2015 10 04

GUYANA

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

Economic slowdown started last year No. 104330

SATURDAY OCTOBER 3, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

PRICE: $80

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P.7

– President says Guyana too dependent on traditional exports

‘MEET THE PRESS’: His Excellency President David Granger addressing the local media corps at the Ministry of the Presidency, yesterday

Cocaine ‘bribe’ cops charged P.4

U.S. pledges support for Local Gov’t polls P.2

India throws support behind Gov’t ‘Green P 16 City’ initiative .

‘CHARGED’: From left, Assistant Superintendent Terrence Brown, Constable Ray Drepaul Saul, Corporal Shawn McPhoy and Constable Trevon McKenzie

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

U.S. pledges support for 2015 Local Gov’t polls …hints at electronic tabulation to reduce ‘sleepless nights’

By Svetlana Marshall NEW United States Ambassador to Guyana Perry Holloway has called on the

Government to facilitate Local Government Elections before the end of 2015, even as he pledged his country’s support to eliminate impediments to this country’s development.

Ambassador Holloway, who replaces Ambassador D. Brent Hardt, delivered this challenge after presenting his Letters of Credence to President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday. The U.S. envoy was accompanied by his wife Rosaura, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt and Minister of State Joseph Harmon, among others.

After watching with great anticipation the momentous events of 2014 and 2015 which ultimately resulted in the free and fair elections of May 11, the U.S. Ambassador said he stands ready to work closely with the Guyana

Government to build on the country’s democracy.

“I wish to pledge my government’s continued support to the holding of Local Government Elections before the end of 2015 – hopefully with the use of electronic tabulation so that we can all have a few less sleepless nights as we await the results,” Ambassador Holloway said.

He made this call weeks after Minister of State Joseph Harmon had told the press that Local Government Elections, which was last held in 1994 and scheduled for 1997, would not be possible this year. The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), in one of its most recent press statements, had said that though the Local Authorities (Elections) Amendment Bill has been passed in the National Assembly, preparations for, and the prerequisite conduct of Claims and Objections leading to the finalisation of the Official Register of Voters would take the Commission at least to the end of 2015.

GECOM Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally, in a meeting in early September with Western diplomats who were seeking an update on the long-awaited polls, had also indicated this. A release from GECOM had said that Surujbally stressed to the diplo-

U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Perry Holloway presented his credentials to H.E. President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency, yesterday (Adrian Narine photo)

H.E. President David Granger shares a light moment with U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Perry Holloway, his wife Rosaura, and U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt at the Ministry of the Presidency

mats that assenting to the Local Authorities (Elections) (Amendment) Bill 2015 by President David Granger was pivotal to proceeding with preparations for the polls. The release from GECOM said that Surujbally gave the assurance that the Commission will begin the implementation of its Work Plan for the running off of Local Government Elections immediately after the outstanding legal requirements are passed by the National Assembly and assented to by President Granger.

Meanwhile, in keeping with the Administration’s quest to achieve social cohesion, Ambassador Holloway said “together, we can ensure that all Guyanese enjoy equality of opportunity without regard to race, ethnicity, creed, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.”

In alluding to Guyana’s natural resources and its potential, he said the time has come for the country to harness that potential but responsibly and sustainably for the

United States Ambassador Perry Holloway laid a wreath at the Independence Arch on Brickdam, yesterday

benefit of all Guyanese. “The United States of America stands ready to work with our Guyanese friends to eliminate impediments to national development. We will work with you to combat transnational organised crime under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.”

Additionally, he said the U.S. will be working closely with Guyana to bring about increased transparency and accountability in the manage-

ment of public resources and to protect the environment.

The mobilisation of the private sector resources for the development of cheaper sources of renewable energy is also top on the U.S. Ambassador’s agenda. “I am confident that through public sector reform and public-private partnerships, Guyana can create the business climate necessary to drive socio-economic development for all its people.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

Granger dismisses Bouterse’s claim – says claim ‘does not on New River Triangle change the price of rice’

By Neil Marks PRESIDENT David Granger has dismissed as “spurious”, renewed claims by Suriname of the New River Triangle.

According to online news site, ‘de Ware Tijd’, Surinamese President Desi Bouterse told his country’s National Assembly Wednesday that the New River Triangle (Tigri) will be “back on the agenda” and that he had no “choice” but to do so.

“I read the statement attributed to President Bouterse but as far as I am concerned, it does not change the price of rice,” President Granger said at a press conference at his Georgetown Office.

The New River Triangle encompasses an area larger than Jamaica, the President said, while declaring that Guyana would not allow its sovereignty to be violated.

The President said Suriname’s claim is not new, but whatever the new claim is, it is not being treated lightly.

“We feel that this claim is spurious and we have taken measures in the past to protect our territorial integrity and we will continue to protect our territorial integrity in that regard,” the Guyanese Head of State said.

President Granger said Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge is likely to seek clarification from the Surinamese Ambassador to Guyana as the matter is rather “opaque” at this point in time.

Apart from the New River Triangle, Suriname claims the Corentyne River and that is still a matter of controver-

His Excellency President David Granger addressing the local media corps at the Ministry of the Presidency, yesterday

sy because there has never been any treaty demarcating the boundary between Guyana and Suriname, President Granger said.

“We are aware of the historical claim that Suriname has made to the New River, but I think this is not the time and not the place to advance the claim,” Granger stated.

“There is, as you know, historical evidence that the Eastern boundary between Brazil, what was then British Guiana and what was then Dutch Guiana was clearly marked at least by 1936 and that mark is literally indelible.

“What we do know is that the boundaries of all three countries meet there.

They don’t meet at New River, they don’t meet anywhere else,” the President posited.

He was referring to the international boundary line of the Kutari River.

“So whatever argument the Surinamese government advances has to start with the Kutari and that’s our argument and that’s what we’re going to stand by; that’s the international boundary. You cannot convene a meeting of your Parliament and change the boundary.”

In its last claim to the New River, in May last year, Suriname’s Foreign Minister Winston Lackin, told his Parliament that Tigri area does not belong Guyana.

“Tigri is Suriname territory, but as a developing country we have chosen for the path of diplomacy with, as goal, sustainable development for both our nations.

We are convinced that a constructive solution is the best outcome,” he said.

Lackin had said then that the dispute was a priority for President Desi Bouterse, who was re-elected this year.

Then Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett had referred to the Kutari River as the border junction, referring to the 1936 agreement signed by Brazil, then Dutch Guiana and then British Guiana.

“If what is attributed to my Surinamese colleague is correct, then that is regrettable. Our two border commissions…have been meeting and those meetings are progressing very well, and we look forward to a favourable outcome in the not so distant future,” Rodrigues-Birkett said then.

The statement came on the heels over controversy when a Surinamese map, which included the New River Triangle, was being

distributed at the International Mining, Energy & Petroleum Conference and Exhibition, which Suriname hosted. Guyanese decided not to participate in the event.

After Suriname had used gunboats to eject an oil exploration rig in 2000, Guyana went to the Commission on the Laws of the Sea to resolve the maritime border with Suriname.

Motion seeking repossession of ‘Prado Ville’ lands to be heard on Oct. 7 A GROUP known as the Committee for the Defence of the Constitution, along with Desmond Trotman, recently moved to the court by way of an originating motion to repossess lands which they allege were fraudulently developed at Plantation Goedverwagting & at Sparendaam, known as Prado Ville 1 and 2.

The applicants have named the Attorney General of Guyana as respondent, and the matter is expected to be called for hearing on Wednesday, October 7, at 11 ’o’ clock.

On that date, the Attorney General is expected to enter appearance and to possibly seek leave to file an affidavit in answer.

(George Barclay)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 3, 2015

Cocaine ‘bribe’ cops charged

FOUR policemen – an assistant superintendent, a corporal and two constables – were yesterday charged in connection with the $6 million cocaine bribe at the Whim Police Station, Berbice.

Police said the four ranks were involved in a conspiracy to allow a man to pass freely with cocaine in a minibus on the Corentyne Coast sometime between September 10 and 11,2015.

The man, Renason Parks, was stopped at a police roadblock. When the cocaine was discovered, the man offered the three junior officers $1 million as a bribe. However, they demanded $6 million.

They gave the man time to bring the money, and parked the bus at the station. It was at this point that the Assistant Superintendent was offered a share in the bribe ($500,000) so he would keep quiet.

The officers charged

before Magistrate Ann McLennan yesterday were Constables Ray Drepaul Saul of Eversham Village and Trevon McKenzie of Princeton Village, Corentyne; 42-year-old Corporal Shawn McPhoy of Lot 174 Laing Avenue, West Ruimveldt, and Assistant Superintendent Terrence Brown.

Two other officers are to be called as witnesses after they allegedly collected $500,000 each, but later returned the money.

According to the charge, Brown, stationed at the Whim Police Station, and being an agent employed by the State of Guyana corruptly obtained from Police Corporal Shawn McPhoy a sum of money considered as an inducement for forbearing to charge Renason Park with trafficking narcotics. Brown denied the charge.

Brown, a 48-year-old father of 10 who resides at Lot 273 Sister’s Village, Berbice, was represented by counsel who explained to the court that his client has been serving the Guyana Police Force

‘CHARGED’: From left, Assistant Superintendent Terrence Brown, Constable Ray Drepaul Saul, Corporal Shawn McPhoy and Constable Trevon McKenzie $6M in cash. tampering could be , since tercepted a minibus reportHowever, after receivfor over 30 years. the other co-accused is on edly carrying a quantity of ing their ‘hush money,’ the The lawyer further recocaine and a large sum ranks took $500,000 to their quested the release of his remand.

Assistant Superinten- of cash. senior officer as his part. client on bail, arguing The ranks were however Two other constables that a case of witness dent Brown was released on $250,000 bail and his matter offered $1M by the minibus had each allegedly colwas also transferred to the owner Parks but the ranks lected $500,000, but they Whim Magistrates Court. demanded $6M and Parks returned the money. They According to the pros- agreed to pay the hefty sum. are to be called as witnessecution, on the day in The ranks reportedly took es, and their charges are question the three ranks the vehicle to the station being considered by the were stationed at Salton, and the minibus owner sub- Director of Public ProseCorentyne, when they in- sequently returned with the cutions (DPP).

Minibus conductors on bail for Stabroek bus park brawl

ROUTE 45 minibus conductors Shawn Jones, 29, of Lot 39 Norton Street and Darren Johnson, 22, of Lot 42 Fourth Street Alberttown were arraigned on Friday before city magistrate Ann McLennan for fighting on September 19 at the Stabroek Market bus park.

After the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) was applied, Johnson pleaded not guilty to unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm on Jones; and Jones, who has been left nursing a stab wound to his left rib, denied that he had assaulted Johnson.

Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones did not object to bail being granted the two accused, and they were each placed on $25,000 bail. They are to return to court on October 16.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 3, 2015

Rice farmers wrongly protesting Gov’t - Granger

By Ariana Gordon HEAD of State President David Granger says his Administration is being wrongly and unfairly accused and targeted by rice farmers. The President made this disclosure at his first press briefing held at the Office of the Presidency, yesterday.

Granger said his Administration is attempting to soothe the situation with rice farmers and millers with respect to delayed payments for rice exports to Panama, but the issue is not a government issue but rather a private sector one.

The President’s statement came as government is expected to pay some Gy$500M to millers and farmers. President Granger believes that a significant issue is the failure of millers to pay farmers which he said is a “private arrangement”.

“Without making any accusation, sometimes the millers receive payment for their rice but don’t pay for their paddy. There are problems within the rice community which are not to be blamed on the Government of Guyana,” he said.

Over the past few weeks, the Rice Producers Association has staged several protests against the Administration stating that it (government) is responsible for the loss of Venezuelan paddy and rice market

due to its handling of the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy.

But, President Granger said his government has been unfairly targeted. “As far as this protest is concerned, it is misplaced. The paddy farmers should be protesting against the people who owe them money. We don’t owe them any money,” he said.

Also, the President opined that there are “elements instigating protests”

to give the impression that his government is at fault for the rice and paddy dilemma.

“Let me make it clear, there are elements instigating protests to create the illusion that the government is at fault,” President Granger posited.

Granger said the paddy farmers should protest against the people who owe them money; “we don’t owe them any money.”

Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder, on Friday just prior to the President’s press briefing, announced that Gy$500M would be available to pay rice farmers since the Panama govern-

ment failed to honour its contractual obligations.

“The millers are hurting and are unable to pay the farmers; the Government will now have to get involved. The Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and the GRDB, is prepared to honour the first level of credit to pay the millers so that farmers can be paid with a sum of approximately $500 million, and this is what the Government is prepared to do almost immediately,” Minister Holder told reporters.

The Agriculture Minister added that because the Spanish speaking country

President David Granger at yesterday’s news conference

failed to pay for rice already shipped to it, millers are not in a financial position to pay farmers. As such, government will honour the first letters of credit.

Last year, the governments of Guyana and Panama signed an agreement that would have seen Panama purchasing 5000 tonnes of rice per month from Guyana. That country imports about 150,000 tonnes of rice annually and the move

by Panama to import rice from Guyana is to ensure that the country is able to have access to the staple at an affordable price. Guyana on the other hand said the agreement would make the country more competitive in an open market to supply additional rice yearly. The arrangement was expected to see Guyana exporting approximately 500,000 tonnes this year.

Notwithstanding the issues facing millers and farmers, Guyana’s President said he is keen to market

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the country’s products and had discussions to that effect while in New York at the just concluded United Nations (UN) General Assembly.

“We are searching for markets to help the private millers and farmers. We want the industry to survive and to prosper but we must look at the internal dynamics of the industry and you will discover that it’s a miller-farmer problem, not a government-rice problem,” President Granger said.

He added that the millers and farmers arrangement is “a private enterprise” but Guyana is pushing to ensure that other avenues are opened for the sale of rice.

“I met the President of Senegal, I am looking for markets for rice --- I said the main focus of Guyana’s foreign affairs ministry is economic diplomacy – I want to sell rice, rum, plantain chips, I want to sell stuff…,” he said affirmatively.

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Guyana

EDITORIAL

The meaning of teaching THE Government of Guyana has correctly allocated the greater part of the budget towards education. It is to be supposed that this would cover infrastructural rehabilitation of schools, besides salaries, uniforms for school children, textbooks, stationery, Cyril Potter College of Education, and so on.

Once again, we need to re-examine teaching. It still appears as if people simply happen to gravitate into the teaching profession because it seems to be a ready and secure job with a dependable salary. Apparently, only a handful of people who are in our classrooms at all levels know exactly why they are there. For teachers to know why they are teaching, they would have to think about it. That genius Sir V.S. Naipaul, Nobel Laureate, wrote: “There can be no analysis without self-analysis”.

Therefore, teachers must analyse themselves as to why, how, and whom they teach.

This is called a Teaching Philosophy. Thinking alone is not enough, though. Teaching Philosophies need to be written.

Writing helps to clarify thought, even as clear thinking yields good writing. It is a win-win situation, even though it is difficult work. One and a half pages ought to be enough for starting teachers, or teachers in training. Indeed, an initial teaching philosophy should be an entry requirement for students at CPCE, or students at the University of Guyana who are enrolled in the Education Degree Programme.

We would be hard put to find anyone involved in “teaching” who has written a Teaching Philosophy. UG lecturers are not required to write their teaching philosophies, and they tend to believe that it is simply “lecturing”. They tend to dispense bits and pieces of information, which are then regurgitated at exams, or quizzes or assignments. When the human being is reduced to the biological functions of ingestion, digestion, urination, defecation and fornication, that human being is reduced to mere animal functions. It is thinking that sets us apart from the other animals, and language is part of thinking.

But when it comes to teaching, the price of NOT thinking is very expensive. Poor teaching results in poor learning, and poor learning leads to a retarded nation in all ways. It is rather like slow death.

It is vital, therefore, that those who want to “go into” teaching should be able to explain in writing WHY they wish to do so. It is equally vital for those who are currently in what passes for teaching to explain in writing through a two-page Teaching Philosophy why they are doing what they are doing, how they are doing it, and to whom they are doing it.

We quite often hear the boast that people make: “I teach fuh 30 years!” There is the old caveat in teaching (as in other professions) that there is a difference between 30 years of experience and one year’s experience multiplied by 30 years.

It is an important warning to all of us in all professions in this nation. In other words, if you have not evolved or improved or learned more, then you keep doing the same old thing in the same old ways in perpetuity.

Teaching is among the most demanding of callings; it is much more than a mere profession or job. Teaching

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 3, 2015

Aircraft owners have a responsibility to all passengers I MUST formally highlight the hypocrisy of the Aircraft Owners Association of Guyana.

Citing the article “Aircraft owners slam Denbow’s double standards” in the Guyana Chronicle of Thursday October 1, 2015, I find it distasteful for the Aircraft Owners Association of Guyana (AOAG) to throw stones when their houses are made up of glass.

The aviation business environment in Guyana is being controlled by three or four families. This matter I will address in another letter; for now, let the focus be on infrastructure and safety development. The AOAG stated that its members have, in the past, made themselves available to provide expert advice for the development of aviation in Guyana; but that is useless, as it is not advice that is needed, but financial means.

Over the many decades that the Correia and Ally families -- the two biggest air operators locally -- have been in business, their measurable contribution to aviation safety development in Guyana has been minuscule at best. All the contributions that these ‘owners’ have made were in their own self-interest, and not that of public safety and love

for country. The revenue that is brought in on a daily basis by the pilots, maintenance and operations staff is astounding, and yet the only major development that has been done is the upgrading of the Ogle Airport, whose main shareholders are the Correias, Allys and Mekdecis. Pilots are sent out to brave harsh weather conditions, with heavily-laden aircraft doing approaches in instrument meteorological conditions with no nav-aids other than their compass and GPS units for point-to-point navigation.

For too long have the masses at Ogle been quiet due to fear of retribution from the ‘owners’. The main reason why the statements of Mr. Denbow are being brought into focus is not to promote any positive onward development, but only as a rebuttal for his throwing proverbial stones at the Beech 1900 D aircraft that Trans Guyana recently commissioned.

Let’s take this into focus: With a takeoff configuration at sea level of flaps 17 degrees, 16,000 lbs’ weight and temperature of a standard day in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, the Beech 1900 D needs 3470 feet of runway for takeoff. There

are a few out of the many bush airstrips in Guyana that can accommodate this comfortably and safely. Some of these strips include Mathews Ridge, Imbaimadai, Lethem, Kamarang and a few others, along with the two international runways located on the coast. In addition, the average temperature and humidity factors in Guyana on any given day are above standard ICAO International Standard Atmospheric (ISA) conditions of 15 degrees Celsius, 1013.25 hectopascals with a lapse rate of 2 degrees Celsius at sea level. In fact most of the hinterland runways are higher in elevation than that of sea level, have high humidity and temperature coupled with them being unpaved.

All these environmental factors diminish an aircraft’s ability to take off in a short distance and climb out of mountainous terrain efficiently with weight.

With this very broad synopsis of the Beech 1900 D’s performance, I believe Mr. Denbow was within rights to state that the aircraft is not suited for operations in Guyana’s interior.

But I digress. The AOAG needs to look inward at the massive financial resources that they have collectively, and continue to amass on a daily basis,

to not just offer advice, but to offer financial assistance to a government which inherited a fiscally raped nation, so as to build the safety infrastructure that is needed to ensure not just public safety, but the safety of the pilots and workers of the aviation industry in Guyana.

Let us not allow the Dwayne Jacobses, David Bisnauths, Blake Slaters and Nicholas ‘Nicky’ Persauds of our industry to have died in vain. Let us make a commitment to better aviation safety through acts as simple as fencing our airstrips, donating solar powered marker beacons for obstacles, installing precision approach path indicators lights (PAPI), and functioning lighted wind socks to start. Let us work on gaining international funding to set up an air navigation and approach system for our mountainous areas.

For too long has there been corporate profiteering in Guyana’s aviation industry, where the men and women on the front lines are victimized, mistreated, and undervalued as they carry the few bosses on their shoulders. It is time to do more acting and less talking, Aircraft Owners Association of Guyana!

WILLFRED READ

Ambassador Miles should focus on deepening trade relations with Venezuela Dear Editor, I AM happy that the new coalition government has seen the wisdom in selecting Ms Cheryl Miles as Guyana’s Ambassador to Venezuela. However, I would have preferred her to be in Brazil, where she has a wealth of knowledge in bilateral trade negotiations, and did Guyana proud.

She will be an asset, though, in Venezuela, with her skills and ability to conduct good bilateral trade negotiations with a view to enhancing trade between the two neighbouring countries.

Venezuela is one of our troubled markets for rice, as the agreement will come to an end in November 2015. After her formal introduction as the new Guyana Ambassador, I know that she will make a

presentation on the role of the Venezuelan market in Guyana’s rice industry, and persuade Venezuela to continue importing Guyana’s rice and paddy.

As part of her negotiations, a list of products to be traded must be presented by each country. On Guyana’s list, rice and paddy should be the main focus, since the price now being offered outside cannot sustain the market. These negotiations must start immediately, before the contract comes to an end and must be completed before the next rice crop.

It is important to put on the table information about our rice production and marketing in Guyana. Some of the issues she can raise are rice production in Guyana; the production capacity; marketing in traditional market; future markets; the importance of the rice industry

is a demanding calling because it is an exercise in perpetual self-erasure. There is simply no room for ego in a classroom.

The teacher who enters a classroom with an inflated ego has failed before starting. It causes children to lose, the nation to lose, and all of us to lose.

to Guyana’s economy; products produced; investment opportunities in value added production, and strategic plan of the rice industry. I think these are pertinent in persuading Venezuela to import our rice and paddy. Other products should be on Guyana’s list for negotiations too. She should press the Venezuela team for export preferences for certain products.

And there must be a waiver of CXT to export a maximum of 200,000 metric tons of rice and paddy per year for the duration of the agreement. There must also be a waiver of the merchant marine tax. These concessions can be granted in good faith. This can be a breakthrough for the rice industry, as we seek to export rice to markets alternative to traditional areas.

If we can retain the Venezuelan market, it can be outlined in our strategic plan and as a vital part of our development strategy.

We have been able to survive in a world rocked by general decline of rice and paddy

prices on the international markets. Considering the critical nature of the current situation with Venezuela and Guyana on the border conflict, it would be necessary for Ms Cheryl Miles, our new ambassador, to lobby the Venezuelan Government to buy more of our rice, paddy and other traditional produce. They can also teach us the business culture of these areas, and we will be in a better position to launch our product in their markets.

I am sure that if our ambassador can make a breakthrough in her negotiations and Guyana meets the requirements of the Venezuelan market, the quota granted to us will increase.

The need for strong bilateral trade negotiation and constructive dialogue between Guyana and Venezuela at this time cannot be overemphasised. I have confidence that she will do an excellent job, and make Guyana proud as she has always done before.

Yours faithfully MOHAMED KHAN

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 3, 2015

Economic slowdown started last year

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- President says Guyana too dependent on traditional exports

By Ariana Gordon

GUYANA has been too dependent on traditional export products and, as a result, the economy has suffered. In fact, President David Granger yesterday declared that his government inherited an anemic economy. Speaking at his first press conference at the Ministry of the Presidency, Granger responded to question of a slowdown in the country’s economy.

“Generally, the commodities we depend on most have underperformed and the underperformance was noted since 2014,” the President told reporters.

The President said his government “took over some troubled companies” making specific reference to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) and the Guyana Power and Light Corporation (GPL). “…so when we speak about slowdown, the slowdown is perhaps a year or more old. It is not a recent slowdown, it has been taking place over a very long period of time,” Granger stated.

“The slowdown is not a result of May 11th; if you

look back at what has taken place in 2014 you’d see that bauxite prices flattened out, gold prices were dropping, sugar production was falling and generally, the more productive sectors, and don’t forget Guyana has not been able to uproot itself from what is called the ‘six sisters’ - rice, sugar, gold, diamond, bauxite and timber,” the President said.

Guyana, he said, has been exporting the same things over the past 100 years and many of the products “started to show signs of anemia in 2014.” Some, he said, were subject to world market prices.

According to him, many persons have been leaving the gold industry because of low prices for gold, with a similar situation happening now in the rice industry.

