2014 10 20

GUYANA No. 103986 MONDAY OCTOBER 20, 2014

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

PRICE: $60

President likens Diwali’s ‘good-over-evil’ message to Guyana’s Jekyll-and-Hyde politics

INCLUDING VAT

Guyana represented at FATF plenary

Page

Prashad Nagar man shot dead in robbery bid near his home

Page

Page

2

President Donald Ramotar greeting crowd at Uitvlugt Community Centre ground during Diwali motorcade

Inaugural agri-research conference opens today Page

7

3

West Berbice biker killed in accident

3 Page

5

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

President likens Diwali’s ‘good-over-evil’ message to Guyana’s Jekyll-and-Hyde politics PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar has described the lessons and message of the Hindu festival of Diwali, as ones that can be applied the world over.

Delivering the feature address at the Uitvlugt Diwali Motorcade at the village’s Community Centre Ground last evening, the President said that the story of light over darkness, or good over evil is one that can be equated with what is happening locally.

By that he meant that in spite of the political Opposition’s every effort to thwart the Government at every turn, Guyana has been able to achieve eight consecutive

President Donald Ramotar seems to have taken a liking to this particular float

years of economic growth, and to make major investments in the areas of education and agriculture.

On that score, he took

the opportunity to express his gratitude to the people of Uitvlugt for their unstinting support of the Government, and urged that they continue

doing so, to ensure that Guyana’s progress is never held back again, and the developmental thrust could continue.

As Guyana and other countries with Hindu communities celebrate the Festival of Lights, motorcades have become a part of the traditional celebrations.

Several such events which see mandirs and businesses constructing vehicular floats depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology, and competing in various categories will be held across Guyana. (GINA) President Donald Ramotar addressing residents at the Uitvlugt Community Centre Ground during the Diwali motorcade

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

Inaugural agri-research conference opens today

GUYANA’S first ever international research conference on agriculture opens here today, and its focus will be research on rice and its production.

According to Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, the three-day caucus is, over time, expected to gain momentum and prestige, attracting participation from researchers from Latin America, the Caribbean, and North America and further afield.

KNOWLEDGE-BASED The conference, which is proposed to be an annual event, is part of the ministry’s prioritising of a knowledge-based approach to agriculture development in seeking to achieve the objectives of its 2013-2020 National Agriculture Strategy for Guyana.

Significant focus will be on long-term investment in research and development as an important pre-requisite to raising productivity, improving profitability and enhanc-

ing competitiveness. In this regard, agriculture support agencies and institutions such as the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA,) the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) and the University of Guyana (UG) are set to become leaders in agricultural research and development.

CENTRE AT BURMA The Guyana Rice Development Board’s Rice Research Centre at Burma, Region 5, will also become the premier rice training centre in the Caribbean.

The focus will be on adding value to local farm produce by building strong linkages to food and beverage manufacturing or agro-industry.

The ministry has already established a national oversight committee which at present is working on drafting a national research agenda to not only guide the re-

search that is needed for the ministry and its agencies, but also for everyone working in Guyana, including the developing partners to guide and outline the research needed, the Agriculture Minister said.

RESEARCH AGENDA

He also said that the National Agriculture Research Committee will formulate a national agriculture research agenda by the end of 2014.

The ministry’s 20132020 National Strategy for Agriculture in Guyana is a series of activities around 25

priority areas, with specific indicators for success. It sets out an overarching goal of achieving food and nutrition security in an environmentally sustainable manner, while at the same time generating economic growth and opportunities.

The ministry will also be focusing on imposing a new marketing strategy for agricultural products. Minister Ramsammy explained that the ministry is actively pursuing markets for different products as the way in which this was addressed through agencies such as the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) cannot achieve what the ministry is seeking, with regards to its agriculture vision.

The ministry’s particular focus on marketing of the country’s agriculture enterprise has been on linking farmers, especially smallscale, with markets. The focus will now be on developing a robust export marketing programme and as such a Market Information System is to be developed.

The ministry will also aggressively pursue production geared towards establishing a Guyana brand.

Dr Ramsammy: Prashad Nagar man Sugar production at shot dead in robbery bid near his home 165,000 tonnes THE targeted sugar production of 219,000 tonnes is still one that is expected to be met, according to Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy.

“The last number I have places production at 165,000 tonnes so far, but we are still hoping to make our target,” he said.

The overall target for 2014 was been moved from 216,000 tonnes to 219,000 tonnes.

The first crop was successful, surpassing the 75,000 tonnes target, bringing in about 80,000 tonnes.

He acknowledged the challenges that face the sector, but stressed that efforts are being taken to address these.

Additionally, a $6B allocation in the 2014 National Budget for GuySuCo was approved by the National Assembly. The $6B is expected to cover expenditures

Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

that include mechanisation, through the conversion of 2,500 hectares of land to be suitable for mechanical operations, which will be done at a cost of $1.1B, tillage and replanting of 9,200 hectares, both efforts being consistent with improving cane production and yield, which will be done at a cost $1B. In addition, there will be factory upgrading of all sugar estates, including Skel-

don, at a cost of $2B and works to field infrastructure to improve field to factory access and purchasing of equipment, excavators, bell loaders, tractors, etc. to account for the remainder of the allocation.

Sugar production came in at a dismal 186,500 tonnes for 2013, but Guyana has been taking steps to turn around the sugar industry and hopes to meet the 300,000 tonnes-target soon, with a projection that the sector will reach its 400,000-tonne goal by 2020.

Despite its challenges, the industry, according to Government, remains relevant to the health of the national economy. In 2013, sugar exports accounted for 8.3 per cent of total exports valued at US$112.2M and the industry contributed 3.9 per cent of the country’s GDP. (Vanessa Narine)

Dead: Saleem Abdool Azeez, 23

By Asif Hakim SALEEM Abdool Azeez, 23 years, an engineer attached to Edward B. Beharry Company of D e l h i S t re e t , P r a s h a d Nagar, Georgetown was early yesterday morning gunned down just one building away from his home.

A senior police official told the Guyana Chronicle

The area where the shooting occurred, which is one building away from where the victim lived (Photos by Asif Hakim)

that Azeez was confronted by three men in an apparent attempt to rob him as he was about to enter his premises. The police said that during the incident, Azeez was shot and later succumbed to his injuries while he was being rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

The officer said that based on surveillance foot-

age they got from a nearby house, a taxi had dropped Azeez home, and as soon as he exited the vehicle, three teenagers on separate bicycles rode up to him and tried to rob him.

“The boy fight back with them, and since they didn’t get anything from him, they shot him three times. His phone and money was recovered in his Turn to page 4

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

GPF home economics programme for Agricola youths progressing well

– Commander Hicken impressed with students’ progress

By Asif Hakim THE eight-week Home Economics (Food and Nutrition) programme which was sponsored by Commander ‘A’ Division, Senior Superintendent Clifton Hicken for school dropouts of Agricola and environs, is progressing very well in its third week.

The programme which caters for over 25 students between the ages of 15-25 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, is being held at the Home Economics School in Agricola, East Bank Demerara. Students are learning various cooking methods such as baking; preparing appetizers; making various

Commander Hicken passes the recipe book to one of the students

drinks and learning to cook various dishes.

In the third week

(Thursday) into the programme,Commander Hicken visited to see how the programme is progressing; speaking with the Chronicle at the venue, Hicken said that he is impressed with

the students’ progress.

He said that he is honoured to be a part of and mainly the producer of the programme: “Giving someone the chance to prove their skills and then visiting back and see more than what you had expected makes you feel confident of yourself. I’m surprised at the work that the students have put out so far, right now I’m really really happy to see what I’m seeing,” Hicken said.

Hicken also said that after the eight weeks of training have been completed, the students will be given a certificate which will also make them branch off on their own and have their products marketed.

“What I have seen here is nice customer service; nothing had caught my eyes

but the designing and how the students decorated their stuffs. When you go into the market to buy a bun you will get it, but here at the training programme you are getting it with extra milk and extra cream which is very good,” Hicken said.

The commander also reminded the students about his continuing commitment to help youths and added that he recognised that there is talent in the youths. Additionally, he disclosed that he would be working on a partnership approach with other villages.

Speaking at the training programme also was Officer in Charge of Sub Division Number 2 (East La Penitence Police Outpost – Diamond/Grove Station) Deputy Superintendent Khali Pareshram.Superintendent Pareshram said that it was a great pleasure to be a part of

the programme,that he saw talent in the students and that there is a lot more to be done for them.

However the Coordinator/Director of the programme, Ms. Ziska Williams, said that before Hicken approached the community of Agricola to help, many people used to stigmatise the community.

She added that she is happy with how her students are working and that she has not encountered any problem on the programme thus far.

She also thanked Hicken for the hard work he has been putting in not only in Agricola, but throughout his division.

The director appealed for more sponsors and supporters to come on board for the next training programme,which will commence in January,2015.

Some of the students pose for a photo with Commander Hicken, Director Williams And DSP Pareshram (partly hidden)

Prashad Nagar man shot dead...

From page 3

pocket,” the officer said.

A cousin, Imtiaz Haniff, said all he heard is that Azeez was shot three times. He said he doesn’t really know what happened, and all he could say is that his cousin was a hardworking and quiet individual who is the only son for his mother, Sharifa Azeez and father Abdool Azeez.

However, the family is

DATE: 08/10/2014 H

23 22 25 18 17 27 11

08/10/2014

15

20

07

16

26

08/10/2014

04

wondering how the taxi driver dropped Azeez in front of his home, but he ended up getting shot a building away.

Meanwhile, Chronicle spoke with a neighbour who said that she heard like four gunshots, and afterwards she looked out to see what was happening.

“When I peep out, I saw the boy body was lying on the

08

08

08/10/2014

floor (ground) in front of the Knight Riders Bus Service, and two men were seen escaping on cycles,” the neighbour said.

The neighbour described Azeez as a hardworking man, who is hardly at home. She said that it’s sad to see him lose his life like that.

Azeez leaves to mourn his four sisters, his parents and other relatives.

10 02 15 19 12 01 14

5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

West Berbice biker killed in accident

By Asif Hakim MOTORCYCLIST Edwards Sears, 22 years, of Belleview, West Coast Berbice was on Saturday night struck and killed on Bush Lot Public Road, WCB, by a speeding car while he was reportedly overtaking another vehicle.

