors. Minister of State Joseph Harmon in response to questions posed at a post-Cabinet press briefing held at the

Ministry of the Presidency, said, “Cabinet has requested to have a further consideration of the board of GuySuCo. “Cabinet made some comments with respect to the board that was identified and I am sure that within the short space of time that all of the issues as they relate to the board will be clarified and that there will be a full board of GuySuCo appointed, gazetted and working,” the Minister of State had told reporters.

New chairman of GuySuCo, Colvin Heath-London

However, in the fullpage advertisement in the Guyana Chronicle this toweek day, head of the Special Purpose Unit (SPU) Colvin Heath-London, has been confirmed as the new chairman of GuySuCo. The other directors are: Komal Singh; Verna Adrian; Fritz McLean; Rosh Khan (jr); George Jervis; Arianne McLean; Vishnu Panday; Annette Arjoon-Martins and two executives from GuySuCo. The life of the previous

board, chaired by Professor Clive Thomas, ended on February 14, 2018. Meanwhile, in a statement dated February 25, 2018, the SPU said the life of the board of GuySuCo came to an end on February 14, after the Board of Directors of the National Industrial & Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) at a special board meeting, decided to install a new board focused on the transformation of the corporation as envisioned

by NICIL-SPU.

“The NICIL board also instructed GuySuCo to freeze all hiring and to not renew any employee contracts that are expiring at this time.

NICIL has begun working with the management team at the corporation to implement management changes; some of these changes are already being implemented and more are expected to follow in the coming weeks,” the SPU statement said.

24

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018

SIR WILSON HARRIS Guyana’s literary master

“H

is life was gentle; and the elements so mixed in him, that Nature might stand up, and say to all the world, THIS WAS A MAN!” —William Shakespeare "At the point where the Carib- sion, with some of his original manbean meets South America on its uscripts stored in the Harry Ramsen North Atlantic seaboard lies an al- Collection at the University of Texas most unknown, but incredibly won- in Austin, he ranks right up there derful land of unspoilt beauty, with the best. A major, noteworthy where the virgin rainforest leads to achievement is that he gave the large the Amazon Basin. Where the jun- indigenous Amerindian population gle is still unexplored, rivers un- of Guyana, consisting of nine major charted and mountains yet to be ethnic groups, so often marginalGuyana- ized, including the Akawaios, climbed" — Arekunas, Caribs, tourism.com, a pristine wonderland Arawaks, Harris so often portrayed in his lit- Makushis, Patamonas, Wapishanas, Warraus and the Wai-Wais, erary gems.

Sir Wilson Harris, who re- historic and literary acknowledgecently died at the age of 96, was an ment.

All Guyanese and Caribbean iconic figure among the writers of the Caribbean and Central America. people are proud of the achieveNominated for the Nobel Prize in ments of Sir Wilson Harris, fellow literature on more than one occa- Queens College alumni even more

so. Born in Guyana in 1921, he attended the elite Queen’s College, Georgetown, Guyana from 1932 to 1937. Whereas Q.C. nurtured his genius, it was his work experience that gave him wings. Before he became the world famous writer, his oyster for gathering the settings and landscape for his works came from his interaction with the majestic hinterland of Guyana, which he experienced as a land surveyor.

I had the privilege of seeing Guyana’s hinterland as a Magistrate, where I often traveled by speed boat, canoe, ferry or small aircraft when I performed my duties as the youngest Magistrate appointed in Guyana’s history at the age of 25.

Indeed, Captain George Grandsoult, whose body was never found in Guyana’s interior after his plane crashed, had just flown me the week before, in the same plane which dropped out of the sky.

Everyone else was afraid of the hinterland, so I was tasked to hold court in these remote, but scenic towns.

At the prestigious Queen’s College, we also studied the magnum opus of another Guyanese giant, Jan Carew’s “Black Midas,” which dealt with the changing fortunes of a Guyanese pork knocker — and life itself. Carew became a professor at Northwestern University and Princeton University. These experiences helped me analyze Harris’ work in context.