In 2014, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean projected a 4.5 per cent growth rate for Guyana, the highest for the Caribbean and the eleventh in the entire Latin America. Figures were released in ECLAC’s projections for Latin America and Caribbean economies which the body said would have experienced an average growth of 2.2

per cent in 2014 and was affected by the weakness in external demand, less dynamic domestic demand, insufficient investment, and limited room for implementing policies to result in growth.

The economic slowdown observed in the last quarter of 2013 persisted during the first months of 2014, meaning that the region will grow less than it did the previous year.

“Macroeconomic policies have to take into account each country’s specific vulnerabilities. Without a doubt, it is important in all cases to increase investment and productivity to guarantee structural change with equality in the medium term. Both factors are key challenges for the economic sustainability of development, especially in the current context,” Alicia Bárcena, ECLAC’s Executive Secretary said.

JOB CREATION Meanwhile, President Granger stressed that education is key to job creation and explained that there is no point promising jobs when the requisite skills do not exist.

“Essentially, it has al-

ways been an argument that the education system has to be the basis for employment. It is no point going out and promising people jobs when they do not have the skills or education level to support the jobs that you want to provide,” said President Granger.

He told reporters that government’s aim is to get more children to remain in schools given that Guyana has a very high rate of school drop outs. “It is about 500 students a month in the primary and secondary schools…and we have embarked on this programme - Every Child in School (ECIS).”

The President added that Government’s initiative to provide those vulnerable with assistance is also critical to the success of the ECIS programme. “…that is one of the reasons we are providing school buses, boats and bicycles, the three Bs…to keep children in school. If people can’t afford transportation, we will find ways of getting children to school,” he assured.

Noting that the education system is most important, President Granger said: “We feel that if we can keep

children in school they will emerge literate and numerate and make it easier for us to employ them.”

Additionally, the President said it is government’s intention to encourage more indigenous people, particularly youth who may have dropped out of school to get into youth empowerment programmes so that they can utilize their “skills” in their communities. He made specific mention of agro-processing skills.

Granger said he does not want a situation where indigenous people are taken from their communities for training in the city for example and after the training they return to their homes but cannot utilise their acquired skills there.

“We want to give them more appropriate skills and the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs is re-launching the Youth Apprenticeship and Entrepreneur programme which can give them the type of skills that they can use in their communities,” the President added.

He pointed to cases of many young people in hinterland communities leaving school to “drift into the

mining communities or drift over the border.” “…but we feel we can keep them in their communities if we provide agro- processing, that is to say if they use cassava, sweet potato, peanuts… they can start selling peanut butter, cassava bread…so these are the means we hope to employ to create jobs.”

The President stressed the importance of keeping young people in schools and said the 2016 budget can hopefully cater to rewarding parents for keeping their children in schools. “Maybe in next year’s budget we can provide some facility instead of the school transport voucher which will reward parents who keep their children in school.”

Advising that keeping children away from Primary school is against the law, the President said: “We don’t want to put anybody in jail…so we will encourage parents to keep their children in schools.”

This will ensure that, in years to come, we would have a more literate population that is better employed in developmental projects, the President told reporters.

Merchant on $50,000 bail on 2 counts of fraudulent conversion TONEY Ramnarine, a merchant of Lot 6 East Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, was yesterday arraigned in city magistrate Ann McLennan’s court on two charges of fraudulent conversion.

Particulars of one charge

detailed that during the month of August, at Water Street, Georgetown, he was solely entrusted with a quantity of body wash articles and male and female clothing valued at $200,510 by virtual complainant Komal Chan to re-

sell and return the proceeds to him, but he fraudulently converted the money to his own use and benefit.

The other charge detailed that between April 1 and September 4, at Regent Street Georgetown, Ramnarine was entrusted by Ranita

Pariah with a quantity of gift sets valued at more than $100,000 to resell and return the proceeds to him, but he fraudulently converted the money to his own use and benefit.

In addressing the court, the defendant admitted that

he was given the goods by the two complainants for resale, but he said that because of the hardship of the market, he was unable to get all of the items sold, and he did not steal the moneys involved.

Police Prosecutor De-

niro Jones did not object to bail being granted the defendant, and bail was set at $50,000. The magistrate then scheduled the matters before Magistrate Fabayo Azore in Court 05 for October 09.

(Clestine Juan)

The PPP/C needs to rid itself of selfish people IN my letter caption “Jagdeo should give Granger the benefit of the doubt” (SN, 30 September 2015), I have stated that President David Granger have positive character attributes which give him strength of character.

So what are some of these positive character attributes?

Generosity, humility, kindness, patience, tolerance, compassion, love, mercy, modesty etc. These are called virtues.

While I do not wish to suggest that President David Granger is a paragon of virtue, as I am sure, like most of us,

that he has his faults, I would also like to point out that Cheddi Jagan also had positive character attributes (virtues).

The point I am trying to make here is that since Cheddi Jagan died, the PPP/C (of which I am a supporter) has been listless to the point that it has become self-deluding and self-destructive. This can only have happened because of certain individual/s in the PPP/C who are selfish. One man, in particular, built himself a mansion while Guyanese suffered. Yet, the PPP/C saw it fit to give such a person unheard of “retirement

benefits”. This is selfishness to which Cheddi Jagan and President David Granger do not subscribe (that is, President David Granger and Cheddi Jagan are not selfish people).

The PPP/C needs to rid itself of such people, whether they are Leader of the Opposition or not, so that it can become a political party that all Guyanese can be proud of again.

Yours Faithfully SEAN ORI

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

Man hangs self near Netherlands National Archives Night Shelter team visits President FORTY-year-old Luke Latiff hanged himself under a cashew tree in an empty plot of land across from the Night Shelter at Lot 1A Arapaima Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown at the close of daylight hours yesterday.

He was not a resident of the Night Shelter, but had reportedly spent most of his time where his lifeless body was found. He and a group of kindred souls would lime, cook, and chat for hours in

the empty plot of land; and none of his buddies knew he was contemplating death, since he had not indicated to them that he was disenchanted with life.

He reportedly had an outstanding court matter with the police, and he had confided in residents of the Night Shelter that he was really frustrated.

His death came as a surprise to many, including his friends at the Night Shelter.

As news of his demise cir-

culated, some said he was stupid to do that to himself, while others said that only he knew what he was going through.

Originally from Berbice, Latiff was said to be a normal, jovial person who practically took care of himself, but became fed up with life, having had a rough patch years ago, which caused him to migrate from Berbice.

When his body was discovered hanging at about 06:30 hrs, ranks from the nearby East La Penitence Police Station cut it down, and a hearse took it away.

(Michel Outridge)

In photo, from left, are Liesbeth Keijser, Project Manager Digitisation; National Archive of the Netherlands, Arjan Agema; President David Granger, Roelof Hol and Ben Ter Welle, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany

A VISITING team from the National Archives of the Netherlands, earlier yesterday, paid a courtesy call on President David Granger, as they sought to brief him on the current digitalisation processes at the local National Archives.

The team is expected to finalise ar-

CoI Chairman Parvatan says…

rangements, for close to 25 metres of document text from the Dutch period, from between the 1650s to the 1800s, to be transported to Holland to be fully digitalised and returned to Guyana. Funding for this project was provided by the government of the Netherlands.

The plot of land which Luke Latiff occupied before he took his own life

Every sugar estate in Guyana operating at a loss

– over $17B pumped into industry by Gov’t last year

By Ravin Singh EVERY Sugar estate in Guyana is currently operating at a loss, which translates to each having to be heavily subsidised by government in an attempt to preserve direct employment for the 16,000 workers who rely on the sector for their livelihoods.

Chairman of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Commission of Inquiry (CoI), Mr Vibert Parvatan, made this disclosure at a press conference held in the Ministry of Agriculture’s boardroom, yesterday.

Parvatan, who is spearheading an examination of the sugar industry to formulate recommendations for its survival, said the historical realisation of 300,000 tonnes of sugar is currently unachievable, since there are major challenges in achieving 220,000 tonnes.

To exacerbate this challenge of declining production, the unit cost of production continues to climb, the Chairman added.

“When the sub-committee presented its quote to us, world market price was recorded at 13 cents per pound; and in the same vein, GuySuCo’s cost of production is 45 cents per pound. This is more

Chairman of the GuySuCo CoI, Vibert Parvatan

than 3 times the market price of production,” Parvatan said.

It was noted that Government was forced to pump over $17B into the industry last year, to facilitate the operational cost which had exceeded the revenue generated from sugar production.

Parvatan further explained that the historical position of the European markets, which gave Guyana preferential prices, was a “bonanza” in the years gone by. This bonanza, he said, accommodated some levels of inefficiency.

In fact, he disclosed that, presently, the prices have been gravitating towards the

world market prices which puts Guyana in a difficult situation.

Additionally, Parvatan offered that “while subsidies are not new to sugar industries, the administration – the government of the day -- conscious of its sympathy and support for the industry, should acknowledge that they have their own limits in terms of funding.”

He further suggested that GuySuCo should not be seen only as a business; and if this was the case, then there would have been an obvious solution to the issues plaguing the industry.

He opined that the sector affects the social, economic and cultural life of those who depend on it for survival.

“If GuySuCo was seen as just a business, there would have been a very simple, obvious solution…. But, to the government, GuySuCo is more than just a business….

It is complex, it is complicated, but not insurmountable,” he told reporters yesterday.

As it relates to the CoI, which is in its preliminary stages, Parvatan revealed that 54 copies of previous studies on the sector done internally and externally were received from the Ministry of Agriculture.

In addition, the commis-

sion was privileged to have contributions from experienced economists, leaders in the business community, the head of the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), the head of KJ, Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), and many others who were eager to ventilate their views after recognising the significance of this assignment.

“The sub-committee’s report came in this week in the form of a draft. Throughout this week, we reviewed the first draft. So that process is ongoing and will continue next week,” he added.

These drafts will then be placed before the entire body of the commission, a presentation will be made, and commissioners will interject with questions, make comments, disagree, support, and advocate.

He explained that the commission has also received several recommendations from persons who appeared before the commissioners, but some of these are impracticable.

Quizzed on what some of these recommendations were, the chairman refused to divulge. He offered, rather, that reporters should await the final report, which will be submitted to the Minister on October 17.

Guyana moves closer to having electronic medical records

THE Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), will next week move one step closer to realising its vision of establishing a National Electronic Patient-Care Record (EMR).

The Health Ministry, on October 10, is slated to engage the New York-based Oshi Center for Health and Social Policy on the establishment of an electronic medical record (EMR) pilot study. Speaking with the Chronicle, Public Health Minister Dr George Norton said all systems are in place to facilitate the meeting here in Guyana.

The MoPH hopes

that transparency and accountability in Guyana’s healthcare sector would be improved with the use of information communication technologies. The APNU+AFC coalition had, in its 2015 manifesto, pledged to improve the country’s health systems and services by strengthening the health surveillance units and the data collection and laboratory services.

And when completed, the electronic medical record (EMR) pilot project will form part of the Government’s massive E-Governance operations.

Currently, the Government is working to incor-

porate the operations of the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) into the E-Governance operations.

The NDMA has not had a board appointed in over two decades, and this is an issue that has severely hampered the work of the authority.

The NDMA Act of 1983 provides the appropriate framework through which Government can address the ICT needs of the public sector. In this regard, the Government will place the NDMA and E-Government Project under a single administrative system. (Svletana Marshall)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

Ramayya denies snubbing Region – says had to seek urgent medical intervention 6 Council

By Jeune Bailey Vankeric

RECENTLY appointed Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region 6, Dr Veerasammy Ramayya, has denied reports that he had failed to give notice of his absence at his first statutory meeting, held in the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) boardroom on Thursday.

“What the chairman [David Armogan] is saying is a blatant lie. I had to go to the doctor yesterday morning; I was not feeling well. He [the chairman] knew about it. He called me two or three times. But when I went to the doctor, the test I had to do, I had to make sure the results were there, as they [the doctor] wanted to know what exactly was happening.

So when I did call, it was about 13:30hrs, the meeting was already over. I had lunch and then went to a funeral.

I don’t have to lie,” Dr Ramayya said as he removed an

ice pack from his lower extremity to show this reporter.

Responding to a report carried in the Guyana Times of Friday, October 2, under the caption “Ramayya snubs Region 6 Council”, Dr Ramayya denied from his office within the Regional Democratic Council Complex at Vryman’s Erven in New Amsterdam that he had failed to attend a scheduled and properly called meeting without giving prior notice of absence.