A senior police official in ‘B’ Division (Berbice) told the Guyana Chronicle that based on investigations Sears was riding his motorcycle when he attempted to overtake and a speeding car struck him, tossing him and his bike some distance in the air before he fell.

The officer also said that the driver of the motor car was tested and found to be

over the legal limit in relation to the consumption of alcohol.

The driver of the motorcar is in police custody assisting with the investigations.

The seriously injured Sears was rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he succumbed minutes later.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Sears’ cousin, Stayesha Deterring said that she was in Georgetown when she got a call that her cousin was dead. She said she was so confused and hardly knew what to do but she managed to contact Sears’ mother for confirmation.

Deterring described Sears as a person who was always cautious on the

Edward Sears in happier times

road and he was never a speedster. She described him as an easygoing person who worked hard to maintain his family.

Pregnant 12-year-old now in protective custody DIRECTOR of the Child Care and Protection Agency, Ann Green last Wednesday confirmed that the 12-year-old pregnant girl from the hinterland has been removed from the Georgetown Public Hospital and is now in protective custody.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, the director explained that the child was removed from the health facility since she is not ready to give birth but she is still being closely monitored in anticipation of her labour pains.

Meanwhile, Green is calling on media houses to

report carefully and astutely on the matter as published information can impact the outcome of the case, adding that certain aspects of the child’s statement should not be published.

On Tuesday the CCPA handed over the stepfather of the child to the police.

However he was later released after the police had questioned him and took a statement. Green said that the department is already making provision to ensure that the child receives the best care and necessary attention required at this stage of her life.

The child was reported-

ly raped by her stepfather earlier this year and according to information which this newspaper received the mother of the child has been trying to cover the matter down.

The mother also attempted to pin her daughter ’s pregnancy on a young man from the interior location where the child lives. Police sources, however, on Tuesday indicated that the child was changing her story about how she became pregnant.

The matter remains under active investigation by child care and protection officers as well as the police.

6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

EDITORIAL Striding tall in Guyana’s history It was apt that former President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo was the main speaker at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) business dinner two Friday nights ago at the Princess Hotel, where under the theme ‘A green economy – Opportunities for the private sector in Guyana,’ he explained that the “catastrophic” consequences of climate change necessitate a review in the planning process of development of countries and bemoaned the lack of concrete action to address this problem.

It is heartening to know that former President Jagdeo still strides tall in the consciousness of this nation because, indubitably, he has been the architect of modern Guyana and has globally brought honour to Guyana after Jonestown.

Guyana had been a little-known country, its name previously mistaken with places like Ghana and Guinea. However, thanks to the brilliant leadership and dynamism that has characterized Bharrat Jagdeo’s presidency, Guyana and its President are on the radar of all the powerful nations and organisations in the world.

And this fact, and every successful project and programme that President Jagdeo has initiated in the nation, in the region, and on the international landscape, really hurts the sensibilities of his detractors. They certainly have lost their reason as they trump up an unending litany of allegations against Guyana’s former President.

But his attentive audience of the elite shapers of Guyana’s economy – what Dr. Jagan had termed Guyana’s “engine of

GUYANA

growth” – the Private Sector, once again experienced the dynamism of a man who enabled this nation to become recognised at world fora as a “middle-class economy”.

One must be myopic not to see the massive development that has transformed this country, in all the sectors, since the PPP/C took office in 1992; otherwise one can readily gauge the transformation from 1992 to current times.

It’s not on the agenda of Opposition media to give credence to persons who are genuinely appreciative of the changes in the country, where everyone is provided an opportunity to thrive and enhance their lives and lifestyles.

A case in point is their lambasting and caricaturing of the Private Sector Com-

mission for supporting Dr. Ashni Singh’s successive Budgets, while glorifying a slanderous and nebulous report emanating from COHA (Council on Hemispheric Affairs) – an organisation which has no credible base and no trustworthy source.

It is not surprising that this report has been debunked by former US state officials, because President Jagdeo has breached the frontiers and is recognised worldwide as an astute leader who has taken his country to hitherto unimaginable heights in the global dynamics.

A prophet is never honoured in his own country; but time and history will record his achievements - as a person in his own right, and, moreso, as a leader who has won for his country a prominent place on the global map.

Attorney-General...

Many clauses in AML/CFT Bill address problems cited in US report

By Vanessa Narine ON February 28, 2014, the United States Department of State released its 2014 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report.

And it made clear that Guyana has failed to criminalise ‘tipping off’ or putting in place arrangements for asset sharing – a description that has caused the country to be listed as a jurisdiction of “concern” in the report.

The report describes the steps taken during the previous year by the governments of nearly 90 countries, including Guyana, to reduce illicit narcotics production, trafficking, and use; drug and chemical control activities; and money laundering and financial crimes.

Several months later, the negative characterisation is still impacting the country, largely due to the non-pas-

sage of the critically important Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/ CFT) (Amendment) Bill.

ADDRESSING THE PROBLEMS Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr. Anil Nandlall, in an invited comment, stated that several of the clauses in the AML/CFT (Amendment) Bill address the problems highlighted by the US report.

He said: “Many clauses in that Bill addressed issues relating to confiscation of properties acquired from proceeds of crime, including all forms of narco-activities, money laundering and financial crimes and vest in law enforcement authorities, tremendous investigative and confiscating powers while also providing a regime of penalties against both direct

and indirect involvement in such criminal activities, which penalties are considered to be dissuasive. “…I have no doubt that the US State Department is well aware of the intimate details of this matter. Indeed, the entire diplomatic community, including the US Embassy in Guyana, was very emphatic in their appeals to the Opposition for the Bill to be passed.”

According to him, it is public knowledge that the diplomatic community met with the joint Opposition on more than one occasion.

“Those engagements were, presumably futile,” he said.

WHISTLE-BLOWING LEGISLATION Additionally, he stated that as it relates to “tipping off” the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Attorney General Chambers and

Ministry of Legal Affairs are concluding work on a whistle-blowing legislation which comprehensively embraces this issue. The Bill is expected to be laid in the National Assembly soon.

Meanwhile, the AG reiterated the critical importance of the AML/CFT (Amendment) Bill.

He said: “I do not think that anyone is in doubt about who is responsible for the non-passage of the critically important Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Amendment Bill.

“It is public knowledge that the Bill continues to remain hostage in a Special Select Committee with the Opposition continuing to make unreasonable political ransom demands for its release therefrom and for its passage in the National Assembly.”

TEAM FOR FATF A high-level team, led by the AG, met with the Americas Regional Review Group (ARRG) in Miami on September 29, as mandated by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

Guyana was referred to FATF last November by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), after missing a compliance deadline, as a result of which the country was blacklisted regionally.

Following last month’s Miami meeting, Guyana has now embarked on a process of putting in place alternatives to address the technical deficiencies in its existing legal and financial legislative architecture for the assessment of FATF. “Were we able to pass the Bill then we would not have had to go through this

process, but because we did not pass that Bill we now have to look at alternative mechanisms to satisfy the technical requirements,” the AG said in a comment on the current state of affairs.

FATF has appointed a special body comprising representatives from the Americas to work with Guyana for the purpose of making a presentation of Guyana’s case to that body’s plenary meeting on October 18-24 in Paris.

This high-level team will send its work plan to Guyana along with other issues that they may identify for addressing for consideration by FATF. Essentially, the final report that will be prepared by Guyana under the supervision of the AARG will be Guyana’s case to FATF at its October plenary.

7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

Guyana represented at FATF plenary A HIGH-LEVEL team, led by Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr Anil Nandlall, is representing Guyana at the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) plenary meeting, which started on October 18 and runs until October 24 in Paris.

The outcome of the meeting is a much-anticipated one, given Guyana’s cited failures relative to the passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill.

Whether Guyana will be blacklisted or not will be determined by the international watchdog body.

Last month, the AG and his team met with the Americas Regional Review Group (ARRG) in Miami on September 29, as mandated by FATF. Guyana was referred to FATF last November by the Caribbean Financial Action

Anil Nandlall

Task Force (CFATF), after missing a compliance deadline, as a result of which the country was blacklisted regionally.

Following last month’s Miami meeting, Guyana has now embarked on a process of putting in place alternatives to address the technical deficiencies in its existing legal and financial legislative architecture for the assess-

ment of FATF. “Were we able to pass the Bill then we, would not have had to go through this process, but because we did not pass that Bill we now have to look at alternative mechanisms to satisfy the technical requirements,” the AG said in a comment on the current state of affairs.

FATF has appointed a special body comprising representatives from the Americas to work with Guyana for the purpose of making a presentation of Guyana’s case to that body’s plenary meeting from October 1824 in Paris. This high-level team will send its work plan to Guyana along with other issues that they may identify for addressing for consideration by FATF. Essentially, the final report that will be prepared

by Guyana under the supervision of the AARG will be Guyana’s case to FATF at its October plenary. (Vanessa Narine)

Part of Hope sluice to be completed before year-end

WORKS on the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) Northern Relief Channel, Hope Canal, is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

This was the assurance of the Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, who yesterday disclosed that there is only one component of work left to be completed on the outer sluice.

The project has four components: the more than

10-kilometre channel; the head regulator; the eightgate sluice at the canal’s Atlantic end, the outer sluice; and the EDWC Northern Relief Channel Public Road Bridge. The latter was completed and commissioned in February.

Ramsammy told this newspaper that the head regulator has been completed and minor works remain on the more than 10-kilometre channel, while the eight-

door gate for the sluice has already been completed and a small percentage of works remain.

“We are about 88 per cent finished with the outer sluice. We are working to have all the works completed as soon as possible,” he said.

Additionally, the actual testing of the functionality of the channel will have to await the availability of an adequate volume of water to

Food for the Poor donates to Felix Austin Police College

CEO of FFTP, Mr. Kent Vincent hands over one piece of equipment to Inspector Davidson for the Felix Austin Police College

THE Felix Austin Police College received a variety of items from the benevolent Food for the Poor (Guyana) Inc. (FFTP) when representatives of that entity recently visited Region 6 (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The donation consisted of the following items: 30 mattresses, 20 writing desks, 10 bedside cupboards, agricultural tools, one mechanical tiller and a 2” water pump.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony on receiving the items, Commander of ‘B’ Division of the Guyana Police Force, Bryan Joseph, thanked FFTP for its continuous support to the college and noted that the items would help to satisfy some of the needs of the institution.

