2015 2 12 by Guyana Chronicle

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No. 104098 THURSDAY FEBRUARY 12, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

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President plugs technological development for rice sector Page

– assures farmers of continued support for rice industry

– as GRDB launches improved rice varieties

GECOM meets with United Nations elections 4 experts Playing politics with the status quo of ‘weed’ is immoral Page

– Rohee President Ramotar receives a token of appreciation on behalf of the Government from the GRDB, presented by Ms Marsha Hohenkirk

Recording between alleged hitman and Sanasie released

Page

Patricia Sanasie

Page

Dissolution of National Assembly to be done ‘soon’ Page

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

Playing politics with the status quo of ‘weed’ is immoral – Rohee A MOVE to influence the electorate on the basis of popularising what is currently in Guyana illegal – in this case marijuana – is “highly immoral,” according to the General Secretary of the ruling party and Home Affairs Minister, Clement Rohee. “If they [APNU] are going to get votes on popularising what is illegal in the country at this point in time, then I think that is highly immoral. What we need to do

is promote healthy lifestyles and educate the youths on the dangers of illegal drugs,” he said. His comments follow indications from A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) camp that legalising marijuana is a possibility if it wins the upcoming May 11 General and Regional Elections. The coalition’s General Secretary, Joseph Harmon, last Friday said, “We are also committed to a review of the full legalisation of marijuana

to the use of and sentencing policies in relation to marijuana.”

Clement Rohee

once we get into Government, but we will do it by a study on the matter to be advised….the world is moving in a certain direction and we have to recognise that. We have to take cognisance of the world trends and world patterns. So, we as an APNU, what we are committing to is a review of the laws relating

CHANGING GLOBAL TRENDS The People’s Progressive Party’s General Secretary, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, acknowledged global trends relative to the decriminalisation of marijuana. Jamaica, only last month, was touted as the pioneer in the Caribbean Region – importantly the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) block – on marijuana law reform. The country’s legislature debated for five hours and passed laws that resulted in the decriminalisation of small amounts of marijuana for personal use. Having up to two ounces (around 56 grams) will only be punishable by a fixed penalty ticket, instead of a criminal charge. The amendment of the law was coincidentally passed on

the birthday of reggae legend Bob Marley, who is wellknown to have praised weed as “the healing of a nation.” CARICOM itself, last July, agreed on the establishment of a Commission to examine the possibility of decriminalising marijuana in the Region for specific purposes.

Joseph Harmon

Also, several states in the United States of America (USA) have also legalised the use and possession of marijuana. All considered, Rohee declined to comment on “what other countries should have done” or “did,” but made it clear that the status quo in Guyana remains the same. He said, “There is no sign so far, no indication so far, of the Government’s desire to change its position on this issue. The fact of the matter is that in Guyana the laws are against possession and trafficking against narcotics, including marijuana.” PLAYING POLITICS The Home Affairs Minister charged that APNU is playing politics with the issue, considering the fact that the issue has been subject to shifting perceptions, of recent. “Until the Government of Turn to page 4 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

President plugs technological development for rice sector – assures farmers of continued support for rice industry

– as GRDB launches improved rice varieties

Dr. Mahendra Persaud, Chief Scientist at the Burma Rice Research Station, receives a token of appreciation from President Ramotar for the work of the Station in developing new and improved varieties of rice plants

THE role that science and technology has played in the growth and development of Guyana’s rice industry is significant, and President Donald Ramotar yesterday pledged Government’s continued support for the industry’s advancement using knowledge and expertise. Rice is a vital contributor to the nation’s economy, and over 120,000 Guyanese have their livelihood rooted in the industry. Though there are tremendous gains in the industry, in terms of production and productivity, President Ramotar said that, “We have to recognise that we are a small player on the international market, and we are price takers…and we don’t determine international prices, and therefore it means that we have to do things in order to make sure our viability, we have to do things more efficiently.” Speaking at the launch of two improved rice varieties by the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), yesterday, President Ramotar assured rice farmers of the Government’s unwavering support for the continued growth, development and prosperity of the rice industry. He said that value added production, plus forms of co-

operation which will help keep production costs down and a total commitment to quality assurance, are the three main directions in which the local rice industry has to go to ensure optimal development. The varieties launched for use by rice farmers were the GRDB 14 and a first for Guyana, namely, the Maria’s Delight Aromatic Rice. They had been developed by the GRDB’s Burma Rice Research Centre (BRRS) located in the back-lands of Burma, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara and the formal launch took place at the Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC), Liliendaal, in the presence of senior officials in the agricultural sector, a large number of rice farmers from the rice-growing administrative regions and members of the Diplomatic Corps. The GRDB 14 variety was bred to be resistant to lodging, sometimes a major source of loss to rice farmers as well as higher yields per acre than any existing variety; while the Ma-

ria’s Delight is an aromatic variety with a distinctive, pleasant aroma and is very popular on international markets. The higher yields are intended to boost productivity and value for rice farmers, while the aromatic rice is in almost unlimited demand worldwide, the GRDB scientists said. Speaking on the importance of value- added production, President Ramotar said that rice makes excellent breakfast cereal and the rice husk which is normally disposed of by burning can be used for energy generation, thereby bringing in new streams of revenue and reduction in operational costs, even when international market prices are depressed. He said too that he has always held the view that the rice industry was over capitalised.

“People want to own things. A rice farmer wants his own tractor, even though he may only have five acres of land and even though he may consequently be using the tractor only four weeks a year.” He said that the Rice Producers Association (RPA) particularly should look at organisational ways of networking and cooperation to help farmers increase their revenue without making great expenditure. “Let’s see if we can start thinking of pooling of resources in some way; by demonstrating the benefits of some level of cooperation which increases efficiency and leaves more money in their pockets at the end of the day,’” he said. He told the audience that there should be no compromise on the quality of production. “Quality is what will ensure that our market share internationally can go up and quality will give those who bargain for us strength, so that they can bargain successfully for higher prices. Quality must not be compromised for any reason,” he said. He assured the audience of Government‘s unwavering commitment to continue to take the rice industry to greater heights. Dr. Mahendra Persaud, Chief Scientist /Plant Breeder at the (BRRS) said that developing new varieties was a continuous process, because variety determined the final quality and quantity of the product since no plant could produce in excess of its builtin genetic capabilities. He said: “If a variety can give you only six tonnes per hectare regardless of what we

do or what the farmers do, it is not going to give you seven tonnes per hectare.” Hence, apart from market preferences and changing pests and diseases, higher yields per acre were the prime reason for the development of newer and better varieties. The GRDB 14 and the Maria’s Delight had been field -tested by farmers and both had received favourable comments. They found that the GRDB 14 was an excellent grower in terms of germination and establishment in the field; it was a very good emerger from standing water as much as six inches deep; it tillers very quickly covering the field and thereby killing weeds; it has over 200 grains per panicle, making it very high- yielding. It is also blast- resistant and does not lodge. Additionally, the milling recovery and cooking qualities are excellent. The Maria’s Delight Aromatic Rice Plant, he said, was also high- yielding, giving up to 45 bags per acre; the plant type was robust and resistant to blast as well as lodging; it had excellent milling and cooking qualities and there was uniform expression of the aroma. Most importantly, it was a high- priced item. He said: “We can very well say that the progress that we are going to make in aromatic breeding and how well we are going to market it internationally could be the crucial factor in how the industry performs in the coming years, since the price of aromatic rice is usually more than double that paid for other varieties.” Meanwhile, General Secretary of the Rice Producers

Association took pains to point out that neither of the two varieties was a Genetically Modified Organism.(GMOs). He said that the varieties were hybrids arrived at by cross-breeding. “We just taking genes from the best varieties and putting them together. We don’t take any foreign genes from any foreign species.” Popular Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice rice farmer, Mohamed Zrafeeoodeen, one of the farmers who participated in the field- testing of the varieties, said they had performed well. He thanked the BRRS for developing the two varieties and for making them available to the nation’s rice farmers. Madanlall Ramraj, Deputy General Manager of the GRDB, spoke on marketing of the aromatic rice while Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Ali Baksh, spoke about the continuous growth of the industry over the past 20 years. The launching ceremony ended with presentations from the GRDB to President Ramotar in appreciation of the Government’s continued support to the rice industry; to Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Ali Baksh for the support of the Ministry of Agriculture to the GRDB; and to the research team at Burma for their dedicated and commendable performance in the development of new and improved varieties of rice plants. The presentation to the team at the BRRS was made by President Ramotar and was received by Team Head, Dr. Mahendra Persaud.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

GECOM meets with United Nations elections experts -Luncheon says Cabinet briefed on mission’s objectives THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) continues to strategically engage its international development partners in the lead-up to the General and Regional Elections. And on Tuesday, Chairman of the Commission, Dr Steve Surujbally, met with a delegation of elections experts from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to discuss a number of issues pertaining to the effective and efficient management of the May 11 elections. The visit also represented an effort to ascertain key areas of possible United Nations electoral assistance. During the meeting, the team discussed the upcoming elections and the challenges the Commission may face in the successful delivery of polling in May. Some of the points discussed included results management, electoral disputes, party financing, gender, voter information, and campaign access to media, as well as the roles of international and national observer groups. GECOM also reportedly took the opportunity to highlight the Commission’s current state of preparation for the conduct of elections, and further highlighted several

areas including the provision of consultancies, advisors, and experts - particularly in the area of Civic and Voter Education - in which there could be greater collaboration between the Commission and the UNDP. CABINET UPDATED Meanwhile, Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr Roger Luncheon, at his post-Cabinet press conference yesterday, disclosed that Cabinet has been updated by GECOM on the developments pertaining to its moves toward the hosting of the May 11 polls. “Cabinet was informed of the visit of the UN electoral needs assessment mission…. Cabinet was also reminded that historically, the UN system would mount such missions in participating states, who will be entering into an electoral cycle,” he said. According to him, the UN Mission would “extensively and intensively” review the preparedness of GECOM to host the upcoming elections. “Free and fair elections would be one of the objectives that they would be ensuring…and of course working towards international standards would be part of their objectives,” he said.

The UNDP representatives who met with GECOM included Policy Analyst– Election and Gender Governance and Peace-building, Bureau for Policy and Programme Support, Ms. Lea Zori; and Electoral/Political Affairs Officer, Electoral Assistance Division, Department of Political Affairs, Mr. Richard Gee. The team of United Nations election experts, still in Georgetown, is expected to meet with other electoral stakeholders, including representatives of the electoral authorities, the government, political parties, and members of civil society. OBSERVERS WELCOMED Additionally, the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has commended GECOM on what it termed a “pro-democratic” move in welcoming international observers. “The party views this positive move as a step in the right direction towards free and fair elections,” said the PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee, yesterday. Also, the GECOM Chairman, in a telephone interview with the Guyana Chronicle , stated that once the invitations for international ob-

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UNDP representatives meeting with the GECOM Chairman servers have been accepted, The GECOM Chairman servers of the May 11 Genmoves will be made to have added that the Guyana Public eral and Regional Elections, these bodies accredited. Service Union (GPSU) has they have to sign on to “cerDr Surujbally disclosed approached the Commission tain” protocols. that the regular international for accreditation. Also, the He was emphatic that bodies that field delegations Electoral Assistance Bureau breach of these protocols for the elections include the (EAB) has indicated that it would result in the offending Organization of American will be resuscitated with the group being dis-accredited. States (OAS), the Common- intention of acting as another Come May 11, Guyana wealth, the Caribbean Com- local observer. will head to early General munity (CARICOM) and the Dr Surujbally stressed and Regional Elections, just Union of South American that before any of these over three years since the Nations (UNASUR). groups are accredited as ob- November 2011 polls.

Playing politics with ...

Guyana changes its position to the effect that its policy has changed the status quo remains. We are still pursuing a zero tolerance policy,” he reiterated. Rohee referred to the Rastafarian movement as one section of society where the decriminalisation of marijuana is popular, given that its use is a prominent cultural practice. “Mr. Harmon is obviously seeking to play politics with [the] Rastafarian movement in the country,” he said. He was confident that the sections of society where legalising marijuana is a popular idea do not confine their decisions of the future

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of their country solely on a platform of legalising marijuana. “There are other indicators that hold their attention, including the many progressive moves we have made in the interest of all Guyanese people,” Rohee said. The Home Affairs Minister acknowledged that Guyana is heading into early general and regional elections, and there are going to be certain perceptions on the part of the Guyanese people on whether economic and social progress have been made. However, he stressed that the latter will be the basis for judgments on the move forward.