“I did not snub from any meeting. That’s a lie they are pedalling to make the PPP look good and let the government look bad. I knew of the meeting. I worked on Wednesday. I had no intention of absconding from the meeting because of the PPP majority.

“No, I am not afraid of them. So what this newspaper is saying is untrue,” Ramayya contended.

While agreeing that his attendance was necessary,

as it was his first meeting at the regional body, Ramayya emphasized that his absence was never intentional, as the visit to his doctors were of more importance than “coming to a meeting”.

“You mean to tell me (that) if I am dying I had to go to the meeting? I had to wait on the results of the blood test; it takes hours. I had to know why I was unwell,” he countered.

With respect to the issue of non-payment of contractors, it was reported that several contractors who were retained by the RDC to conduct projects within the region are still unpaid. However, the REO highlighted there were various degrees of corruption, which resulted in substandard work during the last Administration.

“Previously, contractors were paid by government and taxpayers’ money to do work in Black Bush Polder. No one can account for works done, no one in-

spected….I went through the entire Black Bush Polder, the works were all substandard…so I took all the contracts out of Black Bush, because they are all friends and political affiliates, and as such, I refuse to make any payment,” he disclosed.

Further, as Ramayya displayed several photographic exposures to support his decision, he noted that instructions were given to the relevant contractors to desist from spraying the grass in the canals, but they continued to do so.

“Although there is a Works Committee, I will inspect all works in this region, as this region comes under my control. All the substandard works will be brought to a halt,” Ramayya promised.

Highlighting another concern, which stated that he did not supply $300,000 to the Skeldon High School for their travel to Region 9 (Upper Takutu-Upper Esse-

EPA to implement National Biosafety Roster

By Rabindra Rooplall THE Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, through its Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is aiming to implement the national biosafety framework as it is requesting experts for a national biosafety roster.

Guyana became a party to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on August 29, 1994. The Convention outlines the duties of the parties to ensure that the necessary measures are taken to address Biosafety issues as a result of the use and applications of modern biotechnology.

The EPA underscored that the national roster of experts shall provide advice and technical support, as appropriate upon request in Guyana and the region. The experts will be expected to conduct risk assessment, make informed decisions, build capacities and promote institutional strengthening, associated with transboundary movement of Living Modified Organisms (LMOs).

The roster of experts

will consist of individuals with requested expertise in four areas: (1) Scientific and Technical Expertise; (2) Legal Expertise, (3) Policy and Regulatory Expertise and fourthly biosafety systems development and implementation expertise.

According to the National Biosafety Framework for Guyana, Biosecurity or biological security is the exclusion, eradication or effective management of risks posed by pests and diseases to the economy, environment and human health.

It covers all activities aimed at managing the intro-

duction of new species and managing their impacts once introduced. Indeed, given the extant and emerging global threats, the definition of biosecurity has been expanded to include a more strategic and integrated approach that encompasses the policy and regulatory frameworks (including instruments and activities) that analyse and manage risks in the sectors of food safety, animal and plant life and health including associated environmental risk.

The framework noted that Biosecurity covers the introduction (intentional and unintentional) of plant pests,

animal pests and diseases, zoo noses, the introduction and release of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and their products and the introduction and management of invasive alien species and genotypes, as well as biological weapons and other agents used in biocrimes within the scope of agricultural bio-warfare and bio-terrorism in general. In this context, human diseases and the entire spectrum of bio-terrorism, related bio-arsenal and global pandemics are included.

The Guyana policy on bio-technology, bio-safety and bio-security aims to strengthen Guyana’s capability to take advantage of the opportunities offered by biotechnology, for the benefit of the individual, industry and the environment. The biotechnology policy aims to promote the accumulation and use of knowledge in the sector, to facilitate the conversion of the results of research projects to practical applications, under ethically acceptable conditions. The policy encourages public-private sector partnerships and foreign direct investment. Guyana is an attractive country to do business in because of its rich biodiversity and indigenous resources.

quibo) to participate in the JOF Haynes debating competition against St Ignatius Secondary, Ramayya said he was informed that the trip was cancelled, as the time line afforded to them to have the cheque prepared was too narrow. This, he said, in the presence of the DREO, Mr. Imran.

Referring to his attempt to design a septic tank at the Number 36 Primary School, the REO noted that he visited the learning institution in the presence of the Regional Engineer Mr. Roopesh, and observed that the students continued to use the primitive latrines, which were situated a long distance from the school. He said it can be discomforting for a child in moments of emergency, and he took immediate steps to have the situation rectified. ”Similar action was taken at Tain Primary, where there are also poor toilet facilities…,” he disclosed.

Addressing the issue of

Dr. Veerasammy Ramayya

who is in control of the region, Ramayya said that while Armogan is an appointee of a political party, he (Ramayya) is an appointee of the Government of Guyana.

“He (Armogan) wants to execute party policies (PPP). The only person who can take me from here is our Honourable President”, he emphasised.

Truck driver on $1M bail – for causing death on Linden Highway

TRUCK driver Dwayne Loaffe was, on Thursday, placed on $1M bail after appearing in city magistrate Judy Latchman’s court, arraigned on a charge of causing the death of Delicia Gonzales on the Linden Highway last Saturday.

Particulars of the charge against the 23-year-old Land of Canaan, EBD resident detailed that he drove motor lorry GMM 2065 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Gonzales, who had been seated in the tray of the lorry, at Hararuni Public Road.

With the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) applied, the indictable matter was laid; and, represented by attorney-at-law Dexter Todd, Loaffe pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was also charged for carrying a person in the tray of his truck without written permission from the relevant authorities. Loaffe pleaded guilty to that charge and was fined $20,000, defaulting payment of which he would have to serve two weeks’ imprisonment.

Todd explained that his client was recently dis-

charged from the hospital and had suffered from a broken leg and arm, caused by the accident.

The lawyer further revealed that his client, along with several others, had to be taken to the hospital to seek medical attention.

The prosecutor, Police Inspector Vishnu Hunt, did not object to Loaffe being granted bail, thus the truck driver was released on bail, and was ordered to return to court on October 15 for statements.

Police reports allege that on September 26 last, at about 21:30 hrs, the accused was driving motor lorry GMM 2065, with the deceased and several others in the tray, proceeding along the Hararuni Public Road on the Linden Highway, when he tried to swerve from a car, lost control of the vehicle and the passengers in the tray of the lorry were flung several feet in the air before landing nearby.

Unconscious, the injured were rushed to the hospital, while Gonzales reportedly died instantly from the injuries he had sustained. (Clestine Juan)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

BSD-resistant plantains, bananas to be field-tested by early next year – NAREI

By Clifford Stanley VARIETIES of bananas and plantains that are resistant to the Black Sigatoka Disease (BSD) are to be field-tested by early next year.

Dr Oudho Homenauth, Chief Executive Officer of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), said that a number of BSD-resistant varieties from Nigeria and from as far as Belgium are currently in tissue culture form at the NAREI lab at Mon Repos.

Tissue culture is a process that, over a short period , involves exposing plant tissue to a regimen of nutrients, hormones, and light under sterile laboratory conditions to produce many new plants, each being a clone of the original mother plant.

Dr Homenauth said the field- testing would be the first time these BSD-resis-

Resource persons at the BSD management workshop, from left: CEO of NAREI, Dr Oudho Homenauth; Plant Pathologist Sharon Jones of Trinidad; CARDI Consultant Guyanese Somwattie De Souza; and Surinamese expert Dr Robert Power

BSD syndrome in bananas

tant varieties will be introduced to Guyana, marking a new dimension of the NAREI mission -- intensification of vegetable production for both local and export markets.

He made these disclosures during the opening

Some participants at the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) training workshop on BSD management

session of a two-week training programme for agricultural technicians and farmers on the “Integrated dis-

ease management of Black Sigatoka disease (BSD)”.

That programme is funded by the Caribbean Devel-

opment Bank (CDB), and is being implemented by the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), in collaboration with NAREI. Guyana is one of four countries benefiting from the programme; the others are St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Dominica.

The programme in Guyana, being held at the NAREI Headquarters at Mon Repos, also has a geographic information system (GIS) component, including the use of technology such as drones and the use of satellites for disease monitoring and management, lead specialist Sharon Jones, who is a plant pathologist, disclosed.

Other resource persons are CARDI Consultant Somwattie DeSouza and Dr Robert Power, a Surinamese plant pathologist who specialises in fungal and bacterial diseases.

The Black Sigatoka Disease is caused by the Mycosphaerella fijiensis Leach, and is an important foliar disease of plantains in Guyana. First reported in 2008,

it has since caused significant reduction in bunch weight and subsequent yield losses. In Guyana, BSD is currently managed mainly by the use of fungicides.

The BSD is the most damaging leaf disease of bananas and plantain worldwide. Most areas of the tropics and subtropics are affected, with reported losses of between 30% and 50%.

This capacity-building workshop is one of three actions taking place under the CARDI/CDB-funded project ‘Development of an Integrated Disease Management Programme for Black Sigatoka Disease’ in Guyana, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and St. Lucia.

The other two are the development of an integrated disease management (IDM) plan for BSD, and the introduction and evaluation of BSD-tolerant varieties.

It is envisioned that these three actions will work together, synergistically, to significantly improve disease management, resulting in higher yields for farmers.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

New Amsterdam Town Week launched THE annual New Amsterdam Town Week was officially launched on Wednesday with a call for quality and efficiency for the planned activities, aimed at attracting visitors to the township as it celebrates 124 years as a municipality.

Deryck Cummings, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, officially launched the seven-day event, scheduled to commence on October 25. He complimented the planning committee for its transparency and level of commitment, which he said will go well for stakeholders and stimulate the interest of persons who can be involved.

The exhibitions, which will include sports, performing arts, care for the elderly, education, medical outreaches and a street fair, will be held in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, the Regional Democratic Council, and the Berbice Chambers of Commerce

under the theme: ‘Enhancing Social and Economic Development through National Unity’.

The annual activity is happening at a time when there is a lot of enthusiasm for New Amsterdam to return to its former glory, even as in excess of 1,000 persons pass through New Amsterdam daily with the recent introduction of the water taxis.

However, the gathering, which consisted mainly of members of the municipality, Regional Democratic Council, Chamber of Commerce and the citizenry, was urged to focus on quality and efficiency.

“Focus on what you can manage, and market it in such a way that all will benefit, including businesses and hotels. The public relations aspect of the planning must be in full gear -- the marketing aspect -- even as the ministry will produce memorabilia and assist with the publicity to commemorate the event”, Mr Cum-

mings advised.

With the first ever Business Expo to be held in Georgetown during the last weekend in November, Cummings expressed optimism that the best exhibits at the local town week event can be on display at the exposition, which will be heavily subsidised by the Ministry of Business.

He noted that, like the Town Week, the Business Expo is intended to highlight the entrepreneurship, skills and creativity of small businesses.

“Similarly, there will be no washdown, no entertainment, which will allow persons to focus on creativity and determination of those who are willing to subsidise their income by self-employment,” Cummings advised.

“There is a wave of restoration…challenge the committee to do something special a week prior to the event. Look for national events that are upcoming, which would allow the com-

mittee to ‘piggy back on’, so that there will be more outcomes without the committee having to organise everything,” Cummings advised.

“New Amsterdam is to operate during the week of activities like the Sandcover bird, which flies forward but its head turns backwards… so you look back at what you had given up, or at what you were unable to do because you were constrained.

Aim to get those things back while looking forward, embrace the future and the current policies which were pledged by the administration prior to being elected,” Mr Cummings advised.

Earlier, Mayor Claude Henry gave an insight to the first ever debate by the disciplined forces on National Security, while Coordinator Mr Errol Fingal gave a detailed description of all other planned activities. (Jeune Bailey Vankeric)

Cops plead not guilty to wounding arrested man – each placed on $50,000 bail POLICE constables from ‘F’ Division, Richard Williams and Anthony Ramadan, both 23-yearold Berbicians, were arraigned on Thursday in city Magistrate Ann McLennan’s court, accused of maliciously wounding Erick Wilson while he was in their custody on January 23 at Golden City Backdam in Berbice.