Harris was born in the small community of New Amsterdam, in British Guiana, now Guyana after independence. For him to be admitted to the elite Q.C. school during such colonial times was an achievement by itself. The diverse races were all mixed in him, making him the quintessential West Indian — a man for all seasons. His father, an insurance broker, died when he was two, and his stepfather disappeared, believed drowned, in the rainforests in 1929.

From 1945 to 1959 he worked as a land surveyor, mainly in the majestic and beautiful hinterland of Guyana, where he interacted often with the indigenous people who lived there, and researched their way

The ALBERT BALDEO Column

Sir Wilson Harris . . . was not a conventional writer, but one who charted his own course to greatness. Here, he poses with his medal after receiving a Knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II during the Royal Investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace on October 13, 2010 in London, England. The Guyanese writer was honored for his contribution to literature. Source: WPA Pool/Getty Images Europe.

of life. This unique experience influenced the imagery of his writing, and equipped him with the mystique and mythology of Guyana’s indigenous peoples, and living in Guyana in the early 1960s. During this period, he shared ideas and visions with other notable Guyanese figures such as Martin Carter, A. J. Seymour, Ivan Van Sertima and Sidney King (Eusi Kwayana), icons in their own right.

Harris went on to establish an international reputation as a leading figure in post-colonial literature.

One thing that sets Harris apart was his originality, and his knowledge of physics, anthropology, mythology, alchemy and the pioneers of the unconscious, including Carl Jung. He also cautioned against the trap of victimhood in postcolonial fiction, which could lead the oppressed to become as prejudiced as their former oppressors, a confluence of thought, vision and philosophy he (continued on page 25)

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

25

UK to expel 23 Russian diplomats

The UK will expel 23 Russian diplomats after Moscow refused to explain how a Russian-made nerve agent was used on a former spy in Salisbury, the PM says.

Theresa May said the diplomats, who have a week to leave, were identified as "undeclared intelligence officers". The UK later told the UN Security Council that Russia had used "a weapon so horrific that it is banned in war" in a "peaceful" British city.

Russia denies attempted murder and says it will respond appropriately. Mrs May also revoked an invitation to Russia's foreign minister, and said the Royal Family would not attend the Fifa World Cup in Russia later this year. Addressing the UN Security Council, Britain's deputy UN ambassador, Jonathan Allen, accused Russia of breaking its obligations under the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

He said he had heard the threats from Russia but that the UK would not be deterred.

"We will stand by the values which are shared by the overwhelming majority of those in this council in this United Nations and we ask you today, to stand by us," he added. In response the Russian ambassador to the UN, Vasily Nebenzya, denied Moscow's involve-

ment in the attack and demanded "material proof" from Britain to support its charge.

He said: "We were given an ultimatum and requested in 24 hours to admit that we committed a crime. In other words, confess.

"We do not speak the language of ultimatums. We do not use that language with anyone. And we will not allow to be spoken to in that language either." Mr Allen said the UK government has asked the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, an independent watchdog, to verify its identification of the substance used in Salisbury.

The US ambassador Nikki Haley said Washington stood in "absolute solidarity" with Britain, citing the "special relationship" between the two countries and saying the US would "always be there" for the UK. The mass expulsion is the largest since 31 were ordered out in 1985 after double agent Oleg Gordievsky defected.

Former spy Sergei Skripal, 66, and his daughter, Yulia Skripal, 33, remain critically ill in hospital after being found slumped on a bench on 4 March. Det Sgt Nick Bailey fell ill while responding to the incident, and is in a serious but stable condition, but is thought to be improving. Moscow refused to meet

Mrs May's midnight deadline to co-operate in the case, prompting Mrs May to announce a series of measures intended to send a "clear message" to Russia.

Mrs May told MPs that Russia had provided "no explanation" as to how the nerve agent came to be used in the UK, describing Moscow's response as one of "sarcasm, contempt and defiance". The use of a Russian-made nerve agent on UK soil amounted to the "unlawful use of force", she said. The PM, who was earlier briefed by senior intelligence chiefs in Downing Street, added there was "no alternative conclusion other than that the Russian state was culpable" for the attack.

