2014 12 31

GUYANA No. 104056 WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 31, 2014

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

PRICE: $60

If not built to Intl. specifications…

AHI will not accept Marriott building Page

- as Brassington assures contract provides for penalties in case of SCG failings

3

INCLUDING VAT

Speeding and drunk driving, Page a deadly 2 mixture Body of missing teen found floating in creek - 15-yr-old said he, others drugged teen Page

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DEAD: Dhaniram Ramgopaul

Drug related kidnapping…

Men acted for popular night club owner Page 10

West Bank contractor commits suicide 19 Page

An aerial view of the Marriott Hotel in the final stages of construction at its Kingston site. (Adrian Narine photo)

Miss World 2014 to visit Guyana Page 18

Rolene Strauss

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

Speeding and drunk driving, a deadly mixture – says Traffic Chief Hugh Denhert

By Michel Outridge TRAFFIC Chief Hugh Denhert yesterday said he is very concerned with the spate of road accidents, and not only fatal accidents.

He told this publication that speeding, coupled with drunk driving, is a deadly combination and he wants those found culpable of such to come to the realisation that the police are out there and they have stepped up their enforcement exercise.

Denhert added that some drivers are speeding, failing to stop when they should, and with rainy days it is advisable to drive more carefully as vehicles take a longer time to come to a halt on wet, slippery roads.

Traffic Chief Hugh Denhert

The Traffic Chief also urged all categories of road users to be on the lookout for each other, including pedestrians.

Denhert said defensive driving should be the motto of every driver, and wise decisions should be made, since we have to ultimately face the consequences.

He encouraged all road users to be alert and remain focused, and try not to drive and multi-task, which may cause us to be inattentive and that may result in an accident or worse.

The Traffic Chief said, “Be on the lookout for each other, because it is the only way we can make the roads safer.”

He disclosed that speeding, drunk driving and inattentiveness remain the leading contributors of road accidents and fatalities.

The fatality figures, according to Police Traffic Headquarters, Eve Leary, reveal that this year there were 135 road accidents, with 146 fatalities, including 15 children.

While for the corresponding period last year they tallied 103 road accidents, with 112 deaths, including 10 children.

Police charge more drivers with drunk-driving THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) yesterday said the following persons have been charged for driving under the influence of alcohol.

1. Steffon Primo of Roden Rust, Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on 2014-12-15 while driving motor car PJJ 880 on the Leonora Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD). He was found to be above the legal alcohol consumption limit. He was charged and appeared at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court on 2014-1218, when he pleaded guilty and was fined $7,500.

2. Andre Hossain of Lot 133 Meadow Brook Gardens, Georgetown, was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on 2014-12-14 while driving motor car PNN 5219 on the Leonora

Public Road, WCD. He was found to be above the legal alcohol consumption limit, was charged and appeared at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court on 2014-12-16, when he pleaded guilty and was fined $7,500.

3. Royston Mc Kenzie of Lot 208 Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara, was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on 2014-12-14 while driving motor car PSS 5148 on the Leonora Public Road, WCD. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol, was charged and appeared at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court on 2014-12-16, when he pleaded not guilty. The matter will continue before the court.

4. Deochan Lochan of Hubu, Parika, EBE, was stopped and tested with a Andre Hossain breathalyser on 2014-12-14 while driving motor car PRR 6146 on the Leonora Public Road, WCD. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol, was charged and appeared at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court on 2014-12-16 when he pleaded not guilty. The matter will continue before the court.

5. Shivanand Ramkissoon of Lot 34 Tuschen, EBE, was stopped and tested with a breathalyser on 2014-12-14 while driving motor car HC 3832 on the Leonora Public Road, WCD. He was found to be above the legal limit in terms of the consumption of alcohol, was charged and appeared at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court on 2014-1216 and pleaded not guilty. The matter will continue before the court.

Deochan Lochan

Royston Mc Kenzie

Steffon Primo

Shivanand Ramkissoon

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

The Marriott Hotel in the final stages of construction at its Kingston site. (Adrian Narine photos)

If not built to Intl. specifications…

AHI will not accept Marriott building - as Brassington assures contract provides for penalties in case of SCG failings

THE US$58M Georgetown Marriott Hotel currently under construction, is protected by one of the most robust, internationally accepted contracts, complete with requisite penalty clauses meant to ensure the Chinese Contractor - Shanghai Construction Group (SCG) - deliver on the project, in compliance with the international specifications.

This clarification came recently when Chairman of Atlantic Hotel Inc (AHI), Winston Brassington, provided his most recent update on the project and informed that while SCG was chosen because it was the lowest evaluated bidder, AHI ensured that the contract is as robust as possible and in the favour of Guyana.

AHI is the Special Purpose Company created to build and own the hotel project which will be operated by Marriott International.

“We want to ensure that what we contract will deliver what

we expect at the expected price and built within the expected timeframe to a certain level of quality that we expect…

We used an international type contract that is standard best practice,” he said.

In seeking to emphasise the rigidness of the project, Brassington explained that Marriott International will not be accepting the Kingston property from AHI, if not built to its specification and further AHI will not be accepting the facility from SCG, if they do not build to specification.

The AHI Chairman also used the opportunity to point out to the Guyanese public, many of whom would have expressed some fears as to the quality of works to be delivered, that the contract has embedded in it, provisions for an independent third party to supervise the construction works by the Chinese.

He spoke to the fact that the contract has in it components

to protect AHI, firstly through its robustness, the provision for independent supervision of the construction of the project as well as stringent penalties.

INDEPENDENT SUPERVISION The Company hired to ensure SCG build the hotel according to the specifications expected by Marriott International is New York based MA Angeliades Inc. and its resident representative, Romesh Budram, recently castigated naysayers who questioned the ability of the Consultants.

One such critic is social commentator, Christopher Ram, who was recently quoted in another section of the media as saying: “The contractor on a project of this

Please turn to page 8

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

Missing ASL highlander…

Search parties come up blank on day three of intense search HAVING recorded close to 12hrs of flying, the search party engaged in trying to track down the missing Air Services Limited (ASL) Highlander aircraft have recorded no success on day three, despite receiving reports from various persons claiming to have evidence of where the downed ASL plane might be.

Search and rescue teams which have entered their third day of operation have not been able to draw any closer to where the downed plane and/or the two persons who had been on board might be.

Weather conditions have also been taking a toll on the operation, which has seen the pooling of resources to assist in the search and rescue operation. Sources close to the operation have indicated that, by day three,

the survival kit which is usually on board aircraft would have been exhausted. This normally happens three days after a plane has encountered difficulties and becomes grounded, once there are survivors.

The Ministry of Transport has reported that, with close to 12 hours of flying on day three and a total of approximately 30 hours of flying, the search parties have again came up blank in regard to locating anything of value.

One miner reportedly indicated yesterday that he had spotted the plane and two dead bodies, but when rescuers arrived at the location given by the miner, there was nothing to suggest that that miner’s story was factual.

In its report following the day’s operations, the search and rescue team, through

the Ministry of Transport, indicated that the search area had been widened following reports that the plane had been seen close to its intended destination of Karisparu, an Amerindian community in Region Eight.

After that report had been received by the Command Centre, a decision was made to expand the search area to include Winiperu, Taffy, Black Water and Konawaruk River, which were already within the identified areas of interest for the search teams.

The search area has reportedly been expanded to 60 square miles and approximately 10 miles from Mahdia, based on reported sightings; this area is under intense investigation.

However, as the teams worked, they were forced to abort the day’s operation

at approximately 17:20 hrs because of inclement weather and restricted sunlight.

The search teams have been equipped with an aircraft locator transmitter (ELT), a device which aids in tracking aircraft beyond where the eyes can see. The mission has also been assisted by Tesouro Resources, a mining company, through its finance manager who joined in the search, according to a press release.

Two fixed wing aircraft and three rotor wing aircraft (helicopters), including one Guyana Defence Force chopper, continued the search yesterday.

The release also added that the search was aided

by Phoenix Aircraft through aerial searches, even as the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority and the Guyana De-

Pilot Nicky fence Force Special Forc es remained in Mahdia on standby for deployment.

The missing Air Services’ Cessna Britten Norman Islander 8R-GHE was operating on a flight between Mahdia and Karisparu in Region 8, Pataro Siparuni,

Persaud when it suddenly lost all communication with the control tower. On board were 27-year-old Captain Nicholas Persaud and 51-year-old baggage loader David Bisnauth.

The search continues today.

‘Bodies and debris’ found in AirAsia search - Several bodies recovered and floating debris spotted in search for missing AirAsia plane in Java Sea

INDONESIAN rescuers searching for an AirAsia plane carrying 162 people have pulled dozens of bodies and pieces of wreckage from the sea off the coast of Borneo.

Indonesia AirAsia’s Flight QZ8501, an Airbus A320200, lost contact with air traffic control early on Sunday during bad weather on a flight from the Indonesian city of Surabaya to Singapore.

The navy on Tuesday said 40 bodies had been recovered, Reuters news agency reported. Navy spokesman Manahan Simorangkir, however, told AFP just three bodies had been recovered and the larger figure had been a miscommunication.

An air force plane saw a “shadow” on the seabed believed to be that of the missing Flight QZ8501, National Search and Rescue Agency chief Bambang Soelistyo told a news conference in Jakarta.

Indonesian officials have said that three pieces of airplane debris sighted off Kalimantan coast in the Java Sea were likely to be from missing AirAsia jet.

At a press conference on Tuesday, the head of the search and rescue mission, said that definitive debris, including an exit door from the Flight QZ8501 was found during the search.

Indonesia’s national broadcaster reported sighting bodies floating in the waters, and cited Indonesian officials as saying that there was a shadow of the plane underneath the sea.

“The debris is red and white,” Djoko Murjatmodjo, acting director-general of air transportation at the Transportation Ministry, told reporters. “We are checking if it’s debris from the aircraft. It’s probably from the body of the aircraft.” (Al Jazeera)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE December Wednesday 31, 2014

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Ahead of impending general, regional elections…

Rohee deems economic and social indicators ‘signals of progress’

By Vanessa Narine GUYANA is heading into early general and regional elections, and there are going to be certain perceptions on the part of the Guyanese people on whether economic and social progress has been made, and there will be judgments on this basis.

This fact was adumbrated by General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Mr Clement Rohee, who has expressed confidence that the party’s track record speaks volumes.

“There is no problem with these (economic and social advances) being the indicators of progress. It is for the people to judge whether there has been economic and social progress in the country, compared to what (obtained) under another regime and compared to what existed before. The track record of the PPP/C speaks for itself,” he said in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Monday.

His view is that the PPP/C has made significant advances in both spheres, in line with the principle of the party’s founder, the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, who held the view that Guyana’s development must have a ‘human’ face to it.

“Significant social and economic progress has been made,” Rohee said. “Our projects have been peoplecentred in terms of water, housing and infrastructural advances. Projects advanced by the PPP/C administration have benefited all Guyanese.”

SOCIAL PROGRESS Rohee said social advances are seen in the successes of the education, health and housing sectors, as well as in the support to vulnerable groups in Guyana.

The country has achieved universal primary education, he disclosed, and

is on its way to attaining universal secondary education.

The current administration also has a policy that

education programmes.

The largest percentage of the 2014 Budget went to the Education sector, with an allocation of a whopping $32.3B, while Health received an allocation of $21.5B. In the Health sector, increased services are being provided, and there is additional training to boost the sector’s human resource capacity, among other initiatives. Improved health delivery and service has resulted in improved life expectancy and reduced infant mortality, among other successes.

PRESIDENT DONALD RAMOTAR sees the distribution of free text books, payment of uniform allowances, provision of transportation aid, and the recently launched ‘Because We Care’ cash grant initiative. New schools, including technical institutes, have also been built, expanding access to education. There are also several training programmes to assist out-ofschool youths.

Relative to tertiary education, there is a move to expand the University of Guyana’s (UG) distance

– up from $3,500 in 2006 and old age pensioners now receive an annual electricity assistance of $30,000, an increase from $20,000, among other social security safetynet programmes.

Under vulnerable groups and other targeted interventions, the 2014 Budget provided $382.5M to consolidate efforts made in the delivery of childcare and protection services, and $796M for continuation of the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP).

Another major social indication is housing and water; and in the 2014 Budget, housing received $4.4B and water received an allocation

Dr. Ashni Singh Also, this year, old age pensions were increased from $12,500 to $13,600

Mr. Clement Rohee

of $2.5B, while Sanitation received $544.6M. It is expected that by the end of 2014, a total of 5,900 house lots would have been processed, and 4,100 land titles would have been distributed to new landowners.

Housing scheme development is expected to continue at Eccles, Diamond, Anna Catherina, Uitvlugt, Bath, and No. 77 Village, among other places. In addition, through continuation of the public-private turnkey initiative, another 100 houses will be constructed, and an additional 50 police officers, nurses and teachers will be allocated land to construct their homes.

This year, the housing sector is expected to see completion and distribution of another 176 core houses; disbursement of 134 coastal home improvement subsidies valued at $26.8 million, and an additional disbursement of 54 hinterland subsidies valued at $54 million, benefiting a total of 1,248 persons. Also, subsidies for another 130 hinterland home improvement applicants, valued at $107.2M, were granted, increasing access to affordable shelter by the most vulnerable communities.

In the area of infrastructure, by the end of 2014, an amount of $13.7B would

have been expended to improve the network of roads and bridges; of this sum, $12.9B will be spent on roads and $844.2M on bridges.

Also, the sum of $1.9B is expected to be spent on ensuring the further strengthening of our sea and river defence infrastructure.

Additional sums have been spent on drainage and irrigation, among other areas of work.

ECONOMIC ADVANCES With regard to Guyana’s economic standing, Guyana has had real consecutive economic growth every year since 2006. This represents the longest period of uninterrupted real economic growth since Independence in 1966.

Growth as at mid-year, according to a report from Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, reached the 3.2 per cent mark.

The economy is projected to grow by 4.5 percent in the full year 2014, with non-sugar growth projected at 3.6 percent.

Also, the private sector has made significant achievements in every area of endeavour, with

See page 6

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Guyana blooming Guyanese will, at midnight tonight, bid 2014 goodbye and as traditionally expected, there will be resolutions of all kinds. As we know such a ritual to be, it is about self-set goals, promises to oneself to be specific that are about getting rid of negative habits, and setting a course for future endeavours.

But, as is the wellknown saying ‘Talking is one thing; doing is another’, which is so true about resolutions, which for another interpretation is all about steering the course for better results.

Of course, it must be reminded that one can only achieve positive results by working conscientiously towards same. Nothing is ever received by making

wishes.

For the nation in general, all the gains that have been accruing to the benefit and enjoyment of our citizens since 1992; all the providing of essential socio-economic infrastructure that have gone toward transforming Guyana, have not happened accidentally, or through wishful thinking.

Certainly, such national development plans would have been carefully conceived, discussed, debated, and finalised by our government since it is its mandate to do such. There are so many factors that would have been considered before final approval, funding and execution of national projects.

That we state this, is because there are those perennial critics, particularly of

the ilk of the two parliamentary Opposition parties, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), whose tactic of continuously denigrating the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s development policies, seeks to portray a scenario of either insufficient planning, or no planning and “incompetent” management.

In any system, no matter how careful is its administration, given the human factor, there will be disappointments. This is a well established fact, in even the most advanced countries.

This is not to say, though, that shoddy and substandard work by contractors should be tolerated, since these tally further costs to government.

Police promotion list not in President’s possession UP to late last evening Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and President of Guyana, His Excellency Donald Ramotar had not received any list from the Police Service Commission (PSC) pertaining to the promotion of ranks.

This was confirmed by President Donald Ramotar himself during a telephone interview with this publication. According to the President, he did not receive the list and he was a little busy lately which caused him not to be able to check on the progress the PSC has made in finalising the list.

Asked if he was confident of receiving the list today, the President could not confirm, but assured this publication that he will be checking with the Commission with respect to the list.

The promotion of senior police ranks have been on the back burner for the past three years, which was due to the absence of the Police Service Commission. That Commission was however installed by the President on September 5, 2014 at the Office of the President and comprised five members including its Chairman.

But government is on record, as not only voicing its outright dis-approval with poor works on projects, but has also terminated many contracts for such.

So let it be known, that the amazing transformation that is so evident all over Guyana: the new housing schemes in which thousands of working class Guyanese are now proud home owners; the newly built hospitals, diagnostic centres with stateof-the-art technology; new schools; vocational institutes; availability of potable water supply and water treatment plants throughout Guyana; construction of roads; increased wages and salaries and old age

pensions; increased raising of the tax threshold that has allowed for more disposable income – are not-fly-bynight conceptions. They are real, living monuments to plans converted into reality.

This government has been delivering!

Just ask the Private Sector, and they will all exclaim “Business is booming!”

The banks, overflowing with liquidity, are continuing to have very successful years, with hefty after tax profits; and their continuous programme of expansion in

other areas of the country, testifies to their confidence in a government that has created an enabling environment that has made them a primary beneficiary.

These examples, just a microcosm, represent a government that delivers on its promises that it has translated into living reality. Never before has Guyana been blooming, the way that it is at the moment.

It is this national fact that deeply worries both parliamentary Opposition parties, and their cohorts.

Rohee deems economic and social indicators ...

From Page 5 investments taking place in mining, agriculture, tourism, commerce and information-based technology.

The service sector has also grown steadily, making an important contribution to Guyana’s economic progress. Also, over the years, Guyana has seen massive development in the construction sector.

President Donald Ramotar They were named as Chairman Omesh Satyanand, and members, Lloyd Smith, Harold Martin, Keith John and Carvil Duncan.

Yesterday, a source very close to the Commission confirmed to the Chronicle that the list was not sent to the Head of State nor Office of the President as yet.

The source said that based on information received, the list has some minor additional work to be carried out on it following which it would be forwarded to the President.

Asked about a time frame, the source indicated to this publication that the list will be sent to the President hopefully by midday today, Wednesday. The source did not get into details with respect to the number of persons who have been shortlisted for promotions.

The list for promotions includes assistant commissioners, senior superintendents, superintendents, deputy superintendents, assistant superintendents, cadet officers and inspectors.

EARLY ELECTIONS These facts, Rohee stressed, will be considered by the voting Guyanese public once the date for early general and regional elections is set.

President Donald Ramotar, in early December, ended the wait of the Guyanese people with the much-anticipated announcement on the way forward to bring an end to the current political impasse - a move to early general and regional elections.

A move by the President to set a date will have a bearing on several processes.

Once a date is set, it will translate to the dissolution of Parliament, which currently still stands suspended under the November prorogation proclamation.

Political parties will then kick into campaign mode. And once a proclamation announcing a date is made by the President to go to general and regional elections, constitutionally, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has three months within which to deliver.

Asked for clarity on a timeline within which a date would be set for a return to the polls, the President assured that he would make the proclamation early next year.

The Head of State expressed confidence in his party regaining the parliamentary majority it lost in the 2011 general and regional elections by one seat. At the last elections, the combined Opposition gained control of the National Assembly by a one-seat majority in a 33-32 split.

President Ramotar credited his confidence to the Government’s performance in moving the country forward for the benefit of the Guyanese people, and to the experiences of the Guyanese people in the last three years.

The PPP General Secretary shared similar sentiments. “The combined Opposition keeps saying that the people gave them the combined majority in the National Assembly and this should be respected. Come next elections, if the people decide to return the PPP/C’s majority, this is a decision that should also (be respected) because the people would have spoken,” Rohee concluded.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 30, 2014

These are the best ‘hot spots’ around town to usher in the New Year

PATRICE Roberts Big Diamond presents for Gravity Lounge superb ‘Green & White’ Carlsberg is doing it again, and this time around, it will be the Old Year’s Night that you do not want to miss. In November, Southland International had the 704 Lounge rocking with a s u p e r b p e r f o rmance by International Chutney King Kris Persad, and the group have since promised that several other artistes will be revolving around their brand.

This Old Year ’s Night, Gravity Lounge will be the ultimate party hub as Patrice Roberts performs live in its spacious and illuminated environment. A ‘Little Whine Never Hurt Nobodyyyy’ is the theme for the event, and making that a reality will be no other than the Trinidadian Soca Sensation, who has several hits under her belt.

Born on April 14, 1986, Patrice Roberts currently performs alongside popular fellow Soca artiste Machel Montano in his band, Machel Montano HD. She is also a second cousin of singer Bunji Garlin.

The talented artiste has, on several occasions, competed in the International Soca Monarch contest in Trinidad, enjoying much success. In 2006, she placed second alongside Zan with the track ‘Always Be’ in the ‘Groovy’ category.

Drink specials will be available all night, and there will be lots of giveaways. Patrons will also experience the fireworks’ display from the decks of Gravity Lounge.

Music for the event will be provided by Trinidad’s Duo ‘Nuphoric’ and resident DJs Shizzle and Energy. Tickets cost $4000 per person.

Old Year’s Bash

THE entertainment dons and divas are in for quite a treat this year for the overseas-based Roy Jeffers (Big Diamond), in collaboration with Only Brand Promotions, will stage the event of the century.

Folks are urged to trek down to 283 Ganges Street, Prashad Nagar, Georgetown (Opposite EPA Building) tonight and be whisked away on a rollercoaster of holiday thrills.

With a décor to last a lifetime, this venue will be further accentuated with a plush setting. That aside, folks can enjoy a free ‘open all night’ buffet. Patrons with tickets costing $3000 will enjoy free ‘eatables’, but are expected to purchase their beverages. Those with the $10,000 VIP tickets are entitled to ‘free food and drinks all night long’.

Moreover, patrons will be served complimentary champagne at midnight, and there will be fantastic giveaways and New Year tokens.

Folks, it really can’t get better than this! Rush down to Nigel’s Supermarket in the city and grab your tickets.