He further stated that the new recruits will find the items extremely useful as the agricultural tools would be

used onsite.

Chief Executive Officer of FFTP, Mr. Kent Vincent, in his remarks said that FFTP and the GPF have enjoyed an excellent relationship over the years. He observed also that the training centre has been previously assisted by the organisation.

He also assured that FFTP will continue to give support to the college as best as it could.

fill the channel.

The contractor for the project is Courtney Benn Contracting Services (CBCS).

Construction on the project began in February 2011, with an estimated 18 months for completion and the deadline for the project was initially set for June 2013, but was subsequently extended to the end of August, and then once again extended to December 31, 2013, then to June 30, 2014.

The EDWC Northern Relief Channel, the Hope Canal, which missed its June 30 deadline for completion, was given a new deadline in the latter part of July, when its completion was raised at the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Natural Resources and the Environment. The Agriculture Minister, when he appeared before the Committee, disclosed that the project will be completed in

seven weeks, by September.

However, this deadline has also passed due to unforeseen challenges.

The Minister, in a prior comment, stated that given the continued delays with the project, the issue of liquidated damages is not off the table. “The accommodation of the contractor does not mean that the contractor will escape liquidated damages,” he said.

However, Dr. Ramsammy made it clear that the liquidated damages will not be “inflicted” on the contractor as of now, since that would mean a further delay, as late as 2015, for the completion of the project.

The Agriculture Minister stressed too the quality of work produced by the contractor has been quality work. “The difficulty we have is the sloth of the work,” he said.

He added, “Some of the difficulties that the contrac-

tor has encountered can be resolved by the ministry, and so all we are doing is working in partnership with the contractor so that those difficulties are removed.”

Indications were that the US $15M Hope Canal project, which is expected to be the answer to the flooding experienced in the Mahaica/Mahaicony/Abary (MMA) areas during rainy periods, would be operational as the rainy season sets in.

Residents in the MMA area over the years have lost crops and cattle in floods, during the rainy period. As seen in the past, when the Maduni sluice has to be opened to drain the East Demerara Water Conservancy, residents in the MMA area have to battle a rise in the Mahaica Creek – making the completion of the Hope Canal something that is much needed. (Vanessa Narine)

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

Le Repentir de-bushing...

Local Gov’t Ministry pleased with work so far completed LAST Thursday, Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Ministry, Collin Croal, accompanied the Georgetown Clean-Up Monitoring Team to Le Repentir to inspect the cleanup exercise which is under way in the cemetery.

According to a media release by the Permanent Secretary, at the cemetery, the team met with Superintendent of the Guyana Prison Service, Mr. Gladwin Samuels, whose administration was contracted to de-bush BLOCK 7, while Geoffrey James Construction was contracted to de-bush BLOCKS 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

So far, the average rate of completion of the five blocks is approximately 70%. For the other 30%, the teams will undertake general removal of

debris from the access roads, drains and from between the tombs. Once the “sweep” is completed, pesticides will be applied to curtail the growth of new vegetation.

The release further stated that during the visit, Croal spoke on behalf of the ministry and noted that the ministry is pleased with the volume of work so far.

He observed that a number of tombs have been repainted, no doubt persons who were hindered from coming before the clean-up of the cemetery have started to look for tombs of their loved ones.

A c c o r d i n g t o h i m , the contracts to de-bush BLOCKS 2 and 6 are being evaluated by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB),

Permanent Secretary, Collin Croal meets with Geoffrey James Construction

and the contractual arrangement is expected to take effect in two weeks time.

He added that by the end of November, “We should be

An inter-section at BLOCK 7 before the clean-up

able to see from one end to the next of the cemetery.”

Croal also expressed his concerns, and echoed sentiments of the people about the

maintenance of the cemetery.

He said that “This is a concern of the ministry, and we are [the ministry] going to address this con-

cern. The maintenance of the cemetery should be a concern of the Georgetown municipality, since this is their responsibility.”

The same inter-section after de-bushing

Immigration officers benefit from CSME training THE Immigration Department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has benefited from a two-day traini n g p ro g r a m m e u n d e r the stewardship of Olivia Smith, Deputy Programme Manager/Free Movement and Labour Caricom Secretariat/CSME Unit.

The training programme was geared towards sensitising officers to the legislative and administrative framework for facilitating CARICOM nationals, including those moving under the regimes of skilled nationals’ right of establishment and provisional services regime.

Smith told this publication that the two-day training programme started on Thursday and ended on Friday and was funded by the European Union under

Participants pose with Olivia Smith, Deputy Programme Manager/Free Movement and Labour CARICOM Secretariat/CSME Unit and Vernice Alleyne, (Photo by Michel Outridge)

the 10th European Development Fund (EDF).

She explained that the training programme was undertaken to sensitise member states, including Guyana, in which 30 officers drawn from the Immigration Department/Central Immi-

gration and passport Office, who are at all ports of entry.

Smith stated that Guyana’s immigration authorities will continue to conduct training in CSME (CARICOM Single Market and Economy) areas, as well as training that supports is-

sues of security as it relates to movement of persons throughout the Region.

She added that even though it is the first such training programme for Guyana, it will certainly not be the last since it will be happening in all member

states to promote knowledge of the rights and obligations of nationals under the regime.

Smith said that they will continue to work with Guyana in this respect and other member states in capacitybuilding to facilitate the movements of CARICOM nationals, including Guyanese, who seek to move throughout the Region.

Force Training Officer, Paul Williams, said since the GPF is the sole authority responsible for immigration and for enforcing immigration laws, receiving another level of training will impact positively on capacity- building in terms of the CSME. He added that the training will also bring the GPF on par with best practices across the Caribbean and

will assist us in understanding the true objective/purpose of the movement of people within the Caribbean Community.

Williams pointed out that the training will also help officers to understand the rights of the Region’s citizens.

He stated that it is also important to note that training came with the comprehensive module setting the stage for continuous training.

The Force Training Officer sad the GPF takes the opportunity to express gratitude to the CARI C O M S e c re t a r i a t f o r ensuring training is imparted and special thanks to Vernice Alleyne, Free Movement Labour Officer Caricom CSME Unit and Olivia Smith.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

GT&T ushers in Diwali with cultural presentation

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company Limited (GT&T) and the Tourism Ministry on Friday illuminated Camp Street Avenue between C h u rc h a n d Q u a m i n a Streets, Georgetown to usher in the celebration of Diwali (Festival of Lights).

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GT&T, Radha Krishna Sharma, during the symbolic cer-

Ministry of Public Works, Mayor & Town Council and the Guyana Power & Light.

He noted that this is not the first collaborative effort between the Tourism Ministry and GT&T but one of many, “there is a long history of mutually beneficial collaboration between GT&T and the Ministry of Tourism.

Together we have worked on a number of initiatives including the sponsorship of the inaugural Guyana

9

gious society. He noted that through sponsorship the company is able to assist and take part in all aspects of Guyana’s cultural traditions. “Our religion and culture give us our identity and our observance of these festivals enriches us all and helps to support cultural diversities” he said.

This year, Sharma noted, GT&T will be partnering with several Christian and children- centric

Amardeep Cultural Group during one of their religious renditions (Adrian Narine photo)

-Zorg Islamic Academy.

Sharma explained that Diwali is a sacred occasion on the religious calendar for Hindus where people give expression to their happiness by lighting diyas or lamps as a way of giving thanks for the attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, prosperity and peace. As he ended on this note he wished all a happy Diwali.

Speaking at the ceremony acting Tourism Minister

Guyana (THAG) and this goes to show that a company of this calibre believes that tourism is a major component in the country’s economy. “As Guyana celebrates Diwali and diyas are lit I hope and pray that it will ignite love, unity and a new resolve to build a Guyana that is free from rhetoric, and free from developmental stalls,” Ali said, as he wished all a happy and prosperous Di-

transplanted from many continents, uprooted from those continents, transported and transplanted here in Guyana, and we brought with us our culture which was not allowed to die,” he explained.

Dr Anthony alluded to the fact that Diwali is overcoming darkness on the personal, community and national levels. He said that we as a people can use the lesson of Diwali to

Enjoying one of the cultural dances are, from left, Culture Minister Dr Frank Anthony, GT&T CEO, Mr RK Sharma, Prime Minister Mr Samuel Hinds and Tourism Minister (ag), Mr Irfaan Ali

emony expressed his appreciation to the Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali for so readily accepting this collaborative effort at organising this year's GT&T Diwali Galee, the hard work and dedication of the staff of GT&T, the Guyana Tourism Authority, the Guyana Police Force, the

Festival 2014, Building Exposition, Annual GuyExpo and several other related events.”

The CEO noted that his company has embarked on many other activities and one might want to note that it is unique in its embracing of the cultural traditions of our multi-ethnic, multi-reli-

groups to ensure our Christmas cheer has wider national reach. Only as recent as September the company partnered with and made a commitment to annually support the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) programmes as it relates to Ramadan, Eid-ulFitr and the Meten - Meer

The Ishara Dance Troupe during one of their scintillating performances

A section of the lighted Camp Street

Irfaan Ali, explained that “we owe the celebration of Diwali to our ancestors and to all those who have stood the test of time in molding and keeping the wonderful cultures and religious attributes of Guyana together”. He also thanked and recognised GT&T for continuing to show their corporate responsibility in ensuring that in every significant and major aspect in our country’s history and celebration they play a key and important role.

Ali mentioned also that GT&T has signed an agreement with the Tourism and Hospitality Association of

wali 2014.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony, deputising for President Donald Ramotar, wished all a happy and prosperous Diwali on behalf of the President of Guyana and Government as he emphasised the significance of the festival that leads to prosperity, good health and wealth.

Dr Anthony explained that the celebration of Diwali has gone beyond the boundaries of Hinduism, reflecting our multi-cultural and diverse society. “We have a potpourri of cultures because we have been

overcome obstacles “if we want to see development and growth and for that to be sustained we must light a light at the national level, so that we can move forward not in little bits and pieces but as one people”, Anthony posited.

Also in attendance, were Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, members of the Diplomatic Corps and special invitees, who were all treated to a rich cultural programme comprising devotional songs and several dance pieces by the Ishara Dance Troupe. (By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

Collapsed Stabroek Market roof...