She said it was "tragic" that Russian President Vladimir Putin had "chosen to act in this way". Meanwhile, the police and army have sealed off areas of the north Dorset town of Gillingham as part of the attempted murder investigation. A wide cordon is in place around a truck, thought to have recovered Mr Skripal's car from Salisbury, about 20 miles from Gillingham. About 180 troops have been deployed to Salisbury to help remove vehicles and objects from affected areas.

Police from 15 forces across England and Wales have been sent to Wiltshire to support

the investigation.

Russia's foreign ministry said Mrs May's statement was "an unprecedentedly crude provocation".

It said it was "categorically unacceptable and unworthy" that the UK government had "seriously aggravated" relations by announcing a "whole set of hostile measures". Earlier, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow would co-operate if it received a formal request for clarification from the UK under the Chemical Weapons Convention, which sets a 10-day time limit for a response.

Mrs May has welcomed support from allies including the US, Nato and the EU. "This was not just an act of attempted murder in Salisbury - nor just an act against UK," she said. "It is an affront to the prohibition on the use of chemical weapons." Mr Skripal, a British citizen, came to the UK in 2010 as part of a "spy swap" after he had been convicted by Russia of passing information to MI6. (BBC)

SIR WILSON HARRIS . . . (from on page 24) shares with Nelson Mandela.

These early tragedies and challenges shaped his life and produced genuine themes in his work, told from an original perspective. Other childhood memories influenced the themes of his work. He could relate genuine interactions with imagery, and did not have to think hard and long to capture his audience.

He found inspiration, refuge and development from his experience with his native country’s sprawling savannahs and rain forests, majestic rivers, exotic landfalls and virgin terrain, all bounded together in natural formation, which imbued him with a deep, mystical perception, and puts him in a class apart from other writers. It gave him a vision as broad and as deep as the Essequibo River, as turbulent as the world famous Kaieteur Falls, and as indigenous as the interior civilizations, which was transformed into majestic works of poetry, novels and essays that have enriched the literary landscape.

His expeditions charting the great rivers of the Guyanese interior and their effects on the coastlands gave instant value to geography, but the greatest benefit crystallized in

Sir WILSON HARRIS his work where he inculcated the finer aspects of his writings.

England became the beneficiary of Guyana’s loss when he migrated to England in 1959, after he found it impossible to stay in Guyana and write, because there were no publishers in the West Indies. But Sir Wilson was removed only by distance, not in philosophy and works. He finished his first novel, Palace of the Peacock, which was published soon after his arrival in 1960. His prolific and complex mind yielded a quartet of novels with consummate ease. The Guyana Quartet, which incorporates The Far Journey of Oudin (1961), The

Whole Armour (1962), and The Secret Ladder (1963). He later wrote The Carnival in 1985, The Infinite Rehearsal in 1987 and The Four Banks of the River of Space in 1990, a triumvirate of novels. His gifted craft yielded a prolific number of works.

It was fitting that this Guyanese legend should write about Jonestown (1996), which tells of the massacre of one thousand followers ordered by cult leader Jim Jones in his native Guyana. It was not a factual account of Jim Jones’s community in the Guyanese jungle or its galling end in mass suicide and murder, but an investigation of the roots of evil and power within human personalities and civilizations, yet encompassing the possibilities of redemption.

The Dark Jester was published in 2001. The closest he came to an autobiography was The Mask of the Beggar, which came out in 2003. His most recent book, written at a time when he was looking toward the sunset of his life in 2006, is appropriately entitled The Ghost of Memory.

In recognition of his tremendous work, Sir Wilson Harris was awarded honorary doctorates by

several universities, including the University of the West Indies (1984) and the University of Liège (2001).

He has twice won the Guyana Prize for Literature.

A proud moment came in June 2010, when he was knighted in the Queen's Birthday Honors. He won a Lifetime Achievement Prize from the Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards in 2014. His concern for humanity, especially the marginalized he empathized with, led him to highlight the suppression people inflict on each other, greed and disdain, in his works. He vividly conveyed in prose and poetry the haunting silence of the indigenous Amerindian cultures, Kyk-Over-Al, and the mystique of the rainforests.