Feel free to call telephone numbers 647-2354, 699-0123, or 663-4906 to make reservations.

Buddy’s Nightclub to stage ‘Ole Year’s Nite Pegasus beckons you to ‘Midnight 2015’ Extravaganza’ BUDDY’s Night Club on Sheriff Street, Campbellville, Georgetown will certainly not be left out of the Old Year’s Night festivities! This year around, folks there will be staging a massive “Ole Year’s Nite Extravaganza” that would certainly reek of charisma, style and sophistication.

While there will be the traditional popping of champagne at midnight, blasting of horns and the release of much confetti, popular ‘Team MMR’ and ‘DJ Steve’ will be creating the pulsating musical vibes.

Tickets for this event have been set at $3000; so folks, you still have time to rush down and get yours.

AND like always, the Pegasus Hotel will rise to the occasion and stage one of its signature parties tonight to usher in the New Year.

‘Midnight 2015’ will begin at the Pegasus Poolside from 20:00 hrs, and will feature sizzling acts in the persons of ‘DJ Lil Ray’ and ‘DJ Smallz’.

This year around, my hotties can enjoy a smashing party, complete with dinner for the modest consideration of $15,000 (per person) Make sure you are there when the fun begins.

Good Life Entertainment toasts to the New Year at Monaco

IF you are looking for yearend fun and excitement, then Club Monaco on Sheriff Street, Campbellville is the place to be, as Good Life Entertainment welcomes 2015 in fine style tonight.

Party animals will receive free beads, masks, hats and noise-makers upon entry, and would also enjoy ‘all night bottle specials’ on beverages.

To take things a notch higher, some lucky persons will win free tickets to the upcoming Beres Hammond Show, slated for January 2015, while the ladies will enjoy a free glass of wine upon their arrival.

Dress code is in effect!!!

Palm Court welcomes you to Fabulous Las Vegas COME on, party hoppers, here is your chance to get a taste of fabulous Las Vegas tonight at the Palm Court Nightclub (inside the Kokomo Room).

Excellent décor, sizzling cuisine, and the presence of the Las Vegas show girls will all be part of the golden platter served up from tonight into the wee hours of New Year’s morning at this location.

While folks are urged to dress in formal attire, they will, of course, enjoy a buffet dinner and an Open Premium Bar for the cost of $25,000.

Reservations can be made by calling phone number 231-8144.

Pulse Entertainment unleashes ‘Midnight Enchantment’

SOME folks are popular for keeping their party trends on the sizzling side, and that would certainly be what the Pulse Entertainment fraternity has in mind.

Step out in your glossy outfits to the 704 Lounge (Lamaha Street, Georgetown), and be whisked off in a mesmerising cocoon of spellbinding décor and riveting music designed to set you on fire.

Receive free party favours on arrival, and glistening fairy dust upon entry. Bask in molten desire as the Pulse Fantasy Girls serve around free shots, and introduce the breath-taking bottle specials.

Dress elegantly, you are guaranteed to have a rollicking time.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

Body of missing teen found floating in creek along Soesdyke highway - 15-yr-old said he, others drugged teen

By Leroy Smith THE search for Apex Academy student, 14-year-old Dhaniram Ramgopaul ended yesterday morning when caretakers of a creek along the SoesdykeLinden Highway found his apparently fresh body floating in the same creek where he was swimming with family members on Sunday before he exited the water to use the bathroom.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle via telephone yesterday afternoon, the dead teen’s mother said she and other relatives had left home to go in search of the lad at approximately 04.30hrs and were in the company of the police at the Station when she received a call from the caretakers of a creek, that the body of the young man had been recovered.

According to Jankie Seecharan, when they arrived at the location, the young man’s body was seen in the direction opposite to where the water was flowing, which suggested that he might have been dumped.

She said her son’s body appeared to be fresh as there was blood coming from his mouth. Ms. Seecharan said the face of her son appeared ‘black and blue’ and he had other marks about the body.

The woman went on to state that there were also signs which suggested that her son might have been strangled.

This publication was informed that the 14-year-old

was lured into a minibus with two friends he knew from the East Coast of Demerara who are in the business of selling music discs on push carts. She said that a 15-yearold boy who is among the persons in custody for the disappearance of her son, reportedly told investigators that they took the boy to a house where he was drugged and they all slept on a bed together.

Asked if the young man had reported that any sexual activity went on among them, the woman responded in the negative stating that nothing of the DEAD: Dhaniram Ramgopaul sort was reported

AHI will not accept Marriott building size should have a Quality Manager whose primary responsibility is to meet Quality Assurance/Quality specifications.”

In criticising AHI’s ability to adequately ensure SCG delivered on the requirements, Ram had implied that this was not the case with MA Angeliades.

Budram promptly rubbished the assertions made by Ram, suggesting that he should in fact recheck the source of his information before making ludicrous declarations.

According to the MA Angeliades resident representative, works undertaken by the Chinese Contractor is not signed off on until his company, in conjunction with Marriott International, approves.

Budram is adamant however, that ultimately his company is responsible for the quality of works being delivered

by SCG. He informed that at present he has a number of personnel on the worksite monitoring the work being undertaken by the Chinese.

Reports are then submitted to Budram, who in conjunction with

Marriott International sign off on the works.

Quality assurance and quality specifications as it relates to the construction work falls under the mandate of the New York based MA Angeliades and according to Budram, “we constantly observe the contractors operations on site to ensure that the proper methods are being employed.”

This supervision, he said, does not escape the type of materials being used on the project as this too is monitored rigourously by MA Angeliades.

LEED CERTIFICATION Described by Brassington as one of the most advanced high-rise building being constructed in Guyana, he was quick to point out that the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification is a non-negotiable requirement for Marriott International and the Hotel has to be built to this specification.

Ram in his criticism of the project had suggested that Brassington was

duped by SCG into excluding LEED Certification from its mandate, a charge that the AHI Chairman has vehemently denied.

Ram had suggested that when SCG was initially asked to redesign the hotel to meet AHI’s budget, the Company had excluded LEED requirement as part of its mandate and that rather AHI would have to foot the bill.

Brassington however, is adamant that LEED Certification is an obligation placed on the Chinese, an obligation to which they will be held accountable.

The contactor, he said, will not get the handing over certificate if they don’t deliver on LEED Certification.

It was explained that LEED Certification comes only after the completion of the construction aspect of the project after which the building will be inspected by the international body, US Green Building Council (GBC) According to the MA Angeliades resident representative, LEED requirements involve designs and practices meant to conserve on energy among other factors and is rated based on a points system.

to her. She said that she is convinced with the story that the young man reportedly told investigators as was reported to her, since the attire that the young man was wearing at the time was the exact attire family members saw him with when he reportedly left their company for the washroom.

Early yesterday morning after the body of the teen was recovered, family members indicated that he appeared to have been murdered and that his throat was slit. However, police sources said that while they do understand the pain of the grieving relatives at the time, it was premature for there to be a conclusion as to how the young man died before a postmortem is conducted.

One police source told this newspaper that the marks which were found on the man appeared to be fish bites and not marks of violence as the relatives were suggesting.

Ramgopaul along with other family members took a trip to a creek for the holiday on Sunday and was later reported as missing after he left to use the washroom and failed to return after a 15-minute wait by relatives.

The dead teen leaves to mourn other siblings, his parents and friends. The investigations into his death is continuing and it is not clear if the police will seek advice from the chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions to charge his friends and an adult with his death following the results of a post-mortem scheduled to be performed today.

T&HD ferry services enhanced through Essequibo River dredging THE Transport & Harbours Department (T&H.D) ferry vessels Malali, Kanawan and Sabanto are now able to operate on their normal schedules on the Parika/Wakenaam/Supenaam route after a three-year hiatus.

This is a direct result of the recently concluded dredging of the Chalmers area in the Essequibo River by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).

The Kanawan and Sabanto which ply the Parika -Supenaam route will now depart each stelling three times daily at 06:00hrs, 11:00hrs and 16:00hrs. This was not possible prior to the dredging operations conducted by MARAD. The dredge ‘STEVE N’ had commenced dredging of the Chalmers area on September 17, 2014 and concluded on November 30, 2014.

This exercise was part of MARAD’s plan to dredge and open up the shallow areas of the Essequibo River, so that ships could operate freely.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

What a shame!

THE parking lot in down-town Georgetown that was specially prepared by the Police Traffic Department and designated for parking by Route Number 45 (Stabroek/ Hospital) and Route Number 41 (South Ruimveldt/ Guyhoc Park) minibuses, has been overrun by garbage accumulated over the Christmas holidays.

The garbage accumulation started on Christmas Eve, and continues unabated, growing from a little hillock into a mountainous pile of refuse, with no solution in sight.

This appears to be a deliberate attempt to derail the Government’s ‘Clean Up My Country’ initiative by the erstwhile Hamilton Green and company leading the unholy brigade of brigands – the vendors whom they encourage in all kinds of lawless behaviour, including illegal vending on city streets and pavements in exchange for crowd participation at political party events, especially where hooliganism prevails.

If anyone doubts this contention they merely have to revisit television footage of APNU/AFC/PNC protests, identify the participants, especially the more vociferous and vicious ones, then look for them plying their illegal trade on the city

pavements and streets, blocking both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

Now, with nowhere to park the buses for which the garbage-strewn area was designated for parking they are forced to occupy areas not allotted for parking purposes, thereby creating traffic hazards and danger to pedestrians, as well as incurring the wrath of the Traffic Police.

The Mayor and City Councillors have, over decades, encouraged the lawlessness prevailing all over the city and its environs. Visitors come to this country to, among others, enjoy our heritage sites, and this garbage accumulation is just outside one of Guyana’s primary sight-seeing locations, specially promoted by the Ministry of Tourism and tour operators - Stabroek Market.

This new development is not only a public nuisance, but also constitutes a serious public health threat, with the especial hazard of escalation of vector-borne and other serious diseases.

The anomaly and irony of the fund-raking ECHO head, Royston King, being the City’s Council PR representative is

not lost; and the charade of his being an environmentalist is alleged to be a clever gimmick to acquire ill-gotten resources in cash and kind through grant aids and public-spirited citizens.

While the City Council condemns the business houses that are lax in paying their taxes, it simultaneously inhibits their businesses by allowing illegal vending outside the stores, whereby the unfair competition, especially during special holidays, is wreaking havoc with profitability, and even viability; because the vendors do not pay taxes, they have no overheads, use public facilities, are not subject to the various by-laws governing established trade; and worse of all, they create humongous garbage piles and littering that jams the waterways, consequencing an exacerbation in drainage problems in the city and its environs.

Every time the Ministry of Local Government and the acting Town Clerk, Carol Sooba, attempt to curtail illegal vending and establish law and order in the city they are circumvented by the illegally-ensconced Mayor and City Council. What a shame!

Composting Less than two per cent of catching on farmers will remain to be country-wide Of $2.1B advance payments to millers…

paid by weekend SOME $1.2B will be paid out this week to rice farmers, from the $2.1B in advance payments to millers, leaving only two per cent of farmers to be paid.

Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy made this disclosure yesterday and reiterated that the sums released are not loans, but payments made earlier, so that millers may pay off farmers.

“A total payment of $1.2B is being made by millers. This would mean that by the end of the year, less than two per cent of payments due to farmers for the 2014 crops will be outstanding,” he said.

Dr. Ramsammy added that all stakeholders are working to ensure that all farmers are fully paid in the “shortest time” possible.

“We have worked with millers and bankers to ensure a more timely payment to farmers, while we are unhappy with the timeliness of payment

by millers,” he said.

The Minister stressed too that, in light of the combined Opposition’s criticisms, the payment situation in the rice industry has vastly improved.

He said, “We also acknowledge that while farmers used to wait for more than a year to receive payment, we have now reached a stage where payments are made within the crop…we will not allow the Opposition to create disruption in an industry that continues to serve Guyana outstandingly.”

The Government of Guyana last Wednesday released another $1.5B to assist in paying off rice farmers. At the beginning of last week, Government intervened with about $600M and subsequently released from the Petro Caribe account advance payments for another $1.5B – a total of $2.1B in support for rice farmers.

“This is not new for the Government

of Guyana. It is an initiative that we have taken each crop to bring relief.

The situation is not perfect and we would continue to work for more timely payments,” Dr. Ramsammy said.

“In spite of the transactions being purely private sector, between private rice farmers and private millers, the Government has intervened on several occasions in each crop to prompt full payment to farmers,” he added.

Rice farmers, as at the start of last week, were owed about $3B; and through Government support, most farmers are expected to be paid in full, leaving a debt of only $1B. The accumulated sales of paddy by rice farmers to millers amounted to more than $42B for the two crops in 2014, and at the time the monies were released, millers would have paid off more than $39B, more than 93 per cent of the sums owed.

RESIDENTS of Block ‘CC’, Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara recently reaped the rewards of their composting efforts when they were able to gather the compost they made.

Under the Clean Green Guyana Campaign, administered by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, and funded by the Inter-American development Bank (IDB), a number of Block ‘CC’ residents learnt the heap composting method from local composting expert, Mr. Rufus Lewis.

Mr. Lewis visited the area several times over the last six weeks and worked closely with the residents to show them how they could turn their kitchen and yard waste into a product called compost that could be used as a soil enhancer.

As part of this project, residents of Block ‘CC’ placed their kitchen and yard waste in a community compost heap, following the process supervised by Mr. Lewis.

Composting is often described as nature’s way of recycling as the process converts organic waste into a valuable product instead of disposing of organic waste by undesirable means such as dumping or burning. Composting organic waste leads to cleaner healthier communities.

Further, by separating and diverting organic waste for composting, the life of the landfill is extended.

Community resident Mr. Hiralal Bissessar said that residents were pleased to learn how to compost and hoped to continue to do so in their backyards.

He noted that the project progressed smoothly and that residents experienced no bad odours or presence of pests due to the compost heap, as a result of Mr. Lewis’s constant supervision of the process.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

Drug related kidnapping…

Men acted for popular night club owner A BUSINESSMAN of D’Urban Backlands, who is in the business of exporting lumber; a taxi driver of Dennis Street Sophia; a clothes vendor of South Ruimveldt and Lamaha Park; and a hotel employee of D’Urban Backlands were arrested by the police o n M o n d a y, m o m e n t s after they abducted an unemployed woman whom they accused of causing a drug shipment to go sour.

The Chronicle was able to confirm that the men were acting on behalf of the owner of a popular night club in the city; but up to press time the club owner was not arrested in connection with the development.

This publication was also provided with the names of the arrested men, the woman they abducted, the name of the night club and the owner of the night club.

Up to late yesterday, the police were looking to have the men placed on an identification parade to confirm if they were involved in any unlawful activities other than the kidnapping of the woman which was eventually foiled by the police who were on patrol.

A search of the vehicle the men were driving turned up an unlicensed 9MM pistol with one live round.

Chronicle was told that initial investigations into the

character of the men did not find anything to incriminate them, until their actions on Monday morning, which they carried out in Diamond.

On Monday the men were arrested by the police who were made aware of their kidnapping of the woman from a Diamond, East Bank Demerara home, and forced her into a car at gunpoint.

She was accused by the men of causing the shipment of a drug deal to the United Kingdom to go sour, and was reportedly hiding from the men when she was snatched.

Up to yesterday the woman was at the Brickdam Police Station, but it is not clear if she is also being

investigated by the police in the alleged sour drug deal.

The police are continuing their

investigations into the matter.

‘NABBED’: The four men on Monday in the back of a police pickup

Body in ‘Blacka’…

Police awaiting PM, DPP advice

By Leroy Smith ALTHOUGH family members are convinced that 34-yearold Natasha Jacobs was murdered and her body dumped in the ‘Blacka’ canal, the police are unable to proceed with charges against a man being held as the prime suspect until the completion of a post-mortem (PM).

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle yesterday, police sources in ‘C’ Division have contended that while the initial investigations have been conducted and statements have been taken, there are still other statements to be taken. As such, no charges could be laid as yet.

The police source explained that the woman’s body was found floating and there is no evidence to suggest that she was murdered, nor is there any way that the police could determine what is the cause of death, since the PM is yet to be done. That is expected to be conducted today, according to police DEAD: Natasha Roberts sources.

Once conducted, the results will be included in the file pertaining to the investigation and forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice on the way forward with

respect to charges –if any- against the man in custody.

The body of the mother of four who resided at Lamaha Park was found floating by residents of the South Sophia area.

Family members were alerted to the find and her relatives converged on the scene; her body which was trapped in the water by a bridge was retrieved by one of her brothers.

Jacobs was last seen by family members on Saturday as she and her mother walked from Festival City to Lamaha Park. She was never again seen alive and it is believed that she went to the home of her boyfriend, whom persons said was very abusive to her.

They are convinced that the man inflicted one of the usual bouts of blows on the woman at his home, killed her and then dumped the body in the canal while the place was still dark.

They came to that conclusion when they arrived at the man’s home after the discovery of the body to ask him about her whereabouts; he denied even knowing the woman and was also in the process of cleaning his home.

On Monday, angry persons thrashed the man’s cottage home which is situated on the Government reserve in ‘B’ Field Sophia. Persons who live nearby said they did not hear any strange sounds coming from the home during Saturday night or Sunday morning.

The suspect’s home which angry residents thrashed on Monday

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

Arbitration Tribunal declared closed as….

Estate worker remains dismissed - Arbitrator Mohamed Akeel

FOLLOWING speculation on the outcome of arbitration between Guyana Agricultural Workers’ Union (GAWU) and the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo), Arbitrator Mohamed Akeel on Monday declared that estate worker Daniel Stephen remains dismissed.

The tribunal had looked into the disciplinary action against Skeldon Sugar Estate worker Daniel Stephen after he was involved in an encounter with the Estate Manager in September.

Speaking at a meeting in GAWU’s conference room on Monday, Akeel stated that he was entrusted with the difficult task of deciding whether or not Stephen should be dismissed or allowed to return to his job.

Akeel noted that after reviewing all the documentation from GAWU and GuySuCo, he decided to conclude the sittings on November 26, failing to reach an agreement with the parties involved.

There were numerous disputes among the parties on whether or not Stephen should be allowed to work or not, because recently GAWU issued a statement saying that they have settled on a conclusion that Stephen should be permitted to work, while GuySuCo decided that Stephen should not be allowed to work.

Akeel said he called several meetings to discuss the matter but GAWU refused to attend any of them.

Therefore, in an effort to end the confusion, the arbitration called a meeting yesterday disclosing that the tribunal is closed and Daniel Stephen is dismissed.

The suspension in November resulted in a massive strike in the sugar belt and a subsequent agreement between GuySuCo and GAWU. Six conditions were agreed to by the Union and GuySuCo:

that the strike by field and factory workers will end; the union will ensure full resumption of duties by field and factory workers from the day the strike ended; there will be no victimisation on either side because of strike action; all workers who were on strike will not have their ‘strike day’ counted as absent, but as days not available for work; that the dismissal of the Skeldon factory employee, Mr. Daniel Stephen, will now be treated as a suspension, without pay, until the end of the reconciliation talks, and within 24 hours after resumption of duties, the aggrieved parties – including GAWU – will meet with the Chief Labour Officer, who will make a final decision on the matter.

The Ministry of Labour’s recommendations were not binding, but those of the arbitration tribunal were.

GAWU’S ARGUMENT GAWU’s President Komal Chand, in an earlier comment, had explained that the strike stemmed from an alleged altercation between Estate Manager Mr. Dave Kumar and Stephen.

He said the report he received was that on the day in question, at around 11:30 pm, the Estate Manager, who had allegedly been drinking, was on his way to the mill dock, where a cane harvest had been offloading.

Before he reached there, he met several workers and reportedly asked them to move. The allegation is that all the workers did not remove immediately, and the Estate Manger became incensed.

“The report we have is that the worker was verbally abused; he was cursed at, and there was a scuffle, where the Estate Manger allegedly attempted to hit him,” Chand had

said.

He, at the time, said the worker continued working but was later informed that he was fired, and was escorted off the premises by the Estate’s security personnel.

Consequently, workers moved to strike action, and GAWU contends that the disciplinary code of action was not adhered to.

GUYSUCO’S COUNTER GuySuCo, in an earlier statement, presented a different version of the incident. “The type of behaviour that was displayed by Mr. Stephen is recognised by the Corporation as one that constitutes gross misconduct, and such behaviour is treated with summary dismissal. As a consequence, Stephen was summarily dismissed,” GuySuCo said.

It added: “…the Corporation wishes to restate, as it did in a previous statement, that the Estate Manager, in his usual night visits to the factory and mill dock, met a group of workers that included Mr. Stephen who were malingering in the vicinity of the mill dock, and cautioned them to report to their respective work stations.

“On being cautioned by the Manager, Mr. Stephen became abusive, and was calmly advised by the Manager to heed his advice and report to his work station. Mr. Stephen subsequently retaliated and approached the Estate Manager in a hostile manner, and in the process struck the Manager in his face.The incident was witnessed by the Agriculture Manager and a Supernumerary Constable, all of whom testified that the Estate Manager was not intoxicated, nor was he aggressive and abusive to Mr. Stephen.”

Mohamed Akeel (centre) addressing the gathering yesterday

174 cases for first criminal session of Demerara Assizes THE jail delivery before Justice Dawn Gregory shows that of 174 cases listed for hearing at the first criminal session of the Demerara Assizes, 132 are for murder.

The session opens on Tuesday January 6, 2015.

Senior Supt. of Prisons (ag), Gladwin Samuels , the officer in charge of the Georgetown Prison who presented the report, disclosed that of the 132 murders, six of the victims are females.

Other offences for which inmates at the Georgetown

- 132 for murder Prison are awaiting trial are : Attempted murder(4); Manslaughter (2); Carnal knowledge (20); Incest (1); Armed robbery (1); Buggery (2); Aiding & abetting murder suspect (1); Aiding & abetting to commit murder (1); Abduction (3); Rape (3); Unlawful & malicious wounding (1).