No move yet to effect repairs, vendors in a quandary

By Shirley Thomas ONE week after the Deputy Mayor of Georgetown and Public Health and Markets Committee intervened and called on the administration of City Hall to move with all due haste to relocate

vendors on the Stabroek Market wharf, operating under a section of the roof that continues to hang precariously, no positive action has been taken and vendors are in a quandary.

Instead, what has happened is that Council, on Fri-

day, arbitrarily put up a sign warning, “DANGER! No Person Beyond this Point”.

The vendors were not given any time frame within which to remove. They know not where they are supposed to go alternatively, and for how long. Neither were they giv-

en any indication as to how early repairs to the roof will commence.

BUSINESS AS USUAL It is implied that the instruction or compliance with the sign takes immediate effect. But, with no place to go, The sign erected on the Stabroek Market wharf, warning vendors and others to stay clear of the danger area

the vendors have been forced to remain at their legitimate places of operation, despite the sign posted and the imminent danger involved.

The deputy mayor was on Friday unavailable for a comment. However, another official commented that it is crassly absurd and unacceptable that Council should put up such a sign without a structured reference to alternative spaces and the ultimate relocation of vendors.

“There must first be an engagement of all the stakeholders involved, and a structured approach to the allocation of alternative spaces be put in place. Merely putting up a sign does not excuse the administration from liability in the event someone loses life or limb as a result of falling beams from the roof,” the official said.

Meanwhile, no notice has been given speed boat operatives who continue to moor alongside the wharf and directly below the dangerously hanging contraption.

The situation at issue began with the collapse of a section of the derelict Stabroek Market wharf on September 16 last. The section which gave away did not come down completely, but propped upon a stall on the wharf, remains hanging dangerously, threatening to touch ground at any moment.

Because of the derelict condition of the wharf, it has been considered unsafe for vendors and customers to continue to use that section of the facility.

This newspaper has been reliably informed that the City Engineer’s Department recently met with the Min-

istry of Works and that the ministry has offered assistance. The city engineer is reported to have said that the estimate has been submitted to the Town Clerk, and therefore, together with the Ministry of Public Works, they were going to discuss a project in an effort to effect repairs to the wharf.

But the Deputy Mayor, Ms. Patricia Chase- Green and Chairman of the Market and Public Health Committee, Mr. Ranwell Jordan, are adamant that the latter committee has not been involved in the dialogue and has been completely ignored.

Green argued that, regardless of what assistance might be forthcoming and from where, it has to go through the statutory committee, thence to the full Council for decisions to be made.

That committee alluded to, is the Markets and Public Health Committee.

“We ought to have met to deal with this matter and that has not happened. The Council has to make all decisions on the way forward,” Green reiterated.

Meanwhile, Chairman Ranwell Jordan has argued that, until Council would have relocated the vendors, the administration will have to accept liability for any accidents or injuries that may happen on the wharf.

“I want to believe that Council will have to accept liability, because Council is aware of the state and position of the wharf and it is Council’s responsibility to effect repairs,” he earlier told the Guyana Chronicle while on a tour of the Stabroek Market wharf.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

Suspect arrested Minibus passengers Suspect in hours after Cambio terrorised by bandits Alexander Village robbery gold heist arrested

By Leroy Smith

THE police on Friday arrested a person of interest whom they believe is the prime suspect in the multi-million dollar robbery committed on a gold establishment in Alexander Village two Thursdays ago.

On Saturday ,this newspaper had confirmed that the police arrested the suspect after receiving information through intelligence gathering that the man did play a part in the beating and robbing of the occupants who were at the establishment at the time the suspect and three others pounced.

During the ordeal, six persons including a businessman and his wife who operate the establishment were held up and robbed of gold, diamonds, cash and a firearm among other things.

In addition to the business couple Theresa and Imtikhab Ali, the other persons who were robbed during the unfortunate incident were Latiff Persaud,a 22- year- old Goldsmith of 18 First Street, Alexander

Village. He was robbed of a mobile phone and a silver band. Pooran Ramoutar on the other hand, a 32-yearold manager of another gold establishment and of 19 First Street , Alexander Village, was robbed of eight pennyweights of 14- karat gold valued $40,000 and three pennyweights of 12karat gold, worth $16,000.

Since the incident, the police have been able to question several persons and two identification parades were held, but based on the recollection of the victims, none of the persons placed on the identification parade fit the description of the robbers, two of whom were masked and the other unmasked.

Theresa Ali, 38 years, a housewife and her husband Imtikhab Ali, 39, a goldsmith were pounced on by the bandits just about 11:30 hrs on that Thursday morning while customers were in their establishment, Kumar Jewellery. The woman was upstairs in her living quarters while her husband was downstairs with workers and customers.

Monday, October 20, 2014 - 14:30 hrs Tuesday, October 21, 2014 - 14:30 hrs Wednesday, October 22, 2014 - 14:30 hrs

QUICK action and investigation by detectives of the Criminal Investigation Department led to the arrest of a man who is suspected to have robbed a cambio on Regent Street on Friday afternoon.

The robbery occurred just after 13:00 hrs, and the bandit made good his escape with an undisclosed sum of cash from the Commerce Cambio located opposite the former Acme Photo Studio lower Regent

Street.

When the Guyana Chronicle arrived on the scene Friday after the incident, the man believed to be the owner of the business place was not willing to speak with the media.

However, he was seen giving investigators statements in relation to the matter.

There is uncertainty as to whether the police were able to recover the money.

(Leroy Smith)

TWO men who joined a minibus on Friday night from the central bus park in Georgetown held up the entire bus and robbed the passengers of valuables while holding the driver, conductor and other passengers at gun, knife and cutlass points.

This publication was reliably informed that one of the men called out to the conductor to stop on Mandela Avenue in the vicinity of the Ruimveldt Industrial Site.

As the minibus pulled

over, one of the men jumped out of the back window, raced to the front of the bus and held up the driver; the other bandit then exited the bus and held up the conductor while the other two men who were reportedly awaiting the arrival of the bus with their colleagues, came out and began relieving passengers of their items.

Up to late yesterday afternoon no one was arrested for the incident and the police are said to be continuing their investigation. (Leroy Smith)

12

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

13

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

Know About Climate Change EDUCATION is an integral part of understanding any area of interest or distress, Climate Change education is no less important as we seek to understand this new weather related phenomenon affecting people not just in Guyana, and the Caribbean region, but globally as well.

It is important to be aware of the changes taking place in the world and the implications for our lives. More importantly,

food and to manufacture goods. These Greenhouse gases, with the most common being Carbon Dioxide are responsible for warming the atmosphere. As more and more of these gases are sent in to the atmosphere they are trapped in the Earth’s stratosphere which is the blanket that protects it from the direct radiation of the sun. As greenhouse gases build up in the stratosphere more heat than usual is trapped there increasing the temperature of the Earth. If the amount of these gases being released into the atmosphere is not curbed the global temperature will continue to increase!

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE? ECOSYSTEMS WILL BE AFFECTED

we need to be informed to make the lifestyle changes necessary to ensure that our existence is secured and the resources we depend on sustained. Many people perish for the lack of knowledge, therefore, failing to educate ourselves and apply the knowledge garnered would be the ultimate mistake; this week we will shed some further insight on what really is Climate Change.

Climate change will have many different effects on society and on the natural world. Plant and animal species are forced to adapt to changing environments or migrate to new areas, however, those that are unable to adapt will become extinct.

As species move, many can bring diseases with them to farms and human populations. Higher temperatures can also create new risks for wildfires and place new pressures on farmers.

All of these will change the dynamics of ecosystems.

POPULATIONS WILL BE DISPLACED

Melting polar ice raises sea levels, putting coastal cities at greater risk of floods. Coastal cities and the Caribbean nations are particularly vulnerable to becoming submerged. Guyana

IS THE CLIMATE REALLY CHANGING?

Before you answer this question let us take a walk down memory lane. Have you noticed any changes in weather patterns being experienced in our country and other parts of the world? Have you heard your people around you e.g. parents or grandparents say anything about the changes in weather patterns being experienced lately? Have you noticed that it is hotter now than say five or ten years ago? What other changes in the weather patterns have you noticed?

Scientists who study the Earth’s climate today and have investigated past climatic changes agree that the global temperature has increased rapidly and significantly in the last 150 years. This is largely responsible for the dramatic changes in rainfall both in terms of intensity and pattern around the world. What this means is that some parts of the world get less rainfall other parts more than normal. Also rainfall patterns have changed in terms of how often and how a particular area receives. This change in turn affects breeding and habitats of animals in these areas. Also heavy rainfall often causes floods and landslides and people face many challenges including loss of homes, farms etc.

DOES HUMAN ACTIVITY AFFECT CLIMATE CHANGE?

There is now scientific evidence to show that human activity is responsible for most of the climate change in recent years, particularly the warming of the atmosphere and ocean in the last 150 years. Further, there is evidence that these changes

will continue into the future either for better or worse, the outcome is most likely dependent on “our” actions.

Carbon dioxide and other Greenhouse gases are produced when humans burn (fossil fuels) such as, gasoline, natural gas, and coal to produce energy for everyday activities such as; lighting, automobiles, trains, ships, aircraft, to produce

consume and the amount of waste we produce.

WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE?

It is possible to prepare for climate change and to avert its worst effects, but to do so, we need to understand why climate change is happening and make informed choices as individuals and communities based on the available evidence. Information alone is not enough, developing appropriate national policies and strategies are already in process to prepare society for changes that are already well under way, but without understanding the basic causes and effects of climate change, we will be unable to make informed decisions that will affect generations to come.

We need to change our lifestyles to lower the amount of greenhouse gases we put into the atmosphere. We also need to equip ourselves with the information, techniques, technology and systems that would give early warning of climate related dangers and keep us safe from their impacts.

TEN TACTICS YOU CAN USE TO FIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE

is not exempted since it has a narrow coastal belt which lies below sea-level and upon which most of the population reside.