Dually represented by Attorney-at-Law Patrice Henry, they both pleaded not guilty to the offence when the Administration of Justice Act was applied, and they were each placed on $50,000 bail.

Explaining that his clients are both serving members of the Guyana Police Force, the attorney requested that the matter remain in the Georgetown Court District, because the virtual complainant has boasted of being related to the magistrate who serves in the division, and his clients may not get a fair trial if the matter is transferred there.

Police prosecutor Deniro Jones had no objection, thus the men were granted bail and the matter was transferred before the Matthews Ridge magistrate for November 6.

(Clestine Juan)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

GNYC proposal for 2016 as ‘Year of Guyanese Youth’ gets gov’t backing the Ministry of Education and sent to President David Granger. The policy caters to the needs of youths in the age-group of 15-35 years, which constitutes over 50 percent of the population.

The policy seeks to achieve a nation where all the young people are safe and healthy in a society in which they have equal access to opportunities, can participate in public life, and are empowered to meaningfully contribute to Guyana’s sustainable, national development.

Minister Henry said the policy will soon come into play given that the final draft has been completed and was sent for deliberations.

The rationale behind GNYC’s proposal, accord-

ing to council member Norwell Hinds, is to assist countries that were affected by natural disasters, such as Dominica, to be funded by the proceeds of activities and fundraisers throughout the year.

At the United Nations Summit for the adoption of the post-2015 development agenda, President Granger threw Guyana’s support behind the new sustainable development goals of the United Nations.

“Guyana will work tirelessly, in accordance with our national plans and aspirations, to build a modern, peaceful and prosperous nation, in which all citizens share equally in the benefits of development,” the President stated, as he supported the 2030 ‘Agenda for Sus-

tainable Development’.

SDGs The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a global process that builds on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which were a part of the Millennium agenda that was decided and agreed by global leaders in the year 2000. Eight goals were outlined in the Millennium that dealt with eradicating poverty, achieving gender equality, reducing hunger and reducing child mortality, among others.

Two years ago deliberations on SDGs started and at that time it was called the post-2015 agenda. There was a series of consultations that took place within the UN system itself, then there were consultations globally

with world leaders, communities and people. Thereafter, world leaders began contemplating the next agenda for development since the MDGs were coming to an end this year.

As a result, the 2030 SDGs agenda was introduced. SDGs are basically a series of 17 goals which global leaders have committed to outline the global way forward to end all forms of poverty.

At the forum, Minister Henry said the Department of Culture, Youth and Sports under the Education Ministry will ensure that Guyana continues to partner with agencies and countries of the world, in realising sustainable youth development as outlined in the SDGs agenda.

Little ‘Emily’ enlightening the gathering about attaining a sound education

By Shivanie Sugrim ONE year after its formal launch, the Guyana National Youth Council (GNYC) will be proposing to government that it should adopt the year 2016 as the ‘Year of Guyanese Youth’.

On the heels of International Youth Day, at a symposium on the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Agenda on Wednesday, Minister within the Ministry of Education Nicolette Henry said

government would seek to ensure that the Guyana National Youth Council proposal has the full support of agencies, particularly those geared at fostering youth development.

“The Year of the Guyanese Youth will prioritise youth development on the national agenda,” said Henry, adding that the proposal will build on the momentum of the National Youth Policy and the official National Youth Council.

R e c e n t l y G u y a n a ’s Youth Policy was drafted by

Minister within the Ministry of Education Nicolette Henry addressing the gathering at the symposium on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

Berbice High students urged to uphold traditions of the school

A wing at the Berbice High School

THE Berbice High School (BHS) recently marked its Centennial at a ceremony where a vice president and a minister of government, who are old students of the

school, made addresses.

Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, in his address noted that there are many others who would have achieved

extensively and deeply, who are very proud on all occasions to let it be known they are products of the Berbice High School.

Turn to page 18 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

GRPA pushes early screening in campaign against cervical cancer

By Svetlana Marshall

EACH year, nearly 530,000 new cases of cervical cancer are detected globally, claiming the lives of approximately 266,000 women. With an estimated 100 deaths annually, this disease is the leading cause of cancer mortality among women in Guyana.

Among Caribbean countries, Guyana ranks highest with an incidence rate of 46.9 and a mortality rate of 21.0 per 100,000 persons.

According to a 2007 review conducted by the Cancer Registry of Guyana, cervical cancer was significantly more prevalent among Indigenous women in Guyana.

Cervical cancer, a cancer arising from the cervix, is linked to several risk factors, mainly the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), chlamydia infection, early sexual activity, and multiple sexual partners.

In continuing the fight against cervical cancer, the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Georgetown and with funding from Scotia Bank to the tune of $1.2M, has launched an extensive campaign to screen more than 500 women in vulnerable communities across the country. The campaign will conclude in December, and the cheque was handed over to the GRPA earlier this week.

Mrs Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth, GRPA Executive Director

In addition to screening and treating women, the GRPA will be holding educational sessions intended to promote healthy lifestyles.

GRPA Executive Director Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth, in an exclusive interview with the Chronicle, said late detection of cervical cancer is a major problem in Guyana, and it is linked to lack of access to testing and screening services, primarily in rural and hinterland communities.

“Many women in rural and hinterland areas do not have access to these facilities. Testing often takes approximately two weeks, you get the results, then you get the treatment; and sometimes women don’t come back.

When it is in the hinterland and rural areas, it is even worse,” she explained.

In rolling out its campaign, the GRPA will be particularly targeting and treating women in Regions 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 9 and 10; but Mrs

Sheerattan-Bisnauth is advocating that all sexually active women be tested or screened for cervical cancer via pap smear, which is a cytology test; or by visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), which is an evidence-based alternative approach that is considered to be safe, effective, feasible, and highly acceptable.

“VIA is a single-visit approach. You come in for screening and straight away you get your results, and you can be treated immediately in one single visit…. With this type of testing, you can see early signs of pre-cancerous cells,” she explained.

Sheerattan-Bisnauth pointed out that cervical cancer is almost 100% preventable, but she emphasised that it must be detected early, and pre-cancerous lesions must be treated.

In 2009, the Health Ministry had introduced a National Policy and Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Cervical Cancer, with several health facilities being organised to provide this service.

This move sought to make screening for cervical cancer more accessible to women.

In June 2014, the GRPA with support from the International Planned Parenthood Association and an affiliate of the John-Hopkins University, and in collaboration with the Health Ministry and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), had

followed up to strengthen this service. GRPA had carried out a regional training of VIA providers from Belize, Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, St Lucia, Curacao, Suriname and Guyana. This included training for four Guyanese and Surinamese doctors as VIA trainers , to

detect cervical cancer and to treat pre-cancerous cells.

GRPA had used the occasion of successful completion of the training to launch its VIA Screening and Cryo-Surgery services at its Georgetown Clinic located on Quamina Street. Two hundred and thirty women were

screened, 12% (27 women) were tested positive, three had large lesions, and two were cancer cases and were referred.

On an average month (without campaign), about 50 women would seek cervical cancer services at the GRPA.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 3, 2015

India throws support behind Gov’t ‘Green City’ initiative

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as Guyana remembers Gandhi on occasion of his 146th birth anniversary

By Shivanie Sugrim INDIA has thrown its support behind Guyana in realising the new Administration’s vision of restoring Georgetown as the ‘Garden city’.

Speaking yesterday on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s 146 Birth Anniversary, High Commissioner of India to Guyana Mr. V. Mahalingam said his country will be partnering with Guyana Government, particularly the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) in its ‘Green City’ initiative and volunteer programme.

“We (India) can be partners in your Mission to return the glory to Georgetown as the famed ‘Garden city’,” the High Commissioner told President David Granger and Mayor Hamilton Green, in the presence of other dignitaries attending yesterday’s annual celebration to mark the birth anniversary of the legendary non-violence activist, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.

Exactly one year ago, India launched its clean campaign, ‘Swatch Bharat Abihyan’, dedicated to clean the country in time for Gandhi’s 150th Birth Anniversary - four years down the line. High Commissioner Mahalingam said the reason behind this is to stay in-keep with one of Gandhi’s most used philosophy: “Cleanliness is Godliness”.

It is this reason that India has thrown its support behind the Government of Guyana in transitioning Georgetown into a green city, explained the High Commissioner. With much excitement on his part, Mayor Green noted that Government readily accepts India’s participa-

tion in the quest to make Guyana a “greener” place.

The “Green City” initiative is funded voluntarily by businesses and other corporate sponsors and will be geared at cleaning up the city through a combined effort by the residents of Georgetown, managed by the Mayor and City Council, and now, backed by India.

Besides the strengthening of diplomatic ties between the two countries, President Granger, during his outpour of tribute to mark the day said Guyana is a beneficiary of many of Gandhi’s efforts, particularly the initiation of his non-cooperation movement in 1920-22.

In furtherance, President Granger recalled that, as a child, just three years of age, in the town of Bartica, a large number of persons of Indian origin took to the streets, their grief and anguish when Gandhi was assassinated in 1948.

“Persons were commemorating the death of this great man,” he said.

Based on statistical evidence, Guyana was the recipient of 238,909 East Indian immigrants up to the termination of the system in 1917. The arrival of East Indians in Guyana from the sub-continent of India was as a result of shortage of labourers on plantations after the abolition of slavery in 1834.

Despite enduring immense hardships under the powerful system of plantocracy, East Indians make up nearly half of the Guyanese population today, not withholding the fact that they have never lost their roots, said Granger, as they came from a land that is strongly associated with Mahatma Gandhi.

“The Mahatma was a pre-eminent, political and spiri-

Among the dignitaries in attendance were President David Granger, India’s High Commissioner to Guyana Venkatalacham Mahalingam, Former Minister in the previous administration Irfaan Ali, and Mayor of Georgetown Hamilton Green tual leader in India. He played one of the most important roles in India’s independence movement. The Mahatma developed a technique of non-violent agitation, which he called the Satyagraha. He is known for his non-violence civil disobedience in India and also in South Africa,” said President Granger.

October 2nd also marks the International Day of Non-Violence, which Gandhi profusely fought for during his time. Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence has influenced many international movements to date.

Gov’t looking to reduce cost of home ownership

THE Government is looking at ways to reduce the total cost for a house under its ‘cohesive communities’ programme.

Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Keith Scott, said Government is working assiduously to ensure that all Guyanese can afford a home. “It is of touching concern that people are paying a lot of money for lands,” Scott told the Government Information Agency (GINA) in an interview.

Scott, who holds ministerial responsibility for Housing, revealed that the cost for lands is not necessary exploitative, but the cost of infrastructure has influenced that greatly. “So because of that aspect of it, I have started a unit to examine the cost of infrastructure, with a view of bringing down that cost,” he explained.

According to the minister, the Ministry of Communities is now thinking of new designs and types of houses, with a view of bringing down the cost to build a house to as low as $3 million.

“I already got proposals from some developers, who are offering to build houses for as low as $3 million. One man say he can go up to $2.8 million. These are in the discussion stage. After we examine that, I intend to do everything in my power to ensure that we can bring down the cost for houses,” Minister Scott promised.

The minister said he understands the struggles many face to build a house. He added that the ministry has not abandoned giving out house lots. “There will always be people who are so poor that $3M will be a lot, but if they have a piece of land, they might be able to engage in self-help activity, which we are encouraging, so that they can bring down the cost,” he said.

The minister is in discussion with organisations like Habitat for Humanity in this regard.

President David Granger being greeted by India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatalacham Mahalingam, upon his arrival at the Promenade Gardens

President David Granger addressing the gathering yesterday morning, at the Promenade Gardens on the occasion of Mohandas Gandhi’s 146th birth anniversary

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 3, 2015

During Chinoweing outreach…

Allicock to look into Amerindian land title issue - also firearm licence applications

By Ravin Singh

D

URING an outreach on Tuesday last in the small village of Chinoweing in the Upper Mazaruni, Region 7, Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs Sydney Allicock committed to look into the rightful issuance of Amerindian land titles and firearm licences.

Earlier in the morning around 10:00am, Minister Allicock and his team, including advisor Mervyn Williams and personal assistant Errol Ross, received a warm welcome. In the backdrop were flags dancing in the mid-morning breeze, well decorated benabs and the enticing aroma from a spread of delectable indigenous cuisine.

This visit to Chinoweing was Allicock’s first since becoming a government minister.