Fourteen murder accused headed by Cyon Collier have requested early trials.

The traditional ceremonial parade will mark the opening of the criminal session.

The parade will include the Police Band Corps of Drums with 60 ranks of the Tactical Services Unit comprising the Guard of Honour.

The Guard of Honour will be inspected by one of the judges assigned to the session, who will later take the salute during a march-past of the parade. (George Barclay)

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 30, 2014

New Amsterdam miner blazes into a human torch in Cuyuni According to information, the father of two had an altercation earlier in the day with his assailant.

His brother, Collie Mickle of New Amsterdam, told the Guyana Chronicle that there was some ‘hard talk’ among the men who were consuming alcohol earlier in the day.

As a result, the assailant threatened to return and ‘deal with Huntley’.

But he took it for granted.

So he retired to bed, and was awakened by the barking dogs, and after opening the door to his camp, a bucket of gasoline was thrown on him and he was set on fire.

The badly burnt body of Huntley Mickle Jr moments after he was doused with gasoline

Huntley Mickle

MINER and television technician, Huntley Mickle Junior, blazed into a human torch just hours after he had promised his overseas-based mother, Agnes Howard, that he would be travelling from Essequibo to Georgetown to see her.

That telephone call was made on Christmas Day and on the following night, he was seen running at Ikawan, towards the Cuyuni River, engulfed in flames.

Businesswoman Mickla Jones said it was about 23:25hrs when she was awakened by the barking dogs,

and she saw Huntley on fire.

The woman recounted that she managed to overtake him, and wrapped him in a blanket, extinguishing the flames.

Meanwhile, this newspaper was reliably informed that efforts were made to seek medical attention from the Brazilians, but this was not forthcoming.

As a result of the remoteness of the location, the 41-year-old man was unable to secure any medical attention locally, and succumbed some 14 hours later as he was being taken to Bartica.

The suspect who allegedly doused Huntley Mickle with gasoline

Food For The Poor donates hampers to underprivileged families UNDERPRIVILEGED families residing in Timehri, Land of Caanan, Tiger Bay and D’Urban Backlands were recipients of large food hampers on Monday donated by Food For The Poor (Guyana) Incorporated (FFTP).

While expressing sincere gratitude to FFTP, the recipients were eager to add that the hampers came at a time when it would help them immensely during the Christmas season.

And FFTP extends heartfelt appreciation to Beepat’s, Muneshwer’s, Edward B. Beharry and Company Limited, National Milling Company Incorporated, Federal Management Systems and others, who all contributed to making its Christmas food drive a complete Recipients of Food For the Poor donations with their hampers success.

Meanwhile, this reporter was told that Huntley Mickle operated two pumps while in the ‘backdam’, but was forced out after the Brazilians took possession of the land.

Thereafter, he watched over the possessions of Quamy Liverpool.

According to information, Mickle was unemployed at the time of the incident, and someone had promised to pay his passage so that he could have seen his mother in the city.

Meanwhile, at her Amsville Housing Scheme home, Mickle’s daughter Stacy, 18, vehemently denied that it was her father who had met such a horrible death.

"I did not believe when my neighbour first told me.

I told her it was a lie. But

after contact was made at Bartica and Parika, then I believed. My father was caring.

Whenever he gets money he would send. I am saddened by his passing, especially since he did not see his first grandchild who is now 17 months old."

Huntley Mickle, formerly of New Amsterdam Stelling Road and Angoy’s Avenue, leaves to mourn, among others, his parents Huntley Mickle Snr and Agnes, his ten siblings, daughters Stacy and Cherris, and granddaughter Saraha.

The body is currently at Lyken Funeral Home in Georgetown awaiting a post mortem.

Police investigations are continuing. The suspect remains at large.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Gov’t spending $9.5M to desilt Cozier canal – to improve drainage for rice farmers and non-traditional crops

By Rajendra Prabhulall

THE Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) is spending some $9.5M to desilt the main Cozier canal in the Lower Pomeroon River, so as to improve drainage for non-traditional crop and rice farmers.

Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Alli Baksh, was recently in the area and inspected the desilting work in progress. He

said the desilting, which is being done by a dragline and excavator machine, will improve drainage and cause more fertile lands to go under cultivation.

The minister, accompanied by Region Two Vice Chairman Mr Vishnu Samaroo and NDIA Engineer Mr Permansingh, said the main canal will drain water through the Cozier sluice to the Atlantic Ocean. He said Government’s focus is to give farmers efficient drainage so

that they produce more.

The minister said the desilting of the canal will also benefit rice farmers and some 200 families involved in cash crop farming at Cozier.

Several farmers in the area said they are very thankful to the PPP/C Government for desilting and maintaining the canal. One farmer, Ranji Persaud, said the canal will drain excess rainfall water from off farm lands very quickly. He said the Government must be com-

A dragline desilting the main Cozier canal in the Lower Pomeroon River

mended for its vision to develop agriculture in the Cozier area. Another farmer, Rishi Persaud, thanked Minister Baksh and the Government for the project.

He said all farmers will benefit in terms of better drainage, and production of non-traditional and cash crops will increased. The farmer said the Cozier canal was left abandoned and taken over by weeds and bushes under the PNC Government.

Minister Alli Baksh

A desilted section of the Cozier canal in the Lower Pomeroon River

Labour Ministry had a successful 2014 ...though it was not without challenges LABOUR Minister Dr. Nanda Gopaul has described 2014 as a very successful year for his ministry, though it was not without challenges.

Speaking recently at his year-end review at the Park Vue Hotel at Farm, East Bank Demerara, Dr Gopaul said his ministry has been working tirelessly since the introduction last year of the national minimum wage and the national working hours law, which bring every single worker to the point where they are protected under Law. He said “this was made possible because of a tri-partite body working with the ministry in ensuring that we have been able to introduce the necessary order for this to happen.”

Continuing, he explained, “We still believe that $35,000 as the minimum

wage is a unsatisfactory figure; we believe that we have to start somewhere, and this has been a real improvement over what took place before.” This, the Labour Minister promised, will be looked at in 2015.

Minister Gopaul went on to deal with highlights for 2014, noting that in some sectors there was tremendous improvement, while some need to be looked at.

He observed that while in 2014 more complaints were lodged than in the previous year, fewer were closed both nominally and percentage wise. This was attributed to the fact that many of the complaints were related to the mining industry, where both employers and complainants seemed to be mobile.

Of some 1244 complaints lodged, only 24 or 1.92 % were related to the non-pay-

ment of wages below the National Minimum Wage.

This is an inference that the National Minimum Wage is well settled. In 2014, a total of 1,244 complaints were lodged, compared to 1,055 in 2013. Of that amount, 821, or 66%, were resolved.

In an effort to sensitize both employers and employees to their rights and obligations within the framework of the various labour related legislations, the ministry conducted a series of workshops and seminars throughout the year. A total of 51 such sessions were held, with 17 of these being conducted in the last third of 2014.

The Labour Minister noted that one of the core functions of the ministry is the inspection of workplaces to ensure that there is compliance with the necessary labour legislations, as well as to determine whether or

not transfer of learning took place at the training programmes. Some 597 workplaces were inspected, an increase of 12.64 % over what was done in 2013.

Where breaches of any sort were detected, the errant employers were asked and encouraged to make good these deficiencies. In most cases, the errant employers willingly complied.

The number of industrial accidents reported in 2014 was 421, compared favourably with the 530 reported last year, a reduction of 20.56%. The ministry continued to place a high priority on the prevention and investigations of industrial accidents, Dr. Gopaul explained that while it is the aim of the ministry to be rid of industrial accidents, fortunately a mere 2.13% involved fatalities last year.

Some 28 applications were received from various unions for the provision of conciliatory services. All the

Minister of Labour, Dr Nanda Gopaul

matters under focus were resolved at that level, while one was referred to an arbitration tribunal which is currently in progress. It centers on a difference between the Guyana Sugar Corporation and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union over disciplinary action taken against an employee of the Skeldon Estate, he stated.

During 2014, the minis-

try participated in the number of international conferences and workshops.

There were the International Labour Conference (ILO) Conference in Geneva on May 28 to June 4, and the ILO 18th Regional Conference in Lima, Peru, during October 13-16. Additionally, the ministry held other administrative and technical discussions with the ILO Regional Office of Trinidad and Tobago.

Dr Gopaul noted that two outreaches were held in Mahdia and Lethem to sensitise employees to mandatory compliance for Labour, Safety & Health Laws. Training and inspections were also done.

The Ministry of Labour, Dr Gopaul empahasised, continues the fight to alleviate Child Labour by collaborating with the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Police Force in their truancy campaigns.

(Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 30, 2014

As of yesterday…

Rice exports total 499,872 tonnes GUYANA has exported more than 499,872 tons of rice, as of yesterday, according to Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy.

And he disclosed that several other shipments are still to be exported, placing the 500,000 tonnes export target in closer reach.

The actual export target for 2014 was 460,000 tons.“Other shipments are in the port for export. This means that we will attain another milestone, the first ever time that Guyana has exported 500,000 tons of rice in a single year ,” he said.

Dr. Ramsammy stated that the rice industry’s accomplishments have jettisoned the criticisms of several prominent members within the combined Opposition’s ranks.

“I recall several Opposition members criticizing me and urging me to curtain the expansion of production, because ‘we can’t sell so much rice’. But our position was that we stood ready to support our farmers and millers,” he said.

A rice shipment being readied for export

The Minister added that through Government’s support, the rice market is “ten times” what it was in 1990.

He blasted the combined Opposition, in particular A

Partnership for National Unity (APNU), for their continued criticisms of the industry, despite the exceptional performance which improved annually.

“APNU did not acknowledge and congratulate the industry, particularly the farmers, for attaining a milestone that many Opposition members once proclaimed to be impossible – achieving a production of more than 633,000 tonnes of rice for 2014. This production is more than 20 per cent above last year’s and more than 20 per cent above the 2014

target,” Dr. Ramsammy said.

He highlighted too that, as compared with the combined Opposition, the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has repeatedly congratulated and expressed its profound gratitude to the famers who invest massively in the rice industry and surpassed expectations and targets.

“Our farmers and millers have achieved way beyond what the Opposition and many of their friends thought was possible. In 2014, we (the PPP/C) again express our deepest gratitude to the rice farmers for the work they have done to continue the upward trajectory in production,” he concluded. . The export mark of 400,000 tonnes was surpassed in mid-October, excluding a number of contracts for rice exports that still had to be met. The 500,000 tonnes of rice was the 2020 target for production; however, in 2011, for the first time, the 400,000-tonne mark was passed and this was repeated in 2012 and 2013. With the new export markets secured in 2014, Guyana’s rice exports are expected to reach about 550,000 tonnes in 2015 The country currently has export agreements with several countries in the Caribbe-

Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

an, as well as with Venezuela and Panama, among others.

Also, arrangements for rice shipments to countries in West Africa are still being finalised.

The export in 2013 was 394,000 tonnes, from a production of 535,212 tonnes, which was far above the original target of 413,000 tonnes.

It is expected that someday Guyana will overcome the barrier to bring it in line with the world’s largest producers of rice. As such, focus is being placed on exploring new and emerging global markets, tackling the crucial and critical issues to facilitate increasing production.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 30, 2014

PPP fetes some 300 children

– at Anna Regina Freedom House Christmas party

THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) on Sunday held a colourful Christmas party for children of Region Two at its Freedom House office in Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast.

According to reports, some three hundred children from across the Pomeroon/ Supenaam area were feted at the party’s Freedom House office.

Reports said the children were given gifts by Santa Claus on behalf of the PPP. The children, who all anxiously awaited Santa Claus, became excited and screamed in delight as he came dancing into the building. Santa shook the hands of many children and lifted some and danced with them.

Region Two Chairman, Mr. Parmanand Persaud, welcomed the children to the

‘Santa Claus’ shares gifts at the PPP’s children’s party in Essequibo

party, urguing them to enjoy themselves, and informing them that they will get gifts from ‘Santa Claus’ on behalf of the PPP. MP Cornel Damon also spoke to the children and wished them well for the Christmas on behalf of the PPP.

Other leading members at the children’s party included Vice Chairman Mr Vishnu Samaroo, RDC Councillors Mr Brian Basil Persaud, Omesh Oditt, Shanta Springer and Juliet Coonjah and PPP member Daneshwar Gangoo. (Rajendra Prabhulall)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 30, 2014

2014: A year of many challe THE year 2014 can be best described as a mixed one of many challenges, and one, in which historical events occurred. The mettle of Government was tested, but the PPP/C Administration persevered to bring goods and services to Guyanese, amidst a tense political climate.

Despite the challenges experienced, Government’s determination resulted in the country experiencing yet another year of economic growth, as new opportunities were created, bringing further improvement to the lives of Guyanese.

PARLIAMENT & PROROGATION

One of the biggest and historical events for 2014 was the President’s Proclamation on November 10, to Prorogue the 10th Parliament. According to the President, his decision was in keeping with the constitution, and having been confronted with a No-Confidence Motion from the Joint Opposition.

Following the President’s decision, Opposition Leader David Granger later declined to engage in meaningful dialogue with the President, forcing him to announce that elections will be called early 2015, as he did not intend to dampen the Christmas spirit, with matters surrounding polling.

And, as has been the norm over the past three years, with the new political dispensation in the National Assembly, the Combined Opposition, using their one seat majority, cut a large portion of the 2014 Budget. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, on March 25, delivered to the National Assembly, a well themed budget: ‘A better Guyana for all Guyanese’. It was a record breaking National Budget of $220B. However, quite unjustifiably, it was subjected to the largest cut; it was reduced by $37.46B by the Joint Opposition. Government, acting within constitutional parameters restored some of the money, and thankfully, there has been some amount of progress in the country.

The cuts affected key transformational projects such as the Amaila Falls Hydro, the Specialty Hospital, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion, airstrips maintenance across the country, and Amerindian development, as the entire capital programme was cut from the Amerindian Affairs Ministry.

AML/CFT

One of the highpoints of 2014 was the political Opposition’s obduracy with regard to its lack of support on the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill.

This drew sharp criticism from a wide cross section of local and international stakeholders, and despite entreaties by officials of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), who travelled to Guyana for meetings with both sides of the National Assembly, the political Opposition refused to support the bill. This came despite Government’s numerous efforts to reach consensus, to enable the critically needed legislation’s passage to prevent Guyana from being blacklisted.

However, Government persisted and put in place all the non-legislative aspects, and following a high level commitment

by President Donald Ramotar to implement the action plan developed between the Guyana Government and the International Cooperation Review Group (ICRG), Guyana was granted a reprieve from blacklisting until September 2015.

Amidst these tense situations, the Ministry of Education did remarkable work, in carrying out its mandate. The Hinterland Education Improvement Project (HEIP) was launched in several hinterland regions. Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, accompanied by officials of the ministry, met with residents and addressed how the results could be bettered. The HEIP targets improving the quality of teacher education; aligning teaching-learning resources to improve students’ outcome; enhancing physical facilities; fostering community alliances; and strengthening management supervision.

A major highlight of the sector in 2014 has been the distribution of the ‘Because We Care’ $10,000 cash grant. The consensus was that Government did an excellent job, having launched this initiative which saw parents with children in the public education system receiving $10,000 for each child.

The initiative was introduced to assist parents to ensure their children attend and stay in school.

During 2014, several schools were built, in keeping with the PPP/C Administration’s belief that education is the only sure way out of poverty. Paramakatoi, Region 8, benefited from a Primary School, which was built at a cost of $80.5M, while works continued on the $780M, Kato Secondary School Complex. In Linden, Region Ten works were almost completed on the $170M One Mile Primary School, while extension works were carried out on St. Agnes Primary and L’Venture Secondary had a section that was gutted by fire rebuilt.

Even more evident also is that Government’s investments are paying off as Guyana again secured the regional award for top performance at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, thanks to Elisa Hamilton.

Hamilton, of Queen’s College (QC) won the award for Most Outstanding Candidate in the region after she copped 19 Grade Ones and 1 Grade Two. Aliyyah Abdul Kadir and Ryhan Chand, also of QC, took top regional awards for Most Outstanding in Humanities and Most Outstanding in Business Studies respectively while Kishan Crichlow of the New Amsterdam Multilateral School was awarded the Most Outstanding Student in Technical Vocational studies.

AGRICULTURE SECTOR – A SHINING STAR

Meanwhile, in the agriculture sector the Subject Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, said his sector will have the highest average Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contribution, and its growth for 2014 will exceed 5%.

Every sector under this ministry accounted for more than

HEALTH CARE DELIVERY UPPED

Neonatal Care Unit at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

Notwithstanding the challenges thrown in its path, the major one being no funding for the Specialty Hospital, the health sector continued to improve on its delivery of health care.

The maternity facility at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) was expanded to ensure increased bed capacity while maternity waiting homes in Lethem and Bartica were set up, to cater for ante-natal high-risk mothers as Government continues to work towards achieving the United Nations Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5 in 2015. Several modern neo-natal units were established as well at the Linden, Suddie, New Amsterdam hospitals and at the GPHC. While Guyana was affected with the Chikungunya disease, it was not of the magnitude as that experienced by other Caribbean states due to the fact that the ministry was putting necessary measures in place to safeguard its citizens. The ministry managed to provide training for medical personnel, while they were able to acquire the Elisa Testing kits to accurately detect the virus.

Also, Guyana was more prepared for the eventuality of the deadly Ebola virus; an isolation unit was set up at the CJIA, with local persons receiving training to deal with the likelihood of any possible cases.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

EDUCATION SUCCESS Rice being loaded for export to Venezuela

President Donald Ramotar and Education Minister Priya Manickchand with a Region One resident and her two children after they had received the Government’s $10,000 cash grant

and Number 19 Village, Rose Hall, Number 56 Village and Canje in Region Six.

half a billion dollars in export earnings, with rice earning more than US$250 million. However, most outstanding was the rice sector, which broke two records for 2014. Production reached an unprecedented, record breaking 633,000 tonnes. And by 29 December, 499,872 tonnes were exported with more shipments at the ports for export; heading to the 500,000 tonnes that the minister projected would be achieved.

Aiding this achievement was the new rice agreement signed with Panama, to supply 5,000 tonnes per month to that country.

Sugar also surpassed its target of 216,000 tonnes. This was the first time since 2005, the set target was achieved.

Drainage and irrigation capacity was further boosted as the East Demerara Water Conservancy’s Hope Canal Project was close to completion as the year’s end approached. New pump stations were operationalised at Three Friends in Region Two, Windsor Forest, Patentia, and Canal Polder One in Region Three, Paradise in Region Four, Pine Ground in Region Five,

Amerindian Youths protesting Opposition’s cut to the 2014 National Budget which hampered their development

Meanwhile, 248 students graduated from the Kuru Kuru Training Centre (KKTC) in 10 different skill areas, while the non-residential programmes at Sophia Training Centre, and Vryman’s Erven, and New Opportunity Corps (NOC) also continued to provide opportunities for the nation’s youth.

The President’s Youth Award: Republic of Guyana (PYARG) saw 1500 youth qualifying for expeditions and 682 completing the award while capacity building workshops were held for 25 youth organisations across the country and volunteering programmes launched in 10 city schools. For the first time, the ministry hosted a Youth Award in which 36 young people received various awards of excellence.

The Synthetic athletic track’s surface was laid and international athlete Kristi Castlin paid a visit to the track at Leonora.

The warm-up pool at the aquatic centre was close to completion in December.

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 30, 2014

enges and some successes $1B NATIONAL CLEAN-UP

A cleaned Le Repentir Cemetery

The $1B which was allocated in the 2014 National Budget for the ‘Clean-up My Country’ initiative, $500M of which was for the City, was welcomed and appreciated by all.

This project was almost completed in the city as the year came to a close, with focus on Le Repentir Cemetery, the main drainage canals and communities. Guyana needed this as years of mis-management, by the incumbent Mayor and City Council led to a decadent and filthy city.

Clean-up activities were also done in other administrative regions.

AGGRESSIVE TOURISM STRATEGY

In 2014, the Tourism sector saw great strides in promoting Guyana, as a prime tourist destination, through a series of activities including the inaugural Guyana Festival. This event offered a mixture of the country’s traditional music, dance, food, art and craft and served to bring awareness of Guyana’s diverse cultural heritage, and generally the nature of its tourism product locally, regionally and internationally.

Guyana’s image as a yachting destination was bolstered when the second Nereid rally arrived in the Essequibo River bringing a diverse group of yachters.

The annual Pakaraima Safari and the second South Rupununi safari, created great opportunities for the local promotion of the country’s tourism product and opened up new avenues for additional markets.

Then there were the launch of ‘Homecoming Guyana’ targeting the return of Guyanese from the Diaspora, and the rebranding of Destination Guyana – ‘Guyana South America Undiscovered’.

INFRASTRUCTURE

President Donald Ramotar listens keenly as Housing Minister Irfaan Ali makes a point at the Perseverance Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara. Also in photo is Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh

well as in other regions were redone under the Community Road Improvement Project (CRIP).

Focus during the year was also on advancing the turn key homes, and opening up of new opportunities, as well as improving occupancy and building the assets of Guyanese. The first ever ‘young professional’ project was a major success and remains in high demand. The ministry completed more than 100 of the Perseverance Housing Scheme 1000 Butter Cup cottages.

The ministry has also closed in on its targets of offering 5,900 houselot allocations and 5000 new titles.

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, with its mandate of providing services to those sections of society that are affected by poor socio-economic circumstances, relocated 30 persons from the Night Shelter in Georgetown, to the Hugo Chavez Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration at Onverwagt, Region Five.

Over 42,500 pensioners benefited from an increase, which upped their monthly grant to $13,125.

Senior citizens also benefited from Government’s electricity subsidy of $30,000 per year.