Guyana should dedicate a library showcasing his works in his honor.

Note: Albert Baldeo is a civil rights activist and community advocate. As the President of the Baldeo Foundation and Liberty Justice Center, he has continued to fight for justice, equal rights, dignity and inclusion for all. He can be contacted at the Baldeo Foundation: AlBaldeo@aol.com or (718) 5292300.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

Guyana was notified of impending catfish ban – US Embassy

THE United States (U.S.) Government on Wednesday through its Georgetown Embassy said the ban on the import of Guyana’s catfish follows notification to the Government of Guyana of impending changes to its food safety regulations regarding fish and shrimp, among many others.

The U.S. Government’s statement on the matter follows earlier comments by Veterinary Public Health Director, Dr. Ozaye Dodson, who said the ban on the country’s catfish species from the U.S. export market though a temporary technical barrier to trade is a “big blow.”

Dr. Dodson in a statement issued by the Ministry of Public Health said the move by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is a “protectionist measure” by that country’s public health system and the catfish farmers who have invested heavily to develop the industry there.

However, the U.S. Government’s statement Wednesday said, “We notified the Government of Guyana of these pending changes in November of 2015, more than 18 months before they were to go into effect.

We even gave Guyana an extension until February 3, 2018 to comply with the new regulations.”

The U.S. Embassy said too that most countries in the hemisphere have since complied with the regulations. “We believe that Guyana eventually can and will comply as well.”

“We understand that the Government of Guyana is working on complying, but it has not fully met the standards of the new processes associated with the regulations and until it does, we cannot accept any catfish from Guyana,” the statement said.

The Embassy said the U.S. Government takes very seriously the protection of the world’s waterways and marine life and is constantly updating its regulations and processes to ensure that waterways and marine life are protected.

The Embassy said too that the U.S. Government has offered technical assistance to the Government of Guyana to help local fishermen and women to comply. “Our offer still stands, but it cannot be accomplished overnight.”

The U.S. Government said its goal is to ensure consistency in food safety regulations across products and countries and to protect marine life for future generations; a goal it is confident is shared by all Guyanese.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Health said Guyana’s Veterinary Public Health De-

partment has been mandated under the 2002 Fisheries Act and the Fish and Fishery Product Regulations of 2003 with guidance of the inspections manual to monitor, inspect and certify vessels, landing sites, fish processing establishments and fisheries products for the local and export markets.

Dr Dodson said there are daily inspections and certifications of the catfish products to guarantee their “wholesomeness for human consumption”. He explained that the US Food Safety Inspection Services (FSIS) had asked Guyana to provide the relevant documentation to verify this country’s inspection system equivalence to the US standards or its equivalent degree of public health system to that of the U.S. Guyana, Dr. Dodson said, complied with the request. However, the country fell short of the U.S. standards in three areas: non-presence of inspectors; insufficient documentation detailing verification of each step in the sanitation and Guyana’s Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) process; and insufficient documentation specifying how the industry manages adulterated catfish products.

New U.S. standards for import of catfish species demand the presence of inspectors on plants for one hour during an 8-hour

shift, but according to Dr. Dodson, Guyana’s inspection pursues a “risk-based approach” which is a European Union (EU) standard.

The Veterinary Public Health official said Guyana’s HACCP and documentation of its inspection frequency will be upgraded to satisfy the new U.S. standards.

“Our (Fisheries) Act is broad, covering all species of fish. The U.S. has specific regulations for the catfish species (and) there has been no change to the local Act since 2003. There will have to be some adjustments to the Fisheries Act Inspection Manual and Regulations to bridge the gaps,” Dr. Dodson said.

He said changes to the country’s Fisheries Act and Regulations will be taken shortly to the Attorney General’s (AG) Chambers and published in the Official Gazette.

When this is accomplished, U.S. officials will conduct an audit of the local Fisheries Department and other relevant agencies “to pave the way for the country’s likely re-entry into the American catfish export market.”