The team was received

by Community Development Officer (CDO) Kaley Andrews and five young, muscular Akawaio men, attired in indigenous wear, escorted them into the community.

Toshao Roger Roland then formally greeted the team and directed them to the elders. Being the only community in the country which currently practises the Alleluia religion, Minister Allicock was provided with glimpses of this aspect of their culture through religious songs, traditional Parishara dances and prayers in the community church, at a central point in the village.

This was followed by a cultural showpiece high-

lighting Akawaio’s traditional practices, songs in their native language, humorous dances, and the acrostic ‘DAVID GRANGER’.

Allicock was also presented with a token – a woven piece of basketry which read “1966 – PNC – APNU – AFC – 2015”, crafted by a resident from the community.

A highpoint in this part of the day’s outreach was the grand feast with an almost endless list of indigenous delicacies, including cassava bread, roast fish, deer, chicken and other ‘bush meat’ delights, along with thirst-quenching casiri and lime drink.

Allicock, who is from the Macushi tribe, was no stranger to these delicacies and, judging from his posture, he obviously enjoyed the spread.

ISSUES IN However, the most important aspect of the visit followed this ‘wine and dine’ experience.

Toshao Roland, in the community centre, a hutlike structure, seized the opportunity to raise the concerns of the villagers with Minister Allicock and his team.

According to Roland, one of the major issues facing the community is the lack of licensed firearms for which applications were submitted.

He explained that during the firearm amnesty, more than 18 guns were handed over by his village which is heavily-reliant on these firearms for hunting as well

as protection.

“We don’t use these guns for hunting alone…sometimes we have wild animals coming into our village and destroying our crops…they even threaten the lives of people,” he said.

However, prior to handing over the guns during the amnesty period, additional applications for firearms were made by residents but so far there has been no response from the authorities.

In light of this, a request was made to Minister Allicock to have these applications reviewed and to lobby the Public Security Ministry on behalf of Chinoweing residents.

The minister recommended, however, that the toshao write to the National Toshaos Council requesting their support and recommendations which would add “weight” and merit to their appeal.

In addition, concerns regarding the titling of land in the area were raised. It was revealed that while all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), solar panels and other items were provided for the community by the previous government, lands traditionally belonging to these people were being given to foreign investors.

Mining in the village, which was not benefitting the Akawaios, was being done on a large scale which was contributing to environmental and economic threats.

“Our population is increasing every year so we need land to fish and hunt and plant for our people,” Roland said, adding that this exploitation is being done despite documented proof of land titles.

Minister Sydney Allicock being led to the church in Chinoweing by one of the elders in the village

The Community Development Officer presents and describes a map of the village which was crafted by the elders in the village

Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs Sydney Allicock examines his token which was presented to him by a villager. Also in photo is Ministerial Advisor Mervyn Williams (left) and Personal Assistant to the Minister, Errol Ross velopment for these villages.

To this end, he pleaded right now is that of land dis“Amerindians undervalwith Minister Allicock to tribution. ue their abilities sometimes.

Noting that these people We must appreciate that we re-examine the demarcation of land and grant a decision have long had to face dis- are talented people; through in favour of his people, since respect while fighting for art, craft, and so many oththey were the ones who first their rights, he noted that, er talents that we possess. “we [the Ministry] will be Imagine you can take poisettled there.

The minister was also working with the National sonous cassava and make presented with an outline Toshaos Council to bring it food; that is to show that of a map of the communi- answers to the issues around even you are scientists, ” ty which was done by the the country.”

Allicock said.

But while this is being elders.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, h e In his response, Minister done at the level of the min- charged the people of the Allicock committed to ex- istry, he called on the indige- community to continue to amining these issues, adding nous people to embrace unity recognise the importance that the most prominent issue and cooperation, which he of spirituality and living in plaguing indigenous villages deemed as the pillars of de- harmony with nature.

Digs in! Minister Allicock digs into the pot of fish which was prepared for him and his team by the Akawaio villagers

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 3, 2015

Berbice High students urged to uphold...

Sharing this pride, he charged the current student body to carry that tradition and help to uphold that pride in the school and its achievements.

“The one year spent at BHS made a tremendous impact. Some of the things learnt in music and academically, set the foundation for other achievements in proceeding parts of my life, to that extent I recognise and must pay tribute to my educators. Many persons today do not take time to appreci-

ate the efforts of those who played an important role in carving their future,” Minister Greenidge explained.

He added that the theme is important in that it takes cognisance of the fact that life provides a variety of challenges, many of which offer opportunities at various stages. “You can take the window of opportunity to do something to put you in a good position at all times,” the Foreign Affairs Minister urged.

According to Greenidge,

Guyana has arrived at a point in time where there is recognition of the need for the society to pull together so as to allow the potential of the Guyanese people to be fulfilled regardless of ethnicity or origin. “We have a set of human resources in particular that could lift us materially, economically and socially,” Greenidge outlined, adding that, finding ways of ensuring people work together within a community is important if they are going to achieve better economic prospects.

“If the goals we have for ourselves as a society are to be improved, the extent to which you cooperate will determine the pace of economic development, social advancement and movement up the ladder of economic and social prosperity,” Greenidge outlined.

Minister within the Ministry of Education Nicolette Henry, in her remarks noted that over the years schools in general have evolved to meet the needs of students, the society and the country.

Nevertheless, as BHS now celebrates its 100 years of existence it is an opportunity to reflect on the changes that have taken place in the school system to better position itself for future development, she said.

Henry noted that the partnership between parents and the school is especially important in ensuring that knowledge and values that the children acquire in school are reinforced at home. “Such partnerships also promote greater bonding between parent and child, and as the parent is actively involved in his or her child's learning, I know that that helps us to produce and support a better and more holistic child,”

From page 14

Minister Henry said.

Berbice High School has earned the place of ‘top high school’ for the region due to students’ performance at the CXC. Its alumni include a number of internationally recognised persons such as former CCJ Judge, Justice Duke Pollard; 2nd Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge; former Commonwealth Secretary General, Sir Shridat Ramphal; Sir Edward Luckhoo, Sir Lionel Luckhoo, Minister Nicolette Henry and scores of others.

The theme for the school’s 100th Anniversary is, ‘Seizing the opportunity to train and build a cohesive society’. (GINA)

Saturday, October 3, 2015 - 09:00 hrs Sunday, October 4, 2015 - 10:00 hrs Monday, October 5, 2015 - 11:30 hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 3, 2015

Duminy powers Proteas to Richardson victory despite Sharma ton rescues Pele ...

DHARAMSALA, India (Reuters) - JP Duminy’s batting heroics secured South Africa a thrilling seven-wicket victory in the first Twenty20 International despite Indian opener Rohit Sharma burnishing his limited overs reputation with a blistering century yesterday.

Needing 10 runs off the last over chasing a 200-run victory target, Duminy’s seventh six tied the contest before he took a single to seal victory with two balls to spare and put his team 1-0 up in the three-match series.

Duminy remained unbeaten on 68 off 34 balls, frustrating India who rode Sharma’s century to post a commanding 199-5 at one of the most picturesque cricket stadiums in the world.

As the only batsman with two ODI double centuries to his name, Sharma blasted 106 off 66 balls, highest score by an Indian in a Twenty20 International, as the hosts threatened to go beyond the 200-mark at one stage.

After opening partner Shikhar Dhawan perished in his half-hearted pursuit of a non-existent second run, Sharma teamed up with Virat Kohli (43) to lay the foundation for a

big total.

The duo added 138 runs, an India record, in 12.2 overs and the elegant Sharma belted five sixes and 12 boundaries in his

before falling in quick succession.

At 95-3, South Africa looked in trouble but Duminy and Farhaan Behardien (32 not out) refused to throw in

JP Duminy guides the ball behind square in hisunbeaten 68.

scintillating knock.

The Mumbai batsman brought up his century clobbering Marchant de Lange for a six to become the second Indian, after team mate Suresh Raina, to register a century in all three formats of the game.

AB de Villiers (51) and Hashim Amla (36) led South Africa’s robust reply with a breezy 77-run opening stand

the towel.

Duminy hit spinner Axar Patel for three successive sixes in the 16th over to turn the match on its head and stayed put till the end to see the visitors home in a man-of-the-match winning performance.

Cuttack hosts the second Twenty20 International on Monday.

Australia players sent back to domestic cricket SYDNEY, Australia (Reuters) - Australia Test squad have been sent back to play domestic one-day cricket in order to prepare for next month’s series against New Zealand after their tour to Bangladesh was postponed on Thursday due to security concerns.

The squad were originally due to leave on Monday but were told to stay back after their government warned of potential security risks.

Cricket Australia (CA) sent a delegation to Bangladesh over the weekend to assess the situation and while they were there an Italian aid worker in Dhaka was shot dead in an attack that Islamic State said it had carried out.

The delegation arrived back in Australia on Wednesday to brief gov-

ernment and CA officials and confirmed the cricketers could be targeted.

“The tour of Bangladesh was going to be an important series for our relatively new-look Test team heading into the Australian summer, so we’re disappointed it won’t go ahead,” CA’s general manager of team performance Pat Howard said in a statement yesterday.

“Given the circumstances, it’s important we give our Test players the best preparation leading into the summer so they will now be available to play in the (one-day competition) throughout October to get valuable match experience in Australian conditions.”

The domestic one-day competition begins on October 5.

An additional two-day

‘red ball’ training camp has been scheduled for Sydney on October 1314, as the side prepare for New Zealand’s tour, which comprises three Tests starting in Brisbane on November 5.

Australia’s first class competition would also start a day later than originally scheduled, with the round of matches starting on October 28.

“While we believe the red-ball camp will provide solid preparation for the Australian players, the first Sheffield Shield round will provide a longform match opportunity for those players,” Howard said.

“Australian players will be made available for the first round dependent on injury and workloads ahead of the first Test against New Zealand.”

From back page of the league in the injury time (90+2 minutes) to salvage a draw for Pele FC who remained unbeaten and are atop the table with eight points.

FIFA referee Maurice Skeete was in charge of the lopsided contest as Slingerz FC dominated the game from the first sound of the Fox40.

The Vergenoegen-based club were the aggressors at both ends of the pitch and were able to keep Pele’s danger-man Richardson quiet for 90 minutes.

Coming close on several occasions, Slingerz FC goal came when Dwain Jacobs was fouled at about 25 yards out from goal and defender Colin Nelson stepped up to take the kick.

The bulky defender’s left-footed shot swerved around the wall set by Pele and Garnett, going airborne, came crashing in to connect his head to the ball.

The goal, one of the best so far in the tournament, had cemented Slingerz’ dominance in the game.

In the second half, Garnett troubled the goal, searching for his second of the night but the striker squandered his chances Richardson, though not being his usual troublesome self, with the ball, owing to Slingerz’ tight defending, but like a hunter searching for his daily meal, the player popularly known as ‘Jackie Chan’ delivered when it mattered.

Slingerz FC defenders slipped up at the back and the ball fell in Richardson’s path.

The striker cleverly got around the two defenders and nicely tucked the ball past the St Vincent and the Grenadines Slingerz FC goalkeeper to equalise.

The crowd erupted and by the end of his celebration, referee Skeete blew the game off.

A well-deserved draw for Pele FC while Slingerz picked up their third draw of the league and are now on six points; third on the standings behind Pele and Fruta Conquerors.