Ninety-seven women were granted loans under the Women of Worth (WoW) micro-credit initiative, to support income generating activities, while the ministry collaborated with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in a series of awareness campaigns in hinterland communities, especially in the mining areas on trafficking in Persons ( TIP). Awareness programmes were also done in 30 schools. There were more than a dozen cases of TIP reported for 2014.

INVESTMENT

The new Republic Bank Branch at D’ Edward Village, WCB

2014 also saw some massive infrastructural works being carried out throughout the country, including roads and bridges.

Between Diamond and Eccles on the East Bank of Demerara, 11 new interconnecting roads were built to the tune of more than $3B. There was significant progress on the East Bank four-lane highway, as well as on the East Coast highway, as a total of $13.7B was allocated for same.

The way was paved for the US$46M West Coast road modernisation that will make that corridor safer, while the Linden to Lethem road was repaired, making travelling easier.

Guyana’s first five-star hotel, the Marriott was close to completion at the end of 2014, raising the country’s accommodation status.

The year 2014 started off well and at mid-year, Guyana recorded 3.2 percent growth. There continued to be investments and business expansion in Guyana resulting from the confidence that both local and international investors placed in the economy.

ExxonMobil, an American multinational oil and gas corporation, announced its intention to invest US$200M for exploratory drilling offshore in Guyana; Rubis commissioned five fuel storage tanks at Providence, doubling the company’s storage capacity.

In the mining sector, Guyana Goldfields Inc., a Canadian company began developing the Aurora Mines, located in the Cuyuni River, Region Seven. It intends to invest US$1B. Others include: Troy Resources, an Australian company investing US$86M in the Karouni Gold Project; China’s Bosai Mineral; Rusal-Russia aluminum giant; Arrowhead Gold Group and Alicanto Minerals.

In the agriculture sector, there are Barbados-owned Santa Fe Inc., which expanded and Alexis Rice and Soya, Henry’s Farm of Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean Rice Mill of Trinidad and

HOUSING

SECURITY AND JUSTICE

In 2014, $1.8B was allocated to the Justice Sector and much was achieved with that, including the commissioning of a new Linden Magistrate’s Court, and the commissioning of the Mediation Centre in Berbice.

Several laws were instituted and revised during the year. The Customs Act was amended in order to remove from it a discriminatory element which would have made citizens compliant with Guyana’s treaty obligations under the Treaty of Chaguaramas.

This would see the removal of barriers that are discriminatory from goods manufactured within the region that traded

CATERING FOR THE VULNERABLE

The new La Parfaite Harmonie access road

La Parfaite Harmonie, one of the largest housing schemes in Guyana, got a $604M access road, which now provides easy access for thousands of residents.

In addition to this, several other roads in Region Three as

Tobago, and Baron Foods, but more than any other sector, banking continues to express confidence in the Guyana economy and has been establishing new branches at strategic points across the country. The most recent was the Republic Bank branch, which was opened at D’Edward Village, West Coast Berbice, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry which was commissioned in Bartica, and Citizens Bank in New Amsterdam Berbice.

UNICOMER, the parent company of Courts, expanded its operation in Guyana at Eccles Industrial Site, East Bank Demerara while the Caribbean’s largest conglomerate, formerly Neal and Massy, now Massy, invested US$10M at its new location at Montrose, East Coast Demerara.

Newly constructed Linden Magistrate's Court

inter-regionally. This was however rejected by the joint Opposition resulting in Guyana having to pay a Surinamese company US$6M, a cost awarded by the Caribbean Court of Justice.

The Education Bill has already been tabled while the comprehensive Hire-purchase Bill is intended to correct a lot of laws where there are none.

Other Bills in the pipeline include the Whistle Blowing Legislation, the Act of Terrorism Bill and the E-governance Bill among others waiting to be tabled.

Training and Capacity building were also high on the judicial agenda for 2014, as sitting magistrates and judges were given the opportunity to participate in training programmes to sharpen their skills.

Meanwhile, for the security sector, the Force moved closer towards its goal of developing a professional unit, capable of

The Guyana Forensic Laboratory

adapting to modern trends of crime. To this end, 26 carefully handpicked officers completed two rounds of training, and thereby becoming the country’s first formalised Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit.

Several other persons from the Force were beneficiaries of overseas training in different areas of law enforcement during the year.

The Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory is the latest of a series of national developmental projects brought into fruition, after significant investments and a strong political resolve by the PPP/C Administration, to enhance the country’s capacity, to better address issues of security and crime fighting. This $1.049B edifice came on stream in July of 2014.The lab is intended to enhance the investigative capacity of the local law enforcement in crime and the prosecution of offenders, by providing quality, scientific evidence and expert testimony. (A GINA Feature)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Miss World 2014 to visit Guyana

Miss world 2014 Rolene Strauss

MISS World 2014, Rolene Strauss, of South Africa; Chairman of the Miss World Organisation, Julia Morley and a team are expected to visit Guyana early in the new year.

The main objective of the visit is to advance projects related to the prevention of Domestic Violence in Guyana by providing critical fund-

ing for various initiatives established to end the scourge.

By being one of the top winners in the ‘Beauty With a Purpose’ segment of the Miss World competition, Miss Guyana World, Rafieya Husain, managed to arrange a visit of the team to Guyana.

For this competition, contestants were judged

Miss world 2014 Rolene Strauss

on the basis of the value they have added to society and for the first time ever, there was not one but five winners declared. These are Guyana, Indonesia, India, Brazil and Kenya, outshining some 117 other beauties from across the globe.

The Anna Regina, Essequibo-born Miss Husain grew up in Georgetown, before relocating to the United States at age 11. She is currently a third-year Business Administration student.

H u s a i n ’s p l a t f o r m for the competition was domestic violence, and she has been working to highlight the scourge, bringing awareness to people about the implications domestic violence victims face.

She revealed that she was once a victim of domestic violence, which motivated her to take an active stand against the societal scourge.

In October, Husain commissioned a $3M Outreach Centre in Three Friends Village,

Essequibo Coast, Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam) to aid the fight against domestic violence.

In the same month, Husain visited several secondary schools in Georgetown, where she spread awareness about the dangers of teen dating violence (TDV), which is also part of her ‘Shatter the Silence’ campaign.

The beauty queen, through several fund-raising events, raised some $4M, a portion of which went to spreading cheer to children at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

A donation was also made to the Guyana Red Cross and Guyana Help and Shelter organisation.

She also secured a plot of land in Region 2 and renovated a building in the area to create an outreach centre i n t e n d e d t o p ro v i d e a d v o c a c y, e d u c a t i o n and preventative measures to help families and communities live in harmony, and ultimately end domestic abuse.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

West Bank contractor commits suicide

House of Vidaddat Jhansari

- was reportedly experiencing financial/domestic problems

By Michel Outridge

CONTRACTOR Vidaddat Jhansari, 59, of Lot 54 Old Road, Nismes, West Bank Demerara, ended his life on Monday night by shooting himself in the head with his licensed .32 pistol while seated in his parked vehicle on the Pouderoyen Public Road, West Bank Demerara.

Police Commander of ‘D’ Division, Ian Amsterdam, told this publication that the incident occurred around 23:00 hrs and according to their investigations, financial/domestic problems contributed to the suicide.

The man lived alone and his apartment was locked yesterday. Neighbours said he was hardly ever at home and he had never spoken much, except the exchange of normal pleasantries such as “Good Morning.”

Jhansari’s wife resides at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, and it was reported that the couple had a ‘row’ prior to him taking his life.

Additionally, the man was reportedly seen drinking at two DEAD: Vidaddat Jhansari bars before the incident.

The proprietor of one of the two bars said he was at his place of business (New Edition Bar) and saw Jhansari drinking a few beers with another man, but he left to go to the city and upon his return learnt of the incident.

He reported that Jhansari usually frequents his place and was shocked at the way he ended his life, since he seemed to be a “like-minded” individual.

Reports said the man was also at the bar next door where he had consumed liquor before going to the other bar which is located at Lot 26 Public Road, Pouderoyen.

It was there that he entered his vehicle , took out his pistol and pulled the trigger.

Jhansari’s vehicle at the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Station compound yesterday

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

Guyana managed to build numerous partnerships in 2014 …and hopes to create new ones and strengthen old ones in 2015, says Foreign Minister Rodrigues-Birkett

By Navendra Seoraj

GUYANA created several stepping stones in 2014 by creating new partnerships with several countries across the globe, and also worked towards developing the existing ones, in turn recording a successful 2014 with its diplomatic relations.

This was expressed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett at a recent end-of-year press conference.

The Foreign Affairs Minister disclosed that Guyana gained assistance in carrying out many of its operations throughout the year from various countries across the globe, and was also able to render assistance to some countries in the Caribbean.

She noted that recently Guyana created a linkage with Turkey, and received assistance in the Health, Education and the Agriculture sectors.

“This is a major step for Guyana, because Turkey sits in the G20 meeting, making it one of the more recognised countries in the world; this ensures that Turkey has the Foreign Affairs Minister ability to advocate for small countries,” the minister told Carolyn reporters.

Rodrigues-Birkett HEALTH SECTOR Cuba has also contributed to the development of Guyana’s health sector, when they recently constructed a center for persons with disabilities under the CARICOM/Cuba Programme.

Apart from Turkey, Guyana’s health sector recently received support from Georgia, when a team of medical practitioners came to train and support Guyanese doctors in their various fields of medical practice.

Guyana has also acquired perpetual assistance from Chinese in its health sector, and also recently acquired laptops which will be given out to most of the communities in the Hinterland regions.

AGRICULTURE SECTOR Meanwhile, Guyana has increased its export of rice to neighbouring Venezuela and has also secured markets for rice in Panama, and is currently exploring a market in Ghana.

Still on Agriculture, Minister Rodrigues-Birkett also noted that Guyana has made a significant increase in the exportation of sugar to neighbouring CARICOM countries, jumping to 15,990 tonnes in 2014 from under 10,000 tonnes in previous years.

The minister said Guyana continues to build bonds with other countries, and this is expected to increase in the New Year, with prospective visions for Guyana’s economy and Guyana as a whole.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

OP says efforts being made to authenticate integrity of recording THE Press and Publicity Unit of Office of the President said it has noted sections of the media reporting on what is purported to be a recording of an engagement between President Donald Ramotar and a hinterland resident three weeks ago.

Head of the Press & Publicity Unit, Mr. Kwame McCoy, said efforts are being made to authenticate the integrity of this recording.

In the meantime, the specific incident being referred to involves the hinterland resident who attempted to disrupt the President’s public meeting using invectives, insulting and disparaging language towards Former President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

“The tenor of the engagement represents the cut and trust of public meetings,” McCoy said in the OP statement.

“The highlighting of this incident some three weeks after it is alleged to have taken place smacks of desperation on the part of the political opposition and its media outfits, and is no

- purported to be an engagement between President Ramotar and a hinterland resident three weeks ago doubt an attempt to remain relevant particularly since Guyanese recently rejected the Opposition’s calls to disrupt the Christmas season,” McCoy said.

As the New Year beckons, particularly with General elections pending, McCoy said “we can expect many more such attempts at sensational reporting”.

For Wednesday December 31th, 2014: 13:00hrs For Thursday January 1st, 2015: 14:00hrs

Aries Today is an inspirational day for you, fast-thinking Aries. Let those visions come to you, process them, and try to verbalise them. A lot of information and electricity is in the air, and you should have no problem picking up on it.

Open up your channels for the best reception. Have a notepad handy to jot down all your insights.

Taurus You’re usually good at bringing people together. Your greatest strength is giving identity to those people who seek it. In fact, you’re so aware of the differences between people that you resist the changes that come about as people evolve. Today’s planetary alignment confronts you with issues that concern your future. Your position will help you accept things and go forward.

Gemini Some of you still let individuals from other Zodiac Signs do all the creating for you. The planetary configuration today pushes you to free yourself from the ties that bind you. It’s time for you to show more creativity. Show the gems that you usually hide. Express yourself fully, without hesitation. Show others who’s really in charge.

Cancer You are very interested in all kinds of professions that concern humans - medicine, psychology, or any kind of spiritual therapy. You will be very sensitive to the great opening toward the future that comes along today. The planetary alignment initiates progress in all areas of human existence. Keep your eyes and ears wide open.

Leo You may surprise the people around you over the next few days. You’re a responsible person and others can count on you. But just like anybody else, you’re sensitive to your desires. You should expect your desires to be so strong today that they may be irresistible. If this is a positive experience, you may need to do some planning in your personal life.

Virgo You may have to stand by certain difficult, worrisome decisions today. You may feel a kind of urgent need for stability in your personal life. What is really behind this feeling? Is it possible that you’re just afraid of your desire to put everything into question in order to make a fresh start? Today you may find the answer to this question. Stay tuned.

Libra Do you help the world evolve? You may ask yourself this kind of delicate question today. Even if you’re a person of action who knows how to react to situations, you should be careful not to be too impulsive. You have a specific role to play. Don’t get thrown off track by emotional circumstances.

Scorpio You may have a tendency to be overprotective of the people closest to you, especially children. You may feel you live in a dangerous world in which people don’t care about responsibility to one another. But the people you’re trying to protect are probably better prepared and adapted to the world than you think. They might try to tell you this even if your support is indispensable.

Sagittarius You probably need society’s or other people’s approval in order to feel good about yourself. But your original personality and way of thinking are often hard for others to accept. You may need to make your ideas less crazy and a little more down to Earth and practical. This should be your goal over the next few days if you don’t want to feel left out of things.

Capricorn The events of the day depend on your ability to put things into question today. In general, you’re good at analysing situations when things aren’t going well in your relationships. Now someone in your family may have a problem acting responsibly. It’s up to that person to take care of things, but you could understand the message the person is trying to send other people with his or her behaviour.

Aquarius The planetary aspects are going to have a big impact on you today. This isn’t the time to fear the future. Rather, it’s a time to make it happen. The action you take right now will be instrumental in your future. Will there be enough of us walking toward the future? Aquarius will be at the head of the pack in any case, as always.

Pisces People are more alike than we think, especially on days like today that mean virtually the same thing to everyone. Some incredible changes have taken place in the world and its economic and social systems. Now is the time to think about what the next few years have in store. Do you have any ideas?

Try to articulate them.

22 22

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EDUCATIONAL

e d uc a t i o n a l

 1-6 private lessons in all the subject areas including Spanish. Call 6294497, 645-5819 for more information.     Sup p o r t worker/caregiver (to l i v e and work in Canada under the Canadian live in care giver Program). Care for the E l d e r l y, c a r e for the Ch i l dren, First Aid and CP R .  Guyana Training College 2274 8 8 1 . A r e g i s t e r e d i n stituti o n with the Ministry of E du c a t i o n Acc r e d i t ation Council.                

LEARN TO DRIVE  Driving School - 2 Croal Street, Stabroek; enjoy 20% discount - Tel: 2273869, 227-3835, 622-8162, 644-7052.                   



   Pursuant to the constitution of the Demerara Cricket Board, Notice is hereby given TO ALL MEMBER S t h a t t h e A N N U A L GENERAL MEETING of the DEMERARA CRICKET BOARD will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 10:00hrs at the Guyana Cricket Board Boardroom. Agenda: Prayers, Opening Remarks: Reports from Area Associations, Report of the Executive Committee, Audited Financial Statement 2014, Motions, Any Other Business, Election of Office Bearers, SUDESH PERSAUD, Assistant Secretary. s e r v i cSERVICES e -free concession services. Contact 615-5734, 616-5914.  repairs, DVD, microwave, amplifier, stereo, washers etc. Call 693-2683.  Care for the sick & elderly; wound care and more. 6218223.  you have a property to rent or looking to rent? Then we have the clients. Call 220-8596, 610-7998, 6861091.  online shopping & sales shop, ship, receive - 592-6610828 - Pin 7EFA4AD9.  efficient repairs - washing machines, refrigerators, gas stoves, etc. - Telephone 609-8550, 694-1778, 227-0060 Freezezone Enterprises.  pressure washing service. We pressure wash homes, yards, fences, carpets. Call Kevin Blyden 696-5424.  selling, renting property or land? Contact Zinctop Homes Realty. Tel: 231-4041, 684-2244, 51 Fourth Street, Alberttown www.zinctophomes.com .  Village Couture, 288 Middle & s. Tel: 225-1272. Just arrived, designer clothing, sheet sets, jewellery & fragrances. services available for small and big jobs or emergency work. Over 20 years experience. Call Troy Yearwood. Tel: 622-5434, 6873863.

 service - dhal puri, channa, phoulorie, macaroni and cheese, cakes - sponge, fruit, black, and icing made to order - Call 625-5951 / 669-1615.

SELF INK & RUBBER STAMP ON THE SPOT TROPHY STALL BOURA MARKET, TROPHY STALL CITY MALL, TROPHY STALL 241 SOUTH ROAD & BOURDA STREETS. EMAIL: trophystall@hotmail.com      Visa Service. Professional Visa applications to the US and Canada. Fees USA VISA $3000, Canada $4000, Plaza Computer Service, 245 Sheriff Street, C/ville. 225-7 3 9 0 , 6 1 8 0 1 2 8 , 688-1874. Open Monday to Sunday 09:00hrs 21:00hrs  worker needs work, have own scaffold and all power tools, renovations, carpentry, masonry, plumbing, electrical, painting, tiling, power washing etc. Call 6 1 7 - 9 5 0 7 , 220-7899.  efficient, prompt and reliable service and repairs: r efrigerators, washing machines, gas stoves, AC units and clothes dryers, tel: 266-1047, 6959298 Intercool Enterprises 108 Grove, Scheme, E.B.D.                                                                                                 all general cons t r u c t i on, contact Mohamed.

Specialised carpentry, masonry, plumbing, power-wash, painting, troweltex, varnishing. Call 2330591, 667-6644, (o ffice), 2163120.

Spirituality

SPIRITUALITY

 spiritual hel p i n removing evil spirit, bad lucks, evil sickness, spells, reuniting lovers, bring ing prosperity to busi nesses etc. Tel: 612-6417, 220-0708, 6 8 7 - 5 6 5 3 .        reading, other works done. For fast results - reuniting lovers, removing evil and a ll b l o c k a g e s , e t c . C a l l 696-8873, 673-1166.  Spiritualist: resolving all problems, blockage, love, and money, etc Tele: 223-6834, 600-7719. works done to bring peace, finance, success, enhanc e p r o s p e r i t y, r e m o v e evil, blockage, reunite families, lovers, etc. 610-7234, 644-0058.  work done in S u r i n a me! Love, marriage, sickness, pregnancy, remove evil, prosperity, business, readings.

Call 674-8603, 597-851-9876.       - a high science spiritual healer, solves all purpose problems, such as reuniting lovers, h u s b a n d , w i f e , m a r riage, b l o c k a g e , p r o s p e r i t y, p r e g nancy, overseas, court, land, removal of evil, enemy, j o b s , money, bad luck, visa, sickness, clearing of land dredge operation, etc. Tel: 671-3204.

    of Non-Stop Fun! Come experience Suriname's rich heritage, their indoor beauty and vibrant culture this and every weekend. Call us: 226-4001/ 2 2 5 2 7 8 0 Email:marketing@kanukusuites.com W e b s i t e : www.kanukusuites.com

VACANCY

VACANCY

 male sales clerk and one male night . Contact 2258205.             Guards and Cleaners for apartment complex. Call: 222-6681.  Able to work flexible hours and has CXC Maths. Send application to jobs@awngy.com ..  operator/manager. Carnegie graduate could be an asset, attractive salary.

Contact: 687-7473, 662-4535. . Licence must have lorry, between ages 2 5 and 45. Apply May's Shopping Centre, 98 Regent Street.   to install outdoor antenna, must have driver's licence. Send application to jobs@awngy.com.  Carnegie training or grilling experience would be an asset. Call 600-7388, 225-7933 or visit us at 174 Sheriff Street.  ComputerSavvy Secretary, send e-mail t o tonyreidsrealty@hotmail.com., Tel. 225-3068.  exist for Front Desk Clerk - apply in person with w r i t t e n a p p l i c a t i o n t o : T h e M a n a g e r, R e g e n c y S u i t es/Hotel, 98 Hadfield Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown.     O p e r a t o r for interior location. Applicants must be experienced with verifiable reference. Beginners need not apply. Call 618-2020.  experienced hauler driver. Apply in person with a valid licence to Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling, Stabroek.  Cruise Lines: Waiters, waitresses, cooks, cleaners, receptionists, electricians, carpenters etc. Professional R e c r u i t m e n t A g e n c y, C o n tact 231-6296, 650-9880.                        for interior location. Applicants must be experienced with verifiable references. Beginners need not apply. Cal l 6 1 8-2020.  experienced security guard for night duties 25 to 50 years old. Contact Sharon's B u i l d i n g 2 n d f l o o r, K i n g & Charlotte Street, Georgetown.

Tel: 671-8883.  worker age 30-40 years, baby-sitter age 30-40 years, must have secondary education, Police Clearance. Contact 609-0939.

VACANCY         e x i s t f o r pump attendants, sales representatives and supervisors - Contact: 226-4459, Steve's Service Station, Rubis, Vlissengen Road - Apply with written application, passport size photo, 1 reference, police clearance .  driver to travel in and out of interior. Applicants must be experienced with verifiable references. Beginners need not apply. Call 618-2020.  for interior location must know to cook and bake variety of items, strictly nonsmoker. Applicants must be experienced with verifiable references and must be at least 40 years old. Others need not apply. Call 618-2020.  Office Manager: Requirements - 5 subjects CXC including Maths and English working knowledge of MS Office, Daceasy plus 2 years working experience. Management skills is a plus. Apply at LENS 8 S h e riff Street, Georgetown, Tel : 2 2 7 - 0 1 7 6 , 2 2 6 - 5 8 4 2 .  must have 3 CXC subjects, English inclusive, to care for a 5-month-old, any Childcare certificates would be an asset, age 25-40 years, Police Clearance required.