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“There is no problem with these [economic and social advances] being the indicators of progress. It is for the people to judge whether there has been economic and social progress in the country, compared to what [obtained] under another regime and compared to what existed before. The track record of the PPP/C speaks for itself,” Rohee said. His view is that the PPP/C has made significant advances in both spheres, in line with the principle of the party’s founder, the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, who held the view that Guyana’s development must have a “human face” to it.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

Dissolution of National Assembly to be done ‘soon’ – Dr Luncheon THE dissolution of Parliament, according to the Constitution, must be made “within” three months of the date for the General and Regional Elections, set for May 11. And Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr. Roger Luncheon, told the Guyana Chronicle yesterday that as of yesterday the dates on which this can be done fall within the constitutionally prescribed three-month period. “I suspect that now that he is within the constitutional timeframe we can expect an announcement soon,” he said in an interview with this newspaper yesterday. According to him, the announcement of a date of dissolution could have been made earlier, but the actual proclamation could not have been done unless it was on a date “within” the three-month period. He said, “The announcement could have taken place before today, but the actual dissolution cannot take place

unless it is on a date within the three-month period.” Article 61 of the Constitution states that: “An election of members of the National Assembly under Article 60 (2) shall be held on such day within three months after every dissolution of Parliament, as the President shall appoint by proclamation.” “I suspect that the President would have been advised by his Cabinet colleagues and members of the Executive of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (the ruling party) on what would be both ideal for the President and, more importantly, what would confirm with the established constitutional provision,” the Head of the Presidential Secretariat said. Until the dissolution of Parliament, it remains prorogued following President Donald Ramotar’s November 10 proclamation, in the face of a no-confidence motion that would have ended the life of the 10th Parliament and move the country to even earlier

elections. The Head of State’s subsequent announcement of a date for elections came after the objectives of prorogation –

Dr. Roger Luncheon dialogue in the face of political impasse – failed. “It is the President’s call,” Dr. Luncheon stressed, when asked for a conclusive comment on the way forward. PRIMARY QUESTION Under the current circumstances the primary line of questioning has been related to Government spending.

However, Attorney General, Anil Nandlall has, in a prior interview, underscored the legal provisions which guard spending and ensure these are

Anil Nandlall done without ‘abuse’, as is being alleged. With the May 11 elections announcement, Parliament is expected to be dissolved before that. As such, spending is governed by Article 220 (3) of the Constitution. Once Parliament is dissolved, the relative proclamation will activate the provisions

of Article 220, paragraph 3, which states that if Parliament is dissolved before any actions are taken to authorise monies from public funds, “The minister responsible for finance may authorise the withdrawal of such sums from the Consolidated Fund.” The minister must, however, prove that monies taken from the Consolidated Fund are used for the purpose “of meeting expenditure on the public services.” The Consolidated Fund in normal circumstances could be accessed only by support from the National Assembly. The procedure follows that after the new Parliament meets, a statement must be presented to the National Assembly by the Finance Minister or any other minister who was identified by the President. “When the statement has been approved by the Assembly, that expenditure shall be included, under the appropriate heads, in the next Appropriation Bill,” the legislation also reads. During the period of proro-

gation, there are also laws that govern Government spending. According to Nandlall, a combination of Article 219 of the Constitution and the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, provides that in any financial year the Government is empowered to spend one-twelfth of the Budget of the preceding year in continuing to provide the normal services of the Government of Guyana, until an Appropriation Act is passed. “This position obtains, whether Parliament is in session or not, or whether there will be Elections or no Elections. Indeed, if Parliament was in session, the National Assembly could not have prevented this constitutional and legal formula in relation to spending during this period (before the new Budget is passed) from being applied,” Nandlall said. The May 11 elections come more than a year earlier than due, the last General and Regional Elections having been held in November 2011. (Vanessa Narine)

Recording between alleged hitman and Sanasie released THE brother of murdered businesswoman, Patricia Sanasie yesterday released a recording to the media which purportedly features the voice of his now deceased sister and an alleged hitman. Yesterday Vishnu Persaud, the younger brother of Patricia Sanasie, held a press conference where he said that he was fearful for his life after listening to a recording between his sister and the hitman and another recording between an alleged hitman and the woman’s husband in which the woman’s husband promised that his intentions were to kill Patricia Sanasie and her brother as he was not prepared to go down alone. The tape featured two sets of recordings, one where the voice was purportedly that of the dead woman’s husband and the hitman and the husband spoke of “three of we going one time” in an apparent reference to the

woman, her brother and himself meeting their demise. The man was at the time speaking with another male in which the conversation also touched on the issue of his building at Mc Doom Public Road which he handed over to the woman to control with 700 children. That building would be the same one that housed the Academy of Professional Studies. In the recording, this publication heard the woman’s husband lamenting how the woman wasted money and spent huge sums to have her hair done and piercing on her nose while her brother and other persons bled her of the funds that the school was making, causing it to run virtually bankrupt. The purported voice of the businessman also spoke of his frustration and his decision to write a will in the name of his two daughters and sign everything over to them, including a property

in Trinidad, something he reportedly had already discussed with them according to the recording. However it was the second recording which really confirmed that there may have been orders for the woman to be executed and that the woman’s husband may have been instrumental in organising her execution. The caller who identified himself as an ex-policeman gave his name as Michael Anderson. The recording featured the voices of the now dead woman and the wouldbe assassin who said that he decided to inform her of the plan to carry out a hit on her as ordered by her husband because he (the hitman) was given a wrong deal by the woman’s husband. For most of the conversation, the voice purported to be that of the now dead Patricia Sanasie was more interested in finding out from the alleged hitman how he

got her number, what caused him to trust her to reveal the plan to her and what work he did and where he was from. The man answered all the questions stating that he was a former policeman, stated that he lived in Georgetown but was placing the call to her from Berbice and that he decided to tell her of the plan because her husband had wronged him and because he has a sister and mother also. The alleged hitman, however, asked the woman to assure him that the information that he was sharing with her was going to remain confidential even as they made plans to meet when he travelled from Berbice to Georgetown. The man also gave his number to the woman during the conversation. However, when this newspaper dialed the number which is registered to GT&T, the phone was turned off. Also in the recording, the man who identified himself

as the hitman, and who admitted to being in the business of carrying out hits for people, said that he chose to come to the woman and relate the plan on the basis of principle. He also confirmed to her that he was contracted several months prior to them having the conversation. On January 12, Patricia Sanasie was gunned down in front of her home as she was attempting to enter her yard. The woman’s death was witnessed by one of her daughters and eyewitnesses

did say that the person who carried out the act was big built and arrived at the scene in a silver coloured Toyota Raum motorcar. The police have since come up blank in their investigation of the woman’s murder. In 2014 the woman’s husband survived an execution attempt which he claimed was orchestrated by his wife and her brother, the same young man who held the press conference yesterday expressing fear for his life.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

EDITORIAL Empowering the people THE recent announcement of the 10 percent reduction in electricity rates by President Donald Ramotar is most welcome news, both for ordinary consumers and members of the business community. The cost of energy has long been a bugbear to the business community, especially those in the manufacturing sector, and for the ordinary consumer, a saving of every dollar always counts. The drop in rates is concomitant with the plummeting fuel prices on the international market, and recognising the need of being in tune with the needs of the people, the Government is more or less putting measures in place to pass down the benefits to consumers. The announcement by President Ramotar marked the second step by his Ad-

ministration to reach out to consumers, the first being the reduction of prices for gasoline and diesel by 30 percent respectively, and the slashing of the price for kerosene by 42 percent. H o w e v e r, w h i l e t h e trimming of prices for gasoline and diesel was good news, particularly for owners of vehicles, the good gesture by the Government is yet to trickle down to persons who use public transportation. More needs to be done to get minibus and taxi operators to lower their fares, as the reduction in fuel prices should not be to the benefit of some, but to the benefit of all. And here is where attention also needs to be paid to the dip in electricity rates, which will take effect from next month, given that the announcement was made relatively early. Electricity is a vital ingre-

dient for keeping businesses in operation, and undoubtedly, it plays a role in influencing the final cost for certain goods. Even though the drop in rates is subject to review after three months of implementation, efforts should be made by businesses to see how they can reduce the prices for certain goods, notably those that require cold storage. Again, the benefit should trickle down to the consumer, especially the poor, so that measures taken by the Government can achieve their intended objective, which is, to offer relief to the consuming public in light of the drop in fuel prices globally. However, it should be noted that the drastic fall in fuel prices on the world market will not remain in the current state forever, and Guyana should be looking ahead for ways

and means of generating electricity at a lower cost. It was highly encouraging to hear from no less a person than President Ramotar himself that the Government is moving in this direction, and looking to restart work on the Amaila Falls Project. It should be recalled that this project was voted down by the Combined Parliamentary Opposition, the Alliance For Change (AFC) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). The move by the Opposition was tragic for both ordinary Guyanese and the business community. For the ordinary Guyanese, irrespective of which side of the political fence they sit, they were denied the opportunity of enjoying cheap energy. For the business community, the action was akin to someone throwing

a spanner in a process that was geared at enabling the expansion of the manufacturing sector. One hopes that good sense prevails, and the project comes to fruition, as both the AFC and APNU had promised the electorate in their respective manifestos in 2011 to bring hydro-power on stream, in recognition of the need to provide energy at a cheap cost. They have both failed in their promise to their supporters by virtue of their rejecting the Amaila Falls Project. And what was even worse, their action was ill-disposed to development, which, by extension, did little or nothing to improve the lot of those who entrusted them with representing their interests. It was also pleasing to

hear that attention is being paid to providing regular electricity supply to the hinterland regions, using solar and wind technologies. What this means, in a nutshell, is that businesses in those parts of the country will have an opportunity to grow and develop, and students will be better able to study at night and have access to the Internet like their counterparts in the City and other areas of the country. It therefore goes without saying that the recent announcements by the Government, coupled with projects in the pipeline, speak of a broad and focused plan to empower the people through the provision of cheap power, and enabling wide access to it.

Thanks, Minister Benn, for The meteoric rise, and imminent your timely intervention fall, of ‘King Soloman’ I CRAVE your indulgence in giving me the opportunity of expressing my sincere thanks to Minister Robeson Benn for his timely intervention in stopping what surely would have been an accident of horrific proportion, with the potential for serious injury and loss of life, due to the callous and totally irresponsible action of a speeding minibus driver with maniacal tendencies on the East Coast Highway on Saturday, February 07, 2015. Mr. Editor, I was one of the passengers who had joined minibus BTT 249 at the Stabroek Bus Park, tired and anxious to get home to my family from work. The conductor having placed a tout passenger in the already crowded bus, he collected his commission from the driver, and gave

him a ‘hi-five’. The driver did not just move off, he took off, weaving in and out of the traffic, assailing the sensibilities with his vulgar music as he intimidated other users with his horn, and hurling invectives at any driver that was slow in moving out of his way. We were approaching Ogle in what seemed to me like a couple of seconds after leaving the Park, zipping in and out of traffic, and zipping past vehicles of all descriptions and sizes. I was rigid with fear when he moved from one lane to overtake the vehicle ahead of him, only to be faced with oncoming traffic, which his only means of evading was to force his way back into the lane he had left in front of a car, whose driver had

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PLEASE allow me to express my dismay and utter perplexity at the continued monarchal and inept disposition of the Chairman of Region Ten, Mr. Sharma Solomon, whose stock response each and every time the Government of Guyana attempts to administer any exercise in this region seems to be either “I was not informed”; or “I was not consulted”; or “No one told the Regional Chairman (King Solomon) that they were entering my region, or that they were undertaking a social or other intervention that would benefit my people...” I was bursting at my seams with excitement, as a youth, when this promising young man was appointed to the esteemed office of Regional Chairman. Finally,

I said to myself, this region will break the choke-hold of dinosaur-age leaders who tunnel-visioned their way through years of leadership, alienating the region from the national thrust and movement of the country. Sharma Solomon came from humble ranks; from among us youths, and made us feel a sense of belonging upon news of his appointment. However, my constant perplexity at the arrogant and myopic posture of this young leader at every major juncture of significance since, causes me to dismay. How could this choice have been so flawed? How can this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for youths be so foolishly squandered? From the onset, Solomon’s leadership excursions lacked foresight and wis-

dom, as was so evident in his handling of the entire protest saga. His uninhibited posture of confrontation in the very first days of his being in office destined him to the place of isolation, where he now resides, both in terms of his relationship with his Party, particularly its leadership, and the duly elected Government of Guyana. During the protest, it is reported that Solomon upbraided the APNU leader openly in one of the many stakeholders’ meetings, resulting in his being left to his own demise. In the aftermath of the protest, Solomon shouted public upbraids at the President of Guyana for entering “his” region without “his” express consent. He did the same when the Minister of Education launched the project to rebuild the

burnt-out One Mile Primary School, which he had ambitiously committed the people of the region to doing through self-help. The slew of financial contributions which poured in from near and far for that undertaking is yet to be accounted for by Soloman; yet now he is on his high horse again, complaining about not being informed that the Town was being cleaned by the Government; questioning the objectives of the cleaning exercise in “his” domain, and, Yes! He is anxiously asking about the money involved. In my humble opinion, Sharma Solomon lost his way the moment he sat on the Region’s throne, instead of on the servant’s chair, in that office bequeathed to him by the Party whose time has long come and gone in Linden and Region Ten. DAVE MARTINDALE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday Thursday 12, 2015