Guyana was among several countries banned recently from the U.S. catfish export market. Others were Bangladesh, Canada, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico, Myanmar, Nigeria and Pakistan.

Rose Hall martyrs remembered

UNITY was the call as Dr George Norton, Minister of Social Cohesion participated in a memorial and wreath-laying ceremony to mark the 105th Death Anniversary of the 15 sugar workers who were killed at the Rose Hall Estate by colonial masters.

The wreath-laying exercise is an annual event used to pay homage to the 15 labourers, including a female, who were shot and killed on March 13, 1913 for standing up against their colonial mas-

ter who wanted them to work on a four-day holiday which they had earned and were granted for a good harvest.

Fifty-six other persons were injured as the workers protested against warrants issued to those who were seen as instigators. The police in a bid to get the crowd to comply with their demands opened fire killing Badri, Roopan, Juggoo, Gafur, Bholay Hulas, Motey Khan, Sarjoo, Durga, JugaI,Gobindei, Lalji, Sadulla, Nibir and Sohan.

Meanwhile, at the sim-

ple ceremony held at the estate’s compound in front of the monument, Minister Norton called on everyone to celebrate and emulate the bravery of the fallen heroes.

“Those lives were not lost in vain. These men and the lone woman were heroes, they are our martyrs, their struggles lend support to the fight against indentureship, which ended four years after... Not only must we be proud and recognise their contribution to the world we live here in Guyana today,

A section of the gathering at the memorial service

Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton greets students of Rose Hall

but as Guyanese we must emulate the bravery of those fallen heroes.”

Dr Norton continued, that in order to honour the fallen heroes, Guyanese need to unite and stand firm against any form of injustice, not only to self but to everyone.

“The events that occurred on that fateful day more than a century ago were an appropriate display of great unity and unity as Guyanese we must emulate. It shows us that when we work together we can influence in a positive way the changes that we wanted.”

He went on to challenge the audience to work in unity for betterment of the country and let the martyrs be the

inspiration on the path to prosperity. Also addressing the gathering was Regional Executive Officer Region Six, Kim Stephens, who too called for unity, noting that the struggles of the martyrs ensured that future generations can have a better life.

“It is time to put our energy together to ensure we have that good life, it is time as Guyanese we recognise the importance of unity. Each one of us can make a difference and can contribute to the better life of people in Guyana and by extension the world at large. We can see the testimonies of better infrastructure around us, better health and education systems, these are things

our foreparents would have worked hard for.” She said the time has come “for us to cooperate and build our beautiful country…”

Meanwhile, the PPP’s Regional Councillor Zamal Hussain led a handful of supporters who protested the wreath-laying exercise.

The protesters were of the view that the government is not looking into the affairs of sugar workers. Hussain is also calling on the government to act on a motion that was passed by the Regional Democratic Council of Region Six for transportation subsidies to be granted to children of sugar workers.

26 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending March 16, 2018 Guyana Chronicle New York Edition week ending March 16, 2018

27

Ntozakhe added to CSA womens' contracts

I

n what could be seen as a sign of continuity looking ahead to the next cycle of the ICC Women's Championship and the Women's World T20 to be played in West Indies later this year, Cricket South Africa have offered contracts to 13 of the 14 players from the 2017-18 season.

The only new addition is Gauteng's 21-year old offspinner Raisibe Ntozakhe. Marcia Letsoalo, the 33year-old fast bowler who last played over a year ago at the World Cup Qualifiers, is the only exclusion from the list. The new contracts will come into effect on May 1 and run up to April 30, 2019.

South Africa, who hosted India

for a limited-overs series in February, have a busy 14 months coming up. They next host Bangladesh in May before touring England and West Indies for the second and third round of championship matches.

The World T20 and a home series against Sri Lanka will follow that.

"The esteem in which our women's team is held following their successful campaign when they reached the semi-finals of the ICC Women's World Cup last year is reflected in their invitation to have a major tour of England including a T20 triangular series against England and New Zealand," said Corrie van Zyl, CSA's general manager. "It is important that we build on our recent successes as we prepare for this

year's Women's World T20.