615-6593, 675-7030.  for one experienced manager to manage a distribution firm with multiple branches. Must be versed in accounting and computer. Must have the ability to coordinate employees in different locations. Interested persons, apply with handwritten application along with a CV to Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling. Salary will be commensurate with experience.  Inc. is seeking a smart and creative female between the ages of 21 and 38 to join our team. Duties include assisting in the daily growth and development of the company.

Quickbooks knowledge is required, strong handwriting and oral skills essential. Provide administrative support such as daily emails, internet research; perfect for university students 09:00hrs to 17:00hrs or 17:00hrs to 22:00hrs.

Some one who can think outside the box. Submit resumé to nytech18@aol.com or call 6718883. Driver.s licence would be an asset.  female Office Clerk, must have passes in Maths & Accounts. Must have 3 years working experience. Apply in person with a written application to Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling.  For Fema l e Sales/Accounts Clerk. Applications are invited from suitably qualified p e r s o n s t o f i l l t h e post of            Clerk within a reputable P r i v a t e C o m p a n y. T h e successful applicant should possess the f o l l o w i n g c o m p e t e n c i e s and qualifications: At least three ye a r s experi ence in the sale of Food and Cleaning products. Have good communic a tion skills and be proactive to d e a l w i t h c u s t o m e r s a t varying levels. Be able to meet to work in an independent and fast paced environment. Please address all applications to:Direc t o r , P.Ramroop & Sons, Lot 5 'R' 2 Kersaint Park, L . B . I , E a s t Coast Demerara. Tel no. 2203442 or 220 -3479

VACANCY  Pharmacist to work in the Mayaro District, Trinidad and Tobago. Qualification/BSC in Pharmacy. Must be registered with the Pharmacy B o a r d o f Trinidad and Tobago. Job Description - 1. Provide exceptional customer service. 2. Provide health care advice and support. 3. Educate customers on health promotion, disease prevention and the proper use of medicine. 4. Must be able to supervise Pharmacy technicians and clerical staff, 5. Manage and maintain adequate stock levels.

6. Must have strong leadership and interpersonal skills. Remuneration package: Remuneration package will be based on qualifications and experience. Housing and travelling allowances will be taken into consideration. Please send application via e-mail to mayaro.vacancy@gmail.com or call Mrs Nelisha Paray 689-1983.

LAND FOR SALE Land For Sale  land in Forshaw Street, Queenstown. Enquiries, call 694-9262.  house lot: Belle West Plantation, $1.6M - 618-2317 Must sell.  No.2, 138ft. x 1722 ft. - $15M. Phone 227773 4. Creek: river front, 5 acres - $5M. Tel: 600-3171, 6483171.  Guards and Cleaners for apartment complex. Call: 222-6681.   land with house $15M, 1 acre with house $2.5M, Hague, Tel: 269-0534, 675-6401.  New Scheme with concrete fence $9.5M, $4.5M, Herstelling $4.5M Riverside, Pearl EBD Tel: 688-3873.  ACRES prime agricultural, transported land situated at Hogg Island riverside C o n t a c t 2 2 7 - 0 5 7 5 , 68 8 9731, 227-0613.      $4.5M, Mon Repos $5.8M, Lusignan $4.5M, Annandale $5.3M - Troy 626 2 2 4 3 , 6 9 4 - 3 6 52.  Road La Penitence land s i z e 1 4 0 x 6 0 $ 1 7 M , Phone Vice President 231-2064, 225-3 0 6 8 , 2 2 7 - 6 8 6 3 , 2 2 6 1 0 6 4 , 2 2 7 - 6 9 4 9, 225-2 6 26.  Public R o a d , WCD 38x150, 39x150 $16M each, Back Street, Unity, La Grange WBD 85x750 - $16M Call: 666-3619.   blocks in Potaro, 1200 acres $35M & 483 acres $26.5M. Precious minerals, gold & diamond. Contact owners 6 7 6 7 4 0 5 , 6 8 8-6946.  Street - welld e v e l o p e d , fully fenced land measuring 100 feet x 62 feet next to Scotia Bank - $150M. Serious enquiries only - Call 227-5407, 658-2686.  - $3M, Diamond $8M, Annandale ECD $5M, 30 acres s a n d p i t o n L i n d e n Highway $15M, 140 acres with mining permit $40M, Eccles $50M. Tel: 2253737, 225-4398, 651-7078.  lots, barter agreements accepted, Triumph, East Coast Demerara, sea wall Atlantic view. 6 2 4 7 111 , 6 2 2 - 7 0 9 7 , 2 2 0 - 2 1 3 0 / 2254.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2014 GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014 LAND FOR SALE

TO LET

TO LET

  , LOT 185 CHARLOTTE & KING STREE T S , M A R A J BUILDING - TEL: 227-0265, 227-1881, 627-8057 - Land: Hadfield Street - South, Friendship land size 115x450 (wharf side), Non Pareil.

        place Unity Mahaica Contact Bevan: 2593027, 615-3548.

 3-bedroom upper flat $100 000, 3-bedroom bottom flat $75 000, AC, semifurnished. Tel: 603-4646 after 16:00hrs.

  farm land in Craig, Buzz-a-Bee ideal for housing and gated community. Housing being developed back of Grove/Diamond across trench. Asking $10M. Call 664-4131, 601-1867.   Harmonie $1.2M, $1.4M & $3.5M (100ft x 50ft), Eccles $4.5M, Providence $4.5M, Herstelling $4.5M, Cornelia Ida $3M, Uitvlugt $3M, New Zeelugt Scheme $2.5M (100ft.x50ft.). Call 677-7095.  business land 125x50 neg., in Smyth Street opposite Jumbo Jet. Valuation $85M Asking price $75M, 3% refund on a g e n t c o m mission earned. Call Lord and Harold Anthony Reid's Realty 6270288, 667-7812, 225-3068, 225-2626, 231-2864, 2255198, 225-2709, 669-3350, 226-1064, 227-6949, 646-1712.  invite you to purc h a se the foll o w ing land for b o n d , Chandra & Gange 125x120 corner lot $65M, William Street, Kitty 120x45 for bond, Gange 125x62 in Prashad Nagar for bond. Phone Mr Boodram 692-3831, Mr Pereira 623-2591, 669-0 9 4 3 , 2 2 6 - 1 0 6 4 , L a d y H e r c u l e s 225-3 0 6 8 , 2 2 5 2626, 2 2 5 - 5 1 98, 225-2 7 0 9 .  away land East and Quamina Streets corner 120x100 - US$1.7M neg., Hadfield Street opposite new expected GGMC $115M, South Road close to Wellington Street 30x112 $65M, Newtown 75x32 $14.9M, William Street 114x45 $28M, Prashad Nagar $26M, 125x62 Blygezight box 80x75 $ 3 2 M , P h o n e M r Boodram 692-3831, 225-2626, Mr Pereira 225-3068, 225-3068, 226-1062.

TO LET TO LET  bottom flat $70 000 monthly. C a l l 2 2 5 0382.          t o s h a r e with student. Call: 621-8223. -bedroom apartment in Hadfield Street. Price $40 000.

Tel: 692-2521.  2-bedroom bottom flat - Call 624-0777 after 5 pm.  bottom flat business spot on South Road.

Call 227-1845.  chicken farm, cheap electricity and water. Call: 444-6589, 444-6597, 694-1888.  furnished apartment, air-conditioned, one-bedroom.

Tel: 623-2923.  Street 2-bedroom bottom flat. Tel: 226-3430.  two- and one-bedroom apartments.- Contact 6922016, 650-0892.  flat suitable for school, church, salon, etc. in Cummings Street - Tel: 233-2692.  business place, Sheriff Street, 2 and 3 floor for offices. Contact 627-6740.  bedroom apartment with 2 bathrooms in Charlestown.

Contact 600-6364. bedroom apartment, single or couple preferred.

Contact 612-8305, 223-2742.  & unfurnished two-bedroom apartments, business space. Call: 621-5282.  Park - unfurnished 2 bedroom bottom f l a t . $55,000. Contact 614-0166, 601-6639  3 Bedroom apartment, Eccles, E.B.D. Contact: 6727756 or 694-3421

 place at Montrose Public Road ECD. Tel: 616-6972.  space - 2500 sq. ft, Lamaha & Carmichael Streets.

Call 225-8915 (office).     -built three-bedroom upper flat apartment, in Grove $80 000 monthly. 6424429, 639-8056, 671-3237, 675-8578.   3-bedroom available in South, Kitty and Industry, fully furnished $160 000 and $80 000 - 684-6266.  1-bedroom apartment furnished phone and grille $60 000. Tel: 622-8109.  2-bedroom apartment, Eccles Public Road, EBD, $40 000 monthly -Contact: 641-3595.  Regent Street top flat, business/office space. Tel: 618-3635.  Street, Kitty: Fully furnished one- and two-bedroom apartment from US$20 daily. 2275852, 638-4404.   property in Eccles, high income area, with all mondern amenities. Contact 677-3350/603-4751.  newly built two-bedroom apartment in a safe environment, perfect location - Contact: 698-6496.  apartment, reasonable price, water, light, etc., New Market Street, Georgetown - Tel: 2274422, 683-7410.  concrete cottage, in yard by itself, Block 8 Mon Repos, ECD. Price $40 000 neg.

Tel: 643-5797, 231-7568.  houses/apartments and commercial spaces and 3 storey Building to rent. Call: 216-3120, 6676644.  rentals: Rooms and apartment, AC, $8 000, fans $5 000 and $4 000 at Julian's Guest House. 638-4505, 679-4352.  at Rahaman's Park opposite Vieira $35 000 plus onebedroom for 1 or 2 persons $10 000 monthly. Contact 673-0826.  bus i n e s s / o f f i c e space (10ft x 3.5ft) at 15 Henry Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown - $15 000 monthly. Call 610-7770, 668-6018.  furnished apartment, AC, internet, hot and cold shower, US$25 daily. No private calls 231-6061, 621-1524.  two-bedroom apartment situated at 55A Station Street, Kitty, Greater Georgetown. Tel: 2276662, 654-0382, 643-3061.  flat 238 Quamina Street, South Cummingsburg.

Nice for office, internet café, salon etc. Call 678-0303.  business space, former pharmacy in Wortmanville area, fully shelved and secured, glass cases included. Available from January 1, 2015. Tel: 231-6982, 691-5547. -bedroom furnished apartment, bottom flat /building, fully grilled Lot 1 Station Street, Kitty US$500. 227-6046, 621-7519.  for rent newly renovated (2) two-bedroom apartment situated at 136 Fifth Street, Alberttown - Tel: 664-0829.  Furnished one-bedroom self-contained apartment with parking. Contact: K. Raghubir. Tel: 642-0636, 677-8176.   building in New Herstelling Housing Scheme, EBD, 4th bridge on the right, Call 222-4933, 644-1712.     apartment in Parafaite Harmony West Bank Demerara. $18,000 monthly. C a l l : 6 9 4 7817/668-030

 flat 238 Quamina Street, South Cummingsburg.

Nice for office, internet café, salon etc. Call 678-0303.  concrete cottage, in yard by itself, Block 8 Mon Repos, ECD. Price $40 000 neg.

Tel: 643-5797, 231-7568.  and fully furnished two-bedroom apartment with generator and parking. Contact K. Raghubir - Tel: 642-0636, 677-8176.  1- and 2-bedroom furnished upper flat apartment from US$25 per day. 679-0757, 681-2499.  two/three bedroom apartment with internet access, generator and parking - Tel: 642-0636, 677-8176.  place $80 000, office space $80 000, internet café, boutique, snackette, restaurant. Tel: 642-0636.  2-bedroom bottom flat in Garnett Street, available from January 4, 2015. Tel: 226-2503, 676-2000.  furnished two-bedroom apartment, self -contained, DSL, AC, parking, near Georgetown. Tel: 226-1769, 6009321, 600-0282.  bedrooms apartment, Industry ECD, parking, Furnished;19” television, beds, stove, suite, refrigerator, microwave, washing machine, $ 6 0 , 0 0 0 m o n t h l y, C a l l 6 2 8 2866 -bedroom bottom flat apartment with inside washroom, living and kitchen areas $30 000 monthly, at Lot 207 1st Success, ECD. Call 220-4804, 642-3478, 662-1893.  two flat business placeand three bedroom to live.Cotton Field next to Republic Bank.Call 690- 1530, 626-6107.  place approximately 700 sq. feet situate at Robb and Oronoque Streets, s u i ta b l e f o r p h a r m a c y, b o u tique, office. Contact 227-8867, 644-7784.  2-bedroom unfurnished lower flat apartment, 6th Street, Cummings Lodge (UG area) $30 000 monthly. Tel: 222-4913 (students or couple preferred).  Realty, 17 Brickdam and Sendall Place, Stabroek. Coverden, EBD land (rent), Coldingen ECD warehousing facility to rent. Call 223-1217, 686-1853, 693-5085 & 613-6386.          place: Suitable for boutique/barber shop/ office etc. in D'Urban Street just off pavement $50 000 & $60 000. Tel: 226-0673, 685-4694  three-bedroom upper flat, 2 one-bedroom lower flats.

Premises secured with cameras etc. 666-6612, 650-1867, 2252431 - 121 Thomas Street, Kitty.  located spaces, suitable for office, printery, salon, mash camp, storage or other. Call 227-3064, 628-7589.  built one-bedroom inclusive of kitchenette between 9th & 10th Avenue, Diamond Housing Scheme, EBD, AC, hot & cold water $60 000 monthly. Contact: 673-7589.  Fully furnished 1- & 3-bedroom apartments, AC, hot & cold, internet, parking etc., suitable for overseas visitors, short term. 226-5137, 227-1843.  1-bedroom $50 000, Bel Air Lama Avenue 2bedroom US$700, 3-bedroom US$1000 furnished, 3-storey building 10 400 sq. ft,, air conditioned solar system, US$4500 per floor. 676-5537, 646-1334.

TO LET  $65 000, Bel Air Park US$700, Green Field Park US$1300, Camp Street (business) US$1300, Kitty business US$1300 - Diana 227-2256, 6269382.  2-bedroom apartment for long-term rental, close to seawall, breezy, solar water heater, meshed, fully AC, grilled, secured, telephone, parking, rental US$1300 neg. Call 226-9929, 613-6005.  Road WCD $50 000, Queens t o w n o f f i c e s p a c e 3 rooms $60 000, Bel Air Park top off 3 bedr o o m s U S $ 5 0 0 monthly rental US$1000, p h o n e 2 2 6 - 1064, 22 7 - 6 8 6 3 , 225-2709, 225-5198, 2276949, 623-2591, 669-3350. -bedroom (self-contained) house at Earl's Court residential area, furnished and unfurnished 2-bedroom apartment located on East Coast $40 000 up, one business place located on East Coast public road. Tel: 624-6772. -bedroom fully furnished apartment Sixth Avenue, Diamond, EBD, telephone, internet, parking, etc, available for long term ,short term rental. - $75 000 per month (negotiable). Short term rental for overseas visitors US$25 per day. Tel:658-1523, 638-3622, 231-8567.    one-bedroom apartment to rent: location Bagotstown East Bank Demerara - cost $25 000 per month which includes light and water, contact numb e r s 2 3 3 5868, 679-7644, 627-5079.  classrooms available. Rent as you need one day a week, two days a week. Suitable for day classes, lessons, evening classes, lectures. No flooding. 71 Croal Street, Stabroek. Tel: 624-5741.      c o m m e rcial/residential building, by owner, Robb Street, Bourda, ground floor for any kind of business, 1st and 2nd floors with 11 rooms. Reasonable rental, long term lease. Phone: 621-7451 anytime.  fully furnished 4-bedroom top floor apartment, complete with living room, kitchen, air conditioned, DSL, hot water and all other amenities, proximity to Georgetown. Tel: 226-1769, 600-0282, 600-9321.  apartments: One-bedroom apartments for long-term rental. Apartments are equipped with all modern amenities and free Wi-fi. Call us. 2264001, 225-2780 Email:marketing@kanukusuites.com Website: www.kanukusuites.com  sale or rent one large 3storey building with going business suitable for super market, furniture factory, machine shop, lumber yard. Lot of space on the EBD. Apartment at Providence, EBD, Call 610-0575,684-3718. W o r l d # 1 R e altor Mister Terry Redford Reid 667-781 2, 225-6858, 225-7164, 226- 1 0 6 4 , 2 2 5 - 2626, 231-20 6 8 , 6 1 97 9 4 5 . H a v e the execut i v e r e n t a l r e d u c e d b y 35%, Prashad Naga r U S $ 1 0 00, J a c a r a n d a Av e. B e l A i r P ark U S $ 2 0 0 0 , Barima Ave Bel Air Park US$18 0 0 , Bel Ai r S p r i ngs US$1000, large bond for rental offic e s m a l l f o r m U S $ 3 75 , 1 0 0 0 0 s q f t o f f i c e spac e for technolog y business.

22 5 - 2626, 225-5198, 226-106 4 , 6 2 3 - 2 5 9 1 , 6 6 9 - 335 0   spaces now available. Don't miss this opportunity for a place at Georgetown’s, premium business location. Limited units available. With 2 Elevators; AC; CCTV- Security and lots more.

Sharon’s Building. 154 King & Charlotte Streets, Georgetown.

Call 225-4413/ 614-0949 or visit us online @ www.sharonsbuilding.com

TO LET  one fourbedroom fully furnished hous e with master room suite, and fully air-conditioned Meadow Brook Square US$2500. One two-be d r o o m f l a t n ewly constructed, tiled, a b o v e n o r m a l g r o u n d l e v e l, Guyhoc Park $55 000. Bel Air Spring s : three-bedroom, f u l l y f u r n i s h ed with master, g e n e r a t o r, m a i d a n d g a r d e n e r. M a r r i e d c o u p l e o r single person preferred U S $ 3 0 0 0 . Thr e e -b e d r o o m f u l l y f u r n i s h e d with master r o o m U S$3000 - Wills Realty 227-2612, 627-8314

PROPERTY FOR SALE PROPERTY FOR SALE

 flat house in Good Hope - Contact 638-3636.  on Albert Street - Bourda - for Sale Contact # 6045585  Railway Embankment, 180x80, $50M. Tel: 611-0315, 690-8625.  house and land in Vergenoegen, EBE. Tel: 6641277, 669-0824.  place Robb Street - 223-6524, 628-0747 Success Realty.  Village, East Coast Demerara, one acre land and house - 689-7424.  Street, Georgetown $12.5M cas- only offers. 668-8220, 699-7230.  house on land 40x100 at 20 North Road, Bourda, Georgetown. Price US$300 000.

Sold by owner 225-5727.  2-storey concrete house with 3 large bedrooms, 2-½ bath, condition $25M. Call 669-1028. 3 storey concrete building, 51 AA Eccles, EBD $60M. Call: 621-7603.  wooden house 110x50 Price $12M. Tel: 619-2525, 668-7230.            ¼ acre plot - 61 Section "C" Nabaclis, E.C. Dem - Contact: 6481037. storey business property located at Ketley and Howes Streets, Charlestown - Tel: 6239679.  3-BEDROOM flat house at Stone Avenue, Campbellville, serious enquiries only - Call 223-2053, 347-357-1698.  concrete house, 3 bedrooms, 1 self-contained with AC, 1 laundry room, located at Mon Repos E.C.D - $32M neg. Tel: 6422116.   flat house at Stone Avenue, Campbellville, serious enquiries only - Call 223-2053, 347-3571698.                       6-bedroom house, situated East La Penitence, $30M negotiable - Tel: 695-7075.  property in the interior with attached business.

Priced to go at $18M. Call 6753384.  in Zeelugt Housing Scheme East Bank Essequibo, land size 51x100, house size 32x 60. Contact: 680-0401. house at La Parfaite Harmonie, Westminster, WBD $4.5M Tel: 601-3469, 6610618.   require repairs in Brickdam, land size 120x38 $44M was $60M. Phone Alysious Periera 623fst-2591, Lady Khan 2252626, 225-2709, Lady Abundance 661-1952, 225-3068, 669-0943 Mr. Pereira.

PROPERTY FOR SALE  Cecilia, Essequibo Coast: 1 newly constructed concrete building with existing supermarket, 80x150 ft. with extra land space, $150M neg. - 774-4175, 642-8649.  Street, Kitty: Second house (back), 2-storey wooden house, 3 bedrooms up, 3 bedrooms down. Price $19M. Phone 619-2525, 668-7230.  Springs: Transported property,, 4 fully furnished bedrooms (one self-contained), 3 toilets/baths, lots of land space, parking for vehicles. Price neg. Call 6251684, 226-0891, 651-7538..   3-bedroom property in Prashad Nagar reduced from $42M to $34M, Pere Street $34M. Phone 623-2591, 692-3631, 6693350, Mr Alex 669-0943, 225-2626, 225-3068, 623-2591.  Lust main road $18M, Diamond $7 - $35M, Eccles $16 - $28M, Herstelling $15 - $25M contact: 616 - 5914, 615-5734.  $30M, South Ruimveldt Park $15M, Cummings Lodge $35M, Eccles $28M, Queenstown $13M - Tel: 225-0545. 4-bedroom in Windsor Forest WCD, One 2-storey house in Eccles, one 2-storey house in Sheriff Street. Call Mohamed 667-6644 or office 216- 3120.  for sale in Providence: 5 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 minutes walk to Stadium, $25M 639-8182.  $11M neg., Buddy's 2 - $35M & 32M neg., Herstelling $23.5M neg., Enterprise Gardens $12.5M neg., Sophia $10M neg., La Parfaite Harmonie 6 bedrooms - $23M neg., - Tel: 688-3873.  or long-term single room, furnished and unfurnished apartments, seven-room furnished bungalow, ideal for senior citizens home/students or family.