The curse of national output GREAT is the God of National Output. In the 19th and 20th Centuries, the Great God of National Output thundered through the planet. Those who worshipped at the altar of this God believed that the maximisation of national output would maximise national wealth. Today, the High Priests of this religion are still gospelling this dogma. Ministers of Finance, economic departments, corporate heads, national leaders, central banks. But there are at least twelve shortcomings of this doctrine; this fundamentalism. Output, yes! But what about equity? It is Karl Marx, and generations of his intellectual descendants, who critiqued the contradiction in the maxim of ‘more output more prosperity’. Output could be achieved inequitably; the value of output could be used to deracinate the vulnerable; to perpetuate the false ideology of the elite classes, and to maximise wealth for these elites and their handmaids, national governments. The best aspects of Socialism have challenged and ameliorated the worst excesses of the Maximum Output theory. Output, yes! But at what cost to human wellbeing? Many nations have, at the altar of output maximisation, converted their nations into treadmill and sweatshop economies. More and more of the working family’s time is spent earning less and less value. The

value of its labour is cut down by inflation, national debt, the devaluation of basic goods and services. Brazil, China, India are following this suit. Output, yes! But what about opportunity costs? Many nations which show high annual growth rates destroy the inputs of output: The lands, peoples, communities; the economy of the ecology. The Trinidad and Tobago Government is currently purchasing a service from OAS of Brazil, for part of a highway system that does not justify its high social, economic, financial, and ecological costs. Output, yes! But what about the choice of the services and goods feeding this output? GDP output in Afghanistan and Mexico is based on the trade in guns and narcotics. Must human communities sacrifice at the altar of violence, abuse, high death rates to achieve high output? Obesity, cancer, diabetes are all produced by goods and services which create high output. Output, yes! But what about economic vulnerability? Reliance on the production of one or two high-valued products, for example, in the non-renewable fossil fuel sector, leaves nations vulnerable. Range, diversification, heterogeneity protect nations from the impacts of global instability: For example, war, recession, the ravages of climate change, fluctuations in food supplies and energy prices. Output, yes! But what hap-

pens if the value of the output is wasted, soon exhausted, frittered away? Consumerism and waste are sinkholes into which acquired value soon disappear. The inordinate expectations of those whom we call the Middle-Class destroy morale and the gains of output. Output, yes! But what about markets, and full market-value? Does the nation and its corporations have the capacity to generate markets abroad? Get the best prices? Enhance value-added? Much value, energy, is created in the local and local informal economies, but much is wasted through lack of reliable systems for sale, distribution, remuneration. Output, yes! But what about its medium and longterm survivability? High output would be only of incidental value if your high-valued products are not patented; or their designs stolen, copied and manufactured more efficiently elsewhere; or manufacturing knowledge and skills not stored or transmitted effectively. Output, yes! But what about innovation? What is high-value today might be low-value tomorrow. The ancient arrow is now the modern, intra-planetary ballistic missile. Output, yes! But what about State and corporate corruption? The seeds of output could be wasted away through government and corporate corruption, excess,

Freddie Kissoon is nothing but a coward I REFER to Freddie Kissoon’s column in the February 10, 2015 edition of the Kaieteur News. I wish to make clear the reason why I wrote my letter on May 17, 2013. I wrote that letter to let the public know that my father was not killed in an accident; and that in fact he was murdered. It was never my intention to paint a perfect picture of him. All I wanted, and still want, is justice for him. He deserves that much. I do not know which case Mr. Kissoon was referring to; and neither does it matter. I am in no position to comment on any of the cases that my father was involved in, because he never disclosed any information to me. My dad made mistakes like every other human being; but to imply that he deserved what he got is both insensitive and brutish. To set the record straight, my father avidly spoke out against the PPP and the PNC; and to say that he wanted to benefit from the PPP is absolute rubbish. I understand that Mr. Kissoon has a column, and that he needs to fill it with articles to entertain his readers. I am simply a grieving daughter, pleading for justice to be meted out against the perpetrators of the murder of my father. To take what I said and twist it for his own personal gain clearly shows the type of individual he is. You, Mr. Kissoon, have crossed that thin line, and I am now convinced that you are the definition of that lower class of animal to which you refer. My dad’s death was over two years ago; and not a day goes by that I do not think of him and what he had to endure. It is interesting that Mr. Kissoon waited almost two years to make his snide comments; and even more interesting that he never spoke ill of my father when he was alive, when he would have been able to defend himself. You, Mr. Kissoon, are a coward! It is evident that you are all dried up and looking for your last five minutes of fame. The few who bother to read your column, perhaps for comic relief, are too smart to buy the trash that you are selling. MIKHAILA PURAN

mismanagement, poor choices; and by a consequent alienation from duty and discipline in general. Some national budgets focus on short term political goals rather than long term economic development. Output, yes! But what about the predatory practices of the global financial and corporate bodies? Governments which control or are allied to global financial institutions; those which own prestige currencies, earned as much by warmongering as by national output; used their leverage to punish Sovereign States. The IMF, the World Bank, the European Central Bank, can be used to punish nations in the throes of financial and economic crisis. In modern Greece, in the Soviet Union

in the 1990s, in Britain in the 1970s, large global corporate entities moved in and gobbled up national assets in well-orchestrated fire-sales. Output, yes! But what if your nation is a client State of the Euro-American war machine? Where you have to pay yearly tributes to the latest war efforts of the ‘International Community’? Where you are goaded to vote for ‘New World Order’ at the United Nations Security Council? Where your nation could be invaded and ravaged by the wars of these very coalition partners, if you become too economically or politically uppity? And your populace made to pay the cost of the reconstruction of this war?

Thanks, Minister Benn...

From Page 6

to brake hard to avoid being side-swept off the road. And in doing so, he had a close shave with a moving concrete mixer by inches. A white cruiser which had sped past earlier, heading in the same direction, came up alongside us, lights on and horn blazing, and indicated to the driver that he should slow down and stop. He pulled over, and the cruiser rolled to a stop some distance ahead and two men got out; one I immediately recognised as Minister Robeson Benn of Public Works, and the

other as one of his engineers. The Minster came up to the driver’s side of the bus and told the driver that he was driving dangerously, and placing other users of the road, the passengers in the bus, and himself, at great risk. The Minister then instructed the minibus driver to drive behind his vehicle to the nearest police station, where he met the Sergeant on duty and informed him of the driver’s dangerous use of the road. Minister Benn then told the Sergeant to allow the driver to first take the passengers to their destination, and then

Great is the God of National Output. You can attend liturgies at the Harvard, Chicago, London. Arthur Lok Jack schools of Economics or Business and celebrate it. But what are the opportunity costs of national output? This dogma is a curse on nations, human populations, and the planet everywhere. It falsifies the conception of economic growth; of progress and development. It reduces, vulgarises, national expectations. It portrays a primitive, oversimplified picture of national growth. It is a constraint to real growth. WAYNE KUBLALSINGH

charge him. Pictures were taken of the driver and the bus registration No. BTT 249. The Minister rejoined his vehicle and continued his journey. My heartfelt thanks, Minister Benn, for your timely intervention in getting me safely home out of the clutches of one of the maniacs that play Russian Roulette with the lives of the commuting public on a daily basis. And thanks, Mr. Editor, for the space provided. PS: To the other passengers who sat timidly and passively through that nightmare drive, you all owe Minister Benn a debt of gratitude. CONCERNED CITIZEN

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

Information dissemination? Or scandal? THE need for balanced and ethical journalism is paramount in any society; but this is rarely the actuality and reality, because newspapers are mainly profit-motivated. Also, bias and prejudice are natural components in the human socio-psychological, and even political composition. Therefore, media houses skew their stories to coincide with their individual bias framework; as in Guyana’s instance, where the proliferation of media outlets, both print and electronic, does not guarantee accuracy and/or fairness in the distribution of news, especially news of a political nature. It is also important to take into consideration the fact that scandal sells newspapers, so the sen-

sationalising of news stories adds another dimension to the fray, especially when there is a competition, which most often evolves into real profit-motivated battles. Nonetheless, the public most often takes the reported news as Gospel, without questioning the source or motive; factors which lend authenticity, or vice versa, to media houses. Thus, the imperative of accuracy in reporting the news should be the primary factor and the sole consideration of any media outlet. Sadly, this is not the case of most Opposition media houses in Guyana, which has engendered much angst, frustration and anger in the society. There is a great deal of

resentment and unhappiness among decent people, who are appalled at the drastic decline in journalistic standards, rivalling the days of Burnham. During the years of PNC rule, the media was oppressed and practically outlawed. However, today where there is absolute press freedom, distortion and misrepresentation of facts, even outright lies, have become a regular feature in Guyanese life. Oftentimes it seems that the current generation of reporters has not a clue of investigative journalism, choosing to merely gloss over their stories with a surface assessment of overt perceptions, rather than taking the time to explore the covert events of actualities.

This inadequate reporting is a dereliction of responsibility by the reporters. It is far better that a story be deferred, rather than an incorrect report be published. Opposition media houses are prone to this type of reporting, especially where it relates to the business of the Government. Private media houses gain increased readership, sale of advertisement and publication for their skewed alternative viewpoints. Journalists often publish an incorrect story, with a minute basis on fact, oftentimes not a complete fabrication; merely a distortion or misrepresentation of facts; or lying by omission or distorted quotations.

Many private media houses are mere propaganda press for Opposition Political Parties; and their reporters, columnists and commentators are adept at sensationalism and propaganda; making wild accusations against adversaries, whether in the social, entrepreneurial or political world, most often with no supporting evidence; or with concocted facts, which can be disputed by any just person who is interested in the truth. Envy, greed and malice against opponents and adversaries also need to be factored into this equation where verbal vitriol, vindictiveness, and spite predominate and define policies. The hallmarks of a good

reporter are hard work, honesty, honour, integrity, accuracy, professional ethics, neutrality, and trustworthiness: In other words, a complete lack of bias. Training seminars and workshops for media operatives in Guyana are most often conducted by persons whose bias towards Opposition politics is evident in presentations that are visibly skewed to Opposition politics, and thus defeats the primary focus and purpose of such exercises. In the final analysis, like every endeavour germane to the body politic and social world in the global collective of nations, it all boils down to the dominant imperative of morality, integrity, and professional ethics.

Another AFC stalwart bites the dust --for committing the most cardinal of sins THE exodus from the AFC continues as another AFC Executive member and former General Secretary, Mr. Sixtus Edwards has resigned with immediate effect from the Party. It is anyone’s guess why he resigned at this crucial point in time. Mr. Edwards was with the AFC since its conception in 2005, and has worked assiduously to build the Party from scratch. He maintained and built a data-base of members, and ensured that the membership of the Party continued to grow. He is respected by all as a no-nonsense individual of integrity and self-respect that is par excellence, but his cardinal sin was that he dared to call for financial accountability within the AFC, much to the chagrin of the AFC cabal led by Ramjattan. I was there at the 2012 AFC Conference where he spoke openly and without fear of the need for financial accountability, and for all monies to be deposited in a bank account to be disbursed only when such

disbursement is authorised by the Finance Committee. He always complained about ‘a one-man Finance Committee’, and the deliberate violation of the Party’s Constitution. Little did he realise that the AFC’s rigging machinery was in process as he was giving his report, and that that would be his final presentation as the General Secretary. David Patterson, the relative of one of the Founding Leaders, was already selected by AFC’s ‘fat cats’ to replace him. Mr. Edwards was also the head of the inquiry into the alleged malpractices of Dr. Ramayya with regards to Party funds during the 2011 Elections campaign; and he found that Dr. Ramayya was guilty and should be disciplined. However, the Leader of the AFC declared at a press conference that the entire episode was one of ‘misunderstanding and miscommunication’. They did not touch Ramayya, because they knew that they were in the same boat; so they cannot rock the boat. Mr. Edwards was not even aware of this

development until he saw it in the press. Many persons, including executive members, have moved away from the AFC, as the AFC has moved away from all its founding principles; violated its own Constitution and condoned corruption, cronyism, mismanagement and misappropriation of donations, and many will continue to do so. Moreover, they have witnessed the treacherous and unpatriotic nature of the AFC when they joined with APNU to stymie social and economic progress in this country with their nefarious budget cuts and their continued unyielding support of the APNU, to the point of forming a coalition; a coalition proposed by the AFC! Many persons who voted for them will not forgive them for their treachery; it was one of the founding principles that the AFC will remain independent. It has been the modus operandi of the AFC that anyone who challenges their wrongdoings will either be side-lined until they re-

signed, or be expelled from the Party. It is a surprise that Mr. Edwards took so

long to make this inevitable decision; but he is always a person who deliberates

well.