CSA contracts list for 2018-19: Dane van Niekerk, Ayabonga Khaka, Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Mignon du Preez, Shabnim

Ismail, Trisha Chetty, Chloe Tryon, Lizelle Lee, Laura Wolvaardt, Masabata Klaas, Andrie Steyn, Mosaline Daniels, Raisibe Ntozakhe.

(Caribbeannews.net)

Hain, Parkinson guide England Lions to consolation win

E

ngland Lions achieved a consolation seven-wicket win at the end of their disappointing tour of the Caribbean, thanks to an unbeaten 50 from Sam Hain against West Indies A in Antigua.

Once again, the Lions had to overcome a batting slump, as they lost three wickets for four runs, but Hain and Sam Northeast came together to put on 80, to take their side home at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Matt Parkinson, the Lancashire legspinner, was the pick of the Lions bowlers, taking four wickets, while Richard Gleeson and Sam Curran took two apiece with the new ball.

Roston Chase's 67 had helped the hosts set 166, but once Alex Davies and Nick Gubbins put on 87 for the first wicket, the match was firmly in the Lions' grasp.

After West Indies won the toss and chose to bat, they were quickly reduced to 28 for 3, with Kieran Powell hooking Gleeson to fine leg before Jermaine Blackwood holed out to third man.

Curran then bowled Devon Thomas for 5 to keep up the pressure, and though Chase found support in a 50-run stand with Jahmar Hamilton, Parkinson returned to mop up the tail.

The Lions started their re-

MATTHEW PARKINSON sponse positively, with Gubbins and Blackwood on the boundary before Davies both latching on to any loose Davies miscued an attempted ramp deliveries from the Windies off Reifer, and when Jennings was bowlers. trapped lbw by Cornwall for a duck, Gubbins eventually pulled a the pressure was beginning to build.

Cornwall half-tracker straight to However, Hain and Northeast

carried the Lions over the line to record their first win in any of the unofficial internationals on this tour, following a clean sweep for West Indies A in the Test series.

ESPNCricInfo (Caribbeannews.net)

Sloppy Windies crash to three-wicket defeat against Afghanistan HARARE, Zimbabwe (CMC) – Sloppy West Indies were stunned by Afghanistan for the second time in the ICC World Cup qualifiers, as the Caribbean side slumped to a shock three-wicket defeat in their opening match of the all-important Super Sixes here yesterday.

The form team of the tournament following their unbeaten campaign in the preliminaries, West Indies could muster only an inadequate 197 for eight off their 50 overs, after electing to bat first at Harare Sports Club.

Shai Hope top-scored with a painstaking 43 off 94 balls without a single boundary while veteran Marlon Samuels chipped in with 36, captain Jason Holder, 28, and opener Evin Lewis, 27.

Sixteen-year-old off-spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman, handed the new ball, admirably led the attack with three for 33 to claim Manof-the-Match honours while Mohammad Nabi, also an off-spinner, ended with two for 43.

Having stumbled into the second round with just one victory in the preliminaries but with a win over the Windies in the official warm-ups, Afghanistan put aside their struggles to chase down their target with 14 balls remaining in the contest.

Rahmat Shah struck a composed 68 to spearhead the run chase while Mohammad Nabi completed a solid allround performance with 31, but West Indies hurt themselves in the field with as many as four dropped catches.

Pacer Holder finished with three for 39 while debutant 20-year-old seamer Keemo Paul picked up two for 29.

The defeat left West Indies second in the standings, one point behind leaders Scotland on five and one ahead of hosts Zimbabwe in third place, with the two top following the full complement of matches advancing

Afghanistan shocked the previously unbeaten West Indies at the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier, winning by three wickets in Harare. (ICC photo)

to the final and securing the remaining two berths at next year’s World Cup in England.

West Indies had a less than convincing start when superstar opener Chris Gayle (1) was comprehensively bowled, playing back to one from Mujeeb which spun past his defensive prod to remove off-stump, with 12 on the board in the fourth over.

However, Lewis and Shimron Hetmyer (15) combined to steady the innings in a measured second-wicket stand which yielded 34.