Tel: 220-2130/2254, 624-7111, 622-7097.  Vacant possession, owner leaving, Diamond New Scheme, 20th Avenue, complete 3-bedroom flat concrete house. Price $9.5M neg. Contact 623-3348, 612-5631  property on double lot in Aubrey Barker Street,, 100x100, was $45M now $36M. Phone Mr Boodram 669-0943, 226-1064, 6232591, 225-2626, 225-3062.  $35M, Mocha (2 buildings) $15M, AA Eccles $55M. Have properties to sell or rent? Then call Diana 227-2256, 626-9382.         G a r d e n s , EBD, new 2-storey concrete 4-bedroom, 2 toilets, 3 bathrooms, kitchen, living room, laundry, roof garden, gated community - $26.5M. 6529173, 644-3275.  sale rich farm land approximately 2 miles by 80ft. in Canal No. 1 West Bank Demerara, good for pineapple, cane, coffee and cassava, etc. asking $80M neg., house included - contact: Navin 6912347.  single storey, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths with bungalow-style roof. Republic Park 2-storey 3-bedroom with self-contained master room, 2 baths, pantry, laundry room, hot and cold. No agent.

Call 614-7929, Monday-Friday, 10:00hrs-16:00hrs  $10.5M, Grove $2.9M, Garnett Street $56.5M neg. 646-1334, 612350 1 , 6 7 6 - 5 5 3 7 .        L O T 1 8 5 C H A R LOTTE & KING STREETS, MARAJ BUILDING - TEL: 227026 5 , 2 2 7 - 1 8 8 1 , 6 2 7 - 8 0 5 7 .

PROPERTIES - Prashad N a g a r, Q u e e n s t o w n , O g l e , Diamond, Robb Street, D'Urban Street business spot, South R u imveldt, Charlestown, Thomas Street.

24 24 PROPERTY FOR SALE  p r o perty in Se c t i o n K , t o p fla t, has three bedrooms and two full bathrooms; bottom flat has two bedr o o m s a n d o n e b a t h r o om; also there is a studio apartment on this flat; there is p a r k ing for five cars - Asking price G$63M - Great H o m e s a n d d e s t i n a tion R e a l t y, 5 9 2 - 6 6 3 - 1 7 2 8 .        Ocean F r o n t P r o p e r t y, E n t e r p r i s e Gardens, ECD 10 minutes from Grand Coastal International Hotel with fresh Atlantic sea breeze to cure all health problems in an upscale highly residential area.

Sold at a very reasonable price plus owner-financing available if needed. Serious enquiries only. Cont act David 592-673-0826.                                   HOPE $ 1 7. 5 M , $ 12 M, $15M, C H A TEAU Margot $ 28M , $ 19M & $26M, Vlissegen Rd. $120, David St., $20, Dia mond $38M, Alberttown $45M , L / G a r d e n s $65 M , A t l a n t i c Gardens $ 45M , Thomas St, C/ Burg $ 68M , Tel. 219-4399, 6108332.     Gardens $65M, $85M, K i t t y $30M, $ 4 4 M, Pike St. C/Ville $45M, David St, $55M. S h a m r o c k G a rde n s $65M. Duncan St. $26M, Mon Repos $35M, D i a m ond $12M, $14M, $ 19M , E c c l e s $ 30M , Thriumph ECD $28M, Sheriff St. $150M, Tel. 219-4399, 610-8332    at Rahaman's Park opposite Vieira, Greater Georgetown, Guyana; g r e a t i n v estment for Chinese and foreign investors or anyone. Competition D'Aguiar Park, lot size 125x100 - $80M. This property is reduced to half price or for a reasonable price, plus owner-financing available if needed. Serious enquiries only.

Contact Realty 592-673-0826.        Subryanville $53M CAMPBELL Ave, $ 50 M , G uy s u c o G a r d e n s $ 75e f M , G o o d H o p e $1 5. 5 M , $12M, William St, C/ville $30M, $40M. C/ ville $45M, Atlantic Ville $26M,Granville Park $31M, Cummingslodge $ 13M , $19 M , Sec. K C/ville $ 58M Tel: 2194399, 610-8332.  new 3 and 4-bedroom houses, Water Side Park (close t o beach), Bush Lot Village, West Coast Berbice, p r i c e s t a r t i n g f r o m $9M, also vaca nt lots from $2.6M, access to Hindu, Muslim, Catholic and Arsamaj churches, nursery, primary an d s e c o n d a r y s c h o o l s , health center, gas station, car and machinery sales, horse racing turf, rice factories, h a r d w a r e- w a r e a n d s u p e r markets - Call Danesh on 6274381, 226-057 5 .   2 - s t o r e y b u i l d ing situated at Lot 49 P a r k e r S t r e e t P r o v i d e nce.

Each flat contains 3 bedrooms, o n e s e l f - c o n t ained, equipped with air-conditioned living room, water, light and fully secured with grille. Parking also a vailable.

Call 625-6227.  Realty 17 Brickdam and Sendall Place, Stabroek.

Call 223-1217, 686-1853, 693-5085, 613-6386 Eccles, EBD house and land, Bel A i r, E C D l a n d , L B I - E C D h o u s e a n d l a n d , St o n e Av e n u e / V i l l e house and l a n d , Mela n i e , E C D h o u s e a n d land, Alberttown land, Queenstown land, Shell Road Kitty house and lan d , Dennis S t r e e t , K i t t y house and land, Fariah Dreams Gard en of Eden, EBD house lot

PROPERTY FOR SALE  invite you to buy these bargains Craig Street 2-storey $45M new $34M, Dowding Street was $42M now $32M, Pere Street Kitty $34M, Sect i o n M ranch-type was $60M now $48M, Prashad Nagar $30M, South Ruimveldt $10M, Roxanne Burnham Gardens $12M, D'Urban Backlands $23M, Camp Street & D'Urban South half $30M Phone Mr Budhram 6923831, Mr Pereira 669-0943, 6232591, 226-1064, Lady Abundance 661-11952, 225-2626, 225-3068.=  2014 14% + 20% discount ply 2 % commission on selling commission: Concrete two-storey 4000 sq. ft, 80% complete on double lot in Delph Avenue $36M. Joint Services new 4-bedroom concrete $21M was $28M, New Haven on 7 000 sq.. ft land $52M, Bel Air Park twostorey $52M, Bel Air Park. Phone Mr Boodram 692-3831, 623-2591, 661-1952, 225-2626, 669-0943, 225-3068, 627-0288, 667-7812.   in D e c e m b e r, 2-storey P u n t Trench Dam $9.5M with large land reserve for any type of business. Business & Residence Bent Street $16.5M, 2-storey G uy h o c G a r d e n s $14M, G u y h o c 2 - s t o r e y concrete $14.5M, Lodge 2-storey $14M, Meadow Brook concrete ranch $13.5M. Land 130x50 Middle Road, La Penitence, new conc rete Middle Road, La Penitence, Da Silva Stre e t 85x35 Lan d $ 1 5 . 9 M , C a mpbellville Scheme 80x50 plus reserve $15M, Hadfield Street east of Cuffy 120x50 $18 M , Republ i c P a r k $ 1 4 M , Co ntinental Park 104x54 plus 3000 sq. ft reser ve all land to build dream house $22M, 7 000 sq. ft by the Cultural Centre 2 8 0 0 0 0 s q . f t , Lamaha Gardens $58M, Prashad Nagar $34M, South Ruim v e l d t Gardens off Aubrey Barker Street. Phone Mr B o o d r a m 6 9 2 - 3 8 3 1 , Mr D'Aguiar 225-5198, Mr Pereira 623-2591, 226-1064, 669-0944, Mr Hercules 225-2709, 225-3068, Lady Jones 227-6863, 225-2626.                  : Executive Ogle $ 11 5 M , Diamond $35M, Queenstown $65M, $75M, $90M, $150M, $70M, Plaisance (2-storey concrete) $23M, Mahaicony $22M, $65M, Light Street, Alberttown $40M, Prospect $20M, Mon Repos $35M, Enterprise $12M, $15M, South Ruimveldt $30M, Hadfield Street $140M, La Parfaite Harmonie $15M, Callender Street $12M, New Amsterdam US$1.2M, Soesdyke $4M, Tuschen $ 5 0 M , $15M, Lamaha Gardens $80M, North Ruimveldt $32M, $40M, lime Street $32M, George Street $30M, Norton Street $9M, Hadfield Street $18M, Chateou Margot $140M, $90M, Sophia $4M, Mahaica $15M, Glasgow H/ S $9M, Edinburgh Public Road $1.8M, Diamond $28M, Essequibo Hotel $136M, Bartica $12M, $9M.             river to highway, Linden Highway $30M, Garden of Eden $3M, Bel Air Park $60M, Diamond $5.5M, Church Street, WBD 5 acres $25M, Vigilance $1.5M, Eccles $16M, Pouderoyen ½ acre $5M, Parika $95M, Queenstown $40M, Hadfield Street $8M, South Ruimveldt $8M, Paradise WCB $18M.    5-bedroom furnished, swi m m i n g pool US$4000 monthly, new oneand two-bedroom apartments in Georgetown US$800, US$1200 & US$1500 monthly, New Amsterdam US$5500, US$6500, Charlotte Street 3storey building US$4000.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Sophia Gardens, close to Lamaha Gardens - fully concrete, 6-bedroom giveaway, vacant for Christmas.Price $14.5M. Phone Mr Pereira 623-2591, 226-1064, Mrs Abundance 6611952, 669-3350, Mr Boodram 692-3831, 225-2626, 2253068, 667-7812, 669-0943.  property in High Street, Kingston by the Red House 260x80, land size US$750 000.

Business land 125x60 opposite Jumbo Jet in Smyth close to Brickdam $70M, one land for the purpose for 60-apartment complex 10x120 at East & Quamina Streets, corner lot with reserve at the corner and parking in John Ford car/park US$1.7M neg., on Mandela Avenue opposite gymnasium new for offer and business US$640000, one 8 000 sq. ft land by the Chinese embassy for 6-storey apartment complex, Donald Trump says you don't have to pay for height anymore and put gloss US$300 000 only for Christmas, Bel Air Springs 5 storey apartment complex 5-apartment overlooking the sea, rental of 2500 each apartment US$800 000 now US$600 000. Phone Amanda Lam 651-5428, 623-2591, 6090943.

FOR SALE FOR SALE  items for sale, furniture, etc. - 696-5499.  for sale. 216-3408, 6800192.  new plucking machine.

Tel: 650-1015.  roadside land: East Coast Public Road - Tel: 673-0591.  gas: 407C-25 lbs. - Phone 233-0608 (8am-4pm) Mon - Fri.  writing desk, 1used filing cabinet, contact 682 1822/216 0916.   swimming pool tablets - Phone 233-0608 (8am-4pm) Mon - Fri.  generator 110/220 v, 60hz 25Kw, priced to sell. Tel: 6160427, 689-3612.  new Xbox one Price $85 000 and Sony PlayStation 4 $80 000. Call 680-1722.  coloured Tshirts, dress pants size 40 - contact: 223-4649.   290, MF 1755, 580c Hymac, 115-90 Fiat, 3-disc plough, 32 disc harrow - 616-9402.  Coca Cola cooler and upright glass case - Contact 6218055, 218-3105.\  System 200w and 300 w panel package, DC lighting kits, solar system with ac 110v outlets, batteries included. 693-1752, 2267742.  round-bottom boat: 40ft. x 7ft. width along 164 000 build-in ice box - Tel: 671-8603, 601-4585.  female German Shepherd and one female Rottweiler.

Call 625-0345.  Corn! Pop Corn! Freshly made and in packets, wholesale quantities. Phone 642-4847.  Sthil chainsaw 660 in excellent condition. Contact 6490734, 223-0050.  new cat-gut fishing net, 4-inch and 7-inch snapper and trout. Must see 654-6674, 694-5128.   with microrise 3.8 cu. ft - $10 500 per bag. Contact Rayman, 263-5300, 615-2346, 628-0200.  ice machine $200, 000 neg. 1200 lb. Contact 231-0655, 683-8734, Omar.  120 acres citrus farm, fenced for sheep, large creek. Phone 444-6589, 444-6597, 694-1888.     backhoe in working condition and 1 un-operational. Call: 444-6589, 444-6597, 694-1888.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December30, 31,2014 2014 FOR SALE

FOR SALE

VEHICLES FOR SALE

 new Xbox One, including Kinect, 500GB comes with free FIFA 15 game $130 000 neg. 687-6750.

 jetski 750, Seadoo Jetski 1000 and Bayliner speedboat. Call 444-6589, 4446597, 694-1888.

  long base Toyota Dyna $1.3M neg. each.

Tel: 269-0534, 675-6401.

 gas: 22, 410, 134A & 404A, also Argon gas and helium gas for balloons - Phone 233-0608 (8am-4pm) Mon - Fri.

 all your icicles and beverage needs. Flavour emulsions in wholesale and retail quantities in a wide variety of flavours.

Contact: 676-6963, 218-1611.  clean plastic drums, wide-mouth with covers, priced easy, can be used for any purpose 45 gallons. Call 222-4819, 6554032.

 Hilux extra cab, new front, low mileage, GSS series, excellent condition Tel: 612-2869.

      soda, 55 lbs; soda ash, 50 lbs; sulphuric acid, 45 & 5 gals; granular chlorine, 100 lbs; alum, 55lbs - Phone 233-0608 (8am-4pm) Mon - Fri.  Massey Ferguson 4-disc plough under $400 000. Call: 269-0210, 6965189, 680-5141.  dresses and tops for the holiday from the USA, sizes 8-16 - Call 625-5951.  outboard enginenew, 3-15 HP, CAN-AM ATV 4X4 500cc, SEA DOO Jetski 1500cc with trailer. Tel: 600-3171, 648-3171.       concrete mixer, Land Rover defender, 3-door 110 TDI, Kobota diesel engine, Lister welder generator - 2316322, 692-2521.  products-shamp o o , c o n d i t i o n e r, s c e n t e d candles, pocket size hair spray, & America crew body soap & wash. Matric gift sets are also available contact: 684-1634.   48" Smart TV $240 000, 1 TCL 46" LED TV $200 000, one Jialing 150cc Scrambler $80 000. All prices neg. Owner migrating 675-4066     and acetylene gases, fast and efficient service, 1011 McDoom, Public Road, EBD Phone 233-0608 (8am-4pm) Mon Fri.S o e s d y k e , Farm Land at Laluni 80 acres surrounded by creek, 3 fish pond, 1 dwelling & 2 Farm Houses, Coconut, Citrus & Fruit trees. 1 Discrovery Range Rover-Contact 2615027, 670-8282,675-1711.  plant pots from $1000, Shimano rear derailleur $7 000, Shimano hyper glide 8-spee d c a s s e tte/ spline (11-32 teeth), $8 000 Contact: Tel: 642-9901.   360S, 250GB harddrive, comes with one controller, six g a m e s i n c l u d i n g G TA 5 , Forza Horizon and Assassin's Creed 3, and Nyko intercooler, in excellent condition - Price $65 000 - Contact: Tel: 642-9901.             gas stove, excellent bargain $45 000 neg. Microwave oven, Magic Chef brand, excellent working condition $15 000, Hitachi brand wrecking hammer 110v - $40 000 neg. 686-4999, 276-3028.  engines 1000, 11 0 0 a n d 4236 and six-cylinder complete with bed, 2320 excavators BL $14M, Lincon generator welder $850 000, p a l l e t j a c ks, forklift, model M truck $4M. Tel: 691-2921.   plastic barrels, 12"x15" , l a m i n a t i n g pouches, Sony mini DVD camera, UPS back-up power supply, 10ftx10ft, complete tent, motion security lights, 10mm RGB LED chasing lights with remote - Tel: 231-1332, 625-1701.

  treadmill exercising machines, QSC power amp, portable Sharp air condition, small fridge, flat screen TVs, laptop computers, heavy duty saws. Contact 692-2016, 6500892.      For all Authentic Truck Parts and Accessories n e w a n d u s e d f o r Leyland DAF, ERF, Bedford Model M and TM Etc from the UKAlso F o r e i g n Used Cummins, DAF and Perkins Engine TM Transf e r a n d G e a r B o x e s P l e as e CallDave Rameshwar Tel: 592660-9152, 592-610-2873  refrigerator with water dispenser, Frigidaire washer/dryer, gas stove, microwave. All silver in colour, used, excellent condition, 5-piece LP conga/bongo set, used acoustic guitar/XBOX 360 with two controls and 7 games. Call 692-1768. 8" complete river dredge already working in the river, all equipment in good working order, 6-cylinder john Deere engine, air compressor, diving suit, 45ft flex pipe, wash box complete with 24ft pontoon & complete camp $4M neg. Please call 661-9431, 6823632 - Malchan, 653-5179 - leave a message.  Lights Sale, Complete solar lights kits with security motion sensor, do-it-yourself installation, auto on/off, a l l night lighting. Wholesale pricing for Christmas, w/s $15,500. Call: 647-4997, 6459266. Can be used for business, homes, farms, interior, also solar toys for kids.  hold items for sale - old records, wares, silver cutlery, foreign used clothing, foreign used queen mattress, air condition, clothing hangers, antique tables, 1 big GE gas stove, 1 dresser, 1 wall divider/TV stand, 1 old piano, 1 freezer (not working), foreign used sheets, 1 commercial cooler, 1 car vacuum - all items must go, owner leav i n g country -Tel : 609-8487, 6142022.

VEHICLES SALE VEHICLE FORFOR SALE       Austin motor car in driving condition. Tel: 686-3512.  2RZ MINIBUS, BPP SERIES, $1.4M call 654-1382  NZE, lady-driven $1.6M. Call 226-1122, 624-3404.  626 car 1995 model, 1800cc - $480 000. 624-6069.

 motor (new) 3-phase 440 volts/60hz - 1185 RPM, 60 HP motor (used) 3-phase 440 volts/60hz - 1185 RPM, 5 HP motor (new & used) 3phase 460 volts/60hz - 3500 RPM, water pump Pabool -2" new & used.

Phone 233-0654.

 Mark 2 GX 90 $700 000. Contact 626-7983.

 free Sony Xperiam black - Android 4.1 operating system, 4-inch screen/touch, 5 mega pixel camera, 4GB internal memory/up to 2 GB external. Nancy's Bar - Parika - Price: $80,000Violet 680-0838.

 - $490 000 neg., Contact Ruth, 684-1023.

 arrived: wholesale only - area rugs s i z e s 2 1 0 x 3 2 0 cm, 240x340cm, 200x285 c m ; s p e c ial delivery from Georgetown to Rosignol, Georgetown to Parika - Contact Te l : R a j i n 6 5 6 - 9 9 5 9 .

 extended extended 4 wheeldrive many extras.

Contact: 684-1634.

  $1M, 225-9882, 6812499, 664-2916.   Spacio in excellent condition - contact: 644-1712.

 Mazda wagon $200 000. -Contact: 675-4066.  19-seater Pitbull BSS series - $3.7M neg. Call 660-3385.

 Marine 3406 industrial Caterpillar engine with 527 gear box. Call 627-0231.

 new model Raum, alarm start, one RZ long base EFI, both mint condition. 6857565.

 200SX Sports car: turbo, automatic, like new, priced to sell - Tel: 616-0427, 689-3612.  black Toyota Raum, late PMM registration, roof rack, rims & spoiler. Price neg., owner driven. 617-2378, 663-6003.          Mark II GX100 clean interior 18" gun metal rims, custom paint and HID ballast. Contact: 658-6453, 6195880.  in tip top condition with mags, AC, CD, alarm & crash bar. Price $1.5M neg. 628-1682.  4X4 Ford 550 backhoe in working condition, reasonably priced, one Gates hydraulic hose crimping machine - 220-1543.  Premio, mags, alarm, etc. $2M neg. Must sell urgently, owner leaving country. Tel: 676-6823.  minibus VVTI gear PP series, music, mags. Contact 229-6380, 616-5929.  truck with winch.

Price neg. 2-ton ice box canter.

Price neg. Contact: 692-4962. bus, immaculate condition, never worked hire, must be sold. Tel: 615-1643.  Toyota RZ minibus BTT 971 and one Carina PMM series.

Call 646-8687. Owner migrating.  model 212 motor car.

Price $1.125M, Mitsubishi Lancer. Price $650 000, Phone 268-3953, 665-8517.  old model Toyota Raum, AC, CD, alarm, g o o d working condition, PMM series.

Call 697-5378. Reasonable price.    Premio, $2M neg.; 1 - 2008 Premio; steam cleaning starting from $9,500 Call 648-1000.  loaded new model Bluebird with TV, camera, DVD etc. unregistered. Going cheap - $2.6M neg. 638-9116.  MINIBUS EF1, perfect working condition $750 000 neg. Tel: 611-3060.  Toyota Vios, PMM series, fully loaded, for more information call 667-5596.  Toyota Carina: AT 192, immaculate condition - Price neg. 337-4544, 626-1525.  Corona AT 170, excellent condition. $450 000. Call Basdeo, 663-0782.  Suzuki Swift in immaculate condition. Price neg.

Tel: 629-9127.  Caravan minibus in good working condition - contact: 229-2172, 682-5430.   4-Runner V8 Sport Edition in excellent condition. Contact 624-2765, 600-2765.  Yamaha Rava 125 motorcycle and Kinlow J-L110 motorcycle. Contact: 682-3942, 6156474, 678-8236.  Mitsubishi Canter truck enclosed, tray 3 ton. Tel: 2260262, 671-5888.  Toyota Levin PKK 1332 good condition. Price $670 000 neg. Contact 639-4354, 668-9425.  Toyota EFI RZ minibus BJJ 8827, excellent condition. Price $950 000 neg. Contact 699-2687, 694-1263.