HASEEF YUSUF AFC Councillor (Region 6)

President to issue Instruments of Commission to 15 GDF Officers - 10 to receive State Warrants

FIFTEEN young Guyanese will today be joining the Officer Corps of the Guyana Defence Force when they receive their Instruments of Commission from the Commander- in- Chief of the Armed Forces, President Donald Ramotar at 10:00hrs in the Credential Room at the Office of the President. Cabinet Secretary and Secretary to the Defence Board, Dr. Roger Luncheon, made this disclosure at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday, as he informed the media that these young Guyanese have successfully completed the Standard

Officers Training Course and as a result, have been recommended to be so promoted. The young men who were promoted to the rank of Ensigns in January 2015 have completed 10 months of training in military skills and management. The Secretary to the Defence Board also advised that the local Defence Force has continued to provide training to sister CARICOM states as personnel from the Belize Defence Force and St Kitts and Nevis have also completed the course. This is the 47th batch of Officers to be trained by the Force, since the establishment of the Colo-

nel Ulric Pilgrim Training School (CUPOS) at Base Camp Stephenson to train officers. The young officers received their badges of rank from the Commanderin- Chief at a ceremonial parade held in their honour at army Headquarters, Camp Ayanganna, yesterday afternoon. Today also 10 Warrant Officers will be conferred with State Warrants at the same ceremony. These are ranks have been promoted through the ranks, having been recruited as privates and through their exemplary dedication to duty over the years have been promoted.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

In absence of campaigning financing regulations…

No 'free for all' – Rohee WITH three months to go until the May 11 General and Regional elections and the absence of campaign financing regulations, General Secretary of the ruling party, Clement Rohee, contends that there is no “free for all.” “There are no laws at this point in time, no statutory regulations, to address this matter. I would not say that in the absence of that it is a free for all,” he said yesterday, during the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) weekly press conference held at Freedom House. Rohee was unable to cite a specific sum earmarked for the 2015 election campaign. However, he assured that the ruling party has always striven to maintain a balance between a modest campaign and one that responds to the expectations of the Guyanese people, as it relates to campaign activities.

“Campaigns are indeed costly. Nevertheless, we try our utmost to keep down the cost….we look at what was spent in 2011 and as a matter of principle, we work to keep down our costs,” Rohee said. He added that the party’s resources are raised through fundraising activities locally and abroad. “We do have some resources…these resources come mainly from fundraising activities organised by the party inside Guyana and outside of Guyana, but this is not an unlimited sum… we always try to keep our costs down…it is a question of cutting the cloth to fit the person wearing the suit. We try to do our best with the resources at our disposal,” Rohee said. LAUNCHING SOON The general secretary also stated that the party is expected to officially launch

its campaign soon. He also told the Guyana Chronicle that while the party’s campaign has not been officially launched, the party’s work on the ground continues apace. “As a tradition we do not name a campaign manager and we do not have such a person designated,” he added, in response to queries from the media. Asked about the naming of a prime ministerial candidate, he disclosed that the party is still deliberating on that issue. “There is no word on this as yet. The party is still deliberating on this, as well as on other important matters… as soon as these matters are fully settled we shall notify the media,” Rohee said, yesterday, Incumbent President Donald Ramotar, who is the party’s presidential candidate, has the full backing of

his party, according to him. “It is a resounding Y-E-S,” Rohee posited. He also stressed that the position of former President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, stands and he will not be pursuing a third term. “There have been no other developments since then [when an official statement was made]. The statement remains valid and relevant,” Rohee said. EARLY ELECTIONS The move to early elections resulted from the fact that the objectives of prorogation – in face of a no-confidence motion against the Government and the consequent dissolution of Parliament – failed in the opinion of the current Administration. Given the posture of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change

(AFC), President Ramotar has always maintained that the need for dialogue was uppermost in his mind when he made his decision to prorogue Parliament on November 10. Paving the way for greater dialogue among political parties, he contended, would have kept the 10th Parliament alive to address critically important issues currently before the House. The effect of ending the first session of the 10th Parliament by way of prorogation is the suspension of the business of the National Assembly. As a result of that move, an AFC-sponsored ‘No-Confidence’ motion was not considered. Also, APNU had, prior to November 10, signalled its intention to support the motion. Had it not been for the proclamation to prorogue Parliament, if the no-confidence motion had been

approved by the political Opposition, Guyana would have been headed to early general elections within three months. However, President Ramotar had made it clear that if these efforts proved futile, there would be a move to early general elections. Since the prorogation, APNU and the AFC have made it clear that they will not engage the President in talks unless the prorogation is lifted and parliamentary work resumes. The rejection of talks was also formally communicated by APNU Leader Brigadier (rtd) David Granger in a December 2 letter responding to the President’s November 18 invitation for talks. As a result, the Head of State early last December indicated that Guyana will head to early General and Regional Elections, just over three years since the November 2011 polls.

NIS financially viable according to actuarial review – Dr. Luncheon – may need legislative changes to remain viable By Raymon Cummings THE financial viability of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) is sound, according to Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Roger Luncheon, who is also the Chairman of the Board of the Scheme. This disclosure was made yesterday by the Cabinet Secretary during his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing when he was questioned about the Scheme’s financial status in light of criticisms. He said: “The evidence so far is our actuarial review that is done every five years and was recently done and it indeed painted a picture quite different from what the naysayers and detractors would have you believe.” He, however, pointed out that legislative interventions may be necessary to keep it that way. “Indeed the scheme is financially sound - what the challenge will be is to ensure that it remains that way. I believe that over the years to come interventions will have to be made to contribute to giving that assurance to

stakeholders.” The Cabinet Secretary told the media that the Cabinet was briefed on the performance of the Scheme by the General Manager and a team of Senior Managers who had a “useful engagement… and coming out of that was a better awareness of the performance,” he assured. DATA ENTRY AND VERIFICATION Dr. Luncheon also updated the press on the status of the “Data Entry and Verification Project” that the Scheme was mandated by Cabinet to have implemented. He reminded that the project which commenced in June 2014 was completed as scheduled by December 31, 2014 and the objective which was to “convert all paper records to an electronic database of the NIS” was achieved. “One hundred percent of all outstanding records were entered on the database. That report from the Scheme provided welcomed news for the Cabinet members, many of whom in their outreaches

have had to listen to many aggrieved contributors,” he said. Addressing the inconvenience caused as a result of the delays that resulted from the records not being adequately updated and the benefits the project would have on stakeholders, the Cabinet Secretary said, “It is obvious to Cabinet that this step was important to deal comprehensively with quite a bit of the criticism that the Scheme has attracted by contributors and pensioners about the deficient contribution records … we have indicated to such aggrieved contributors and pensioners that whenever those contributions are indeed found and entered in the database the benefits associated will be computed from the date the contributions were made and not the date the contributions were entered into the system.” INADEQUATE INFORMATION He said that the project also revealed that there were

over 1.1 million contribution records that could not be verified by end of the project time as there was inadequate information to match them to contributors. He said that what was discouraging “was the disclosure in the report that there were 1.1 million contribution records that were not verified by December 31. “Cabinet understands what it meant, it meant that just over 1.1 million contributions were received by the Scheme but its beneficiaries, an undisclosed number, were not receiving benefits from those unverified contributions. Cabinet felt this as an untenable situation and agreed that incisive action was necessary… these contributions lacked basic information: name and numbers of the contributors to be credited with these contributions.” Pointing out that the Scheme on its own is unable to rectify this deficiency; Dr. luncheon said that the management of the NIS was advised to engage the public

with a view to allocate the contributions in the best way possible. “Cabinet instructions were to move ahead with a campaign that would assist the Scheme in addressing the situation … Cabinet clearly saw the need for going public. The feeling was that there had to be an exercise with a public component that would essentially assist the Scheme in identifying those contributors who may have deficiencies in their contributions records and if it can be mapped with contributions received by the Scheme and then could be so allotted then they could get the benefit and that benefit that would not be related to the time that the contribution was entered but when it was received by NIS,” he stated. Commenting on other issues facing the Scheme, the Cabinet Secretary pointed to the inability of the NIS to adequately collect on its debt and the need to improve its public image. “The solvency of the Scheme and

the collection of debt - these are other matters that will have to be tendered to but on the front burner was the thrust to take care of your image. It shows that you are attracting criticisms by aggrieved contributors about being denied their benefits that they have earned,” he said. LEGISLATIVE CHANGES He also saw the possibility for legislative changes to reduce the decision-making powers of the Board and creating a more responsible response to the Scheme. “Right now significant powers repose in the Board. I have a fear that the Board ought not to be the sole repository … I feel there is still room for improvement and thinking along the lines of legislation amendment to give a greater role for the National Assembly in determining some of the decisions that right now, by the very act, are discharged by the Board,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

PPP renews call for public vetting of polling day staff

– process will act as catalyst for Guyanese to trust declared results by GECOM By Navendra Seoraj THE People’s Progressive Party / Civic (PPP/C) has renewed its calls for public vetting of all polling day staff, reiterating that this process will act as a catalyst for Guyanese to trust and respect the results declared by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee reiterated this call yesterday at the party’s

Clement Rohee

weekly press conference. Rohee declared that “with all the optimism and hope for a transparent process, the PPP calls on GECOM to ensure that persons recruited to work on elections day are selected through a transparent process so as to gain the nation’s acceptance of the results.” Just recently he reasoned that the Party’s request is legitimate, given reports of persons who acted in a biased manner and created prob-

lems in 2011 and previous elections. Therefore, “the PPP calls on GECOM to prevent the occurrences of 2011 in regards to last minute changes to polling stations and inexperienced information clerks misguiding voters,” he said. PUBLIC VETTING Public vetting can only “improve the confidence of the electorate in GECOM and solidify its own integrity

of elections management. It is important that the most suited persons based on experience, qualifications and background is employed to work on polling day.” Meanwhile, commenting on the matter sometime ago Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO), Vishnu Persaud explained that employees engaged by GECOM are already vetted. He said: “We have vetted our polling day staff. We sent

out applications, people responded, we shortlisted them on the basis of the criteria we set out. We have trained them. We went through evaluations and on this basis the levels of achievement we will be selecting people to work in polling stations.” Persaud added that the persons hired are also dispatched within their areas, where they are known to the voters in that particular area.

Quiet tolerance of Domestic Violence unacceptable – regulations launched to tackle scourge

A section of the gathering at the launch of the Domestic Violence Regulations

THE Human Services and Social Security Ministry in another bid to “stamp out” the quiet tolerance of domestic violence yesterday launched the Domestic Violence Regulations, which address the deficiencies in the principal Act. Though the Domestic Violence Act of 1996 placed spotlight on the societal scourge, like any other, it was not a perfect legislation. The newly launched regulations seek to strengthen the Principal Act by addressing a number of shortcomings therein. Education Minister, Priya Manickchand hailed the development as a step in the right direction, noting that the issue is a matter close to her. She pointed out that domestic violence is caused primarily by gender inequality and where one partner uses physical force to control or dominate the other. Speaking at the launch at Cara Lodge, Quamina Street, Georgetown, Manickchand who previously served as Human Services and Social Security Minister, said Guyana

has come a long way since the passage of the Domestic Violence Act in addressing the scourge, as it is no longer viewed as an accepted norm as before. But, she stressed that more still needs to be done in terms of getting everyone to understand and accept the seriousness of the problem. Government on its part, apart from enacting the Domestic Violence Act of 1996, has also established the Men’s Affairs Bureau, the Women’s Affairs Bureau as well as implementing the Women of Worth (WoW) Project, just to name a few initiatives, to address domestic violence. These came into operation following wide consultations with the people, as the Administration seeks to rid the society of this scourge, having recognised that it is not only harmful to victims, but also to the development of the country. The fight against domestic violence, Manickchand also emphasised, will not be successful with the efforts of Government alone, but will

require the effort of all stakeholders, more particularly the churches, masjids and temples. Legal Affairs Minister and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, though acknowledging that the regulations took some time to materialise, noted that it was born out of wide consultation with a variety of stakeholders. He pointed out that the Principal Act will be amended as it omits a definition for domestic violence, but said the amendments will not affect the regulations and these also will be amended and expanded upon as deemed fit. The definition for domestic violence will be a universal definition, more or less in keeping with the one embraced by the United Nations and various international treaties on the subject. Domestic violence is not only a serious problem in Guyana, but a problem affecting countries the world over. Women aged 15-44 are more at risk from rape and domestic violence than from cancer, car accidents, war, and

malaria, according to World Bank data. Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviour in any relationship used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over his/her intimate partner. It can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions that influence their partners. This includes behaviour to intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, coerce, threaten, blame, injure or wound someone. Domestic violence can occur regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender, socio-economic backgrounds and education levels. Acts of domestic violence can happen to intimate partners who are married, living together, or dating. Up to 70 percent of women experience violence in their lifetimes. Children who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Several global surveys suggest that half of all women who die from homicide are killed by their current or former husbands or partner. LEGISLATIVE REFORMS Nandlall said apart from the Domestic Violence Act of 1996, other legislative reforms were made to address the problem, notably, amendments to the Prevision of Crimes Act of 2008, which makes it mandatory for those convicted of domestic violence to be supervised by the Police for three years after completion of their sentences; the Evidence Act of 2008, which protects witnesses including victim witnesses by