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Durbanville 08:50 hrs Glanto 09:25 hrs Artic Teon 10:00 hrs Spirit Of Hamilton 10:35 hrs Act Of war 11:10 hrs Inara 11:45 hrs Carrie Bow Cay ENGLISH RACING TIPS Newmarket 08:45 hrs Twin Sails 09:15 hrs Alice Springs 09:50 hrs Waterloo Bridge 10:30 hrs Esoterique 11:05 hrs Schubert 11:40 hrs Twitch 12:15 hrs Superkid REDCAR 08:50 hrs Return Of The Mak 09:25 hrs Out And About 10:00 hrs Log Out Island 10:35 hrs Celestial Path 11:10 hrs Karaka Jack 11:45 hrs Piccadilly Jim 12:20 hrs Next Stop 12:50 hrs Majestic Manannan

ASCOT 09:00 hrs Wind Fire 09:35 hrs Queen Of Ice 10:10 hrs Cable Bay 10:45 hrs Make It Up 11:20 hrs Farsakh 11:55 hrs Barnet Fair IRISH RACING TIPS Gowan Park 09:20 hrs vLake Champlain 09:55 hrs Comehere Hi 10:25 hrs Bowenscourt 11:00 hrs Icy Reply 11:35 hrs Claram 12:10 hrs The Doorman 12:40 hrs Frontline AMERICAN RACING TIPS Belmont Race 1 River Dell Race 2 Romeo Lima Race 3 Readtheprospectus Race 4 Financial Modeling Race 5 Honor Code Race 6 Stephanie’s Kitten Race 7 Width Race 8 Ralis Race 9 World Approval Race10 Tonalist

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 3, 2015

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MP calls for FA chairman to explain Platini support

By Mike Collett LONDON, England (Reuters) - English FA chairman Greg Dyke should explain his support for Michel Platini’s FIFA presidential bid following the latest twist in the crisis engulfing world football’s governing body, British MP Damian Collins said yesterday.

“I think many people want to know why the FA have nailed their colours to

the mast backing Michel Platini before even the presidential nominations have closed,” Collins told Sky Sports.

Collins said Dyke needed to explain the FA’s support for the UEFA president, whom Swiss authorities said had received two million Swiss francs (£1.3M) from FIFA president Sepp Blatter in 2011.

Blatter is under criminal investigation by Swiss authorities but remains in

UEFA president Michel Platini

office ahead of a scheduled February election.

Platini is being questioned about the payment but has not been accused of any wrongdoing, although he admitted the development had damaged his chances of replacing Blatter as FIFA president.

In a statement issued to Reuters yesterday, the FA said Dyke had long ago agreed to speak to the Culture, Media and Sport (CMS) Select Committee, on which Collins sits, and was waiting for the committee to give him a date for the meeting.

“I’d like to know what Greg Dyke’s view is of the current situation, this latest turn in the FIFA crisis,” said Collins, one of the founders of the NewFIFANow reform group.

“There are a lot of out-

standing questions Michel Platini and Sepp Blatter need to answer.”

The CMS committee cannot influence the way the FA votes but Collins said it was a forum for the FA to explain publicly what they believed was happening at UEFA and FIFA. “Greg Dyke sits at the FIFA Congress representing the FA and has relationships with senior people at UEFA. “Why have they given Michel Platini their support? Is it unconditional and what would it take for that support to be withdrawn?

“Is the reason the FA are backing Michel Platini just to curry favour at UEFA rather than because they think he is the best candidate?”

The FA were quick to

respond, telling Reuters: “Greg Dyke is more than happy to meet the committee and has had a standing invitation for some time.

“He is ready to meet them as soon as they set a date for the meeting. He has also said that if Platini is accused or found guilty of any wrongdoing, the FA’s support would obviously be reviewed.”

Swiss authorities have said they are treating Platini as somewhere “between a witness and an accused person”.

Platini and Blatter deny wrongdoing over the affair, part of a broader scandal that began unfolding in May when 14 football officials and marketing executives were indicted in the United States for bribery, money-laundering and wire fraud.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 3, 2015

Lack-lustre All Blacks down Georgia to reach quarters

By Nick Mulvenne CARDIFF, (Reuters) - Reigning champions New Zealand were far from their brilliant best but overcame an inspired Georgia 43-10 yesterday to become the first team to qualify for the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals.

Despite the patchy display, the All Blacks scored four tries before halftime to secure the bonus point and another three after the break to seal their third win from three games in Pool C ahead of their final match against Tonga on October 9.

Waisake Naholo took just 73 seconds to notch the opening try on his return, just 10 weeks after breaking his leg; his fellow winger Julian Savea grabbed a hat-trick and hooker Dane Coles, number eight Kieran Read and Malakai Fekitoa also crossed.

Georgia, who rested a raft of firstchoice players with an eye on their final pool match against Namibia, deserved full credit for making life difficult for the world champions and their captain Mamuka Gorgodze was named Manof-the-Match.

The biggest cheer of the night from the crowd of 69 187 at the Millennium Stadium came in the fifth minute when Georgia fullback Beka Tsiklauri hacked the ball through and

touched down for a converted try that tied the scores at 7-7.

Largely, though, New Zealand were responsible for their own shortcomings

New Zealand’s Julian Savea scores their sixth try, completing his hat-trick. (Reuters/Rebecca NadenLivepic) with inaccuracy of execution leading to a string of handling errors.

Even the great Dan Carter, the leading points scorer of all-time in test rugby, had an off-night, converting just four of the seven tries and find-

ing the dead-ball area with a kick for touch in the second half.

“We were trying too hard at times and created a lot of opportunities in the first half but were trying to finish it too quick, instead of taking another phase or another tackle,” skipper Richie McCaw said in a touchline interview.

“You can’t underestimate Georgia, though, (and) we are not going to panic.”

There were some high points for New Zealand, most notably when Naholo came off his wing in the second minute and brushed off one tackler before beating the cover defence for pace as he raced 60 metres to score.

Savea showed off his finishing skills with two tries in the corner, McCaw’s intelligent running created space for Coles to cross in the corner and Read barrelled over under the posts in the 52nd minute.

By midway the second half however, the chant of ‘All Blacks, All Blacks!’ from New Zealanders in the crowd was one of encouragement rather than the usual triumphalism.

Savea crossed for his third try in the 73rd minute before replacement back Fekitoa put a gloss on the score with a typically powerful run three minutes from time.

Lucozade Handicap Squash

MEKDECI makes light work of Ramdhani NATIONAL player Ben Mekdeci made light of a handicap -13 to beat former badminton player Medhi Ramdhani in straight games in the latest round of matches in the Ansa McAl Lucozade-sponsored Handicap Tournament, hosted by the Guyana Squash Association (GSA.) in collaboration with its corporate sponsor Digicel, at the Georgetown Club on Thursday evening.

Mekdeci made light work of the still-fit Ramdhani, who started with a handicap of 6, to win 15-13, 15-14.

President of the GSA, David Fernandes, and Suzie DeAbreu returned to the court in an energetic encounter which did not lack youthful exuberance or excitement, as the two veterans exchanged thoughtful blows with well-executed winners in a throwback to their competitive age.

DeAbreu took the first set 15-12, but Fernandes returned to take the following

David Fernandes stretches for a return against Suzie DeAbreu. two 15-10, 15-8 to win by a 2-1 margin.

Michael Atherley took advantage of a 10-point handicap to beat Raphael DeGroot, who started with a handicap of -12, 2-1 (1315, 15-4, 15-2).

Meanwhile, Kamir Khan beat Beau Fernandes 2-0 (15-7, 15-5), Jonathan Fernandes overwhelmed Thi Fernandes 2-0 (15-8, 15-

7), Daniel Islam overcame Frankie Vieira 2-0 (15-7, 156), Madison Fernandes beat Shiloh Asregado 2-0 (15-12, 15-12) and Ashley DeGroot handled the challenges of Dwayne Yan for a 2-0 win (15-12, 15-13).

Maya Collins overcame Kirsten Gomes 2-0 (15-8, 15-5) while Dominic Collins beat Mohryan Baksh 2-0 (15-12, 15-12), Aliyah Per-

saud rode the challenges of Chad DeAbreu for a 2-0 win (15-13, 15-11), Jason Gomes beat Geovanna DoSantos 2-0 (15-11, 15-9), Abosaide Cadogan overwhelmed Louis DaSilva 2-0 (15-10, 15-11), James Mekdeci blanked Liam Carpenter 2-0 (15-6, 15-7), Michael DeGroot overcame Jonathan Antzach 2-1 (12-15, 15-13, 15-11)

Carib Beer T20 semi-final action set for today and tomorrow THE Georgetown Cricket Association will continue its cricket season this weekend with several exciting tournaments.

The Carib Beer t20 semi-final will be played off today with Demerara Cricket Club hosting the GNIC from13:00hrs.

That game will be under the watchful eyes of umpires Edward Bowen & Patrick Garnath.

Tomorrow from 13:00hrs at the Malteenoes Sports Club, the hosts take on the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) team in the second Carib Beer T20 clash with the standing officials being Zaheer Mohamed and Deon Feassal.

Meanwhile, second division action also resumes this weekend with the Noble House Seafoods 2-Day competition.

Commencing today at 10:30hrs, Everest Cricket Club will host the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) with Joseph Jeffrey & Randolph Rose both officiating there.

In the other game GCC will host the Gandhi Youth Organisation with umpires Ryan Banwarie & Daniel Richmond in charge.

In the New Building Society (NBS) 2nd Division 40-Over tournament, a busy weekend is expected.

From 10:30hrs, Third Class Cricket Club will face Transport Sports Club at GNIC with umpires Javed Persaud and Deon Feassal.

In the other game today, Malteenoes Sports Club will face Diplomats Sports Club at Malteenoes under the watchful eyes of Mario Nichols and Linden Matthews Tomorrow, from 10:30hrs the Brickdam-based St Stanislaus College take a trip to battle DCC at Queenstown, with standing officials Shannon Crawford and Edward Bowen while the boys in blue will host Sophia at Eve Leary under Javed Persaud and Nolan Hawke.

NOTABLE DATES ANTHONY `The Pearl’ Andrews had a lean 22-month period in the USA which started in August 1986 and concluded in June of 1988.

During that time `The Pearl’ engaged in nine fights. He lost five of them, drew two and won two. One of the defeats came at the hands of Joey `Bugsy’ Ferrell.

The 10-round contest was held on October 2, 1986 at the Resort International in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The American won the battle via a unanimous decision, handing Andrews his third defeat in 13 fights.

In his early days Andrews was called `The Pearl’ for good reason as his polished moves in the ring mesmerised opponents. He snatched the Guyana bantamweight title in February 1984 after an 11th round TKO of Michael Parris and would follow up by winning the national welterweight and middleweight titles.

His attempt at the World Boxing Association middleweight title in May 1995 was unsuccessful as Argentine Jorge Castro won by TKO in the 12th round. In his last fight (May 26, 2000) Andrews suffered a fifth round TKO at the hands of Thomas Tate.

His career spanned 18 years and produced 27 victories (23 KOs ), 13 defeats and two draws.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday October 03, 2015) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Billy Murdoch (AUST vs ENG, The Oval, 1884) (2)ChamindaVaas&WaqarYounis

Today’s Quiz:

Who made the first triple-century in Tests?

Who are the West Indians with over 200 wickets in both Tests and ODI cricket?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 3, 2015

NSC pumps $250 000 into BCB three-day tournament HISTORY was made when the Director of Sport Christopher Jones handed over a cheque for $250 000 to Anil Beharry, a senior executive of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) to assist in the running off of a long-awaited three-day first division cricket competition for teams in Berbice.

At a simple but historical ceremony held at the office of the National Sports Commission, Homestretch Avenue, Jones said that as a sportsperson, he is a close follower of Berbice cricket and is impressed with the work of the board.

As a result, he was willing to assist in the development of young cricketers and is confident that sports can make a positive difference in the lives of people.

In response, the long-serving cricket administrator Anil Beharry of the Berbice Cricket Board thanked the Director of Sports for his timely intervention with this sponsorship.

He also praised the humility of the Hon-

ourable Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Nicolette Henry, with whom he had a brief but fruitful meeting.

The board’s senior executive said that the BCB’s business is the public’s business and their accounts and works are available for scrutiny.

Beharry added that despite the challenges faced by the board, sponsors’ confidence is high and that is all that matters.

He also thanked Hilbert Foster and The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club for the role they have played in securing this sponsorship.

The competition will start shortly.

The BCB is also appealing to private individuals, businesses, current and former cricketers and administrators to come on board and support this important venture.

Contact can be made at the board’s office on 333-2375 or any other executive.

Director of Sport Christopher Jones (R) hands over cheque for $250 000 to BCB senior executive Anil Beharry.

Caribbean Sensation, Wakenaam are OSCL Conference champs

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada – Caribbean Sensation’s year of success continued at the Ashtonbee ground here over the last weekend as they trounced Dant by 32 runs to cart off the Conference A championship honours in the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) regular 20-over tournament.

The victory ensured a second title for Caribbean Sensation in the 2015 season, following their win in the 10/10 competition over Masters and also denied Dant their first silverware following their domination in their debut season the previous year.