GUYANA CHRONICLE December Wednesday 31, 2014

25

Brathwaite the big ...

“They are the number one team in the world so

it’s not going to be easy, but doing my research and getting into the nets to work hard, it’s paid off.”

Brathwaite’s doubters have been dwindling after a stellar year and he hopes this innings against the world’s best side is the springboard for even greater achievements.

“It means a lot, growing up as a little man and watching Test cricket in South Africa, it’s good to be here and actually scoring a hundred against the

From back page

number one team in the world,” he said.

“It’s a good milestone for me and I just want to keep going from strength to strength.”

Marlon Samuels, who shared a West Indies record third-wicket stand against South Africa of 176 with Brathwaite, believes his young partner has the potential for a long Test career.

“I can’t remind a guy like Kraigg to be patient because he’s a very patient person,” Samuels

said.

“He’s a very strong person mentally and it’s definitely showing in his game.

“They used to say he batted too slowly but now he’s improving and scoring a little faster so it’s good to see we have an opening batsman with determination and he’s getting runs.”

Brathwaite will get a chance to get more runs when the third Test starts in Cape Town on Friday.

South Africa lead the series 1-0.

Notable Dates

On January 1, 1951, Guyanese born featherweight Clifford Matthew Anderson (Cliff) defeated Englishman Selwyn Evans by points in an eight-round contest held in London, England.

It was the second time in two months that Anderson was meeting Evans. In the first fight staged in December of the previous year, the two battled to a draw after eight rounds.

Anderson had engaged in 13 battles that year winning six, losing four and drawing three. Born in 1921 Anderson started his professional career in 1940 and had his first seven fights at home before moving to England in 1945.

He fought a total of 87 fights before hanging up gloves in 1953. Anderson boxed 602 rounds in his 13-year career, had 48 victories (19KOs), 28 defeats and 11 draws. In recognition of his contribution to the sport the National Sports Hall was renamed the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Anderson died in 1998.

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26

GUYANA CHRONICLE December Wednesday 31, 2014

Dhoni quits Test cricket after India lose series to Australia

By Ian Ransom

MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - The third Test between Australia and India in Melbourne failed to deliver a nail-biting finish yesterday but ended with a draw tinged with controversy and the shock retirement of long-serving India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni from Test cricket.

The result secured Australia a 2-0 series victory with a match in reserve, but their triumph was quickly overtaken by the bombshell that Dhoni had pulled the pin on his 90-Test career to concentrate on the shorter formats of the game Displaying his usual serenity, the 33-year-old Dhoni said nothing of his retirement plans and the news was broken on the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Twitter feed only minutes after the final question was asked at the post-match media conference.

Batsman Virat Kohli, long Dhoni’s heir apparent and stand-in skipper during the first Test loss in Adelaide, will lead the team for the fourth and final match in Sydney, the BCCI added, capping a surreal day at the Melbourne Cricket

Ground.

Dhoni, fittingly, played an important part in his team’s gritty effort to stave off a third straight Test defeat on the fifth and final day.

He came in to bat with the team in trouble at 141-5 and grafted an unbeaten 24 after tea. Along with number seven batsman Ravichandran Ashwin, who scored eight, he helped guide the tourists to safety.

Though Dhoni’s effort was praiseworthy, his counterpart Steven Smith’s decision to concede the draw four overs early, rather than push to the end to get the final four wickets for victory, drew jeers from spectators at the ground.

Smith justified the decision, saying his bowlers were “cooked” and his team mates happy enough with the series win.

That came after a late declaration at lunch that also raised eyebrows, with Australia’s bowlers given only 70 overs to find a way to bowl India out on a flat wicket offering little help.

“I don’t think there was still a win there,” Smith told reporters.

“I don’t think we had four wickets in us at the end - there wasn’t much breaking up in the

wicket, there wasn’t much going on, so I think that was it.”

PRESSURE ON Australia declared on 318-9, setting India a mammoth 384 to win on a ground where the highest successful run-chase was 332 by England back in 1928/29.

For a time, that appeared more than adequate for the hosts, whose pacemen scythed through India’s top order with three wickets in the first nine overs.

Opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan was out lbw for a duck and Lokesh Rahul, surprisingly sent in at number three, was caught the next over for one after a miscued pull shot.

Opener Murali Vijay was dismissed lbw for 11.

Kohli (54) and Ajinkya Rahane (48) dug in to tea, before Harris had Kohli out with the first ball after the break and Mitchell Johnson struck to bowl Cheteshwar Pujara for 21.

A jumpy Rahane was out a few overs later, throwing away his wicket for 48 with a horrible pull shot, but Dhoni and Ashwin would survive, though riding their luck at times.

Dhoni never gave a hint of his plans post-match but praised his

Agar to join Australia squad for Sydney Test

By Ian Ransom MELBOURNE ,(Reuters) - Left-arm spinner Ashton Agar will join Australia’s squad for the fourth and final test against India in Sydney, captain Steven Smith said yesterday.

Australia drew the third Test with India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, sealing the four-match series 2-0.

Agar was a surprise pick during the Ashes in England last year and scored a record 98 as a number 11 batsman on his Test debut at the age of 19 in the first test at Trent Bridge.

The Sydney Cricket Ground wicket generally offers turn for spinners, though Australia would be unlikely to have both Agar and off-spinner Nathan Lyon included for the Test, with selectors likely to plump for a three-pronged pace attack.

“He’s bowling very well at the moment,” Smith told reporters.

Ashton Agar has made a stunning 98 on Test debut batting at No.11 against England in 2013 © “He’s a good addition to the squad. We’ll see how the wicket is in Sydney when we get there and we’ll go from there.”

Smith confirmed there would be no extra changes to the squad, while Australia’s carefullymanaged 35-year-old paceman Ryan Harris said he would be fit for the Jan. 6 Test.

Harris, who had a long layoff after knee surgery, was rested for the second test in Brisbane

after playing the first but was named man-of-thematch in Melbourne after starring with the bat and taking six wickets.

“I’m playing in Sydney, if I get picked,” he told reporters.

Australia squad: David Warner, Chris Rogers, Shane Watson, Steve Smith (capt), Shaun Marsh, Joe Burns, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Ashton Agar.

MS Dhoni is all smiles after the match. It turns out to be Dhoni’s last Test match for India. players for fighting it out.

“We lost early wickets, we put pressure on ourselves and we had to fight it out and overall it’s a good performance by the team.”

AUSTRALIA 1st innings 530 (S. Smith 192, R. Harris 74, C. Rogers 57, B. Haddin 55, S. Watson 52; M. Shami 4-138) India 1st innings 465 (V. Kohli 169, A. Rahane 147, M. Vijay 68; R. Harris 4-70) AUSTRALIA 2nd innings (o/n 261-7) D. Warner lbw b Ashwin 40 C. Rogers b Ashwin 69 S. Watson c Dhoni b I. Sharma 17 S. Smith c Rahane b U. Yadav 14 S. Marsh run-out (Kohli) 99 J. Burns c Dhoni b I. Sharma 9 B. Haddin c Dhoni b U. Yadav 13 M. Johnson c Rahane b Shami 15 R. Harris c Dhoni b Shami 21 N. Lyon not out 1 J. Hazlewood not out 0 Extras: (lb-13, nb-5, w-2) 20 Total: (for 9 wickets declared, 98 overs) 318 Fall of wickets: 1-57, 2-98, 3-131, 4-164, 5-176, 6-202, 7-234, 8-303, 9-317.

Bowling: U. Yadav 22-3-89-2 (w-1), M. Shami 28-4-92-2 (w-1), I. Sharma 20-549-2 (nb-5), R. Ashwin 28-4-75-2.

INDIA 2nd innings (Target: 384 runs) M. Vijay lbw b Hazlewood 11 S. Dhawan lbw b Harris 0 L. Rahul c Watson b Johnson 1 V. Kohli c Burns b Harris 54 A. Rahane c S. Marsh b Hazlewood 48 C. Pujara b Johnson 21 M. Dhoni not out 24 R. Ashwin not out 8 Extras: (lb-6, nb-1) 7 Total: (for 6 wickets, 66 overs) 174 Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-5, 3-19, 4-104, 5-141, 6-142.

Bowling: M. Johnson 15-3-38-2, R. Harris 16-8-30-2, J. Hazlewood 15-3-40-2, N. Lyon 12-0-36-0, S. Watson 6-1-14-0 (nb1), S. Smith 2-0-10-0.

Shaun Marsh joins the unwanted ‘99 club’ … wanted a quick single, but got cricket notoriety SHAUN Marsh made an unwanted piece of Test cricket history yesterday, becoming just the third Australian to be run-out for 99.

The West Australian fell agonisingly short - both numerically and at the southern end of the MCG - of what would have been his third Test century on the final day of this third Commonwealth Bank Test against India.

Having batted patiently throughout the morning session, Marsh upped the ante in the overs before lunch by blasting Ravichandran Ashwin down the ground for a six, a four and a two in consecutive balls to move to 98.

A single off the third ball of the next over saw Marsh move to 99 before he faced up to Umesh Yadav with just one run needed to reach three figures.

With the field up, Marsh could only manage five dot balls before he bunted the sixth ball of the over down the ground and immediately called for a run.

It was always going to

Shaun Marsh is run-out one short of a maiden Test century at home on the 5th day of the third Test in Melbourne.

be a risky single and his desperate dive was not enough as Virat Kohli’s throw from mid-off broke the stumps The 31-year-old joins elite company in being runout for 99; the only other Australians to ‘achieve’ the feat were Bill Brown (in 1948) and Arthur Morris (1953).

He is the 16th player overall to be run-out for 99 in a Test match and the first since India skipper MS Dhoni against England in 2012.

The other men on the list are Angelo Mathews, Neil McKenzie, Jacques Kallis, Mahela Jayawar-

dene, Mike Atherton, Dipak Patel, Graham Gooch, Mushtaq Mohammad, Mike Smith, Motganhalli Jaisimha, Rohan Kanhai and John Beck There have been 88 instances of batsmen dismissed for 99 in Test cricket, the most recent of which came in Adelaide two weeks ago when Murali Vijay was adjudged lbw to Nathan Lyon just one short of the milestone.(CA).

The last Australian to be dismissed for 99 was Mitchell Starc last year, also against India.

GUYANA CHRONICLE December Wednesday 31, 2014

27

Hockey review 2014

2014 was a busy and successful year for hockey

By Michael DaSilva THE year 2014 was a busy and successful one for hockey with the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) executing several activities both locally and internationally for men, women and junior boys.

According to GHB president Philip Fernandes, the local calendar was packed with five competitions for women and six for men. National teams of both genders travelled abroad during the year for international competition, achieving a good measure of success.

A junior national selection also made a successful overseas tour in preparation for the 2016 PAHF Under-21 championships.

The GHB rounded out this year’s programme with a PAHF-sponsored coaching course and an umpire’s course to further enhance the local resources available to the sport.

The Hikers men emerged as the top club in the men’s division winning five of the six local competitions including the Diamond Mineral Water International indoor hockey festival. Four of these competitions were for the indoor version of the

Guyana’s women’s hockey team who participated in the CAC Games in Vera Cruz, Mexico this year.

game in which the Hikers have firmly established themselves as the top side both locally and regionally.

The GCC ladies’ team remain the local queens having repeated their 2013 clean sweep of women’s competition in 2014 by winning all five competitions on the GHB calendar for the year.

The competitions held on the local calendar were the Bounty One-Day competition, the Brydens Super Classic, the Noble House Goals Galore Indoor handicap, the Banks Night Hockey Tournament, the GT&T National Indoor and the Diamond

Mineral Water International Indoor Hockey Festival.

The only blemish on the otherwise successful year of hockey was the inability to stage the John Fernandes Insurance Services Ltd men’s second division league. The non-completion of the Farfan & Mendes men’s first division league because of the unavailability of grounds and heavy demands of the international calendar made it impossible to conclude these two events in the calendar year.

In April of this year Guyana sent a men’s Indoor team to represent the country at the

PAHF Indoor Championships held in Montevideo, Uruguay. The team performed above the expectations of the region and took the bronze medal in a penalty shootout over Argentina. En route to the bronze, Guyana beat Uruguay, Argentina twice but lost to finalists Canada and the USA. This was Guyana’s third time competing in this event and its best ever showing.

Guyana female national hockey team, competing in the Central American and Caribbean Games, staged in November in Vera Cruz, Mexico, finished sixth of

Premier League quartet in Ivory Coast squad for Nations Cup (REUTERS) - Manchester City’s Yaya Toure heads a list of four players from the Premier League included in the Ivory Coast squad for the African Nations Cup finals in Equatorial Guinea.

French coach Herve Renard named his final 23-man selection for the Jan. 17 - Feb. 8 tournament on Monday and also included Liverpool’s Kolo Toure for the final time as the defender will retire from international football after the event.

Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote and Swansea City’s top scorer this season, striker Wilfried Bony, have also been included Centre-back Eric Bertrand Bailly, 20, from Spanish side Espanyol receives a first call-up.

Renard had been hoping to persuade veteran Didier Drogba to reverse his decision to retire from the national team after the World Cup in Brazil, but the Chelsea striker has opted to remain with his club.

Ivory Coast are looking to end a de-

Yaya Toure cade of disappointment at the continen- (Rizespor) tal finals.

Midfielders: Roger Assale (Sewe Squad: Sport), Serey Die (Basle), Ismael DioGoalkeepers: Boubacar Barry mande (St Etienne), Cheick Douk(Lokeren), Sylvain Gbohouo (Sewe oure (Metz), Max Gradel (St Etienne), Sport), Sayouba Mande (Staebek) Cheick Tiote (Newcastle United), Yaya Defenders: Jean-Daniel Akpa Ak- Toure (Manchester City) pro (Toulouse), Serge Aurier (Paris Forwards: Wilfried Bony (SwanSaint-Germain), Eric Bertrand Bailly sea City), Seydou Doumbia (CSKA (Espanyol), Wilfried Kanon (ADO Den Moscow), Gervinho (Roma), Salomon Haag), Sakia Tiene (Montpelier), Kolo Kalou (Hertha Berlin), Junior Tallo Toure (Liverpool), Ousmane Viera (Bastia), Lacina Traore (Monaco).

eight teams.

This was still a creditable performance given that the Guyana team were the only ones to compete without having an artificial pitch.

Among Guyana’s memorable performances was a draw with Caribbean powerhouses and defending champions Trinidad.

The GHB managed to secure two internationallyfunded courses through the Pan American Hockey Federation which were held in conjunction with the Diamond Mineral Water International Indoor Hockey Festival.

Mr Gus Soteriades of the USA, who is a three-time indoor hockey World Cup umpire facilitated the Umpires course while PAHF coach Anthony Marcano, of Trinidad conducted a coaching course. Both courses were successful and attracted 17 and 15 participants respectively.

The final activity on the 2014 calendar was an overseas tour of a junior Boys

development team. This team was put together in mid-year with a view of early preparation for the 2016 PAHF Junior Hockey Championships being held in Toronto, Canada.

The GHB has secured a team support grant via the Guyana Olympic Association which has enabled them to set an ambitious programme for the next two years for its junior men’s team.

The juniors, under the management of Robert Fernandes, travelled to Trinidad earlier this month and competed in four matches, winning three and losing one.

This was a huge success for Guyana and the exposure would have benefited our young players immensely.

Fernandes said the GHB has concluded a successful year of hockey this year and looks forward to an equally-filled 2015 as it continues to build on its international success and reap the benefits of the development work done in 2014.

NOTABLE DATES ON December 28, 2012 Clive Atwell defeated Revlon Lake to claim the Guyana lightweight title. In the fight held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Atwell knocked out his opponent in the third round a scheduled 12-rounder.

It was the second time that the two fighters met in the ring. In the first contest held on July 27, 2012, Lake lasted one round longer before he was knocked out. Atwell was 13-0 when he challenged WBC featherweight champion Jhonny Gonzalez for the title in May of this year.

The Mexican retained the crown following a technical decision over the Guyanese. Atwell subsequently moved to Australia where he fought Kye MacKenzie for the vacant PABA super featherweight title in November.

MacKenzie won via a 10th round TKO.

Details of forthcoming international series

Ireland & Scotland v Afghanistan (in UAE) (January 2015) England & India in Australia (January-February 2015) Pakistan in New Zealand (January-February 2015) England women in New Zealand (February 2015) ICC Cricket World Cup warm-up games (February 2015) ICC Cricket World Cup (February-March 2015) England in West Indies (April-May 2015) New Zealand in England (May-June 2015) The Ashes: Australia in England (June-September 2015) Women’s Ashes: Australia in England (July-August 2015) England in South Africa (December 2015-February 2016)

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE December Wednesday 31, 2014

Dhoni led by example, not rhetoric - Dravid CALLING MS Dhoni an “inspiration” on the day he retired from Test cricket, Rahul Dravid said he was a captain who led “more by example than by rhetoric or by words”.

“He was a captain I enjoyed playing under,” Dravid told ESPNcricinfo.

“One of the things I liked about MS was: what you saw was what you got.

Very uncomplicated, always led by example. One of the things I really liked about playing under MS was that he never asked you to do anything that he himself didn’t do.”

Dhoni’s style of leadership was famously hands-off, but Dravid said he won the respect of his teammates with his deeds rather than his words.

“The reality was he was having to transition a senior group of players and build a younger group who were coming through,” Dravid said.

“In a sense he was not the most communicative of captains, but he tried to earn your respect by walking the talk. He never took a backward step, and led more by example than by rhetoric or by words.

More by actions.”

Dravid hailed the impact Dhoni had made on Indian cricket after emerging from one of its backwaters.

“For someone to come from a small town like

Ranchi, to go on and captain India and play 90 Test matches, to do it the way he has, I think he brought a lot of dignity to the job of captaincy,” Dravid said. “He might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but he was his own cup of tea and he led with a lot of success and that can never be taken away from him.

“And he’s been an inspiration. If there are kids in small towns today dreaming and aspiring for great things, not only in cricket but in various fields, then MS Dhoni has a lot to do with it.”

Dravid was surprised by the timing of Dhoni’s decision to retire, with one Test still left in the series against Australia, but he said he had expected him to take stock of his future fairly soon.

“I guess it was unexpected that he would do it in the middle of the series,” Dravid said. “I expected him to review it at the end of the series, without India playing Test cricket for the next seven or eight months.

“Knowing MS, if the series was alive, I don’t think he would have taken the decision in the middle of the series, but having seen that the series was already gone, maybe he felt that if he was going to go, then maybe this was the time to do it, and to give Virat Kohli a Test

match in Australia to captain, Wriddhiman Saha another opportunity in a Test match, and to start the process of taking India’s Test team forward.”

Starting with the tour of England in 2011, Dhoni won only one Test match overseas. Dravid sympathised with Dhoni for perhaps not having the resources - particularly in the bowling department - to

he didn’t have the best of times, especially over the last four years, in overseas conditions.

Maybe it’s also a reflection of the fact that the team was in transition, it was changing times, especially in the bowling department. It’s not easy to captain a team when you don’t have the resources able to take 20 wickets.”

Dhoni also attracted

possibly could as a Test captain.”

Dhoni suffered from a perception that he didn’t take Test cricket as seriously as he did the shorter forms of the game, but Dravid dismissed the theory.

“You cannot play 90 Test matches by not embracing Test cricket and not wanting to work hard at it and make a career out of it,” Dravid said.

Rahul Dravid: MS never asked you to do anything that he himself didn’t do. improve his away record.

“If you look at it overall, there was no doubt he was India’s most successful Test captain. The numbers don’t lie,” Dravid said.

“There’s no doubt that

criticism for his defensive tactics as captain, and Dravid said those measures might have been forced on him by the resources at his disposal.

“He was never defensive when captaining in India,” Dravid said. “When he had spinners, he was always attacking, on turning tracks; he was willing to force the game. It’s just overseas, and over the last three or four years, that I just think he maybe felt he didn’t have the bowling resources to be able to take 20 wickets, and he found himself, at many stages, always behind the four-ball.

“It’s hard to attack for the sake of attacking when your runs are leaking at four, fourand-a-half an over, when your batsmen - as it happened on the two tours I played at the end of my career in England and Australia - are struggling as well. We just didn’t put enough runs on the board for a captain to be aggressive and attacking enough.

“Yes, he would be a bit disappointed that he could not maybe transition the team as well as he would have liked overseas over the last four years, and maybe he felt it was the right time for someone like Virat Kohli to take that forward and possibly he felt he’d taken Indian cricket as far as he

“It’s another matter that his one-day record and his T20 record are much better than his Test record, and his achievements in one-day cricket and T20 cricket are phenomenal.

“That’s not to say he did not have a good record as a Test cricketer as well.

Sure, if you judge him by the standards of an Adam Gilchrist, then yes, maybe his Test record wasn’t that good, but purely if you judge him by the standards of Indian wicketkeeper-batsmen and forget everything else - playing lower down the order, playing 90 Test matches, most dismissals for India, most runs as a wicketkeeper-batsman for India, most centuries - it’s a phenomenal record as a Test cricketer and something he can be very proud of.”

Contending that technique wasn’t one of Dhoni’s strengths as a batsman, Dravid praised him for squeezing as much as he could out of his homespun methods, even in difficult conditions overseas.

“I think he had incredible hand-eye coordination, incredible power, and an ability to absorb pressure.

These are his great qualities.

Technique wasn’t one of his great strengths, so if you consider that, to average

38 in Test cricket I think is terrific, because he really made it work.”

The decision to give up Test cricket, according to Dravid, could help Dhoni prolong his career in the shorter formats.

“I think it will actually revitalise him,” he said.

“He’s still 33-34, so I think he could easily carry on.

He’s playing well, he’s fantastic in that format; he’s one of the best finishers in the world. I don’t really see it being an issue in the next couple of years.”