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall addresses the gathering

allowing for the taking of oral evidence and making of submissions via visual links and the use of audio-visual link facility for conducting identification parades; and the Criminal Law (Procedures) Act of 2008, which allows Magistrates to exercise his/ her discretion and admit into evidence a written statement in lieu of the actual presence of the witness (paper committal). However, the minister noted that the challenge for the criminal justice system is finding an effective response to domestic violence. This continuous search for solutions and ways to combat domestic violence require constant revision of practices and policies. As such, Nandlall said a review of the deficiencies of the Domestic Violence Act was conducted and Regulations have been created to remedy those deficiencies. Under the Regulations, victims can enjoy access to the court without an Attorney or the filing of Affidavit Evidence as Oral Evidence is acceptable; persons who are

Education Minister, Priya Manickchand makes a point during the launching of the Domestic Violence Regulations at Cara Lodge, Quamina Street, Georgetown

not victims can make applications to the court; victims and abusers are separated during court matter to avoid aggravation of problem, but the alleged abuser is provided a reasonable timeframe to file his defence; serving of Court Order can be done by email; the police have a greater role in addressing domestic violence; and ambiguities in the principal Act have been clarified, among others. The Legal Affairs Minister also stressed that legislation is not a panacea for domestic violence, but a mechanism to address the scourge, underscoring the need for all to play a role in ridding the scourge from society. Human Services and Social Security Minister, Jenifer Webster said Domestic Violence does not only affect the victims, but society as a whole, contending that the Government remains committed in implementing international best policies to tackle the problem.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

GPL repels sensational Kaieteur News attack

…article devoid of facts to support ‘dramatic headline’—Dindyal CHIEF Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Company, Bharrat Dindyal, was this past week forced to set the record straight over the power company’s decision to truck fuel to the 26MW Vreed-en-Hoop plant. Over the weekend, the privately owned Kaieteur News had alleged that one of the major problems for the multi-billion-dollar plant is the massive trucking of fuel which is expected to continue for a while until fuel lines, to a nearby new wharf built specifically for this purpose, are operational. The publication further alleged that those millions in additional costs will now have to be borne by consumers who are already complaining about the power situation and rates. During the commissioning of the 26MW plant earlier this week, Head of State Donald Ramotar announced that the power company would be slashing its rates by 10 percent. Dindyal met with media operatives, the following day to provide details on how the decreased rates would be effected, and also used the opportunity to respond to ques-

tions posed by Kaieteur News reporter, Leonard Gildarie, over the fuel expenditure for the Vreed-en-Hoop generation plant. Gildarie is the Kaieteur News reporter who was recently embroiled in a very public controversy over a secret recording of a conversation between himself and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, which was later made public by that publication. Dindyal, the power company’s CEO, in setting the record straight, said that the contents of the article published by the Kaieteur News on Sunday last do not support “the dramatic headline.” The article was published under the caption: “Inefficiency and waste…GPL forks out millions to truck fuel across Harbour Bridge.” According to Dindyal, however, the article is devoid of the details necessary to draw the conclusion suggested in its dramatic headline. “First of all, there is no statement in the article as to what options GPL has which might be significantly cheaper,” said Dindyal. The article in question sought to rubbish the power company’s decision and its

“Mr. Gildarie, let’s look at a couple of variables, if we didn’t bring that plant online, we would have had to continue to rely on our other sources of generation, so this would include older more inefficient units,” Dindyal

GPL’s CEO, Bharat Dindyal

accompanying cost to truck fuel, but according to Dindyal, GPL is utilising the cheapest cost and one that represents a minuscule increase on operations. “When you look at the overall cost of operating the plant and the cost of production, it is far more economical to do that,” according to Dindyal. Dindyal in disparaging the article said that it erroneously supposes, “We have a much more [sic] cheaper option to exercise.” Confronted with the alternative of supplying fuel to the plant via the Demerara River by way of boat, Dindyal told reporters that in deciding on trucks to transport fuel to the

Vreed-en-Hoop plant, “we also included in the evaluation the marine option…that came in far more expensive.” He explained that there was an option to use a small marine vessel to aid in the supply of fuel for the plant, but this option turned out to be quite expensive. The CEO made it clear that the final option would be for the large international vessels docking at the newly constructed wharf, an option according to Dindyal “we will exercise very shortly.” He gave a timeline of less than six weeks. Defending the resort to the use of trucks to transport fuel while the power company waits on the commissioning of its fuel line to be supplied using large international vessels, Dindyal said it costs only “a Guyana dollar to every kilowatt hour we generate there which is insignificant… it is an additional cost, but it is not what the article might want to say that it’s a burden.” The Company’s Finance

Mason granted $300,000 bail on attempted murder charge AN attempted murder accused was on Monday granted $300,000 bail by Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry after being on remand for one month. Sunil Pollard, a mason of lot 113 Duke Street, Kingstown, Georgetown, is charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding Wayne Baird with intent

to murder him. Pollard was released on bail following a bail application by attorney-at-law, Paul Fung-a-Fat. The particulars of the case against Pollard state that on November 04, 2014 at Kingston, Georgetown at about 17:30 hrs Baird and his friends were at Duke Street, Kingston when Pollard sat on his

bike. Baird told Pollard to get off his bike, and Pollard went away but reportedly returned with a broken bottle with which he stabbed Baird multiple times to his neck, rendering him unconscious. Baird was rushed to the hospital, where he received treatment. Pollard’s lawyer in his bail application requested

reasonable bail for his client, citing the lengthy period that he was on remand. Police Prosecutor Michael Grant did not oppose bail, noting that Baird had been discharged from hospital and was recovering from the injuries. Pollard is set to make his next court appearance on February 25. (Clestine Juan)

Director, Lorris Nathoo, who was also on hand for the media briefing held at GPL’s Duke Street, Kingston head office, noted too that trucking fuel will only see the power company’s expenditure increase by about US$1 per barrel, “but the more important point is if we were not trucking the fuel we would not be able to utilise the plant.” In such a situation, the power company will have to rely on the much more expensive option of diesel generation, according to the Finance Director. “Using diesel generation will cost us about 90 percent more than if we were to use HFO generation…so trucking the fuel pales in comparison to continuing using diesel generation,” explained Nathoo. The Company’s Chairman of the Board of Directors, who also defended the use of the trucks to transport the fuel, told Kaieteur News’ reporter “Mr. Gildarie, let’s look at a couple of variables,

if we didn’t bring that plant online we would have had to continue to rely on our other sources of generation, so this would include older more inefficient units in Berbice and other units.” According to Brassington, the cost attached to trucking the fuel “is wiped out considerably,” since the generating engines at Vreed-en-Hoop, are in fact larger and more efficient to the fuel convergence and “we are able to use a much more cheaper HFO versus diesel.” At present, the Demerara system is currently channelling electricity towards the Berbice grid and according to Dindyal, the electricity is delivered much cheaper than if it were generated in that county. He committed to having the power company moving apace to having the marine transport option completed in the shortest possible period, as well as to sanction contractors that would have been found responsible for the delays.

Mocha man fined $3,000 for four grammes of cannabis - to also do six months of community service

A MOCHA man was yesterday fined $3,000 after admitting that he was nabbed by police with a small quantity of cannabis. Fidel France, 20, a construction worker of 11 Field North Mocha, East Bank Demerara pleaded guilty to the possession of marijuana charge when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Pri-

ya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court One. The charge stated that on February 09 at Ruimveldt Public Road he was found with four grammes of cannabis in his possession. France was subsequently fined $3,000 and was also ordered to do six months of community service.

Russian Federation hosts Diplomat’s Day

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation, Nikolay Smirnov (centre) and members of the Diplomatic Corps

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally ON the occasion of Diplomat’s Day, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation said that due to the importance of protecting national interests and because Russia is bordering with 18 countries, realisation of foreign policy is of priority for the Government of the Russian Federation. The event was attended by other members of the diplomatic corps. There was sampling of some Russian delicacies as the Ambassador explained that the foods or snacks are in accordance with the season the country is experiencing. Ambassador Nikolay Smirnov was at the time speaking at a cocktail held to honour the event. He

explained the reason for the occasion, noting that the first Russian Foreign Service was mentioned in February 10, 1549. The holiday was officially instituted in 2002 by the then President Vladimir Putin. “It has symbolised a combination of our efforts to address current tasks with continuity, respect for the memory of our predecessors, the preservation of traditions of Russian diplomacy known for its high professionalism and creative approach,” Smirnov related. According to Smirnov, the civil war in Ukraine can be resolved only through diplomatic methods and direct political dialogue between Kiev authorities and the representatives of the people of Donetsk and Lugansk republics. Like in many conflicts Russia

supports non-military and political means to solve differences. “Supply of lethal weapons will only destabilise the situation,” he said. Russia is not set on confrontation, but is willing to make reasonable compromises based on a balance of interests while promoting peaceful agenda. Only collective efforts and reliance on international law and the central role of the United Nations will produce answers to the threats and challenges facing all of mankind. The Ambassador concluded by thanking everyone for their presence to celebrate this event, stressing that in Russia “there is a strong belief that the policy of honesty and openness are the driving power in our profession that provides for achieving of the set goals.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

Chikungunya not a current problem for Guyanese – Number of recorded cases reduced THE mosquito-borne disease, Chikungunya, which struck Guyana early last year causing many to fall ill in a short period, has been deemed under control by Head of the Vector Control Unit, Ministry of Health, Dr. Reyaud Rahaman. Dr. Rahaman told the Guyana Chronicle Tuesday, “At the moment, we don’t have a chikungunya problem, because it has been taken care of to some extent as the vector control unit continues to make good strides in [what] we’re doing.” Additionally, within the period of late last year and present, there have been just over a 100 confirmed cases, which compared to last year shows a big decrease in the number of persons contracting this virus. “We did significantly well considering how the disease came, and if we had to compare with other Caribbean countries, we did significantly well,” he said. Dr. Rahaman further emphasised that the vector control unit is a functioning department which is always alert, in the event of an outbreak of vector-borne diseases or health emergencies. Although the virus is not a major threat at the moment, the unit is always on standby with the necessary equipment at hand and adequate human resources which were acquired through various training programmes carried out across the country. PUBLIC’S ROLE Dr. Rahaman stated that apart from the Vector Control Unit, the general public also has a role to play in the

fight against vector-borne diseases, because the public has greater control over the tidiness and cleanliness of their surroundings. “Once the disease is contracted, or the vector is infected, it could pass it on from place to place, so therefore, the public plays a huge part in the combat because if they can’t keep their surroundings clean and tidy, it could harbour or create breeding sites for mosquitoes,” said head of the unit. The mosquitoes that pass on the various vector-borne diseases live right in our houses or yards, so persons are advised to destroy breeding sites such as tall grass, pots or containers which are left exposed to collect water in yards or houses. They should also ensure that water tanks which are left to collect water from gutters are covered with a net or sheet to prevent mosquitoes from breeding . “Therefore, if the public is vigilant in carrying out the listed practices, they can help us a lot in combating these diseases,” said Dr. Rahaman. FOGGING EXERCICES When asked whether or not fogging exercises are being carried out across the country, Dr. Rahaman said that currently, fogging has been suspended because of the current rainy weather, but he stated that the exercise is expected to resume in a few weeks, and they intend to cover Georgetown and other areas as much as possible. He reiterated that “Guyana’s climate with its intermittent rainfall is ideal for

Dr. Reyuad Rahaman

the breeding of mosquitoes, so we may not be able to get rid of the mosquito population completely, but we could minimise them by a lot.” MALARIA CONTROL Meanwhile, Dr Rahaman stated that over the past few years they have done a lot of work, and since 2013 they’ve been piling in the hours of intense work and“we are now seeing the fruits of our labour.” According to Dr. Rahaman, they have seen the number of recorded malaria cases being cut in half, stating that prior to the past two decades they have not seen lower cases than what they’ve been seeing now. In closing, he noted that the Vector Control Unit has been putting the hard work in a technical and scientific way as they continue onwards with the intention of cutting the number of recorded cases not only for malaria, but also for other vector-borne diseases as far as possible.

Paradise man put on $100,000 station bail …after fatal metal bar incident IN the aftermath of the death of a 29-year-old Paradise villager who had been assaulted with a metal bar, police placed another West Coast Berbice villager on $100,000 station bail, pending investigations and the findings of a post-mortem. C o n r a d Wi l s o n , 5 8 years, was released on $100,000 station bail pending a report from the doctor who attended to 29-year-old Dexter Stanford, who died five days after sustaining an injury to his eye at Paradise Village, WCB. A post-mortem examination is yet to be conducted

to determine the cause of death of Stanford, known as ‘Killer Wood’. According to a police press release, “On February 02, 2015, Dexter Stanford, 29 years, of Paradise, WCB, was involved in an argument with another man at Paradise during which he was assaulted with a metal bar. He was admitted to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he succumbed on Friday, February 06, 2015. However, this newspaper learnt that the now deceased man, after being taken to New Amsterdam Hospital, was subsequently

Dead: Dexter Stanford, known as ‘Killer Wood’

Conrad Wilson who was granted station bail

transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he died. Further, according to reports, the suspect is believed to be mentally challenged

and would do odd jobs in the community. However, fellow villagers would taunt him and he would become annoyed and retaliate sometimes.