The two teams will, however, go head-to-head once more in the season’s finale when they clash in the grand final today at the same venue with Caribbean Sensation aiming to end in a blaze of

glory and Dant hoping to salvage some lost pride.

The Conference B final ended in total disaster for Rebels, who were seeking to revenge their loss against Wakenaam in the 10/10 tournament and also to

umpires discovered that Rebels had included former Guyana Under-19 player Naresh Roopnarine on their team sheet while he was never at the venue.

His supposed replacement, Dhanraj Patram, who

of the Rebels players and supporters.

Opener Surendra Persaud smashed two sixes and a four in a top score of 56 for Wakenaam while Mohan Singh, with two for 17 was Rebels’ best bowler in a losing cause.

Caribbean Sensation players and supporters pose with the winning trophy.

OSCL president Albert Ramcharran (in black) is at centre. maintain their unbeaten run in the 20-over regular season.

After limiting Wakenaam to 128 for eight in their allotted 20 overs, the officiating

captured two for 19, was never included until after the Wakenaam innings ended.

The umpires promptly awarded the game to Wakenaam, much to the consternation

RHTYSC to host Farouk Kudrath memorial match

THE Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC) as part of its Silver Jubilee Month of Heroes (October) would be hosting a Under-17 cricket match against West Berbice tomorrow at the Area ‘H’ Ground in memory of its late Asst. Secretary/CEO Farouk Kudrath.

The match for the Farouk Kudrath Memorial Trophy will be the first to be organised by the cricket teams of the RHTYSC, in honour of outstanding members who have passed away over the last twenty-five years.

Rose Hall Town Bakewell Under-17 will be led by Kevon Anderson while another

junior cricketer Kris Ramnarine would spearhead the West Berbice challenge.

Anderson will be supported by fellow national Under-15 pacer Sylus Tyndall, Brandon Corlette, Keith Simpson, Surendra Budhoo and Chanderpaul Govinda.

West Berbice, on the other hand, would depend heavily on Kris Ramnarine, Travis Carmichael, Tiptus Webster, Tyrest Carmichael and Carlos Peterkin.

The 40 overs match bowls off at 11:00hrs and executives of the RHTYSC would make the presentation afterwards.

In the Conference A, Dant were dismissed for 125 in 17.5 overs in pursuit of the challenging 157 for three made by Caribbean Sensation. Opener Hemnarine

Chattergoon was the mainstay for Dant, hitting a defiant 48 before he was dismissed in the 17th over. Skipper Navin Singh took three for 25, Anand Balwant two for 15 and Narendra Sankar two for 21.

Caribbean Sensation were earlier led to their total through Reyaz Prahalad (39 not out) and Sheik Khan who slammed an unbeaten 36 with three sixes and a four.

In order to arrive at the two grand finalists, the OSCL changed the format this season with the Conference A winners meeting the Conference B runners-up and the losers clashing with the winners.

Both Conference A teams proved too strong for their Conference B rivals on Sunday at the same venue, with Caribbean Sensation belting Rebels by 87 runs and Dant having to fight hard to get past Wakenaam by 14 runs in a hotly contested affair.

Left-hander Richard

Driffiled was in scintillating form for Caribbean Sensation, smashing seven sixes and two fours in 61 while Prahalad was again among the runs with 47 retired hurt and Sheil Khan unbeaten on 21.

Rebels were shut out for 105 in 19.2 overs with two wickets each going to Zaheer Allard, Narendra Sankar, Shane Murli and Rabendra Diaram.

Wakenaam, set 145 for victory after Dant had reached 144 for seven in their allotted 20 overs, reached 130 for six when their innings ended with Satrohan Balkarran claiming two for 16 and Reaz Kadir two for 19.

Imran Ali had earlier rescued Dant with a quickfire 43 not out with three sixes and two fours while the consistent Chattergoon stroked 35 at the top of the order. Naveed Ali took three for 18 and Surendra Persaud two for 19.

Pakistan cruise home as Yasir spins out Zimbabwe HARARE, Zimbabwe (Reuters) - Yasir Shah wrecked Zimbabwe’s batting lineup with six for 26 as Pakistan cruised to a 131run win in the opening one-dayer at the Harare Sports Club on Thursday.

Zimbabwe were bowled out for 128 in 37 overs after Pakistan had piled up 259 for six.

A century-partnership from Mohammad Rizwan and Imad Wasim set the touring side up for victory but it was the leg-breaks of 29-year-old spinner Yasir that proved decisive.

Imad and Rizwan shared a stand of 124

for the sixth wicket to help Pakistan recover after they had slumped to 35 for three.

Rizwan scored a career-best 75 not out and Imad, run-out for 61, struck a maiden international half-century.

Zimbabwe then lost wickets at regular intervals in their reply.

Sean Williams top-scored with 26 as Yasir returned his best ODI figures and off-spinner Shoaib Malik claimed three for 30.

The second game in the three-match series, all being played at the Harare Sports Club, is on today.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 3, 2015

FIFA’s sponsors Coca-Cola, McDonald’s call on Blatter to resign

By Mica Rosenberg and Simon Evans NEW YORK/ZURICH, (Reuters) - Coca-Cola Co. and McDonald’s, yesterday called for the immediate resignation of FIFA president Sepp Blatter a week after Swiss authorities said they were opening a criminal investigation into the head of the world soccer body.

In quick succession, the major sponsors of FIFA released statements demanding Blatter step down, in the strongest sign yet com-

panies that have long linked their brand names to the global sport will push for change in the organisation.

But Blatter’s U.S. lawyer, Richard Cullen, said in response that Blatter would not resign, because he believed leaving office would not be in FIFA’s best interest or advance needed reforms of the organisation.

“Every day that passes, the image and reputation of FIFA continues to tarnish,” Coca Cola said.

“FIFA needs comprehensive and urgent reform, and that

can only be accomplished through a truly independent approach.”

Shortly thereafter, McDonald’s followed suit with its own statement, adding to the call for Blatter to step aside.

“The events of recent weeks have continued to diminish the reputation of FIFA and public confidence in its leadership,” the fast food giant company said in an emailed statement. “FIFA president Sepp Blatter to step down immediately so that the reform process can

COURTS Pee Wee schools football competition kicks off today TWELVE action-packed matches will unravel from today when the fourth annual COURTS Pee Wee Under-11 Schools Football Competition gets under way at the Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park, from 10:00hrs.

The Petra-organised event will see 24 primary school teams from Georgetown, including the defending champions Stella

prise take on Winfer Gardens and Comenius challenge St Ambrose. F.E. Pollard tackle St Agnes then School of the Nations meet Sophia, both from 11:30hrs.

At the halfway mark of the day’s activities North Georgetown battle with Rama Krishna while South Ruimveldt engage J.E. Burnham from 12:15hrs.

From 13:00hrs St Stephen’s meet West

Flashback! The 2014 Pee Wee Under-11 champions Stella Maris receive their spoils after squeezing past St Pius in the final at the Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park.

Maris, collide in the most anticipated grassroots level tournament.

Matches will be contested simultaneously throughout the tournament. In the first two matches scheduled for 10:00hrs, St Sidwell’s will take on last year’s runners-up St Pius and Marian Academy will oppose Smith Memorial.

The second set of matches will see Enter-

Ruimveldt and St Gabriel’s take on the defending champions.

At 13:45hrs St Angela’s go head-to-head with Tucville while East La Penitence battle St Margaret’s.

The organising team Petra and sponsors COURTS Guyana Inc. and Banks DIH, urge football fans to come out and support the future of Guyana’s football.

SEPP BLATTER proceed with the credibility that is needed”.

Blatter has previously

said he would stay on until an election set for February.

Last week Friday, the Swiss Office of the Attorney General said it opened a criminal investigation into Blatter on suspicion of criminal mismanagement and misappropriation of funds.

It was the first time that authorities investigating corruption in the world’s most popular sport had pointed the finger directly at Blatter, the 79-year-old Swiss who has run its powerful governing body for the past 17 years.

He has denied wrongdoing and his U.S. attorney said he was cooperating

with the Swiss probe.

FIFA’s awarding of the 2018 and 2022 competitions to Russia and Qatar is one of the strands under scrutiny from U.S. and Swiss authorities investigating corruption in the organisation - a worry for tournament sponsors such as McDonald’s Corp, Coca-Cola and Visa.

The scandal exploded in May, when 14 soccer officials and sports marketing executives were indicted on U.S. charges of racketeering, money-laundering and wire fraud in relations to bribery schemes that dated back decades.

New focus for HPC as player development shifts to PCL BRIDGETOWN, Barba- ment of a sustainable prodos (CMC) – Emphasis fessional cricket system will shift from the Bar- in the region, not only as bados-based High Per- a standalone professional formance Centre (HPC) product in the sporting to the WICB Professional marketplace, but also Cricket League (PCL) with the specific goal to for the development of produce players for the regional players.

The West Indies Cricket Board said yesterday while the HPC had served the region well in producing a number of well-established Test players, the institution would no longer function as it did in the past by enrolling a set of players on a year-round basis.

Rather, the HPC will now serve to provide the “finishing touches to elite players” coming out of the regional competitions.

“We need to differentiate between the High Per- WICB Director of Cricket, Richard Pybus formance Centre and High Performance Programme.

The staff is still based in West Indies.

Barbados, but we no lon“It is now the responger have a cohort because sibility of the territorial we are now looking to the boards in their developfranchises to develop the ment programmes and the talent,” said the WICB’s franchises with first-class Director of Cricket, Rich- cricket to ensure the player ard Pybus. pipeline to West Indies “The financial invest- teams is well-stocked with ment is into the establish- international standard play-

ers.”

The WICB moved last year to institute the PCL, comprising six franchises from the traditional cricketing territories, and competing for the first time under a full professional system.

Meanwhile, the last intake of cricketers at the HPC was in 2013, with Pybus pointing out the need now for a second tier, franchise tournament and a regional academy programme.

“The tournament will serve a number of playing and development purposes, expanding and accelerating the work the WICB is currently doing of preparing players for the highest levels of the game,” he said.

“The academy would bring in the best elite emerging players to the HPC for three months in the off-season and they be groomed for international cricket.

“Right now, we are seeking sponsorship to operate both programmes in a meaningful way.”

The second edition of the PCL is set to bowl off next month.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

FIFA’s sponsors Coca-Cola, McDonald’s call on Blatter to resign See story on page 31

Richardson rescues Pele FC to draw 1-1 with Slingerz FC G R E G O RY ‘ J a c k ie Chan’ Richardson snatched a draw out of the jaws of defeat for Pele FC against Slingerz FC last evening at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Base Camp Ayanganna ground when the STAG Elite League continued.

After Domini Garnett sent Slingerz FC in the lead in the 38th minute, Richardson scored his fourth goal

GREGORY RICHARDSON

See page 26

Part of the action in last night’s encounter between Pele FC and Slingerz FC. (Delano Williams photo)

COURTS Pee Wee schools football competition kicks off today See story on page 31

Baptiste prepares for first session in charge of Windies

West Indies players are greeted as the team arrive in Sri Lanka for their upcoming series on Thursday. October 1, 2015. (WICB Media photo)

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (CMC) – Interim head coach Eldine Baptiste will oversee West Indies training for the first time today when the regional side undergo their first practice session since arriving here Thursday.

The 15-man squad will train at the Singalese Sports Club in the capital here as they begin final preparation for their two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

Baptiste, a current West Indies selector, was a last-minute replacement for Phil Simmons who was suspended for the tour following controversial comments last week that were critical of the selection process, regarding the one-day team for the Sri Lanka tour.

The Antiguan Baptiste, who played ten Tests and 43 One-Day Internationals, is a former Kenya coach.

Despite Simmons’ late withdrawal,

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CMC Sports understands the Windies squad are in high spirits, especially coming off a productive training camp in Barbados last week.

Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, who missed that camp while on a twomatch contract with Worcestershire in the English County Championship, has joined the squad here and is expected to bring freshness to the pace attack.

The 27-year-old Gabriel played two games, taking nine wickets including a five-wicket haul in the last game against Middlesex which Worcestershire won by an innings and 128 runs.

West Indies will face Sri Lanka President’s XI in a three-day tour match starting next Thursday before clashing with the hosts in the opening Test in Galle beginning October 14.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2015