Dravid called Kohli a thinking cricketer and expected him to learn quickly on the job as India’s Test captain, but warned that he might have to ‘learn to relax’, and realise that not everything is within a captain’s control.

“One of the good things about Virat, and you see that already in his short career so far, even as a batsman, is that he’s willing to learn, willing to grow,” Dravid said. “I think he’ll learn from his experiences. Not everything has gone right for him, and he’ll learn in time what is the right way that will help him succeed - not only help him succeed, but he’ll now have to think very carefully what will help everyone around him succeed.

“One particular way might work for him, maybe an aggressive, in-yourface attitude might work for him, but I think he’ll quickly have to realise that there might be other people in the team who might find that difficult to match up to, and might actually want a different way to succeed.

There’s no right or wrong way.

“It’s just different ways that people find success, and I think he will learn in time that he will have to create an environment that allows different people to succeed and allows them to express their personalities on the cricket field.

“One thing I will say is Virat is willing to learn, he asks questions, he’s thinking all the time. He’s just got to learn to relax, and (understand) that he cannot control everything as captain.

One of the things he’s got to be careful about is not take things too personally, take every result, win or loss, as something very personal.

There’s only so much you can control as captain, and I think recognising that quickly is very important.”

(ESPN Cricinfo0

GUYANA CHRONICLE December Wednesday 31, 2014

29

NAMS win top prizes in 2014 Berbice Inter-School Chess Championships

By Clifford Stanley THE 2014 Berbice Inter-School Chess Championships (BISCC) held in Region 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne) saw forty-four students from eight schools participate and players from New Amsterdam Multilateral School (NAMS) wallop their competitors to win three of the six prizes in the team and individual categories.

Public Relations Officer of the BISCC Krishnanand Raghunandan disclosed that NAMS wrested the first and second prizes of the three prizes in the Team category, then the number one prize of the three prizes in the Individual category.

The winning NAMS players for the first prize Team category were Kemo Daniels, Devon Kissoon, Shamar Hooper and Stefan Peters.

Berbice High School (BHS) had to accept third place in the Team category.

Junior Seepersaud of NAMS who was second in the Individual category last year to Darwin London of Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) outwitted his arch-rival this year.

London had to ‘humble’ for the sec-

ond prize in the Individual category while first-timer New Amsterdam Special Needs School (NASNS) Rabin Munilall, a member of the Deaf Chess Guyana, battled spectacularly to win the third prize.

Munilall was accompanied by his interpreter Dr Michael Morgan, a Peace Corps Volunteer attached to the NASNS. The 2014 Championships of the BISCC

Members of the victorious NAMS team pose with their championship trophy.

Legends for Lawrence Rowe cricket match KINGSTON, Jamaica A galaxy of former West Indies stars, plus a couple others from elsewhere, will gather in Florida next month for what should be a memorable weekend for cricketers and fans of cricket.

The cricketers, West Indies Legends, will be attending a banquet at the South Florida Conference Centre in Margate on Saturday, January 24, and will be engaged in a cricket match against a USA Cavaliers X1 at Central Broward Regional Park and Stadium on Sunday, January 25, in the event organised by the Lawrence Rowe Legendary Cricket Foundation.

Leading the assembly of legends will be former West Indies captains Garry Sobers, Courtney Walsh and Brian Lara.

Founded in 2011, the Rowe Foundation has been involved in the Jamaica Independence Programme, an annual event which attempts to spread the Jamaica culture in Florida through the sport of cricket.

It also attempts to get cricket in Florida schools and help in the general development

was the fifth Championship since the inaugural games in 2010.

Wendell Meusa, current National Chess champion and National Chess coach directed the tournament, which was held at NAMS earlier this month, with able assistance from former University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC) student Steve Leung and teachers of some of the participating schools

of children aged 7-14.

The cricket weekend is being sponsored by Caribbean Airlines and El Dorado Rum, and part proceeds from next year’s event will go to former Jamaica and West Indies fast bowler Patrick Patterson.

MEMORABLE EVENT Apart from the cricketing legends, inclusive of Wes Hall and Andy Roberts, the Mighty Sparrow, a regional musical legend, will also be performing at the banquet.

“It should be a great and memorable event,” said Rowe, founder of the foundation and the man who scored 214 and 100 not out in a world-record debut performance against New Zealand in 1972 and stroked a wonderful 302 against England in1974.

“It will be difficult to get some of the legends in action on the Sunday, but they will all be in the thick of things, one way or the other,” continued Rowe.

GUEST SPEAKER He said former West Indies wicketkeeper Deryck Murray will be the guest speaker at the banquet,

while the “older fellows” will talk about their best or their favourite moments in the game.

Those players will include Sobers, once the world-record holder for the highest individual Test score; Wes Hall, once the fastest bowler in the world; Lance Gibbs, once the world-record holder for the number of Test wickets; and Easton McMorris, the West Indies opening batsman from Jamaica.

The legends who have accepted invitations to participate are: Gordon Greenidge, Desmond Haynes, Alvin Kallicharran, Larry Gomes, David Murray, Carlisle Best, Collis King, Ricardo Powell, Daren Ganga, Colin Croft, Joel Garner, Merv Dillion, and Wavell Hinds.

Two former West Indies captains, Rohan Kanhai and Clive Lloyd, have also been invited but have not yet confirmed.

The Cavalier X1 will be led by former Guyanese representative Derek Kallicharran and will include Mushfiqur Rahim and Mashrafe Mortaza of Bangladesh, once they are available. (Jmaaica Gleaner).

namely Dane Grimmond, Mr Bowry and Wayne De France.

At the closing ceremony Meusa said that he had seen great talent and potential among the Berbicians in this year’s competition, notably among them, ten-year-old Christopher Tobin of Eversham Primary who placed fourth in the Individual category and Jayshree Carpen from J C Chandisingh.

Jayshree, he observed, lost none of her games, winning two and drawing two despite the fact that she had learnt to play chess less than two months before the competition.

He felt that this player could be a role model for girls to take up chess.

Trophies were donated by the Department of Education in Region 6, by Dr Walter Singh and family, by Deonarine Balram aka Shane of Rose Hall Town and by Bibi’s Travel Service also of Rose Hall town.

Krishnanand Raghunandan who is also an Executive member of the Guyana Chess Federation and was the organisercoordinator of the tournament loudly and fervently praised the Department of Education of Region 6 for its consistent and enthusiastic support for the fifth annual championships held to date.

Rising Sun New Year’s Day meeting on tomorrow THE 2015 RACING season is expected to commence with a scorcher, when the Rising Sun Turf Club located at Arima Park West Coast Berbice hosts a classical day of horseracing tomorrow, where seven races are carded for the day including the feature event that caters for B class horses, from 13:00hrs.

Close to $8M in cash, trophies and other incentives are up for the taking, while preparation works have been completed and the venue boasts tremendous improvements with both the grand and main stands along with the toilet facilities being in the best of condition, even as the track is ready to host the event.

Beverage manufacturing giant Banks DIH Limited, Trophy Stall of Bourda Market and Hadi’s City Mall, Inshan Bacchus Trucking Service, Shariff Business Enterprise and Racing Stable, Poonai’s Pharmacy, Chester Fry of Bush Lot West Coast Berbice, Hablaw Meat Centre and businessman Rohan Oudit, have all contributed to making the event a successful one.

The feature,, which caters for horses classified as B class will once again see the top runners battle for championship honours and a first-place prize of $1M and the Banks DIH Trophy, covering a distance of one mile.

Apart from Score’s Even, all the other top horses in Guyana are expected to enter the starters gate to compete for supremacy in the feature event, including Guyana Cup champion C.P Got Even, who is expected to face stern opposition from Treacle, Curfew Tower, Princess She Not, Grande De Roja, Run Nana Run, Rock Movie Star, Jack is My Style and Colin Elcock’s Tis a Holiday.

With the much-talked-about three-yearold event for horses born and bred in Guyana and the West Indies now being combined

with the E and Lower class horses, another mouthwatering contest is expected when they face the starter for the $500 000 purse.

Turfites will definitely have a hard time picking a winner for this race, since horses of the calibre of Spit Fire, Just call Me Boss, Unsettled, Release the Beast, Swing Easy, Settle in Seattle, Rosetta and It’s My Turn, will all be going the distance, making this one a cliffhanger.

The G1 and Lower showdown has the likes of Appealing Harvest, Cassie and Damascus Dream, all set to go over five furlongs, even as the G3 maiden and H and Lower winners are expected to see the rivalry between Easy To Win and Mary Ann continue, but they will have to first get past horses such as Red Cloud, Super Bowl and Sent From Above, in the five furlongs event.

The race for two-year-old Guyana and the West Indies-bred horses will see such animals as It My Choice, Midnight Blue, Lock Song, Miss Lova Lova, Atlantic Storm, Settling Star and Shooting Star competing over six furlongs.

There are two J class events, one for J3 animals and the other for J1 horses and both races will cover a distance of five furlongs, with Sunny Silence, Royal Stallion, Smarty Light, Royal Intention, Magnum and Red Jet all expected to burn up the track on race day.

Ramesh Sunich, proprietor of Trophy Stall Bourda, will once again be providing awards for the top individual performers including the top jockey, trainer and stables and the event is being held under the rules of the Rising Sun Turf Club.

For further information persons can contact Fazal Habibullah at Chester Fry Bush Lot West Coast Berbice on 2320232 or 6577010, Inshanally Habibullah or Donald or Zaleena Lawrie on 225-4530, 225-4565 and Dennis DeRoop on 609-9143.

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

Junior Soca Warriors to wrap-up training in Florida PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC)- The Junior Soca Warriors will finetune preparations for next m o n t h ’s C O N C A C A F Under-20 Championship with a training camp in Florida starting January one.

The young Trinidad and Tobago footballers will be based at the Shula’s Hotel and Resort in Miami Lakes and will conduct practice sessions at St. Thomas University.

Head co a ch Derek

Junior Soca Warriors Head Coach Derek King.

King says he is looking forward to completing preparations for the confederation competition, which will be played in Jamaica, January 9-24.

“This camp is a much we lc ome d one f or the team,” King told TTFA Media.

“It’s an excellent opportunity for us to be together as a team in a camp environment before our first match in the tournament.”

The 20 man squad will include United States-

based university players -defender Leland Archer, midfielders Duane Muckette and Brendon Creed and forward Ricardo John.

“These players such as Muckette, Creed and John will definitely add some quality to what we already have with the likes of Corbin, Levi Garcia and the other boys who did exceptionally well for us in the Caribbean Championship,” said King who led the squad to a 3-0 win

over Haiti in the final of the Caribbean Under-20 Championship earlier this year.

“The sessions this week were of a good quality with a lot of intensity and it’s a good sign of us. “We intend to carry this straight into the Miami camp and the tournament in Jamaica.”

The Junior Soca Warriors open the tournament against host Jamaica in Kingston on January 9.

Chelsea’s lead is not Pattinson three-wicket enough, Drogba warns haul wipes out Thunder

By Ian Chadband

LONDON, England Reuters) - Chelsea will begin 2015 protecting a threepoint lead in the Premier League title race but will heed the words of their grand old striker Didier Drogba who warns that it is simply not enough.

“We start again a new championship,” boomed the Ivorian, as Chelsea prepared to visit their fierce London rivals Tottenham on New Year’s Day, with champions Manchester City, at home against Sunderland, still snapping at their heels.

Everything bodes well for Jose Mourinho’s soaring side, not least the fact

Didier Drogba that on the seven previous occasions his teams have been leading their respective leagues at Christmas, they have always gone on to take the title.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday December 31, 2014) 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) 37 Test centuries (2) Colin Stuart & Sherwin Campbell Today’s Quiz: (1) How many times Allan Donald and Shaun Pollock played together in Tests?

(2) How many times the WI and SA have met in Tests in the Caribbean?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Mourinho’s faithful old lieutenant Drogba, though, believes it will have to be a particularly special achievement for the ‘Special One’ to maintain that extraordinary sequence.

“I think it’s going to be tough,” Drogba said, reflecting on how Chelsea’s one-time eight-point lead has been whittled down.

Indeed, if City had not blown a 2-0 lead on Boxing Day to draw with Burnley, there would have now been only one point separating the leaders.

“We knew it was not over. A few years ago, I think we were 11 or 12 points in front of Man United and then they won the league,” Drogba said.

“So eight points or nine points -- I don’t know how many points we had on top of Man City -- I think it is not enough.

JAMES Pattinson, returning from a chronic back injury, broke Sydney Thunder’s batting by the time the Powerplay was done and scripted Melbourne Renegades’ first victory of the Big Bash League season.

(Scores: Melbourne Renegades 2 for 118 for (Finch 48) beat Sydney Thunder 6 for 114 (Hughes 40*, Pattinson 3-24) by eight wickets).

Jacques Kallis’ stumps were in disarray in the first over, Michael Hussey’s

defences were breached in the next and Andrew McDonald’s made it three wickets in Pattinson’s first three overs.

Thunder were 3 for 31 and the recovery took too much time. It took 9.3 overs for the next four to be hit, and that was off a fortuitous inside edge from Chris Hartley.

He was part of a 51-run sixth-wicket stand with Daniel Hughes, who made 40 off 35 balls, but they could only push the total to 114 and prevent the side

from being all out.

Renegades ensured the small target did not pose any tricks by belting 47 runs in six overs. Aaron Finch carved out 48 off 37 balls, including three fours in an over off Nathan Hauritz, but the off-spinner found some comfort when Finch picked out deep square leg in search of another boundary.

Andre Russell walked out at No.4 and blasted a six and a four off Pat Cummins to seal the match in the 14th over. (ESPN Cricinfo)

James Pattinson returns from injury with 3 for 24.

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday December 31, 2014

Stag Super XV1 Final tomorrow

Lil’ Rick and Skinny Fabulous to headline after football show

Lil’ Rick

FOOTBALL fans and players attending tomorrow’s final of the inaugural Stag Super XV1 knock-out competition at the #5 ground West Coast Berbice are in

for a treat after the on-field action ends in the championship match between Grove Hi Tech and Ann’s Grove.

Ansa McAl, through its

stag brand that is known throughout the Caribbean, has ensured that fans will kick off the New Year in true Caribbean style and have engaged the talent of Caribbean artiste’s Lil’ Rick and Skinny Fabulous for a massive after-football show.

Ricky Reid aka Lil’ Rick, a Barbadian by birth, is best known for his “wuk up” performance, a Bajan term used to describe his enviable pelvic gyration.

He has undisputedly earned himself the infamous title the ‘Hypa Dawg’.

He guarantees his fans non-stop hype from the moment he enters the stage.

They will watch in awe

as he commands crowds of screaming fans to attempt his well-choreographed movements.

Gamal Doyle aka Skinny Fabulous is the unmistakably energetic Soca artiste from St Vincent & the Grenadines, better known as Skinny Fabulous.

This talented and versatile artiste demonstrates his quick wit and the capacity to mesmerise the crowd while he is on stage.

Always willing to push the boundaries of Caribbean music, Skinny Fabulous has a style that falls somewhere between Soca and Dancehall.

These two sons of the Caribbean will add the final touch

Skinny Fabulous to what is anticipated to be an enthralling evening of football which will bring the curtain down on two weeks of exciting rivalry between 16 teams drawn from the Berbice, East Demerara and East Bank Football Associations which collaborated with Ansa McAl for this tournament.

Emerging as the finalists are East Bank’s Grove Hi Tech and East Demerara’s Ann’s

Grove. They defeated their Berbice opponents in their respective semifinals at the Buxton ground last December 28 - New Amsterdam United and Cougars. At stake is a top prize of $1.5M with the losers receiving $500 000.

The two semi-final losers will play the third place game tomorrow from 18:00hrs with the winners pocketing $300 000 and the losers, $100 000.

New Year, New Start for Tennis Scholarship Awardee Gavin Lewis EVERYONE is looking forward to new things in the coming new year, and for young national tennis player Gavin Lewis it will be his new start at Coppin State University to which he had earlier this year been awarded a scholarship to attend.

The former St Stanislaus College student is expected to travel to the United States of America early next month to begin his studies for a

Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice at the prestigious institution. Due to his years as one of Guyana’s leading junior table tennis player Lewis was able to receive a NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) scholarship.

His scholarship was largely orchestrated by overseas-based Guyanese Diwani Lewis, head coach at the University which Gavin is expected to attend.

It was back in 2010 that Lewis, who is not related to Gavin, got his job and instantly thought to use this opportunity to help develop some of the talent from his home country.

“It all got started a few years ago when I got the job as head tennis coach at Coppin State University.

One of my main goals was to provide opportunities for our local players (in Guyana) - something I thought was

Red Force training to resume tomorrow PORT of Spain, Trinidad - Trinidad and Tobago’s full training squad for the quickly approaching Nagico Regional Super 50 Tournament will continue preparation at the National Cricket Centre, Balmain, Couva, tomorrow..

As the provisional squad continues to work alongside Red Force coach Gus Logie, training will be amplified as the festive period comes to a conclusion and the focus shifts completely to the annual limited over tourney.

The players will train tomorrow and Friday and

Red Force coach Gus Logie.

take part in two practice matches on Saturday and Sunday. Speaking to man-

ager Manohar Ramsaran yesterday, he expressed optimism with the team’s progress thus far.

“The trials are bringing fruition so far,” said Ramsaran.

“The national team is looking very competitive and the we really have an interesting mix this time around.

Overall, we are optimitic going in to the Nagico tournament and we intend to do well with the bunch of players we have at our disposal. Training is great to date and there are several positive signs.”

(Newsday).

lacking in Guyana.” Diwani shared in an interview with Chronicle Sport.

Diwani was first here a few years ago scouting out several eligible players, but some fell short of the criteria, even then he had noted the capabilities of Gavin, who was, at the time, too young for a University scholarship and he explained to Gavin the possibilities that could await him if he developed his talent.

“I immediately realised how talented he was and a line of communication was established. I informed him of what was required in order to be admitted to Coppin State and he surpassed all expectations. Upon his admittance, I had his scholarship drafted, signed and shipped to him. “ Diwani said.

For his part Gavin is enthusiastically looking forward to this new start, and is happy about what this means for the future of tennis, as does his coach Shelly Daly-Ramdyhan who has worked with Gavin since he first began playing tennis.

“It will expand the sport more, this will bring more awareness to the sport, and I hope this (scholarship) is an eye-opener for the authorities to see the talent that we have. And as we track his progress more and more persons will become aware

Gavin Lewis in action of the opportunities that tennis. Balancing both was tennis has.” Ramdyhan told tough, but look where it got Chronicle Sport. me today.” an enthusiastic Noted for his irreproach- Gavin shared. able discipline and dedicaGavin wrote the regional tion, Gavin was very confi- Caribbean Secondary Examdent in his ability to meet the ination Certificate (CSEC) criteria for the scholarship, back in 2012, gaining passes both academically and ath- in all 12 of his subjects, letically, and is now glad that walking away with one dishis hard work has paid off. tinction, six grade two and “I knew I would’ve five grade three. been accepted and I’m elatAfter settling in, in Janed about this accomplish- uary, Gavin’s first match is ment. My grades through- set for February 21. Gavin out high school were really now follows in the footsteps good. I passed my SAT of former junior tennis exam. I am a high school greats such as Avernelle graduate and I’m good at Holder.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Stag Super XV1 Final tomorrow

Lil’ Rick and Skinny Fabulous to headline after football show See story on page 31

Vita Malt/Aqua Mist rewards top finishers of WDFA KO tournament

SLINGERZ Football Club yesterday were presented with their $1M for coming out on top of the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) Vita Malt/Aqua Mist Water-sponsored knockout tournament which concluded on Boxing Day (December 26) at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground.

The ‘West Side’ top club defeated Den Amstel 4-1 on penalty kicks after finishing regulation and extra time on 1-1.

With the win, Slingerz FC kept their two-year unbeaten run in the WDFA intact while strengthening their hold on football in the region 3 area.

Den Amstel received $500 000 while Pouderoyen who defeated Uitvlugt 3-1 in the third place playoff, went home with $300 000. Uitvlugt

collected $200 000 for their effort.

President of the WDFA Nigel Garraway thanked the tournament’s sponsor (Banks DIH) for trusting in his Association and believing that they could’ve executed the competition which he deemed a success.

Aqua Mist Water Brand Manager Errol Nelson lauded the WDFA for a well run tournament while Vita Malt Manager Clayton McKenzie spoke of the competition’s high energy which he said had a lot to do with the excellent support it received by the people on the ‘West Side’.

The tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) Devon Millington and Best Goal Keeper Joao Filho, both of Slingerz FC, were also rewarded.

Aqua Mist Brand Manager Errol Nelson (4th right) hands over the sponsorship cheque to WDFA President Nigel Garraway. Also present of Vita Malt Brand Manager Clayton McKenzie, Communications Manager Troy Peters, players and other officials.

Brathwaite the big positive for wilting Windies

By Nick Said

Kraigg Brathwaite is named Man-of-the-Match in the drawn second Test. (WICB Photo)

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa (Reuters) - West Indies have one major reason to smile on their difficult tour of South Africa with the continued development of young opener Kraigg Brathwaite.

The Barbadian scored a classy 106 in the rain-effected drawn second Test which showed his solid technique, even temperament and old-fashioned guts as he weathered a hostile spell of fast bowling from Morne Morkel and Dale Steyn.

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It was a third century of 2014 for the 22-year-old and his first outside of the Caribbean, in a year in which he has scored 701 Test runs at an average of almost 78.

He showed when he scored 212 against Bangladesh in Kingston in September that he has the powers of concentration to bat long.

“I’m quite happy, it was obviously hard work and I just believed in myself and did it,” Brathwaite told reporters after collecting his man-of-the-match award.

Turn to page 25 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2014