Therefore, we cannot ignore climate change any longer! The Low Carbon Development Strategy, the Clean up my Country Campaign and other country wide initiatives are efforts being made by Guyana in the fight against climate change. In the fight against climate change we need to be conscious that we need to reduce at the industrial, commercial and household and individual levels the amount of electricity and fuel we

► Convert to energy saving lights, appliances and machines. ► Opt for energy efficient cars or transport. ► Do not drive if you have to go to a point that can be reached by a short walk. ► Opt for water saving devices in your home, offices, factories and industries. ► Opt for locally produced foods – its takes less energy for these to get to the market than those produced in far off places. ► Buy and use only what you need – save money and produce less waste. ►Dispose of waste properly – use bins; and compost vegetable waste; leaves and grass. ► Harvest rainwater - collect it in a tank or barrel and cover it to keep out mosquitoes. ► Use biodegradable (can breakdown (rot) in the environment) disposable containers, bags, and utensils - however reusable (washable) is better for the environment. ► Think carefully before you print anything on paper – this saves trees and energy.

The environment is everybody’s business let us take action to safeguard it!!

Share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com http://ncse.com/climate/climate-change-101/what-canwe-do http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/ leading-the-international-agenda/education-for-sustainabledevelopment/climate-change

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

GT&T, Ansa McAl sponsor production of ‘Hamlet’

Dr Frank Anthony receives the sponsorship cheque of $500, 000 from GT&T Public Relations Officer (PRO), Ms Allison Parker

By Navendra Seoraj THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) and Ansa McAl Ltd on Friday handed over their sponsorship cheques of $500, 000 each to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) for production of the famous William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet.”

“Hamlet,” will be performed by professional actors from the Globe Theatre of London.

The actors are currently on a world tour which began on April 23, 2014 in honour of the great William Shakespeare’s birthday.

ture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, his Ministry is very pleased to host it because after many years Guyanese will finally have the chance to witness a classic play such as this.

Dr Anthony noted that the play will be beneficial to school children, because Hamlet is on the Caribbean

Examination Council’s (CXC)’s Syllabus, So therefore students now have an opportunity to view the play so they could get a better understanding of what the play is about.

Anthony stated that he is urging not only students but also other members of the public to come out

and view this spectacular display.

Coordinator of this programme, Al Creighton said he is very thankful for these generous donations from these companies.

He also noted that the cost for carrying out a play of this caliber is very cost effective, but due to the generous donations he assures the public that the show will be a great success.

Mr. Creighton also took some time to thank Guyenterprise for donating towards the event and also assisting the MCYS in looking for sponsorship.

Speaking with the Chronicle, Public Relations officer (PRO) for GT&T, Allison Parker, stated that GT&T is indeed pleased to collaborate with the MCYS to make the show a possibility.

She also noted that GT&T has a track record of donating to programmes of these sorts, and they intend to provide continuous support towards any such programmes.

A representative of Ansa McAl also took the time to note how proud and please her company is to participate in such a wonderful event as this.

Hamlet

She further stated that she encourages Guyanese to come out see this play for themselves, because she assures them that it will be a once in a lifetime chance to witness something of this calibre.

A release from members of the Globe Theatre stated that, the production is a young, fresh version of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy of deferred revenge that teases out its latent streak of gallows and humour.

They also noted that it celebrates the exuberance and invention of its language, and just 12 actors will perform over two dozen parts on a stripped-down wooden stage in a comparatively brisk two hours and forty minutes.

William Shakespare

Guyana will have the experience of a lifetime when they witness first- class performances from these well trained actors which will be held on October 24, 2014.

According to Minister of Cul-

Dr Frank Anthony receives the sponsorship cheque of $500, 000 from a representative of Ansa McAl at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (Photos by Cullen Bess-Nelson)

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday October 20, 2014

GNBS honours long-service staffers, celebrates 30th anniversary

By Michel Outridge THE Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) on Friday held its 17th Annual Long Service Awards Ceremony at its Sophia Exhibition Site Complex.

Eleven staffers who have served for five, 10 and 15 years were honoured.

The awards coincided with the organisation’s 30th anniversary celebration and the Bureau treated all employees to lunch and drinks.

Director of GNBS, Ms. Evadne Enniss spoke about the importance of standards as they celebrate their 30th year in existence and encouraged employees to reflect on the quality of service they provided and to upgrade themselves.

She urged the staffers to give of their best, since they are providing a service to the

public. Ms.Enniss also urged that they do self-introspection and make a concerted effort to do better as well as enhance their capabilities.

Nine of the 11 long-serving employees were awarded yesterday with certificates of recognition and each received a token of appreciation.

Those awarded are fiveyear employees - Nikieta Waithe, Damion Dukharan, Anthony Cordis and Stevmar Critchlow; the 10-year employees are Alwin Etwah, who is overseas on a training programme; Lorenzo Gill, Elton Patram, Helen Richards, Joyann Fanfair and Hemraj Sanichara.

The lone 15-year employee is Keemo Fyffe, who is also overseas on a training programme.

In response, Hemraj Sanichara told the gathering that

The awardees with their certificates and tokens of appreciation for their years of service (Photo by Sonell Nelson)

the journey of 10 years has been a learning experience and he has been transformed as an individual and has gained a lot of knowledge and

experience on the job.

He stated that a decade is indeed a long time, but his stay at work has been very rewarding for him and his

colleagues and expressed gratitude to management for recognising their years of service.

In keeping with the cele-

bration, all employees were treated to after-work drinks and a variety of eatables in a buffet-style setting and decor.

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

17

18

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

19

20

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

21

22

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

Harris back on track JUST A FEW days after cancellation of his fight against junior middleweight muscles the 36-year-old former World Boxing Association junior welterRaul Carrillo for the USNBC welterweight title, Vivian Harris has picked weight champion said 154 pounds may turn up a much more tempting offer, securout to be his natural habitat. ing a bout with another Mexican but “Unknown to many, I have fought as a will have to move up one division to junior middleweight before. I think I’ll be make it a reality. just as good at the 154-pound limit as I am He is now down to battle Ramon as a welterweight. At times you have to push Alvarez for the International Boxing yourself to know just how good you are. I see Federation Latin America junior middlethis as just another push for me.”

Harris had been training in Phoenix, weight crown - a fight that is scheduled for November 29 in Mexico.

Arizona for the Carrillo fight but will be shifting to Las Vegas to get ready for the “I have said that when one door is closed another is opened. I now have a November 29 contest.

“I’ll be leaving on Sunday for Las Vegas to chance to move up and fight Alvarez. start my training. It will be hard work because I I am taking this opportunity with two expect a hard 12-round fight. As I said before, hands. God is good and will continue I want to be world champion again and this is opening doors for me,” Harris told Chronicle Sport. the road that will take me there.”

RAMON ALVAREZ The 28-year-old Alvarez, hails from Harris was scheduled to fight Carrillo Jalisco, Mexico, and has never fought outthis Friday but the event was cancelled last Wednesday after the Mexican pulled out without ex- side his home country. He has been defeated four times planation. in 26 fights, the last being a 12-round decision to Mario Quizzed about his preparation to flex his newly found Alberto Lonzano on October 10, 2012.

Ricciardo not shocked

by Vettel exit

By Ben Anderson DANIEL RICCIARDO says he was not surprised by team-mate Sebastian Vettel’s decision to quit the Red Bull Formula 1 team to drive for Ferrari next

season.

It emerged during the recent Japanese Grand Prix that four-time F1 world champion Vettel will end his career-long association with Red Bull to replace Fernando Alonso at Ferrari in 2015.

Ricciardo, who has generally had the edge over Vettel since stepping up from the Toro Rosso team this year, said he “wasn’t shocked” when he heard the German would be leaving Red Bull.

“I was pretty open to anything in terms of news I was going to receive - ex-

pecting him to leave, expecting him to stay, [but] I wasn’t shocked when he announced that he was leaving,” said Ricciardo, when asked by AUTOSPORT if Vettel’s departure had caught him by surprise.

“The way I see it, I guess he had done four titles with Red Bull and obviously got an opportunity elsewhere before he sees himself getting a bit too old for the sport. He probably wants another challenge.”

Vettel insisted his disappointing 2014 campaign with Red Bull was not a factor in his decision to leave, and Ricciardo said he had not detected any shift in Vettel’s mood as their season together progressed.

“With me, no. I think

he has been fair with me from day one, and after the third win still very fair with me, and very respectful,” Ricciardo added.

“I am sure as the season goes on he would love a win, so maybe there is a bit more inside of what he is feeling, a bit more frustration, but I wouldn’t say that has been displayed in any meetings, or anything that I have seen.

“I am sure deep down he wants to get a win this year. When you see a teammate win races and you’re not, naturally you are frustrated. But, to his credit, he hasn’t taken anything out on me, or in front of the team; maybe behind closed doors, but not visible to any of us, so I think he has controlled it well.”

Racing Tips South Africa racing Tips Fairview 08:40 hrs Sounds Of Tigers 09:15 hrs Captain Rei 09:55 hrs Sir Duke 10:30 hrs Roaring Sea 11:05 hrs Fort Ozark English Racing Tips Pontefract 09:10 hrs Cymro 09:40 hrs Ocean Sheridan 10:10 hrs Mutafaakir 11:10 hrs Galuppi 11:40 hrs Embsay Crag 12:10 hrs Bureau 12:40 hrs Endless Credit

Windsor 08:50 hrs Anonymous John 09:20 hrs Commanche 09:50 hrs Yeenaan 10:20 hrs Patriotic 10:50 hrs Ahoy There 11:20 hrs Calm Attitude 11:50 hrs Perfect Pastime Plumpton 09:30 hrs Geegeez Geegee 10:00 hrs The Omen 10:30 hrs Saint Helena 11:00 hrs arOMEO Americo 11:30 hrs Virtuel D’oudon 12:00 hrs To The Sky 12:30 hrs Farasi Kubwa

23

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

Aussies select strong squads to face Windies women SYDNEY, Australia (CMC) – Cricket Australia have announced the One-Day and Twenty20 International squads to face West Indies Women in the upcoming series which bowls off next month here.

Both squads will be led by Meg Lanning and include seasoned campaigners Jess Cameron, Ellyse Perry and Alex Blackwell, the latter of whom will be vice-captain of both units.

Chairperson of the selection panel, Julie Savage, said they expected West Indies to provide a stern challenge but believe the side selected is a strong one.

“We are expecting a fierce contest for the top spot on the ladder and have selected a squad that is well equipped to prevail,” Savage said.

“We have selected a strong squad with a number of players who were a part of the team that completed a clean-sweep of the WT20 (International) series against Pakistan in August.