The deceased’s mother, Jillian Stanford, reported that she was informed that Wilson was at ‘Cats’ liquor shop, which is owned by one George Wilson. Persons observed that the fifty-eight-year- old man was agitated after he had been taunted, and so he was removed from the vicinity and taken by a relative into George Wilson’s yard. However after the gate was closed, he was allegedly seen armed with a steel rod which he thrust through the space in the wooden gate. Incidentally, Standford was in close proximity and the steel rod pierced his left eye. The injured man fell to the ground and received fur-

ther injuries and was seen bleeding profusely. As a result of the incident, persons in the vicinity fled, leaving the injured man behind. However, a Good Samaritan rendered assistance to the man and took him to the Fort Wellington Hospital. Afterwards, he was transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital. However, on arrival at the Regional Health institution, medical personnel after assessing the case, transferred him to GPHC, where a computerised tomography (CT) scan was done. The injured man remained in an unconscious state until his demise. His body is currently at the GPHC awaiting a postmortem.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

UG Law Society President resigns

PRESIDENT of the University of Guyana Law Society (UGLS), Patrice Wishart, Tuesday prematurely resigned from the post in which he had served for approximately four months. In an interview with this publication, Wishart disclosed that the only reason for his resignation was the added strain in his personal life since his wife was offered a new job which would require her to travel often. As such, his time would be further limited as he would now be required to invest more time with his children. Against this backdrop, Wishart explained that the time constraints would not permit him to function adequately as President of the UGLS, hence the decision to resign with immediate effect. Commenting on his achievement over the past

few months, the young man noted that while â&#x20AC;&#x153;more could have been done,â&#x20AC;? the Law Society was still capable of achieving significantly. Among the things the body would have achieved under his stewardship, Wishart alluded to the charity drives executed during the Christmas season, the accumulation of funds for a Caribbean Court of Justice Moot Competition and an ongoing constitution reform process. Despite these achievements however, the outgoing president noted that some internal issues experienced in the Law Society had prevented the body from achieving more. Wishart, who is a firstyear student, was served with a No-confidence Motion in December last year by executive members of the law society. The motion sought to forcefully remove Wishart

Thursday, February 12, 2015 - 10:30 hrs Friday, February 13, 2015 - 12:00 hrs Saturday, February 14, 2015 - 13:00 hrs

Outgoing UGLS President Patrice Wishart

from the post, but was however deemed unconstitutional by observers, as they realised that a vote by the executive members was required to decide whether Wishart would remain as president or be removed. The voting process however did not materialise.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

Maintain high level of prof President Ramotar tells - Lewins Langellier is Best Graduating Student

Government officials that he has ing them to be worthy sons and Graduating Student went to Lewins full confidence in Chief-of-Staff, daughters of Guyana, role models Langellier while Noel August seBrigadier Phillips and other se- to young people and a credit to cured the prize for the Runner-up President Donald Ramotar addressing the gathering at the Commissioning nior Army Officers in maintain- their country, their families and Student. Winette Smartt, the lone female ing the proud tradition of honour themselves. Parade at the Drill Square, Camp Ayangana, Georgetown. and professionalism of the GDF. He also praised the GDF band on the course copped the top prize er-in-Chief emphasised that life ors and serve as good examples By Tajeram Mohabir Rapping up his presentation, for its rousing presentation during for Best Military Knowledge and Drill while Ancel Tench of the in the Army is about sacrifice, and to those under their charge. the President returned his focus the parade. The role of the Army, he EIGHTEEN officers yesterday naturally soldiers at times will be on the new Lieutenants, implorMeanwhile, the prize for Best Belize Defence Force was awarded said, is to protect the territorial graduated from the Guyana separated from their families. He told the gathering that integrity of the country and Defence Forceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (GDF) Standard Officers Course, Number in the line of duty, their country the maintenance of peace and 47, with Commander-in-Chief, must always be placed first, fol- stability within its borders, all President Donald Ramotar ex- lowed by their families and lastly vital for the growth and development of Guyana. horting them to maintain a themselves. The President also unhigh level of professionalism GREAT RESPONSIBILITY and integrity, and to serve their derscored that the GDF is President Ramotar reminded a professional, non-particountry with dignity at all times. Addressing the Commissioning the officers that their new badges san organisation, and must Parade on the Drill Square, Camp are an indication of their authority inspire confidence in the Ayanganna, Georgetown, in brilliant and the confidence the Government people as the country heads sunshine, President Ramotar congrat- reposes in them, but warned that it into Regional and General ulated the officers on their promotion comes with great responsibility. On this note, he urged them Elections on May 11, by from Ensigns to Second Lieutenants, noting that their achievement is de- to serve their country with honour demonstrating the ability to and pride, always maintaining make right decisions. serving of high praise. He said while soldiers The President also lauded dignity, a high level of professionChief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark alism and integrity both within and have the right to vote for any Phillips, the course instructors, outside the Guyana Defence Force. candidate they chose, their He urged that they stay strong mandate is to carry out their other Army Officers and the families of the newly-graduated Lieu- and never yield to temptation, duty in accordance with the tenants, whose support he said always bear the name of their Constitution of the Republic families in mind and uphold the of Guyana. have paid dividends. Speaking directly to the of- honour of the distinguished organficers dressed neatly in white isation they represent. He added Full confidence and green and standing rigorous- that by doing so, they will always The President on this score President Donald Ramotar during a routine inspection of Army Officers. ly at attention, the Command- win the admiration of their superi- told the gathering of senior

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday Thursday 12, 2015

fessionalism and integrity, s new GDF Lieutenants the prizes for Best Shot and Best Fitness. Aside from Tench, Rafael Gordon of the Belize Defence Force also successfully completed the course; as well as Persival Thomas of the St Kitts and Nevis Defence Force. The GDF commenced training its own Cadet Officers in 1969. After 12 years, the Officer Cadet Division of Training Corps evolved into the first Officer Cadet School in the English-speaking Caribbean. It became known as the Col-

onel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School (CUPOCS), in honour of Colonel Ulric Pilgrim, the first Commander of the Force. A total of 47 courses have since been conducted at the school, commissioning in excess of 569 Officers for the Disciplined Services locally and from sister CARICOM countries. The role of CUPOCS is to train young potential leaders of the various Disciplined Services to serve their country. The training seeks to develop good char-

acter and power of leadership; instill qualities of discipline, initiative and self-confidence; and teach the duties of citizenship, loyalty and patriotism. During the training, the newly-commissioned Lieutenants underwent an intensive programme in military skills and tactics, rigorous physical fitness, team activities designed to promote stamina and group spirit, leadership and command methods, management techniques, military law, and national policy.

President Donald Ramotar decorates the new Lieutenants with their badges of rank.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday Thursday 12, 2015

Aries To those around you, you might appear to be your usual logical, rational self. Actually, you may be drawing a lot of your ideas and insights from deep within your psyche. You’re probably drawing on experiences from your past, even if you aren’t consciously aware of it. Even though the source is unorthodox, whatever you come up with is likely to have a lot of practical value. Taurus To friends and colleagues, you may seem to have suddenly acquired acute business sense. Your experience has joined with knowledge acquired from others to enable you to formulate practical ideas for advancement. You may have lost faith in your goals, but now they seem more attainable. What you’ve wanted for a while could be within your grasp. You could make some real progress. Gemini Today you’re likely to experience a heightened level of intuition and how to use it. This could mean advancing a career, furthering a personal goal, or helping a friend. Right now you may be especially good at sizing up people, and you’re instinctively aware of how to deal with them. Make use of this ability while you can, because right now it could lead to success and good fortune. Cancer Friends or a group with which you’re affiliated could want you to help them formulate a workable plan for advancement. You’re in just the right frame of mind for this, and therefore willing to roll up your sleeves and pitch in. You might be the centre of attention at some point, perhaps sharing your skills with associates. Don’t forget your own goals. They could be advanced today, too. Leo Career interests are advanced through clear, logical thinking and the sound application of good business sense. Financial interests look especially promising now, so seize any opportunities for advancement that come your way. Working with others is likely to prove profitable, and could bring you closer to them, too. Roll up your sleeves and go to it. The results could surprise you. Virgo Social events, perhaps business related, could put you in touch with people in fascinating fields or from foreign countries. Logical thinking and a philosophical attitude enhance your communicative gifts, so people will be drawn to you to hear what you say. You could make important contacts. Take notes. This evening could be a key turning point for your future plans Libra Ideas and insights coming from deep within your psyche are likely to increase your effectiveness in whatever work you do today. Your mind is particularly practical and logical. When coupled with an increased intuition, these abilities are invaluable. You might be most effective working solo, but if that isn’t possible, you should still accomplish whatever you set out to do, and do it well. Scorpio Today you could attend more than one social event. Some of your professional colleagues will probably be there. Conversations are going to focus primarily on business development and the economy in general. A lot of useful information could result from social contacts with others in your field. Write it all down. You will want to remember it so you can make use of it later. Sagittarius A friend might drop by and want you to keep them company while they run errands. This might be a good idea, not only for the diversion from routine but also because something might happen in the course of these short journeys that points you in a new and very positive direction. Your mind could suddenly be flooded with ideas. Make the most of it. Capricorn An older person you’re very fond of could visit or call and ask for your advice on practical matters. Clear and logical thinking enhances your intuition, and you might be able to put this ability to work not only for your friend but also for yourself. Your own interests will be advanced today in some way, so expect a good day. Aquarius Logical and focused thinking could lead to social, career, or financial advancement. Your organisational ability and industry are keener than usual. You’re likely to be able to make sense of murky matters that might not have been clear before. Paperwork could prove challenging, but you will be able to get through it today where yesterday you might have found it too daunting. Pisces You might be feeling very communicative today. Concentration, logical thinking, and a heightened ability to put ideas into words enhance your own communicative abilities. Therefore, your gift of getting directly to the point in any matter is likely to clear previously clogged channels, impress others, and increase your self-confidence

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, February 12, 2015

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

Don’t write off ... From page 28 The side is also missing the likes of senior all-rounders Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard, and is being led by newlyinstalled captain Jason Holder, himself a newcomer to international cricket. Lloyd, the current chairman of selectors, said, however, West Indies could defy the pundits and produce good results. “You never can tell. We have talented cricketers. If we can just get it together, we can give a good account of ourselves and surprise a lot of people,” he stressed. West Indies faced Scotland in their second warm-up game last night before taking on Ireland next Monday in their opening group stage fixture at Saxton Oval in Nelson in New Zealand. They will also clash with the likes of defending champions India, South Africa, Pakistan and United Arab Emirates, in a tough Group B campaign.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

Clarke makes safe return as Aussies rout UAE

By Ian Ransom

MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Michael Clarke struck a half-century in an encouraging return from injury as Australia routed United Arab Emirates by 188 runs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground yesterday, in their last warm-up before the World Cup. Leading the team after a long lay-off from hamstring surgery, Clarke promoted himself up the batting order to open with Aaron Finch and top-scored for the hosts with 64 from 62 balls after winning the toss on a sweltering day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Finch (61) and Steven Smith (59) also scored half-centuries as Australia put 304-8 on the board before bowling the Middle Eastern minnows out for 116 with nearly 20 overs to spare. Clarke’s knock would have lasted only 20 minutes and two runs had Amjad Ali not put down a diving chance at cover point and the 33-year-old also survived a shout for leg-before in a streaky start to his innings. After finding his range he took to UAE’s bowlers with gusto and though his running between the wickets was never explosive, it appeared comfortable enough to please coach Darren Lehmann. “He played really well, which is nice to see after coming back from the hamstring,” Lehmann told host broadcaster Fox Sports. Selectors gave Clarke a deadline to be fit by the second group match against Bangladesh on February 21 and the captain appears in no danger

to miss it. Lehmann was cagey as to whether Clarke might even be ready to pad up against England for Australia’s World Cup opener at the MCG on Saturday. “We’ll sum it up tomorrow, really, (on) how he pulls up more than anything,” said Lehmann. UAE, coached by for-

with 3-50. In yesterday’s other World Cup warm-ups, Zimbabwe caused an upset by beating Sri Lanka by seven wickets at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval. After they restricted Sri Lanka to 279-8 from 50 overs, Hamilton Masakadza led the way for the underdogs with an unbeaten 117,

Michael Clarke plays a forward defence shot in his innings of 64. mer Pakistan bowler Aaqib Javed who won a World Cup with the team in 1992, were not disgraced in the field and briefly threatened to bowl Australia out with three quick wickets late in the innings. Clarke raised warm cheers from the crowd of 3 000 by taking the ball in the 17th over to send down a few deliveries of his left-arm spin. He bowled two wicketless overs for five runs. Fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins took two top-order wickets each to continue their battle for a spot in Australia’s pace attack, while middle-order batsman Swapnil Patil top-scored for UAE with 31. Krishna Chandran was the pick of UAE’s bowlers

backed up by Brendan Taylor (63) and Sean Williams, who made 51 not out after taking 3-35 earlier in the game. Also in Christchurch, at the Hagley Oval, cohosts New Zealand eased past South Africa, making 331-8 before bowling the Proteas out for 197 as leftarm paceman Trent Boult took 5-51. And over at the Sydney Cricket Ground Pakistan beat England by four wickets. Scores