Hetmyer never quite settled and eventually perished lbw in the 12th over missing a forward defensive push, to give Mohammad Nabi his 100th One-Day International wicket.

In the next over with just

seven runs added, tragedy struck again when Samuels pushed to point for a sharp single and an ambling Lewis failed to beat Najibullah Zadran direct hit at the striker’s end.

In desperate need of a partnership, the Windies were propped up by Hope and Samuels who put on a crucial 55 for the fourth wicket. The stand, however, was a slow one, requiring 91 deliveries and the Caribbean side were labouring at 83 for three at the half-way stage of the innings, with a run rate hovering at just over three.

After facing 64 balls and counting just two fours, Samuels attempted to jump-start the innings but succeeded only in picking out Gulbadin Naib running around to wide long-on off Mohammad Nabi

in the 31st over.

Holder belted a couple of fours and a six in a 26-ball cameo as he added 50 for the fifth wicket with Hope. Even then, the Windies were still scoring at under four an over at the end of the 40th, on 156 for four.

Left with little choice, Holder chanced his hand and holed out to long-on off Mujeeb three balls later and Hope’s struggles finally ended in the 43rd when he was taken in the same position off the same bowler.

They were two of four wickets to fall for 11 runs before Paul (16 not out) and Ashley Nurse (10 not out) added 28 at the end to get West Indies closer to 200.

West Indies struck early to hurt the Afghan run chase, removing Javed Ahmadi (1)

and Mohammad Shahzad (8) with just 17 runs on the board in the fifth over.

But Rahmat put Aghanistan in command, pioneering a 66-run, third-wicket stand with Samiullah Shenwari (27) and adding a further 49 for the fourth with Mohammad Nabi.

Dropped on 44 in the 32nd over by Rovman Powell on the follow-through, Rahmat went on to strike five fours and a six in a 109-ball stay at the crease.

Shenwari, meanwhile, put down on 19 in the 15th over by Gayle at slip off leftarm spinner Nikita Miller, faced 51 balls and counted two fours, before falling to the same combination in the 21st over.

Mohammad Nabi, who survived a straightforward

chance to wicketkeeper Hope off Paul, perished in the 36th over to a catch by Hetmyer at square leg off Holder, leading to a slide which saw three wickets tumble for 36 runs.

With the game in the balance and 16 needed for victory off 27 balls, Powell put down captain Rashid Khan (13 not out) on five at third man off seamer Carlos Brathwaite in the 46th over, and the 19-year-old made the most of the reprieve to see his side home.

Scores in brief (Super Six): Scotland beat UAE by 73 runs, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo Scotland 322-6, 50 overs (Matthew Cross 114, Calum MacLeod 78, Kyle Coetzer 43, Richie Berrington 37 not out, George Munsey 30; Rohan Mustafa 4-56) UAE 249 all out, 47.4 overs (Mohammad Usman 80, Ahmad Raza 50, Rohan Mustafa 32, Ashfaq Ahmed 30; Chris Sole 4-68, Safyaan Sharif 2-36, Brad Wheal 2-45) Player-of-the-Match – Matthew Cross (Scotland) Nepal beat Papua New Guinea by six wickets, Old Hararians PNG 114 all out, 27.2 overs (Dipendra Airee 4-14, Sandeep Lamichhane 4-29) Nepal 115-4, 23 overs (Dipendra Airee 50 not out, Aarif Sheikh 26, Paras Khadka 20; Norman Vanua 2-25) Player-of-the-Match Dipendra Airee (Nepal) The Netherlands beat Hong Kong by 44 runs, Kwekwe Sports Club Netherlands 174 all out, 48.2 overs (Max O’Dowd 62, Peter Borren 31, Bas de Leede 29; Nadeem Ahmed 3-20, Ehsan Khan 2-30, Tanwir Afzal 2-36) Hong Kong 130 all out in 43 overs (Babar Hayat 52, Kinchit Shah 22; Roelof van der Merwe 4-18, Fred Klaassen 2-30) Player-of-the-Match – Max O’Dowd (the Netherlands)