“Ellyse Perry returns to the pace bowling attack after playing the Pakistan series in a batting role while she recovered from a leg injury. Kristen Beams also joins the squad in place of her Victorian teammate, pace bowler Julie Hunter.”

Savage added: “Our batting line-up has been in excellent form during the first rounds of the WT20 domestic competition, which bodes well for an exciting contest against the explosive West Indies batting line-up.”

West Indies Women will clash with the Aussies in four T20s, starting in Sydney on November 2.

The one-day series will bowl off on November 11 and will

feature two matches in Hurstville and another two in Bowral.

“We have made one change to the ODI squad that defeated Pakistan 4-0 in August, with Elyse Villani added to provide another powerful batting option,” said Savage.

“As with the T20 squad, the return of Ellyse Perry as our strike bowler has resulted in Megan Schutt missing out.

“Fast bowler Holly Ferling is progressing well in her recovery from her back injury and is expected to return to competitive cricket shortly but will not take part in this series.”

T20 SQUAD – Meg Lanning (captain), Alex Blackwell, Kristen Beams, Jess Cameron, Sarah Coyte, Rene FarEllyse Perry rell, Alyssa Healy, Jess Jonassen, Delissa Kimmince, Erin Osborne, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt , Elyse Villani.

ODI SQUAD – Meg Lanning (captain), Alex Blackwell, Kristen Beams, Nicole Bolton, Jess Cameron, Sarah Coyte, Rene Farrell, Alyssa Healy, Julie Hunter, Jess Jonassen, Erin Osborne, Ellyse Perry, Elyse Villani.

Crazy finish sees Liverpool ... from page 26 kick of the game.

QPR were dominant from the beginning. Leroy Fer struck the bar twice in a half where Harry Redknapp’s gamble of picking two centre-forwards from the off looked set to be rewarded; both Austin and Bobby

Zamora were strong, confusing Martin Skrtel and Dejan Lovren in the centre of Liverpool’s defence.

Mario Balotelli was muted, managing a couple of weak off-target shots; but none of his colleagues mustered anything better. (Eurosport)

Below is the Barclays Premier League 2014/2015 Points Table Played (H | Won (H | Drawn (H | Lost (H Team A) A) A) | A) 1 Chelsea 8 (4 | 4) 7 (4 | 3) 1 (0 | 1) 0 (0 | 0) 2 Manchester City 8 (4 | 4) 5 (2 | 3) 2 (1 | 1) 1 (1 | 0) 3 Southampton 8 (4 | 4) 5 (3 | 2) 1 (1 | 0) 2 (0 | 2) 4 West Ham United 8 (4 | 4) 4 (2 | 2) 1 (0 | 1) 3 (2 | 1) 5 Liverpool 8 (4 | 4) 4 (2 | 2) 1 (1 | 0) 3 (1 | 2) 6 Manchester United 7 (4 | 3) 3 (3 | 0) 2 (0 | 2) 2 (1 | 1) 7 Arsenal 8 (4 | 4) 2 (1 | 1) 5 (3 | 2) 1 (0 | 1) 8 Swansea City 8 (4 | 4) 3 (2 | 1) 2 (1 | 1) 3 (1 | 2) 9 Tottenham Hotspur 8 (4 | 4) 3 (2 | 1) 2 (0 | 2) 3 (2 | 1) 10 Stoke City 8 (4 | 4) 3 (2 | 1) 2 (0 | 2) 3 (2 | 1) 11 Hull City 8 (4 | 4) 2 (1 | 1) 4 (2 | 2) 2 (1 | 1) 12 Aston Villa 8 (4 | 4) 3 (1 | 2) 1 (1 | 0) 4 (2 | 2) 13 Everton 8 (4 | 4) 2 (1 | 1) 3 (1 | 2) 3 (2 | 1) 14 Leicester City 8 (4 | 4) 2 (1 | 1) 3 (3 | 0) 3 (0 | 3) 15 West Bromwich Albion 7 (3 | 4) 2 (1 | 1) 2 (1 | 1) 3 (1 | 2) 16 Crystal Palace 8 (4 | 4) 2 (1 | 1) 2 (1 | 1) 4 (2 | 2) 17 Sunderland 8 (4 | 4) 1 (1 | 0) 5 (3 | 2) 2 (0 | 2) 18 Newcastle United 8 (4 | 4) 1 (1 | 0) 4 (2 | 2) 3 (1 | 2) 19 Burnley 8 (4 | 4) 0 (0 | 0) 4 (2 | 2) 4 (2 | 2) 20 Queens Park Rangers 8 (4 | 4) 1 (1 | 0) 1 (1 | 0) 6 (2 | 4) Chelsea qualifies for Champions League as League Winners.

Manchester City and Southampton qualify for Champions League via League Position.

West Ham United qualifies for Champions League Qualifying via League Position.

Liverpool and Manchester United qualify for Europa Cup via League Position.

GRFU sets sights on recapturing NACRA 7s title

By Rawle Toney FIVE consecutive NACRA 7s title, CAC gold medal, a trip to the Commonwealth Games and a feature at the IRB World 7s Series are just some of the Guyana Rugby Football Union’s (GRFU) accomplishments, as they can rightfully boast of being the Caribbean’s best 7s Rugby-playing nation.

But after failing to retain their championship in 2012 - losing to Mexico in the finals - and lack of sponsorship keeping them out of the tournament last year, the GRFU are in full preparation mode to reclaim the trophy they called “theirs”.

Thanks to the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), who donated $3M towards to the team’s airfare, Guyana’s 7s National team will be heading to the North America Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 7s Championship, to be held in Mexico City, Mexico, from December 3 to 4.

The GRFU last Saturday wrapped up their Windjammer/Golden Brook/Toney sponsored 7s League at the National Park, where Yamaha Caribs defeated the University of Guyana Wolves 19-14 to lift the title.

“It’s time for us to now focus on getting ready for Mexico,” said president of the GRFU Peter Green.

Green opined that Guyana’s track record internationally speaks for itself and as such, the players are hungry to wear the country’s colours and do Guyana and the Caribbean proud as they aim for a spot at the 2015 Olympic Games in neighbouring Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Green, one of Guyana’s hard-working administrators, made a call on corporate Guyana to support his administration’s programme, stating that supporting the 7s team should not be looked at as just another sponsorship, but also as an investment in one of the most successful sport teams the country has ever produced.

Considered as the region’s number one rugby nation, Green said that Guyana stand a 99.5% chance of winning the tournament which serves as a qualifier for the Pan Am Games in Canada next year, with further qualification to the Olympic Games.

Under the guidance of strength and conditioning instructor Barrington Brown, the GRFU had selected a provisional squad that commenced training in the later part of August.

Ten overseas-based players were invited but Chronicle Sport understands that so far, only Kevin McKenzie and Richard Staglon have confirmed their readiness and will be in Guyana for the camp, while the others have had logistical arrangements put in place before doing the same.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 36 (27 catches/9 stumpings-49 matches) (2)Andy Roberts (Birmingham, 1979)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which two made their ODI debut against India?

Narsingh Deonarine; Lendl Simmons; Dinesh Ramdin; Ravi Rampaul; Dwayne Bravo (2)Sachin Tendulkar scored 49 ODI centuries.

How many were in a winning cause?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

24

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

NSC/NAPS 8th annual ‘Ride for Life’

Persaud out-pedals field to take final stage and title

By Michael DaSilva VETERAN cyclist Robin Persaud yesterday morning out-pedalled the field to win the final stage and overall title in this year’s National Sports Commission/National AIDS Programme Secretariat’s Eighth Annual `Ride for Life’ Five-Stage Cycle Road Race.

Persaud, who clocked 10 hours 26 minutes for the event in which the cyclists battled for supremacy over 266 miles in four days, won yesterday’s final stage (Kara Kara Linden to Homestretch Avenue) in a time of two hours 42 minutes .04 seconds.

Earlier in the five-stage event, Persaud was always among the leaders, placing sixth in the first stage (Corriverton to New Amsterdam, Berbice), eighth in the second stage (Rosignol to Carifesta Avenue) fourth in stage three (Wales, West Bank Demerara to Bushy Park, East Bank Essequibo) and third in stage four (Supenaam, Essequibo to Charity and back to Suddie).

The veteran rider who has represented Guyana on a number of occasions also wheeled off with the veteran prize ahead of fellow national cyclist Paul Cho-Wee-Nam and Horace Burrowes respectively, with Michael Anthony

copping the junior category ahead of Alexander Leung and Alonzo Ambrose.

Alanzo Greaves placed second overall with a time of 10 hours 26 minutes 15 seconds while Geron Williams finished third with a time of 10 hours, 26 minutes 22 seconds.

The other top seven positions were occupied by Marlon `Fishy’ Williams (10:26.36), Paul DeNobrega (10:29.00), Scott Savory (10:29.39), Michael Anthony (10:30.19), ChoWee-Nam (10:31.40, Shaquille Agard (10:37.40) and Ray Millington (10:39.38).

From the start of yesterday’s final stage, the 27 cyclists stuck together for approximately 10 minutes before Geron Williams and Greaves upped the tempo and rode through the Linden/Soesdyke Highway unchallenged.

It was not until the duo reached Garden of Eden that they were wheeled in by the chasing pack, compliments of Marlon Williams who high-paced the bunch.

Shortly after Greaves and Geron - who went into the final stage in the top two positions overall - attacked the pack once more and opened a gap which was breached by the bunch, thanks once again to the efforts of the hard-working Marlon Williams.

As they turned onto Mandela Avenue from the Ruimveldt Industrial Site the pace of the race increased but Geron Williams’ chain jumped off the sprocket and he took some time to replace it thanks to the help he received from Marlon Williams who kept pushing him physically until he solved his problem.

By this time, Persaud jumped the pack approaching the South Ruimveldt Shopping Plaza Bridge and no one tried to get back to him, allowing him to win comfortably.

Of the 20 prime prizes that were on offer during the five stages of the event, Marlon Williams won nine, Greaves five, Geron Williams four and Ambrose and Orville Hinds one each.

Overall, the five-stage event was very competitive and the performances of the juniors and juveniles, especially Leung who rode under the Team United banner and Andrew Hicks of the Trojan Cycle Club of Berbice were very impressive.

The presentation of prizes to the respective winners was done at the end of the event at the National Cultural Centre, following brief remarks from Minister of Sport Dr Frank Anthony, Director of Sport Neil Kumar and other well-wishers.