Racing Tips

11:40 hrs Cloud Creeper

Arab Emirates Racing Tips

South Africa Racing Tips

12:10 hrs Woodview Prince

Meydan

Vaal

12:40 hrs Silent Cliché

10:45 hrs Layl

08:25 hrs All The Birds

Fontwell

11:20 hrs Belgian Bill

09:00 hrs Oriental Blue

10:20 hrs Kilgeel

11:55 hrs Maftool

09:40 hrs Mulberry Bay

10:50 hrs Moneymix

12:30 hrs Reynaldothewizard

10:20 hrs Mogok’s Desire

11:20 hrs Remiluc

13:05 hrs Excellent Result

10:55 hrs Style Flash

11:50 hrs Mariet

13:40 hrs Tamarkuz

12:20 hrs Morgan’s Bay

14:15 hrs Mushreq

English Racing Tips

England 250-8 (50 overs): Root 85, Ballance 57, Shah 3-45 Pakistan 252-6 (48.5 overs): Misbah 91 not out, Akmal 65

12:50 hrs Chapel Hall American Racing Tips

Kelso 10:00 hrs Thorpe

Irish Racing Tips

Aqueduct

10:30 hrs Isla Pearl Fisher

Thurles

Race 1 Petrocelli

11:00 hrs Hawk High

10:05 hrs Down Ace

Race 2 Erik The Red

12:00 hrs Flying Eagle

10:35 hrs Morney Wing

Race 3 Lutheran Miss

12:30 hrs Sir Du Bearn

11:05 hrs Glen Ode

Race 4 Matching Skies

Leicester

11:35 hrs Lockstockandbarrel

Race 5 Grand Strand

10:10 hrs Until Winning

12:05 hrs Goulane Chosen

Race 6 Race 6 Son Of Dixie

10:40 hrs Desert Joe

12:35 hrs Old Time Melody

Race 7 Beautyinthepulpit

11:10 hrs Artifice Sivola

13:05 hrs Alamein

Race 8 Mine for Life

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

First Day of Interaction at the Enterprise Community Centre hailed a huge success THE first Day of Interaction organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/National Sports Commission was held last Sunday at the Enterprise Community Centre ground, East Coast Demerara. The activity, which was extremely successful, saw approximately seven hundred athletes and spectators, from the young to the elderly, fill every available space, The day’s proceeding commenced at 09:30hrs and concluded at 17:50hrs. Director of Sport, Neil Kumar, addressed all present, recounting the Ministry’s development for sports and the plans and programmes for further development. Also present were Dr Pradeep Balram, member of the National Sports Commission and vice-president of

the Guyana Table Tennis Association, Mr Shaun Richmond, member of the National Sports Commission and Mr Balkissoon, former Caribbean junior table tennis champion. The games were softball cricket (juniors, female and seniors), football, volleyball (male and female) dominoes and table tennis. The disciplines were keenly contested as the results throughout the day were all close and exciting. The large crowd stayed all day to encourage their respective teams and to cheer them on to victory. The weather was conducive for sports and the athletes took advantage of the conditions and delighted the large crowd with superb play. Softball cricket started off the day’s proceedings. History was created when

13 school teams registered and participated fully in the day’s activities. After some exciting matches, the reigning champions Bladen Hall Multilateral School went up against Mahaica Youths in the final of the junior category and were dethroned. In the female version, three teams participated including newcomers, Golden Grove Secondary, who fought well with the mighty Enterprise All Stars. In the final Enterprise All Stars defeated Enterprise Warriors, through national player Kavita Yadram’s splendid performance. In the senior category, eleven teams competed. In the preliminary games, the two consistent teams, J.J.S.S Family and Mahaica Super Stars, faced off in the final match that went down to the last ball,

Director of Sport Neil Kumar is seen presenting one of the trophies won on the day. resulting in J.J.S.S Family, the defending champions, narrowly defeating their opponents. There were thirty-two table tennis participants including one female and a few seasoned players. The community of Ogle was outstanding as both finalists reside there. In the final, after encouraging performances from all, Vikash Horil outplayed his countryman Jonathan Narine to win the trophy. In the Doubles, Gavin Persaud teamed up with Richard Jagassar and outplayed Rayan Narine and Arvind Budhan. Both Dr. Balram and Mr Balkisson were very supportive as they assisted in officiating. The Golden Grove girls, who were defeated at cricket, competed against each other at volleyball and ensured that they did not leave empty-handed. The ‘A’

team were successful against the ‘B’ team. Seven teams were involved in the male category of volleyball. Again, after thrilling preliminaries, Mahaica All Stars beat Helena Youths. Enterprise outmatched their opponents in the six-team dominoes competition. Enterprise Canteen with 32 games and Enterprise Centre with 30 games relegated Enmore into the third position with 27 games. Rohan Mohan was voted the Most Valuable Player of the competition. Seven colourfully-uniformed teams took to the football field and demonstrated their skills, talents, and knowledge in the game. The matches were played at eleven-a-side with small goals. There was not much space for players to outdo one another. In the thrilling final, which

went down to penalties, reigning champions Bladen Hall Multilateral needled Paradise Secondary one-nil in sudden death. At the presentation ceremony, the Director of Sport Neil Kumar thanked the communities for their support by way of participation and encouraged them to continue their involvement in sports. He congratulated the winners for being outstanding. The Director of Sport was also high in praise for the organisers (staff of the NSC) for organising such a successful and rewarding Day of Interaction. Several teams went away with sports equipment and seemed ready to continue playing sports in their respective communities. All the winning teams received beautiful trophies and went away extremely happy.

NOTABLE DATES

ON February 12, 1994 welterweight Brian Koulen, a Guyanese who lived in French Guiana, defeated Alain Pernice of France via a decision after six rounds. The fight was held in Moselle, France and was the ninth of Koulen’s career. He joined the professional ranks on November 10, 1989 and defeated Bio Alvares of French Guiana in his first contest. Koulen fought compatriot Pascal David in his second bout, which was also held in French Guiana. David was defeated via a decision after six rounds. Koulen next tackled Marcelle Daniels in September 1990 in his only fight on home soil, and was adjudged the winner by split decision after eight rounds. Koulen was 7-0 when he met Englishman Felix Kelly in Differdange, Luxembourg on January 2, 1993. Kelly won the six-rounder by points to hand the Guyanese his first loss. Koulen ended a six-year career in March 1995 having boxed a total of 71 rounds. He secured nine victories and three defeats.

WAYNE `Big Truck’ Braithwaite was 100, when he met Canadian Dale `Cowboy’ Brown at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut, USA on February 12, 2000. The Guyanese southpaw cruiserweight was making the first defence of the WBC International title while Brown was laying down his NABF cruiserweight title. Weighing in at 188 pounds, one pound heavier than his opponent Braithwaite walked out of the ring with both titles. Referee Vic Drakulich stopped the scheduled 12-rounder at one minute and 44 seconds of the eighth round to avoid further punishment to the Canadian. It was the first fight in the USA for Braithwaite who graduated to become the second Guyanese to win a world title. The former WBC cruiserweight champion will turn 40 in August. He has been defeated six times in his last nine fights dating back to an April 2005 loss to Jean Marc Mormeck.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

NZ head into World Cup with comfortable win over Proteas

(REUTERS) - New Zealand will head into their opening cricket World Cup encounter on Saturday oozing confidence after they completed their preparations with a 134run victory over South Africa yesterday. Brendon McCullum’s side have emerged as third favourites for the February 14-March 29 tournament, behind Australia and AB de Villiers’ side, after a run of good performances at home over the last month. Kane Williamson topscored for the World Cup co-hosts with 66 from 53 balls while McCullum blasted 59 from 45 deliveries in their score of 331 for eight off 50 overs. New Zealand bowlers

Kane Williamson top-scored for the World-Cup co-hosts

then ripped through South Africa top order, reducing them to 31-4 in the seventh over and 62-6 in the 14th at Hagley Oval in Christchurch before JP Duminy and Vernon Philander combined for some batting practice. They put on 121 runs with Duminy scoring 80 while pace bowler Philander scored 57, but the pair seemed more content to bat out the overs rather than chase down the total and South Africa were eventually dismissed for 197 in 44.2 overs. Left-arm seamer Trent Boult took three of the first four wickets before he finished with 5-51 from 9.2 overs, while wily left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori dis-

missed world record-holder de Villiers for 24 and Wayne Parnell for four to finish with 2-29 from seven overs. Both sides, who were allowed to use all 15 players in their squads, treated the match as a final contested training run, with South African spearhead Dale Steyn not bowling at all. New Zealand’s Tom Latham took over the wicket-keeping gloves from Luke Ronchi, who did bat in New Zealand’s innings. New Zealand will open the tournament at the same venue against Sri Lanka on Saturday while South Africa will travel to Hamilton for their opening clash against Zimbabwe on Sunday.

Giftland on board with GABF Last-gasp Chelsea sink Everton, Aguero fires City rout National Championships By Sam Holden

Marketing Assistant at Giftland OfficeMax, Breeanka West (right), hands over the official game ball and other items to GABF vice-president Michael Singh yesterday. WITH just three days to go before ‘jump ball’, the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), saw corporate entity, Giftland, come on board with its National Basketball Championships – ‘The Road to Mecca 2’. The Water Street Georgetown-based store recently handed over balls and other paraphernalia that will be used to run the completion that will be played at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall and will feature

Guyana’s top clubs. GABF vice-president Michael Singh who collected the items stated that “the event could not be possible without the corporate support of companies like Giftland”. Marketing Assistant at Giftland OfficeMax, Breeanka West, said that the company has an unrivalled track record of support for local sport, and giving to the National Basketball Championships continues that tradition.

LONDON, England (Reuters) - A late Willian strike snatched a 1-0 home win for Chelsea over a stubborn Everton side to maintain their seven-point lead over Manchester City who won 4-1 at Stoke City in the Premier League yesterday. Chelsea were frustrated before Brazilian Willian struck from 20 metres in the 89th minute to break the resistance of Everton whose midfielder Gareth Barry had been sent off just before the goal. “It’s beautiful to win in the last minute, and it’s so sad (for Everton) to lose,” Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho told BT Sport. “They have to be very disappointed, they gave us a very difficult match. We are very, very happy and we think we deserve it. We fought so hard to try and win the game. “We risked a lot to try to win.” City kept pace with the leaders as striker Sergio Aguero scored twice, his first goals in over two months, to help the champions to their first league win in five matches at mid-table Stoke, who briefly made it 1-1 through Peter Crouch.

Willian (L) of Chelsea scores against Everton during their English Premier League soccer match at Stamford Bridge, London, yesterday. (Credit: REUTERS/Toby Melville) England midfielder James Milner and Frenchman Samir Nasri also struck for City. An unlikely brace from substitute defender Chris Smalling and a late Robin van Persie penalty lifted Manchester United to an unconvincing 3-1 home win over struggling Burnley who had equalised through Danny Ings. United leapfrogged Arsenal and Southampton into third in the table after the latter drew 0-0 at home to West Ham United, who had goalkeeper Adrian sent

off.

West Bromwich Albion continued their resurgence under new manager Tony Pulis as Brown Ideye and Saido Berahino struck in a 2-0 home win over Swansea City to lift their team away from the relegation zone. A second-half Frazier Campbell goal earned Crystal Palace a 1-1 draw against Newcastle United as manager Alan Pardew hosted his former club who had taken a first-half lead through a Papiss Cisse header.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

New LABA president aiming to change the dynamics of the sport in Linden By Rawle Toney

LABA president Lawrence Simon

“MY aim is to get things back to the way it used to be or even better,” proclaimed recently-voted-in president of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA), Lawrence Simon. The Guyana Geology and Mines Corporation (GGMC) employee is a well-known figure in the sport in Linden and was in the forefront of revitalising one of Linden’s top clubs

in the heyday - the Amelia’s Ward Falcons. Simon was unanimously voted in to serve the LABA for two years and has National Communications Network (NCN) Linden branch manager Andrew McBean as his vice-president along with Eze Wilson. Joe Chapman, the only returning member from the previous executive body, will serve as secretary, treasurer Chantel Brooks, assistant secretary Danica Barker-Chase, or-

ganising secretary Christopher Pollydore, assistant treasurer Shawnette Smith and Public Relations Officer Collin Adams. Ashton Angel (Jr), Omally Sampson, Kevin Joseph, Eusi Francis and Shauna Chester are the committee members. “I think what will make my job easy is that around me, I have people who actually understand what we have to do and how we will go about doing it. It’s going to be

a lot of work. First, there are a few things we need to get fixed internally then we have to meet with the Federation and outline a few things to them that we would like to see happen in Linden. It’s going to be one step at a time,” Simon said. The basketball enthusiast said that also atop their agenda will be to have a complete reform of the LABA’s constitution, stating that “with the way the game is now, the present consti-

tution doesn’t really fit in, so we’ll be looking to see how soon we can have that done”. Simon noted that steady competition is needed, but it must be done in a structured way, where all can benefit. He said that the new attitude of the LABA is to work with all stakeholders of the game, even those outside of the mining town, so that basketball can return to the days when it was truly a community sport.