Windies have mocked Indian Shocking horse fans, says former Test skipper is tip of iceberg MUMBAI, India (CMC) – Former Test captain Dilip Vengsarkar believes the decision by West Indies players to abandon their one-day tour of India was an insult to Indian fans, and says the team should be made to answer for their actions.

The outstanding former India batsman was one of several in the local fraternity here voicing their disapproval over the stance taken by the West Indies one-day team.

“Their cricket, administration and performance on the field, is at its lowest ebb. It can’t get worse really,” said the 58-year-old, who played 116 Tests.

“I would say it is extremely poor to put it Dilip Vengsarkar mildly and very detrimental to the image of the game. This West Indies team has brought disrepute to the game, mocked at the Indians fans. They should be taken to task for this unpardonable behaviour. I am sure the West Indies will have a lot to answer if India takes the case to the ICC.” In an unprecedented move, West Indies players

walked out of the tour following the fourth OneDay International in Dharamsala last Friday, after failing to find resolution with their union WIPA over a pay and contracts dispute.

Vengsarkar said the latest controversy characterised how far West Indies had fallen from their glory days.

“Their brand of cricket was unique.

They had such natural instincts and attracted people with their classy shows. I feel sad at the West Indies’ decline,” he said.

Another former Test batsman Anshuman Gaekwad, who endured some tough battles against the halcyon West Indies teams of the 19870s and 80s, said West Indies’ decline was of their own making.

“It was the most popular cricket team Anshuman Gaekwad in the world. And also the strongest. It was an honour to do well against the West Indies but the decline of today’s team is self-inflicted,” said the 62-year-old who played 40 Tests. “Priorities have obviously changed and charisma has gone out of their cricket.”

- official

THE alleged shocking of dark bay mare Princess She is Not at a recent horse race meeting is just the tip of the iceberg as the fraternity is littered with instances of infractions, one racing official has declared.

The official who spoke on condition of anonymity said that Guyana is reeling from rampant doping of animals which results in very short life span for horses.

“Horse racing is not heading down a nice road. It seems as if it’s a sport where everybody makes their own rules. Everyone does as they please and the sport remains suffering,” the official said.

Princess She is Not from the Sheriff Stables was allegedly shocked several times by the jockey in the race held at the Kennard Memorial Turf Club earlier this month. She went on to win the one-mile race for A and Lower horses and the $1.2M first prize ahead of pre-race favourite Score’s Even.

It was reported that the jockey and owner of the horse are to appear in front of a Board of Inquiry set up by the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA) today.

“It is the worst kept secret in Guyana. Doping of horses happens at almost every meeting. Handlers openly inject horses with all kinds of illegal stuff. Many of these horses have died. All this is going on and no one seems to care or to have the authority or power to stop it,” the official said.

He likened the present situation to what took place at the last AGM of the GHRA, saying “The chaos that happened then is continuing on the track and there is no one in authority. I don’t know where we are going.”

The official called for a complete investigation of horse racing while adding that what is brought to light may be frightening.

25

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

Windies A make inroads but rain dominates MATARA, Sri Lanka (CMC) - West Indies-A made breakthroughs at key intervals to limit Sri Lanka-A as rain continued to ravage the second four-day ‘Test’ at the Uyanwatte Stadium here yesterday.

Following the first day washout, the adverse weather allowed just 34 overs on day two, and the hosts limped to 137 for six after being asked to bat.

Ashan Priyanjan top-scored with 40 and Kithuruwan Vithanage got 36 not out, while Dimuth Karunaratne weighed in with 25, as fast bowlers Shannon Gabriel (2-20) and Miguel Cummins (229), along with off-spinner Shane Shillingford (2-54) were the other

Miguel Cummins

wicket-takers.

Karunaratne and captain Upul Tharanga (16) frustrated West Indies in a first-wicket stand of 37 before Cummins prised out Tharanga to a catch at the wicket.

Gabriel then struck in successive overs to reduce Sri Lanka to 53 for three, first trapping Madawa Warnapura lbw for seven before bowling Karunaratne.

When Jehan Mubarak became Shillingford’s first scalp for six, Sri Lanka-A were tottering at 72 for four but Priyanjan and Vithanage put on a lively 48 for the fifth wicket to steady the innings.

The right-handed Priyanjan faced 51 balls and struck five fours and a six in an attacking innings while Vithanage,

a left-hander, also cracked five fours and a six in his positive 39-ball knock.

However, Priyanjan and Niroshan Dickwella (1) fell in successive overs with just one run added, to leave West Indies A with the upper hand.

scoreboard SRI LANKA-A 1st innings U. Tharanga c wkp. Walton b Cummins D. Karunaratne b Gabriel M. Warnapura lbw b Gabriel J. Mubarak c Fletcher b Shillingford A. Priyanjan c Cummins b Shillingford K. Vithanage not out N. Dickwella c wkp. Walton b Cummins T. Kaushal not out

16 25 7 6 40 36 1 0

Extras: (nb-6) 6 Total: (6 wkts, 34 overs) 137 Fall of wickets: 1-37, 2-44, 3-53, 4-72, 5-120, 6-121.

Bowling: Gabriel 7-2-20-2 (nb-5), Cottrell 4-1-17-0, Cummins 8-129-2 (nb-1), Brathwaite 6-2-17-0, Shillingford 9-0-54-2.

WEST INDIES-A: C. Brathwaite (captain), K. Brathwaite, M. Cummins, A. Fletcher, S. Gabriel, J. Blackwood, S. Cottrell, K. Edwards, A. Fudadin, C. Walton, S. Shillingford.

Survival Travel Agency delivers on promise to GFSCA … sponsors two tickets to Aruba for finals

trophy. In the Masters’ division, the winning team will SUCCESS STORY SURVIVAL SUPERMARKET has been one of the initial The Guyana Softball Cup commenced in 2011 and in- pocket $600 000 with the runners-up assured of $150 000. sponsors of Guyana Softball Cup, and during the fourth edition of the country’s premier softball tournament, the stantly became a hit with players and fans alike, attracting The Man-of-the-Match in both finals will receive a trophy.

As has been the case in the past, the Most Valuable Player company, through its Travel Agency, will afford two lucky massive crowds and also putting some hard-earned cash of each category will become spectators’ trip to the beautithe proud owner of a softball ful island of Aruba. bracelet, comprising gold and At a simple ceremony at diamond studs, compliments of its Vlissengen Road branch Steve’s Jewellery. last Saturday morning, the On the day of the final, Assistant Manager of Survival apart from the trip to Aruba, Travel Agency, Mark DeFrethere will be lots of hampers itas, presented the two tickets and giveaways for spectators. to members of the Guyana Two dozen teams will comFloodlight Softball Cricket Aspete in this year’s event, with sociation (GFSCA), the organ12 from Guyana, seven from ising body of the October 31 to New York, three from Florida November 2 competition. and two from Canada. During DeFreitas said Survival the three-day championship, is proud to once again be there will be a total of 36 preassociated with the tournaliminary games, followed by ment, which has attracted four semi-finals and two finals. teams from Guyana and In an effort to expand the North America to compete reach of the competition and in the Open and Masters ensure maximum particicategories. pation from spectators, the Receiving on behalf of the organisers have increased GFSCA was Rohan Bhoj-Raj, the number of venues this who expressed gratitude to the year. Grounds earmarked to entity for staying the course host games are Police Sports with the Guyana Softball Cup. Club, Everest Cricket Club, Booj-Raj said the investment Georgetown Cricket Club,

by Survival is significant, Demerara Cricket Club, noting that such strong support is vital to the success of the Assistant Manager of Survival Travel Agency, Mark DeFreitas, (second right), presents the tickets to Rohan Gandhi Youth Organisation, Bhoj-Raj of the GFSCA in the presence of other representatives of the two bodies.

Muslim Youth Organisation, tournament.

Enmore Community Centre To qualify for a chance to and Enterprise Busta Sports win the trip to Aruba, spectators need to retain their half-tickets on the day of the finals and in the pockets of those who entertain with bat and ball on Club.

Trophy Stall and New York Better Hope are the defending listen for their number to be called over the Public Address the field. system.

This year promises to be even better, as the GFSCA is champions of the Open and Masters categories respectively Meanwhile, another member of the association, Dha- aiming to surpass the achievements of the previous three years while the previous champions were NYSCL New York (Open) ram Persaud, said the organising team is on top of its work in terms of spectators’ involvement and the handsome rewards and Savage Masters in 2012 and Cotton Field Wild Oats (Open) and Regal Seniors (Masters) in 2011. with less than two weeks to go before the official bowl-off. will be at stake for the players.

According to information emanating from the GFSCA, The champion team in the Men’s Open are guaranteed Persaud added that all the logistics have been finalised and it’s now just a matter of execution. a whopping $800 000 first prize and a huge trophy, while this year’s tournament has an estimated budget of $10M. the losing finalists will have to settle for $200 000 and a

26

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

‘Biggy’ Small in town GUYANA’S boxing giant Quincy `Biggy’ Small arrived from the United States of America yesterday morning to participate

Quincy Small in this weekend’s National Open amateur boxing competition.

The super heavyweight, who stands six feet four inches tall and weighs 255 pounds, is expected to be the main attraction when

the Guyana Amateur Boxing Association three-day event punches off at the East Ruimveldt Community Centre ground (California Square) Friday evening.

“I am very happy to be back home and I can’t wait to get into the ring. I train hard and I fight hard,” he declared. Small was born in Guyana but moved to the United States of America 14 years ago. He is the younger brother of former WBC cruiserweight champion Wayne `Big Truck’ Braithwaite and has a 6-1 record.

Small said his main goal is to represent Guyana at the Olympics and add more colour to the country’s medal collection. Guyana’s only Olympic medal (bronze) is 34 years old, - Michael Parris having won it in Moscow in 1980.

Meanwhile, president of GABA, Steve Ninvalle, said that the association is awaiting word on the participation of another overseas-based fighter, bantamweight Christopher Colbert, of the USA who is carded to fight in the National Open. Details of his travel itinerary are expected today.

The National Open is the penultimate of the statutory competitions staged by GABA for the year and will run under floodlights from October 24 to 26.

Atlético Madrid close gap on Liga leaders with win over Espanyol

By Graham Ruthven ATLETICO MADRID returned to winning ways with a 2-0 victory over Espanyol, closing the gap on their title rivals at the top of the Liga table.

The result saw the Liga champions bounce back from defeat to Valencia two weeks ago, pulling them to within five points of table toppers Barcelona, as they continue to adapt to life without Diego Costa, Thibaut Courtois and Filipe Luis.

Atletico dominated the first half but struggled to break down a stubborn Espanyol defence, and indeed it was the visitors who passed up the first genuine chance of the match, with Miguel Angel Moya making an

astonishing save to deny Lucas Vazquez from close range.

Just minutes before halftime Atletico champions made the breakthrough, however, with Tiago looping a header over Kiko Casilla to send Atletico into the interval with a narrow lead.

The home side added a second goal after 71 minutes when substitute Mario Suarez got the final touch on a Diego Godin header from a chaotic corner kick.

Antoine Griezmann hit the post in the dying stages of the match as he looked for his first goal in nine matches for Atlético, but the result had already been assured as the champions extended their unbeaten streak at home to 24 matches. (Eurosport)

Crazy finish sees Liverpool edge QPR STEPHEN Caulker inadvertently prodded into his own net to gift Liverpool a dramatic 3-2 victory over Queen’s Park Rangers (QPR) at Loftus Road.

Two own goals gave Liverpool a huge helping hand as QPR dominated but failed to convert possession into goals.

Richard Dunne opened the scoring for the opposition with the tenth Premier League own goal of his career in the 67th minute, tapping in a quick free kick to gift the visitors an advantage they did not really deserve.

But substitute Eduardo Vargas equalised in the 87th minute, knocking home from close range after a neat square ball from Charlie Austin.

Philippe Coutinho put Liverpool back in front three minutes later, cutting in from the left as his effort took an unfortunate bobble off a QPR ankle and skipped past Alex McCarthy.

Then in injury time, Vargas grabbed his and QPR’s second, powering past the Liverpool defence crowding the goal-line.

He did not have enough time to attempt to rectify the final and decisive mistake of the game, though. On the break, Raheem Sterling tried to feed Mario Balotelli, but the feet of Steven Caulker took it over the line to give the visitors the points with practically the last see page 23

27

guyana CHRONICLE monday october 20, 2014

GCA/NBS 2ND DIVISION

Hemraj and Pestano hit first-round centuries … DCC, TSC, ECC and GNIC win

By Calvin Roberts TRANSPORT Sport Club’s Ryan Hemraj and Georgetown Cricket Club’s Martin Pestano-Belle were the first two batsmen to chalk up centuries when action in the third annual Georgetown Cricket Association/New Building Society second division 40 overs competition bowled off yesterday.

Hemraj scored 124 to steer TSC to 283 for 9, to which GCC replied with 223 for 9 innings closed, despite Pestano-Belle’s 101, when the two sides clashed at the Muslim Youth Organisation ground, even as Demerara Cricket Club, Everest Cricket Club and Guyana National Industrial Corporation recorded firstround wins.

At MYO, TSC batting first saw Hemraj and Charwayne McPherson post over 100 for the first wicket, with Hemraj hitting 13 fours and nine sixes in his 124, while McPherson struck five Ryan Hemraj fours and one six in his 46.

Sunil Singh offered support, hitting six fours in his 37 while Azim Azeez struck three fours in his 21, as skipper Devon Lord took 3 for 53 before departing to attend a wedding, Samuel McKenzie 2 for 14 and Dellon Fernandes 2 for 44.

When GCC batted after being forced to do so without the services of Lord, only Pestano-Belle with his 101 that included 14 fours and one six and Bernard Bailey, 52 with nine fours,

offered resistance to TSC’s birthday boy Joel Spooner, who celebrated his 14th birthday by claiming 3 for 26 to bowl his side to a 60-run victory.

At the DCC ground in Queenstown, rain reduced that encounter to 28 overs-a-side, to which MSC won the toss and asked their hosts to take first strike, bowling them out for 144 in 26.4 overs.

Shurfane Rutherford led the batting with 33 (4x4, 2x6), Dennis Squires supported with 27 (3x6, 2x4) and Renaldo Renee made 21 (3x4, 1x6) as Delon Darymple took 4 for 48, Vishal Narayan 2 for 10 and Shaquille Moseley 2 for 18 for MSC. In their turn at the wicket, the visitors were bowled out for 96 in 18.2 overs, after being forced to contend with the pace of Rutherford from one end and an all-spin attack which was led by national Under-15 left-arm spinner Ashmead Nedd who took 4 for 11.

Moseley topscored with 22 (2x6, 1x4) after being struck in the chest Martin Pestano-Belle region by Rutherford, who later took two catches in the deep to back his performance with the bat. Keifer Naughton supported him with 13 (3x4).

No other MSC batsman came to terms with the guile of Nedd and Squires, who ended with 2 for 28, as DCC completed the win by 48 runs.

At GNIC, Ace Warriors made a return to competitive ac-

tion after two years and were bowled out for 128 by Everest Cricket Club, who in reply raced to 130 for 4 inside 17.2 overs to win by six wickets.

Romario Nepal topscored with 25 (5x4), Keyron George made 24 (3x4, 1x6), Dellon Azore 13 (2x4) and skipper Afzal Gafoor 12 (2x4) for Ace Warriors, as K. Ramdeen took 5 for 33, R. Sattaur 3 for 26 and Javed Rasheed 2 for 22 for Everest, who in reply saw Bhola hit 11 fours and two sixes in his 58 and Ramdeen seven fours in his 43 as they reached their target, despite Azore’s 3 for 17.

At the Police Sports Club ground, Christian Husbands’ 5 for 42 which was complemented by Orlando Kirton’s 3 for 42 and T. Thomson 2 for 37, enabled GNIC to bowl out the home team for 197 off 39.3 overs.

K. Griffith topscored with 40 (3x4, 2x6), Rawle Enmore, formerly of TSC and Ace Warriors, supported with 32 that included four fours, J. McAlmont made 25 (2x4) and Trevor Benn 22 (2x6, 1x4) for PSC, who saw GNIC on the back of Quincy Ovid Richardson’s unbeaten 73 (5x4, 1x6) reach 200 for 8 in reply.

Stephon Campbell supported Richardson with his 32 (2x4) while Jason Christian Husbands George got 26 against the bowling of Benn who took 3 for 23 and Vishal Jaigobin 2 for 28.

Action in this tournament continues today with Ace Warriors taking on GNIC at GNIC, with Zaheer Mohamed and Clyde Layne doing on-field duties, UG will travel to MYO under the watchful eyes of Chetram Persaud and Joseph Jeffrey and Sophia will take on Diplomats at UG, with Ryan Banwarie and Deon Feassal umpiring.

Ace Warriors upsets GNIC, as UG plunges to second defeat

By Calvin Roberts HAVING lost their first round game to Everest Cricket Club the previous day, the lowly rated Ace Warriors Cricket Club returned yesterday to the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) ground to meet the home team in their second round Georgetown Cricket Association/New Building Society second division 40 overs a side contest.

This time, led by Levar Douglas’ 45 and Dellon Azore’s 4 for 30, Ace Warriors came out on top over their host by 48 runs, despite an attacking 81 from Ryan Shun.

In one of two other games played yesterday, Muslim Youth Organization handed University of Guyana their second defeat in as many matches, doing so by one run, after the University students were handed a shocking first round defeat at another lowly rated team in Sophia the previous day.

At the GNIC ground, Ace Warriors won the toss, took first strike and rattled up 224 for 8 off their 40 overs, with Douglas hitting four fours and three sixes in his topscore, receiving support from Mortland Ward 38 (4x4, 1x6), Keron George 31

(4x4), Afzal Gafoor 24 (3x4) and Christopher Duke 22 (3x4).

Marcello Mentore took 3 for 33 and Orlando Fraser 2 for 38 for GNIUC, who in their turn at the wicket were dismissed for 176 in 28.5 overs, as Azore weaved his way around the home team batsmen with his off spin.

Shun was one of three batsmen to stand out, hitting 12 fours and two sixes in his 81, but only Sheldon Chapman (17), national Under-15 vice captain Joshua Persaud (15) and Christopher Campbell with 13 managed to reach double Levar Douglas figures, while Romario Nepaul supported Azore with his 2 for 20.

Meanwhile at the MYO ground, the home team batted first and posted 170 before being bowled out in 34.2 overs, with Richard Latiff 40, Navendra Persaud 23 and Shafeek Ishmael 20 showing resistance to the UG bowlers.

Ryan Mc Call took three wickets while there were 2 wickets each for Michael Shalim, Omesh Dhanram and Dennis Heywood bowling for UG, who in reply were limited to 167 for 9 when their overs expired, handing MYO victory by 3 runs.

Leon Williams topscored with 34 while Dhanram chipped in with 17, even as Imtiaz Puran took 4 for 20 and got support from Persaud and Latiff who took 2 wickets each for 20 and 45 runs respectively for MYO. On the previous day, Sophia stunned UG with their 36 runs defeat, posting 102 all out when asked to bat first, with L. Griffin topscoring with 23, while V. Barrow made 19 and O. Barrow 15.

Lloyd George took 3 for 11, Heywood 2 for 16, Shalim 2 for 19 and Dhanram 2 for 26 for UG, who in their turn at the wicket were decimated for 66 in 13 overs, with only Dhanram 14 getting into double figures as D. Peters got 5 for 8, Griffin 3 for 19 and S. Steven 2 for 18 for Sophia.

sport chronicle

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

Windies have mocked Indian fans, says former Test skipper Please see story on page 24

NSC/NAPS 8th annual `Ride for Life’

Persaud out-pedals field to take final stage and title

Robin Persaud raises his hands in the air as he crosses the finish line yesterday, knowing very well that he had won the NSC/NAPS’s 8th annual `Ride for Life’ five-stage cycle road race, after outsprinting his more illustrious opponents.

Please see story on page 24

Prize winners of the various categories/stages in this year’s NSC/NAPS 8th annual `Ride for Life’ five-stage cycle road race pose with Minister of Sport Dr Frank Anthony (second left, seated) and other race officials. Race winner Robin Persaud is seated third from left.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limited, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 226-3243-9 (General); Editorial: 227-5204, 227-5216. Fax:227-5208

monday, october 20, 2014