Top referee quits over GAWA’s Nurse ready to give up general secretary post abuse at cup tie By Leeron Brumell

HAMILTON, Bermuda, (CMC) – The Bermuda Football Association (BFA) is to launch an investigation after the island’s leading referee quitting over racial abuse he says he suffered during an FA Cup quarter-final. Englishman Martin Wyer, who served as a senior officer of the Royal Air Force during the Gulf War, was subjected to abuse during last Sunday’s game at Goose Gosling Field, in which Flanagan’s Onions beat PHC Zebras 2-0. Wyer called the BFA, which is already suffering from a shortage of referees, immediately after the game to confirm his decision to resign. Pembroke Hamilton Club (PHC) says it is trying to identify the culprit who launched the racial slurs and apologised to the referee. Wyer, who serves as a major in the Bermuda Regiment, walked away from the game last season after a similar incident before being persuaded by colleagues to change his mind. “I’ve had a couple of e-mails of support from fellow officials but I stand by my decision to quit,” Wyer, a multiple BFA Referee of the Year winner, said. “It happened to me last year and I was persuaded to come back, but I think it’s a case of once bitten twice shy now. “I quit last time because of the abuse I received at a game at St John’s Field and some of it was aimed at the colour of my skin, which is totally unacceptable in any walk of life, and as a football referee I am not tolerating any of that.

LONG-standing General Secretary of the Guyana Amateur Weightlifting Association, Deion Nurse, is ready to step down. In an interview with Chronicle Sport, Nurse said it’s time he vacates the post for someone else to take up the mantle. “It’s been a case in the past that no-one has offered himself for the

Major Martin Wyer is one of Bermuda’s leading football referee. “A similar incident happened on Sunday, and among other levels of abuse there was the disrespect of calling my integrity into question and being called a cheat. I don’t cheat and don’t care who wins because it doesn’t matter to me.” Wyer said the abuse he was subjected to was the worst he had experienced as a referee. “I have been refereeing for many years at a very high level in England and have never come across it before,” said Wyer. “When it becomes personal to that extent and the level of disrespect and intolerance shown, I’m sorry, I don’t get paid enough and I don’t give up my free time to be treated like this.” During the match, Wyer booked five players and sent off Robert Bean, the PHC assistant coach, who launched an outburst at the referee, but it was not of a racial nature, eyewitnesses said. BFA general secretary David Sabir said that the association was reviewing the match reports. “The association will review all aspects of the game based on reports submitted and take the appropriate actions in accordance with established regulations,” Sabir said.

position in all this time.’ He’s been serving in that position since 2003. “It’s too long. My personal position is that no-one should be in office for more than 10 years. I think 10 years is good enough, no matter how good a job somebody does. The problem is that because we’ve not been out there you find that people are not interested. I’ve been asked to carry on and on and because

Simmons to face court over photographs scandal PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – West Indies opening batsman, Lendl Simmons, who argued that he had a one-time affair with an account executive, is scheduled to appear in court on March 23, for the start of a lawsuit relating to the dissemination of intimate photographs of the woman. The woman, Therese Ho, has filed a breach of confidence lawsuit against Simmons alleging that he had disseminated the photos electronically to several of his colleagues. The matter came up for case management on Tuesday and the trial will begin on March 23. On June 5, last year Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh granted Ho an injunction preventing the West Indies and Trinidad and Tobago cricketer from disseminating any further photographs or information about her. Ho is contending that by disseminating the

Deion Nurse of my love for the sport I’ve been fetching the mantle.” The electoral Annual General Meeting of the association is set for February 28 at Guyana Olympic House. Entries with nominations for various posts are to be submitted by Febru-

ary 14; two weeks before the AGM. Since 2013, Nurse has been an active member of the executive of the Guyana Olympic Association. “I am now the Assistant secretary/treasurer and one of the things is that they prefer those in an executive position (on the GOA) to not be affiliated with another association because there could be the impression of bias.” He says there is one person he thinks could replace him in the position of general secretary. In another two weeks, we’ll find out if he remains in the position or has found a replacement. “Of course I’ll still be around. Weightlifting is where my heart is,” said Nurse. Frank Tucker is the president of the Weightlifting Association.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Lendl Simmons photographs, Simmons has contravened the tort of breach of confidence which is a common law tort that protects confidential information that is conveyed to another in confidence. Simmons, on the other hand, is arguing that he never shared a relationship with Ho and that his encounter with her was only a one-time affair, meaning he was not under a duty to owe her any confidentiality. T h e 3 0 - y e a r- o l d Trinidadian is currently a member of the West Indies squad in Australia for the ICC World Cup.

(Thursday February 12, 2015) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 2236055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 8 (2) Sri Lanka & East Africa Today’s Quiz: (1)Which team lost the final of the 1975 World Cup? (2) Who copped the Man of the Match Award in the 1975 World Cup final? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday February 12, 2015

National ruggers show fitness improvement ... Team getting ready for IRB Hong Kong Sevens THE Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) conducted a Beep Test for its national Sevens men’s team who are currently preparing for the 2015 Cathay Pacific/ HSBC Hong Kong Sevens. Guyana had qualified for the International Rugby Board (IRB) mainstream event after capturing their seventh North American and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 7s Championship in Mexico last year. Twenty-eight men’s teams will compete in Hong Kong, with 16 competing in the core team competition and

12 in the Sevens World Series qualifier. Head coach Theodore Henry joined Fitness Instructor Barrington Browne and Patron of the GRFU Christopher ‘Kit’ Nascimento, who all stated that they are satisfied with the level of improvement shown by the squad. An average of 12.9 per player rating was given which is said to be almost two beeps more than their previous run. The Hong Kong Sevens will take place from March 27 to 29 and comprises reigning champions New Zealand and fellow core teams Argentina,

Australia, Canada, England, Fiji, France, Japan, Kenya, Portugal, Samoa, Scotland, South Africa, USA and Wales who will be joined by tournament newcomers Belgium in the sixth round of the World Series. In accepting an invitation to take part, Belgium became the 57th country to compete in Hong Kong since 1976. The 12-team line-up in the qualifier will comprise two teams from each of World Rugby’s six regional associations.

Benons appointed EBFA Technical Adviser

… to host Coaches introductory session on Sunday at Grove COMING off a successful 2014, the executive body of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) is going a step further this year. To attain a greater level of consistency in the technical and tactical realms of the sport, the EBFA has appointed Mr Winston Benons as its Technical Adviser. Benons, who was appointed National assistant coach by the GFF in 2012 having coached the EBFA Under-17 team that year, said he is very pleased to have been approached to assist with the development of the game in the association. The resident of Yarrowkabra and the USA is a licensed coach of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) since 1986 and also received an NSCAA National Diploma in 1986. Benons has been extensively trained in the Philosophies and Principles of Coaching,

Winston Benons Theory and Techniques, Child Abuse Recognition as well as First Aid. In terms of his experience, he has coached junior and men’s teams in Brooklyn New Your between 1972 and 1981, was Travel Team Coach of the Rockets and Raiders Travel Team between 1985 and 1990. For dedicated service in coaching, Benons was recognised by the Long Island Junior Soccer League for his service to Elmont in 1990 while from 1983 to 1993 he was a member of the Elmont Soccer League Board

with responsibility for Player Development, Fundraising and Social Activities. Commenting on his appointment, Benons stated that he is excited to make a contribution to the East Bank and by extension Guyana’s football, noting that he has seen many talented players, having held the post of coach of the Yarrowkabra Football Club from 2005 to 2008. Already in work mode, Benons will host an introductory session with all club coaches on Sunday at the Grove Community Centre beginning at 13:00hrs. At the compulsory interactive session the Technical Adviser will share his vision for East Bank development with the coaches. Meanwhile, the EBFA Pee Wee Under-11 League will continue on Saturday at the Grove Playfield. Grove Hi Tech, Craig Primary, Diamond United, Herstelling Raiders and Agricola Red Triangle are the competing teams.

The GRFU 7s team during their Beep Test in the National Park. The winners will earn and Tonga from Oceania, core team status for 2015-16 Zimbabwe and Tunisia from and replace the lowest-ranked Africa, Mexico and Guyana side at the conclusion of the from North America and current series. the Caribbean, Uruguay and Japan won the qualifier in Brazil from South America Hong Kong last year to join and hosts Hong Kong and the series. Russia and Spain Korea from Asia. are the representatives from World Rugby’s General Europe, Papua New Guinea Manager Sevens Avan Lee

said: “Hong Kong is going to be very special for lots of reasons in 2015, not least because in the tournament’s 40th anniversary year the organisers will be pulling out all the stops to make their event even more special than it always is for the players and the fans.

Bolt to run 100m in Paris Diamond League in July

USAIN Bolt will run the 100 metres at the Areva Meeting on July 4. Diamond League organisers said yesterday that the six-time Olympic champion will race at the Stade de France for a fifth

time, but for the first time in the 100 metres since 2010. Bolt, the world-record holder in the 100 and 200 metres, holds the meeting record of 9.79 seconds. Paris is the eighth leg of the

Diamond League. Bolt, who withdrew from the meet last year with a foot injury, has yet to finalise his summer programme before the world championships in Beijing from August 22 to 30.

Sport CHRONICLE

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National ruggers show fitness improvement See story on page 27

Don’t write off Windies World Cup chances just yet - Lloyd

SYDNEY, Australia (CMC) – Outstanding former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd has cautioned critics not to write off the Caribbean side’s World Cup chances just yet. The Windies have been given little hope of winning cricket’s biggest prize, against the backdrop of their poor run of recent form and the number eight ranking in ODI cricket. However, Lloyd argued that several underdogs – including the West Indies in the inaugural tournament in 1975 – had already won the World Cup, and said once the Caribbean side gelled their performances, they could pose a threat. “When I see the players here, they must feel proud to be here. This is the showpiece of cricket. I want to see them happy, I want to see them go out there and give their all – blood and guts –

because if they win this World Cup I know a lot of people don’t give us a chance but you never know,” said Lloyd, who was at the helm when West Indies won in 1975 and again in 1979. “We weren’t supposed to be winners in 1975, Pakistan were not supposed to be the winners in Melbourne (in 1992), India weren’t supposed to be the winners (in 1983) and they came out of a situation where Zimbabwe had them 80 or seven (in a group stage match) and Kapil Dev played a masterful innings.” West Indies are coming off a 4-1 drubbing in a fivematch series against South Africa, and also slumped to an embarrassing nine-wicket defeat to England in their first official warm-up match for the World Cup last Monday. Turn to page 22

Windies players warm-up during a training session at the Drummoyne Oval in Sydney, Australia yesterday. (WICB Media Photo/Philip Spooner)

Atwell by decision -`Bizzy’ Boyce Clive Atwell will fight Jamaica’s Sakima Mullings on February 21.

Veteran boxing coach Maurice `Bizzy’ Boyce

VETERAN boxing coach Maurice `Bizzy’ Boyce has joined the list of persons who believe in a Clive Atwell victory, come February 21. Boyce explained that despite the move up in weight, he is confident that Atwell’s tool box is packed with the essential apparatus to dismantle Sakima Mullings’ structure. . “These two boxers have similar styles but I would have to pick Clive to win by decision. He is a very smart fighter and once he listens to his trainer, he should not have too much trouble. Problems may come if he

thinks he has to please the crowd and (if he) moves away from his fight plan,” Boyce said yesterday. Atwell is scheduled to clash with Jamaican Mullings on February 21 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, in the super lightweight main event of a five-fight card organised by the Guyana Boxing Board of Control. “He will have to listen to his corner. He has lost his last two fights and may want to show the Guyanese public that he is back with a bang. If he does that he may run into

a lot of trouble because Mullings is a wellconditioned fighter, who turns on the heat in the latter rounds. My advice would be for Clive to pace himself early and keep an ear out for what his corner has to say,” Boyce added. The 32-year-old Mullings has been defeated once in 18 fights. His only loss happened four years ago and he is currently on a 13-fight winning streak. The Jamaican welterweight champion has defeated Guyanese Dereck Richmond, Winston Pompey, Revlon Lake and

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Howard Eastman and would be moving down one division for the upcoming contest. However, Boyce is adamant that Atwell would break the trend of Guyanese losing to Mullings. “He (Atwell) is young and strong. He is also an intelligent fighter. It is going to be a tactical and entertaining fight but at the end the decision would be Atwell’s.” Boyce has now joined Atwell’s trainer Lennox Daniels and USA-based manager and promoter Seon Bristol as believers in a win for the Guyanese. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015